The ethical issues sourrounding foetal experimentation have been under constant debate since the early 1970s. This book analyzes all aspects of foetal experimentation and suggests answers to the difficult questions concerning its morality and uses, as well as the difficulties associated with diagnosing foetal brain death. Explores the moral implications of experimental, as opposed to therapeutic, rationales for experimentation on foetal subjects. Also offers historical background on current perceptions of the suitability of foetal tissue for transplantation, how current claims have been derived from earlier practice, and the manner in which proposals for transplantation of one specific type of foetal tissue, the pancreas, have been presented to the community.

Many diseases earlier considered to be incurable are now being treated with modern innovations involving fetal tissue transplants and stem cells derived from fetal tissues. Fetal tissues are the richest source of fetal stem cells as well as other varying states of differentiated cells and support or stromal cells. The activity of such stem cells is at their peak provided they are given the correct niche. Stem cells, as we know, are immortal cells with the capacity to regenerate into any kind of differentiated cell as per niche-guidance. As such, fetal tissues have the potential capacity to mend, regenerate and repair damaged cells or tissues in adults, when directly transplanted to the site of injury, or even when transplanted in some other site, because it may have a homing capacity to migrate to the site of the specific injured organ. This is a new area of translational research and needs to be highlighted because of its immense potential. This book will bring together the new work of prominent medical scientists and clinicians who are conducting pioneering research in human fetal tissue transplantation. This will include direct transplant of healthy fetal tissue into mature patients as well as in hosts with genetic diseases. Transplant techniques, donor-host interaction, cell and tissue storage, ethical and legal issues, are some of the many matters which the book will deal with.

The Janeway's Immunobiology CD-ROM, Immunobiology Interactive, is included with each book, and can be purchased separately. It contains animations and videos with voiceover narration, as well as the figures from the text for presentation purposes.

The female patient with chronic kidney disease often requires care that differs from the male patient. Particularly in the pregnant patient, a specialized body of knowledge is required to provide optimal care. This book focuses on such issues encountered during pregnancy including physiology and pathophysiology of pregnancy, hypertension, preeclampsia, various electrolyte disorders, nephrolithiasis, pharmacological management in the pregnant patient with kidney disease and during breastfeeding, acute kidney and chronic kidney disease, dialysis of the pregnant patient, lupus nephritis, thrombotic microangiopathy, glomerular disease management, use of renal biopsy during pregnancy, care of the female transplant patient, contraceptive counseling and postpartum care, various endocrine disorders, and bone disease in the female patient with chronic kidney disease. This book features the latest evidence and clinical approaches for the beginner or for the experienced practitioners who care for pregnant woman or even for those who require expertise in women’s health. Written by experts in the field, Obstetric and Gynecologic Nephrology: Women’s Health Issues in the Patient with Kidney Disease is a valuable resource for clinicians and practitioners involved in the care and treatment of obstetric and gynecologic patients afflicted with kidney disease.

Discover new concepts in cardiovascular and hemodynamic functionality in feto-maternal medicine, from leading experts in the field.

The thymus is a gland that over the last two centuries has generated great awareness not only from the anatomical perspective but also for the physiological and pat- logical roles it plays in many disease processes. Prior to the early studies on its th anatomy and physiology in the 18 century, the thymus was believed to perform - usual and curious functions such as purification of the nervous system, providing a protective cushion for the vasculature of the superior mediastinum, fetal nouri- ment, or more spiritual roles such as being the seat of the soul, among others. D- th ing the 19 century important anatomical/physiological studies took place focusing on the role of the thymus in pathological conditions. However, it was not until the th middle of the 19 century that a more comprehensive analysis of the role of the thymic gland and its role in pathogenesis began to emerge. Currently, while the knowledge gained on the diverse aspects of the thymic gland has furthered our understanding of its role in a gamut of processes, more knowledge is still being sought, and by no means is a full understanding of the gland’s physi- ogy and pathology complete. Different aspects, including its purported endocrine function, its association with other autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus erythematosus, among others, are under evaluation and research.

This concise book provides an overview of the essential aspects of transplant nephrology. Chapters cover patient evaluation, treatment options, complications and post kidney transplant approaches to various common chronic diseases. The importance of proper immunosuppressants adjustment to improve the graft half-life and overall patient quality of life are also highlighted. Up to date and practical, this book gives nephrologists and providers that treat kidney transplant patients a succinct resource on management.

Xenotransplantation involves the transplantation of cells, tissues, and whole organs from one species to another. Interest in animal-to-human xenotransplants has been spurred by the continuing shortage of donated human organs and by advances in knowledge concerning the biology of organ and tissue rejection. The scientific advances and promise, however, raise complex questions that must be addressed. This book considers the scientific and medical feasibility of xenotransplantation and explores the ethical and public policy issues surrounding the possibility of renewed clinical trials. The volume focuses on the science base of xenotransplantation, public health risks of infectious disease transmission, and ethical and public policy issues, including the views of patients and their families.