Download or read book Current Challenges in Complement Diagnostics written by Erik J.M. Toonen and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2023-12-14 with total page 364 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The complement system is an important innate immune surveillance network that has a key role in protecting our bodies against pathogens and other threats. It is a highly complex system consisting of approximately 50 soluble and cell surface-bound proteins that interact to eliminate danger signals. These signals include factors such as invading microorganisms, necrotic cells, and immune complexes. Furthermore, complement can link innate and adaptive immune responses by regulating T cell and B cell responses. The complement system is tightly regulated to avoid uncontrolled activation. Dysregulation of the complement system has been linked to numerous diseases, both rare and common. Uncontrolled or exaggerated activation can lead to life-threatening conditions such as dysregulation of coagulation, fibrinolysis, systemic inflammation and shock, and possible failure of a variety of organs such as the eyes, kidneys, skin, brain, and vascular system. In recent years, the complement system has gained increased interest, especially as a promising candidate for therapeutic intervention. Eculizumab, the first approved complement inhibitor, is highly effective for treating atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Many more drug candidates are currently evaluated in ongoing clinical trials.

Download or read book Global Infectious Disease Surveillance and Detection written by Institute of Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2007-11-11 with total page 284 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Early detection is essential to the control of emerging, reemerging, and novel infectious diseases, whether naturally occurring or intentionally introduced. Containing the spread of such diseases in a profoundly interconnected world requires active vigilance for signs of an outbreak, rapid recognition of its presence, and diagnosis of its microbial cause, in addition to strategies and resources for an appropriate and efficient response. Although these actions are often viewed in terms of human public health, they also challenge the plant and animal health communities. Surveillance, defined as "the continual scrutiny of all aspects of occurrence and spread of a disease that are pertinent to effective control", involves the "systematic collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of health data." Disease detection and diagnosis is the act of discovering a novel, emerging, or reemerging disease or disease event and identifying its cause. Diagnosis is "the cornerstone of effective disease control and prevention efforts, including surveillance." Disease surveillance and detection relies heavily on the astute individual: the clinician, veterinarian, plant pathologist, farmer, livestock manager, or agricultural extension agent who notices something unusual, atypical, or suspicious and brings this discovery in a timely way to the attention of an appropriate representative of human public health, veterinary medicine, or agriculture. Most developed countries have the ability to detect and diagnose human, animal, and plant diseases. Global Infectious Disease Surveillance and Detection: Assessing the Challenges-Finding Solutions, Workshop Summary is part of a 10 book series and summarizes the recommendations and presentations of the workshop.

Download or read book Improving Diagnosis in Health Care written by National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2015-12-29 with total page 473 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Getting the right diagnosis is a key aspect of health care - it provides an explanation of a patient's health problem and informs subsequent health care decisions. The diagnostic process is a complex, collaborative activity that involves clinical reasoning and information gathering to determine a patient's health problem. According to Improving Diagnosis in Health Care, diagnostic errors-inaccurate or delayed diagnoses-persist throughout all settings of care and continue to harm an unacceptable number of patients. It is likely that most people will experience at least one diagnostic error in their lifetime, sometimes with devastating consequences. Diagnostic errors may cause harm to patients by preventing or delaying appropriate treatment, providing unnecessary or harmful treatment, or resulting in psychological or financial repercussions. The committee concluded that improving the diagnostic process is not only possible, but also represents a moral, professional, and public health imperative. Improving Diagnosis in Health Care, a continuation of the landmark Institute of Medicine reports To Err Is Human (2000) and Crossing the Quality Chasm (2001), finds that diagnosis-and, in particular, the occurrence of diagnostic errorsâ€"has been largely unappreciated in efforts to improve the quality and safety of health care. Without a dedicated focus on improving diagnosis, diagnostic errors will likely worsen as the delivery of health care and the diagnostic process continue to increase in complexity. Just as the diagnostic process is a collaborative activity, improving diagnosis will require collaboration and a widespread commitment to change among health care professionals, health care organizations, patients and their families, researchers, and policy makers. The recommendations of Improving Diagnosis in Health Care contribute to the growing momentum for change in this crucial area of health care quality and safety.

Download or read book Contemporary Challenges in Immunologic Testing in Clinical and Research Laboratories written by Pablo Engel and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2023-08-24 with total page 343 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Along the last several decades, it has been progressively appreciated that immunology plays an overwhelming role in the physiology and pathophysiology of most organs, tissues, and biological systems in multicellular organisms. Accordingly, several immunological parameters are used in research and clinical laboratories with the purpose of investigating, diagnosing, and monitoring a variety of pathological conditions. The rapidly evolving field of laboratory testing in immunology poses several challenges to professionals working in research and clinical laboratories, medical practice, educational activities, in vitro diagnostic industry, and regulatory agencies. Regular analytes, such as albumin, glucose, and insulin, are homogeneous among individuals of the same species. This property represents an advantage when it comes to optimize the determination methods as well as to establish standardization and quality assessment strategies. In contrast, several immunologic analytes present tremendous variability across individuals in the same species. In fact, some are unique at the individual level. For example, the repertoire of immunoglobulins specific for a given pathogen (e.g., rubella) is specific for each individual in terms of the balance of targeted antigens and epitopes, immunoglobulin isotypes, antibody avidity, Fc glycosylation rate, and so on. As a corollary, the panel of anti-rubella antibodies is necessarily different from one to other individual. This also applies to autoantibodies and to IgE to allergens. Polymorphism is prevalent for other immunologic parameters, such as Complement components, cell receptors (cluster differentiation molecules - CD) and downstream signal transduction mediators.

Download or read book Health Professions Education written by Institute of Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2003-07-01 with total page 191 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Institute of Medicine study Crossing the Quality Chasm (2001) recommended that an interdisciplinary summit be held to further reform of health professions education in order to enhance quality and patient safety. Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality is the follow up to that summit, held in June 2002, where 150 participants across disciplines and occupations developed ideas about how to integrate a core set of competencies into health professions education. These core competencies include patient-centered care, interdisciplinary teams, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics. This book recommends a mix of approaches to health education improvement, including those related to oversight processes, the training environment, research, public reporting, and leadership. Educators, administrators, and health professionals can use this book to help achieve an approach to education that better prepares clinicians to meet both the needs of patients and the requirements of a changing health care system.

Download or read book Advances in Clinical Chemistry written by and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2016-10-04 with total page 288 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Advances in Clinical Chemistry, Volume 77, the latest installment in this internationally acclaimed series, contains chapters authored by world-renowned clinical laboratory scientists, physicians, and research scientists. The serial discusses the latest and most up-to-date technologies related to the field of clinical chemistry and is the benchmark for novel analytical approaches in the clinical laboratory. Provides the most up-to-date technologies in Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Laboratory Science Authored by world renowned clinical laboratory scientists, physicians, and research scientist Presents the international benchmark for novel analytical approaches in the clinical laboratory

Download or read book Epigenetic Biomarkers and Diagnostics written by José Luis García-Giménez and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2015-12-07 with total page 696 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Epigenetic Biomarkers and Diagnostics comprises 31 chapters contributed by leading active researchers in basic and clinical epigenetics. The book begins with the basis of epigenetic mechanisms and descriptions of epigenetic biomarkers that can be used in clinical diagnostics and prognostics. It goes on to discuss classical methods and next generation sequencing-based technologies to discover and analyze epigenetic biomarkers. The book concludes with an account of DNA methylation, post-translational modifications and noncoding RNAs as the most promising biomarkers for cancer (i.e. breast, lung, colon, etc.), metabolic disorders (i.e. diabetes and obesity), autoimmune diseases, infertility, allergy, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders. The book describes the challenging aspects of research in epigenetics, and current findings regarding new epigenetic elements and modifiers, providing guidance for researchers interested in the most advanced technologies and tested biomarkers to be used in the clinical diagnosis or prognosis of disease. Focuses on recent progress in several areas of epigenetics, general concepts regarding epigenetics, and the future prospects of this discipline in clinical diagnostics and prognostics Describes the importance of the quality of samples and clinical associated data, and also the ethical issues for epigenetic diagnostics Discusses the advances in epigenomics technologies, including next-generation sequencing based tools and applications Expounds on the utility of epigenetic biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of several diseases, highlighting the study of these biomarkers in cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, infertility, and infectious diseases Includes a special section that discusses the relevance of biobanks in the maintenance of high quality biosamples and clinical-associated data, and the relevance of the ethical aspects in epigenetic studies

Download or read book Cytopathology An Issue of Surgical Pathology Clinics written by Vickie Jo and published by Elsevier Health Sciences. This book was released on 2018-09-07 with total page pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This issue of Surgical Pathology Clinics, edited by Dr. Vickie Jo, focused on Cytopathology. Topics include--but are not limited to--Head and Neck Cytology: HPV-Associated Carcinomas; Updates in Thyroid Cytology; Salivary Gland Cytopathology; Pulmonary Cytopathology; Updates in Effusion Cytology; Updates in Gynecologic Cytology; Diagnostic Advances in Urine Cytology; Renal Neoplasms; Pancreaticobiliary Cytology; Carcinoma of Unknown Primary; Soft Tissue Neoplasms; Primary Bone Tumors; Pediatric Cytopathology; Advances in Molecular Testing Techniques in Cytological Specimens; and Circulating Tumor Cells: Applications in Cytopathology.

Download or read book Contemporary Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment of Predominantly Antibody Deficiency written by Emily S. J. Edwards and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2022-11-25 with total page 154 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: We acknowledge the initiation and support of this Research Topic by the International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS). We hereby state publicly that the IUIS has had no editorial input in articles included in this Research Topic, thus ensuring that all aspects of this Research Topic are evaluated objectively, unbiased by any specific policy or opinion of the IUI.

Download or read book Understanding the Psychic Experience written by Julia Conrad and published by Balboa Press. This book was released on 2020-07-27 with total page 141 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Understanding the Psychic Experience......................................................... As you delve into the pages of this book, you are opening the pages to knowledge of other dimensions that are just waiting to be explored by the human psyche. This is the place where self-discovery and the realization that your ordinary life may be more extraordinary than you thought. Where the metaphysical becomes the physical and the extraordinary becomes the ordinary. In these pages, the author really brings forward a level of knowledge and understanding of such an interesting and curious subject matter that everyone from the beginner who is just starting to feed a new level of curiosity within, to the experienced who may be looking for a new discovery of information that fits perfectly into their puzzle, helping to see a broader picture of all that there is, will resonate with this book. This book brings to light a new awareness of the fact that there is so much more going on around us, other than what just the human eye can see.

Download or read book Current Topics and Emerging Issues in Malaria Elimination written by and published by BoD – Books on Demand. This book was released on 2021-07-21 with total page 336 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Malaria is one of the most important tropical diseases in the history of the world. This vector-borne disease has been a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in tropical countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. As such, this book provides updated information on epidemiological and public health research of malaria conducted in the last decade. Over four sections, chapters discuss such topics as diagnosis, epidemiology and surveillance, policy and prevention, and vector control and vaccines.

Download or read book Evidence Based Medicine and the Changing Nature of Health Care written by Institute of Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2008-09-06 with total page 202 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Drawing on the work of the Roundtable on Evidence-Based Medicine, the 2007 IOM Annual Meeting assessed some of the rapidly occurring changes in health care related to new diagnostic and treatment tools, emerging genetic insights, the developments in information technology, and healthcare costs, and discussed the need for a stronger focus on evidence to ensure that the promise of scientific discovery and technological innovation is efficiently captured to provide the right care for the right patient at the right time. As new discoveries continue to expand the universe of medical interventions, treatments, and methods of care, the need for a more systematic approach to evidence development and application becomes increasingly critical. Without better information about the effectiveness of different treatment options, the resulting uncertainty can lead to the delivery of services that may be unnecessary, unproven, or even harmful. Improving the evidence-base for medicine holds great potential to increase the quality and efficiency of medical care. The Annual Meeting, held on October 8, 2007, brought together many of the nation's leading authorities on various aspects of the issues - both challenges and opportunities - to present their perspectives and engage in discussion with the IOM membership.

Download or read book Molecular Diagnostics written by George P. Patrinos and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2016-10-27 with total page 520 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Molecular Diagnostics, Third Edition, focuses on the technologies and applications that professionals need to work in, develop, and manage a clinical diagnostic laboratory. Each chapter contains an expert introduction to each subject that is next to technical details and many applications for molecular genetic testing that can be found in comprehensive reference lists at the end of each chapter. Contents are divided into three parts, technologies, application of those technologies, and related issues. The first part is dedicated to the battery of the most widely used molecular pathology techniques. New chapters have been added, including the various new technologies involved in next-generation sequencing (mutation detection, gene expression, etc.), mass spectrometry, and protein-specific methodologies. All revised chapters have been completely updated, to include not only technology innovations, but also novel diagnostic applications. As with previous editions, each of the chapters in this section includes a brief description of the technique followed by examples from the area of expertise from the selected contributor. The second part of the book attempts to integrate previously analyzed technologies into the different aspects of molecular diagnostics, such as identification of genetically modified organisms, stem cells, pharmacogenomics, modern forensic science, molecular microbiology, and genetic diagnosis. Part three focuses on various everyday issues in a diagnostic laboratory, from genetic counseling and related ethical and psychological issues, to safety and quality management. Presents a comprehensive account of all new technologies and applications used in clinical diagnostic laboratories Explores a wide range of molecular-based tests that are available to assess DNA variation and changes in gene expression Offers clear translational presentations by the top molecular pathologists, clinical chemists, and molecular geneticists in the field

Download or read book Ortner s Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains written by Jane Buikstra and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2019-01-29 with total page 859 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Ortner's Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains, Third Edition, provides an integrated and comprehensive treatment of the pathological conditions that affect the human skeleton. As ancient skeletal remains can reveal a treasure trove of information to the modern orthopedist, pathologist, forensic anthropologist, and radiologist, this book presents a timely resource. Beautifully illustrated with over 1,100 photographs and drawings, it provides an essential text and material on bone pathology, thus helping improve the diagnostic ability of those interested in human dry bone pathology. Presents a comprehensive review of the skeletal diseases encountered in archaeological human remains Includes more than 1100 photographs and line drawings illustrating skeletal diseases, including both microscopic and gross features Based on extensive research on skeletal paleopathology in many countries Reviews important theoretical issues on how to interpret evidence of skeletal disease in archaeological human populations

Download or read book Medical Biosensors for Point of Care POC Applications written by Roger J Narayan and published by Woodhead Publishing. This book was released on 2016-08-21 with total page 316 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Medical Biosensors for Point of Care (POC) Applications discusses advances in this important and emerging field which has the potential to transform patient diagnosis and care. Part 1 covers the fundamentals of medical biosensors for point-of-care applications. Chapters in part 2 go on to look at materials and fabrication of medical biosensors while the next part looks at different technologies and operational techniques. The final set of chapters provide an overview of the current applications of this technology. Traditionally medical diagnostics have been dependent on sophisticated technologies which only trained professionals were able to operate. Recent research has focused on creating point-of-care diagnostic tools. These biosensors are miniaturised, portable, and are designed to be used at the point-of-care by untrained individuals, providing real-time and remote health monitoring. Provides essential knowledge for designers and manufacturers of biosensors for point-of-care applications Provides comprehensive coverage of the fundamentals, materials, technologies, and applications of medical biosensors for point-of-care applications Includes contributions from leading international researchers with extensive experience in developing medical biosensors Discusses advances in this important and emerging field which has the potential to transform patient diagnosis and care

Download or read book Basic Science Methods for Clinical Researchers written by Morteza Jalali and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2017-03-31 with total page 382 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Basic Science Methods for Clinical Researchers addresses the specific challenges faced by clinicians without a conventional science background. The aim of the book is to introduce the reader to core experimental methods commonly used to answer questions in basic science research and to outline their relative strengths and limitations in generating conclusive data. This book will be a vital companion for clinicians undertaking laboratory-based science. It will support clinicians in the pursuit of their academic interests and in making an original contribution to their chosen field. In doing so, it will facilitate the development of tomorrow’s clinician scientists and future leaders in discovery science. Serves as a helpful guide for clinical researchers who lack a conventional science background Organized around research themes pertaining to key biological molecules, from genes, to proteins, cells, and model organisms Features protocols, techniques for troubleshooting common problems, and an explanation of the advantages and limitations of a technique in generating conclusive data Appendices provide resources for practical research methodology, including legal frameworks for using stem cells and animals in the laboratory, ethical considerations, and good laboratory practice (GLP)

Download or read book Nathan and Oski s Hematology of Infancy and Childhood E Book written by Stuart H. Orkin and published by Elsevier Health Sciences. This book was released on 2008-12-16 with total page 1868 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: To address the exponential growth in the fields of pediatric hematology and oncology, this classic reference has been separated into two distinct volumes. With this volume, devoted strictly to pediatric hematology, and another to pediatric oncology, you’ll keep you on the cutting-edge of these two specialties. The completely revised 7th edition of Nathan and Oski’s Hematology of Infancy and Childhood is now in full color, and provides you with the most comprehensive, authoritative, up-to-date information for diagnosing and treating children with hematologic disorders. It brings together the pathophysiology of disease with detailed clinical guidance on diagnosis and management for the full range of blood diseases that you encounter in everyday practice. Written by the leading names in pediatric hematology, this resource is an essential tool for anyone involved in caring for children with hematologic disorders. Balances summaries of relevant pathophysiology with clear, practical clinical guidance to help you thoroughly understand the underlying science of diseases. Offers comprehensive coverage of all hematologic disorders, including newly recognized ones, along with the latest breakthroughs in diagnosis and management. Uses many boxes, graphs, and tables to highlight complex clinical diagnostic and management guidelines at a glance. Presents an all-new full-color design that includes clear illustrative examples of relevant science and clinical problems for quick access to the answers you need.