"Studies on Men s Health and Fertility "provides a comprehensive series of up-to-the-minute reviews addressing the role of oxidative stress in the aetiology of reproductive pathologies in the male. This volume represents by far the most detailed, authoritative review of the field that has been produced to date. The text encompasses the basic science of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by mammalian spermatozoa, the way in which these highly reactive molecules are processed by the germ line and the physiological significance of this redox activity in the generation of a functional gamete. The factors responsible for perturbing the delicate balance between physiological redox signaling on the one hand and oxidative stress on the other are also extensively reviewed and some of the first clues concerning the underlying mechanisms (age, heat, infection, cryostorage, aberrant lipid metabolism), clearly identified. From a clinical perspective there are chapters setting out the methods we should be using to diagnose oxidative stress in the male germ line, a clinical perspective on the aetiology of this condition and detailed considerations of the most suitable means of ameliorating such stress from a therapeutic point of view.

"Studies on Men s Health and Fertility "is intended to provide clinicians and scientists with a snap shot of the current status of this exciting, rapidly moving field. The book will be of value to clinicians interested in strategies for the management of oxidative stress in their infertility patients and scientists wishing to understand the molecular mechanisms underpinning the generation of ROS by these cells and its pathophysiological significance. It was not so long ago that the ability of spermatozoa to generate ROS was a hotly disputed topic. With the publication of this book such doubts can finally be laid to rest. There is now no doubt that these cells actively generate ROS, that oxidative stress is a major contributor to defects in male reproductive health and that the successful clinical management of this condition depends on developing a deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms. In this quest, "Studies on Men s Health and Fertility "will be seen as a clear and important milestone. "

This much-needed book provides honest, clear, and helpful medical information for older adults and their caregivers, written in an easily understandable language. There are many myths and much misinformation about aging. At the same time, there are few trustworthy books on the subject. Aging, But Never Old: The Realities, Myths, and Misrepresentations of the Anti-Aging Movement was written to address those myths and fill that gap. Written by an eminent geriatric specialist, this book will educate readers about the specialty of geriatric medicine, helping them understand what true geriatric care is and what it can do for older adults. The book opens with a comparison of scientifically sound geriatric medicine as compared to its arch rival, the "anti-aging business." It goes on to discuss the most important medical issues an older adult will face, explaining them in layman's terms and through the use of case examples. Full of sage advice, humor, and easy-to-remember suggestions pertaining to each issue discussed, this upbeat volume will help older adults and their children and caregivers better navigate the increasingly complex medical options older adults now face. Contributions from 20 distinguished physicians from Harvard Medical School and quotes and other material from more than 100 original papers to ensure scientific accuracy and up-to-date context Case examples that help explain material and bring the advice to life

This book provides concrete scientific basis that we can conceive the possibility of modifying or even completely canceling aging process, despite the fact that aging is commonly regarded as the result of the overall effects of many uncontrollable degenerative phenomena. The authors illustrate in detail the mechanisms by which cells and the whole organism age. Actions by which it is possible, or will be possible within a limited time, to operate for modifying aging are also debated. The discussion is conducted within the frame and the concepts of evolutionary medicine, which is also indispensable for distinguishing between the manifestations of aging and: (i) diseases that worsen with age, and (ii) acceleration of normal aging rates, caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits and other avoidable factors. The book also discusses the impact of aging on overall mortality and the strange situation that, according to official statistics, aging does not exist as cause of death. This book is a turning point between a gerontology and geriatrics conceived as the study and vain treatment of an incurable condition and one in which these disciplines examine the how and why of a physiological phenomenon that can be modified up to a possible total control. This means transforming the medical prevention and treatment of physiological aging from the greatest failure to the greatest success of medicine.

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 first edition of "Textbook of Men's Health" did much to establish and define the scope of the emerging subspecialty of aging men's health. This revised and updated edition offers a unique overview of the male health and offers valuable insights for improved management and critical care.The central mission of the new edition is to unpick normal physiologic aging in men from pathologic processes, eschewing any material that is routinely available in the standard textbooks of medicine and geriatrics in order to maintain a uniquely male perspective. This means a focus on the age-related decline in sex steroids and other hormones and the pathological and clinical consequences. Wherever possible, the book records consensus on diagnostic criteria, emphasizes evidence-based medicine and highlights translational science. Thisnbsp;revised and updated edition, with new sections on basic sciences and sexual dysfunction, unpicks normal physiologic aging in men from pathologic processes, in order to maintain a uniquely male perspective. This revised and updated edition, with new sections on basic sciences and sexual dysfunction, unpicks normal physiologic aging in men from pathologic processes, in order to maintain a uniquely male perspective. The first edition of Textbook of Men's Health did much to establish and define the scope of the emerging subspecialty of aging men's health. This revised and updated edition offers a unique overview of the male health and offers valuable insights for improved management and critical care. The central mission of the new edition is to unpick normal physiologic aging in men from pathologic processes, eschewing any material that is routinely available in the standard textbooks of medicine and geriatrics in order to maintain a uniquely male perspective. This means a focus on the age-related decline in sex steroids and other hormones and the pathological and clinical consequences. Wherever possible, the bo

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.

The most profound dilemma in assisted reproduction to date is the inability to recognize potentially viable embryos before their replacement into the reproductive tract. Application of increasingly advanced new technology has allowed the field of embryo evaluation to evolve rapidly and dramatically over the past five years.
Human Preimplantation Embryo Selection assembles the leaders in the field of assisted reproduction to discuss their visions of dealing with the topic of embryo selection in the light of the limitations involving the fragility of the early human embryo.
The purpose of this book is to shed light on the ever-expanding techniques that are being employed and evaluated with regard to embryo selection. A comprehensive overview may guide the ART practitioner in choice of techniques and evaluation of benefits and drawbacks.
This book will provide an up-to-date overview and reference source: an invaluable tool for assisted reproductive practice worldwide.

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

In 2015, a study of surrogacy and other reproductive technologies was conducted among women who served as surrogate mothers in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. There are some social taboos are associated with the concept of surrogacy, and it is not a mainstream procedure in India. To know the ground reality, thirty-three surrogates were interviewed to explore their concerns. The primary objective of this book is to explore the causes and consequences of being a surrogate, the motivation and negotiation factors, and the social, economic, and gender issues encountered during and after procreation. This book further explored the perception of various stakeholders on new draft bill was introduced to ban commercial surrogacy in order to safeguard the women from exploitation. This book argues that if the government regularizes and legalizes commercial surrogacy, it may create a win-win situation for both sides - surrogates and the commissioning couples - to avoid exploitation

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.

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.

The use of IVM in assisted reproductive technology continues to increase around the world. The major benefit of IVM is that significant numbers of oocytes can be collected from ovaries without recourse to ovarian stimulation. This reduces the costs, time, and risks associated with conventional IVF. Although initially limited to women with polycystic ovary syndrome who were at higher risk of problems following ovarian stimulation, IVM is increasingly used in women with normal ovulatory menstrual cycles. This authoritative text covers the current scientific knowledge of oocyte development and the understanding behind the techniques involved in the clinical application of IVM in assisted reproductive technologies.
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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.

How did human thought evolve into the highly complex process it is today? In the field of evolutionary cognitive archaeology, cognitive science and archaeology intersect to provide a more complete and grounded picture of the mind. With the combination of cognitive theories and archaeological evidence, this burgeoning field is only beginning to tap into the potential for a better understanding of the development of specific cognitive abilities. Cognitive Models in Palaeolithic Archaeology explores hominin cognitive development by applying formal cognitive models to analyze prehistoric remains from the entire range of the Palaeolithic, from the earliest stone tools 3.3 million years ago to artistic developments that emerged 50,000 years ago. Several different cognitive models are presented, including expert cognition, information processing, material engagement theory, embodied/extended cognition, neuroaesthetics, visual resonance theory, theory of mind, and neuronal recycling. By examining archaeological remains, and thereby past activities and behavior, through the grounded lenses of these models, a mosaic pattern of human cognitive evolution emerges. This volume, authored by many leading authorities in the field of cognitive archaeology, will attract scholars and students of cognitive evolution and paleoanthropology, who will find a new understanding of hominin cognitive evolution and substantive conclusions about our hominin evolution as opportunities for further research.

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.

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.

Personnel working in assisted reproductive technology often lack the opportunities for dedicated training in the specialized techniques and technologies required for the procedures. As such, success in the form of live birth rates can range from over 50% to less than 10% per treatment cycle. This comprehensive introductory textbook is an essential resource for trainee embryologists, medical students and nurses. The recent revolutions in biotechnology and molecular biology involved in delivering assisted reproductive services are thoroughly discussed. Basic knowledge such as the development and physiology of both male and female reproductive systems is covered, with practical aspects of IVF including gamete and embryo manipulation, cryopreservation and genetic testing explained in detail. A full description of the optimal structure and management of the IVF laboratory is given, helping ensure procedures are safe and effective. Extensive and highly detailed colour illustrations bring the content to life and aids readers in their understanding.

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.