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Many developments in immunology have occurred over the past 10 years that give us a better understanding of the immune system and its dysfunctions. Refined mapping of the major histocompatibility complex MHC; elucidation of its gene structure and polymorphism, as well as the molecular basis of MHC restriction; the arrangement, expression, and regulation of immunoglobulins; definition of the structure of the T cell receptor and organization of its genes; and the characterization of soluble factors involved in cell/cell interactions and cloning of their genes are among the major accomplishments. Volumes I and II build on these developments in basic immunology to introduce animal models of various diseases, corresponding human studies, and the genetic analysis of autoimmune traits at the patient population level. The book will be a tremendous asset to immunologists, geneticists, and physicians in various areas of clinical subspecialties.

CANCER CONSULT New edition covering the specialties of hematology, oncology and cellular therapy, now in two volumes Cancer Consult: Expertise in Clinical Practice, Volume 2: Neoplastic Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Second Edition includes hundreds of answers to practice-based questions covering the new principles of diagnosis, classification, staging, treatment, and outcomes in the rapidly advancing field of cancer. This textbook series also provides expert guidance in the areas of cancer-related uncertainties and controversies, including experience-based discussions. The book's smaller size allows for easy access during medical rounds. This volume also includes: Up-to-date clinically relevant information on the very latest topics such as molecular techniques, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, BMT, CAR T-cell therapy and translational cancer research Sections on ALL, AML, myeloid neoplasms, CLL, Hodgkin's and Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, amongst other topics Streamlined, engaging content to make finding information easier and less time consuming for the reader Concise and practical expert perspectives that reference key studies References to the latest NCCN, ESMO, ASH, ASTCT, EBMT and other national guidelines With its powerful focus on pragmatic clinical diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic approaches, Cancer Consult: Expertise in Clinical Practice, Volume 2: Neoplastic Hematology & Cellular Therapy, Second Edition will help keep hematology, oncology and cellular therapy practitioners up-to-date, bridging the gaps between journal and reference literature, conferences, and their existing knowledge base. It also offers clinicians, trainees, and fellows an excellent opportunity to enhance their preparation for the ABIM, hematology and oncology fellowship and recertification exams.

THE authoritative guide for clinical laboratory immunology For nearly 50 years, the Manual of Molecular and Clinical Laboratory Immunology has been the premier resource for laboratories, students, and professionals involved in the clinical and technical details of diagnostic immunology testing. The 9th Edition continues its tradition of providing comprehensive clinical and technical information on the latest technologies used in medical and diagnostic immunology. Led by a world-renowned group of authors and editors, this new edition reflects substantial changes aimed at improving and updating the Manual's utility while reflecting the significant transformations that have occurred since the last edition, including the revolution of gene editing and the widespread adoption of molecularly engineered cellular therapies. Topical highlights include: Laboratory Management: three new chapters cover essential aspects of quality assurance, quality improvement, and quality management, aligning with the increasingly stringent and demanding regulatory environment.Inborn Errors of Immunity: the primary immunodeficiency section has been completely updated to align with the latest International Union of Immunological Societies'classifications of inborn errors of immunity.Functional Cellular Assays: expanded content includes detailed discussions on various functional assays critical for modern immunologic testing.Autoimmune Diseases: expanded chapters on systemic and organ-specific autoimmune disorders, including new chapters on Sjögren's syndrome and deficiency of ADA2, as well as significant updates on organ-specific autoimmune diseases.Transplantation Immunology: updated chapters detail the assessment of immune reconstitution and ABO testing, reflecting latest practices. The 9th Edition of the Manual of Molecular and Clinical Laboratory Immunology serves as an invaluable resource for laboratory directors, clinicians, laboratory managers, technologists, and students. It provides critical insights into the selection, application, and interpretation of immunologic tests, offering practical guidance on troubleshooting, clinical application, and an understanding of test limitations. This comprehensive and up-to-date manual remains an essential tool for anyone involved in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of immune-mediated and immune system-related disorders.

This book summarizes the global progress in medical and scientific research toward converting traditionally chronic autoimmune diseases into a drug-free reversible illness using hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and other cellular therapies such as T regulatory cells (Treg), mesenchymal stromal/stem cells, and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cells in order to reintroduce sustained immune tolerance. This title provides information on different types of stem cells and immune cells; post-transplant immune regeneration; cellular regulatory requirements; ethical and economic considerations; and the advantages and disadvantages of HSCT in the treatment of a variety of autoimmune diseases versus current conventional treatments. Arranged by disease, the text provides a comprehensive guide to HSCT for all types of autoimmune/immune disorders including monogenetic autoimmune diseases; autoimmune aplastic anemia; neurologic immune diseases including multiple sclerosis, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, neuromyelitis optica, and stiff person syndrome; rheumatologic diseases such as systemic sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus; dermatologic diseases such as pemphigus; gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease; and immune-mediated endocrinologic disease type I diabetes mellitus. Guidance is provided on the transplantation technique, cell collection and processing, conditioning regimens, infections, and early and late complications.Key Features Outlines therapies and techniques for HSCT for autoimmune diseases Discusses the advantages of HSCT over conventional therapies Reviews the entire process of stem cell therapy from harvest and ethics to indications, efficacy, and regulatory oversight

This book presents an authoritative collection of HLA phenotyping and genotyping techniques to be used at the bench level and as a reference. It includes detailed methodologies, notes on the interpretation of tests, reference material, and appendices.

Bone Marrow transplantation or Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a life saving procedure in a number of diseases,hematological and non hematological, which fail alternative medical management or have no other treatment options. It has transformed the lives of thousands of patients and their families around the world battling with fatal or debilitating diseases.There are many unique aspects of bone marrow transplantation which makes it very different from solid organ transplants. There is an enormous amount of research going on in this field both at clinical and basic science levels.With the rapidly changing world and field of transplantation, there is a need for an authoritative and up to date resource for transplant professionals.This book titled Contemporary Bone Marrow Transplantation aims to be a reference text comprehensively covering various facets of hematopoietic stem cell transplants with latest insights about the technique and basic sciencebehind it. The book is the product of collective effort of transplant professionals round the world, and will reflect their experience as well as the current standard of care practices in Stem cell transplantation.The book will be divided into different sections focusing on the basic science of bone marrow transplant, the technical aspects of the procedure itself and the supportive care of transplant patients.There will also be a section each on epidemiology, upcoming trends and also case studies, which will discuss real case scenarios from the experience of the authors, to illustrate the practical challenges in managing bone marrow transplant recipients.

This book provides a comprehensive compilation of the evidence available regarding the role of genetic differences in the etiology of human obesities and their health and metabolic implications. It also identifies the most promising research areas, methods, and strategies for use in future efforts to understand the genetic basis of obesities and their consequences on human health. Leading researchers in their respective fields present contributed chapters on such topics as etiology and the prevalence of obesities, nongenetic determinants of obesity and fat topography, and animal models and molecular biological technology used to delineate the genetic basis of human obesities. A major portion of the book is devoted to human genetic research and clinical observations encompassing adoption studies, twin studies, family studies, single gene effects, temporal trends and etiology heterogeneity, energy intake and food preference, energy expenditure, and susceptibility to metabolic derangements in the obese state. Future directions of research in the field are covered in the book as well.

Immune Biology of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Models in Discovery and Translation, Second Edition once again provides clinical and scientific researchers with a deep understanding of the current research in this field and the implications for translational practice. By providing an overview of the immune biology of HSCT, an explanation of immune rejection, and detail on antigens and their role in HSCT success, this book embraces biologists and clinicians who need a broad view of the deeply complex processes involved. It then moves on to discuss the immunobiology mechanisms that influence graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), graft-versus-leukemia effect, and transplantation success. Using illustrative figures, highlighting key issues, describing recent successes, and discussing unanswered questions, this book sums up the current state of HSCT to enhance the prospects for the future. The second edition is fully revised and includes new chapters on microbiome, metabolism, kinase targets, micro-RNA and mRNA regulatory mechanisms, signaling pathways in GVHD, innate lymphoid system development, recovery and function in GVHD, genetically engineered T-cell therapies, immune system engagers for GVHD and graft-versus-tumor, and hematopoietic cell transplant for tolerance induction in solid organ grafts. - Brings together perspectives from leading laboratories and clinical research groups to highlight advances from bench to the bedside - Guides readers through the caveats that must be considered when drawing conclusions from studies with animal models before correlating to clinical allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) scenarios - Categorizes the published advances in various aspects of immune biology of allogeneic HSCT to illustrate opportunities for clinical applications

Neuroimmunology, the latest volume in the Contemporary Neurology Series, provides a practical, clinical, and scientific background on a diverse group of neurological disorders in this rapidly expanding field. The book includes chapters on multiple sclerosis and related disorders in adults and children, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy and variants, immune-mediated disorders of the neuromuscular junction, inflammatory myopathies, paraneoplastic disorders and autoimmune encephalitities, and neurologic manifestations of systemic immune-mediated diseases. Unique to the work, the authors have included an introductory chapter on the basics of immunology and another on mechanisms of action of therapies used in neuroimmunologic disorders. The clinical chapters cover epidemiology, pathology, pathogenesis, and pathophysiology of the different diseases along with clinical presentation, diagnostic testing, differential diagnosis, and treatment. All are presented in an accessible, practical format, making this volume a valuable resource for physicians and other healthcare providers that will care for persons with neuroimmunologic diseases.

The Royal Marsden is the world's first hospital dedicated to cancer diagnosis, treatment, research and education – a centre of excellence with an international reputation for ground-breaking research and pioneering the very latest in cancer treatments and technologies, as well as specialising in cancer diagnosis and education. This companion volume to the internationally successful The Royal Marsden Manual of Clinical Nursing Procedures is designed to support practitioners who work specifically with oncology patients by providing detailed evidence-based procedures and rationale, and problem-solving guidance on all aspects of oncology nursing. The Royal Marsden Manual of Cancer Nursing Procedures: Is organized and structured to represent the needs of the patient along their care pathway Provides the latest evidence underpinning all procedures Includes information on haematological procedures; pain assessment and management; wound care; oncological emergencies; and end-of-life care Gives detailed guidelines on supporting patients living with cancer with practical information on such things as benefits, exercise and nutrition. The Royal Marsden Manual of Cancer Nursing Procedures is an invaluable, definitive resource for all those involved in the provision of cancer care and support to patients and their families.

First published in 1989, this book provides information on the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal immunodeficiencies. It includes a survey on the'riddle of the fetal allograft'. Also discussed in the text are Ontogeny, immunological aspects of differentiation, and treatment of spontaneous abortion. This book is useful to predoctoral students, researchers in obstetrics, animal husbandry, and reproductive immunology.

Hardbound. Many figures and photos. A4

The main aim of this volume is to provide an updated overview of the genetic basis of a group of complex disorders that are considered rare individually, but show a relatively high prevalence on the whole in developed countries: the rare autoimmune diseases. These are chronic disorders that involve long and expensive treatments with considerable side effects that may dramatically reduce the quality of life of affected people. Therefore, shedding light into their pathologic mechanisms is a major concern given their growing social and economic awareness and impact. General sections include different chapters on single entities as systemic lupus and sclerosis, Behçet's disease, Sjogren's syndrome and polymiositis, and sections devoted to autoimmune vasculitis, hepatic autoimmune conditions, as well as those affecting the nervous system, and a concluding chapter in which the shared predisposition amongst all diseases is discussed. All the chapters are given a homogeneous scheme in which the authors explain the clinical singularities of every disease and report the recent breakthrough discoveries related to them, giving a critical interpretation and suggesting future perspectives. All contributors are renowned researchers with high expertise in each disease. Due to the exponential increase in our understanding of the genetic causes of these complex diseases, a major advance in biomedical discovery is taking place. However, most of the achievements in this field are very recent and there is a lack of bibliography gathering them together. This book is thus filling a gap and will prove a useful companion to clinicians in the first place (internists, rheumatologists, clinical immunologists, and hematologists) but also to basic and applied researchers.

Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is mediated by pathogenic autoantibodies to components of the postsynaptic muscle endplate at the neuromuscular junction. Due to the clinical heterogeneity of the disease, there is a great need for objective biomarkers for diagnostic as well as therapeutic purposes. Humoral biomarkers of MG can be divided into two categories: 1) autoantibodies; and 2) other immune-related molecules including inflammatory proteins, microRNA, HLA genes. Regarding autoantibodies, the radio immuno assay (RIA) allows for the detection of IgG1 and IgG3 antibodies directed against the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRAb) in 85% of the patients with generalized MG, but only in 50% of those with the ocular form. Treatment with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors is very helpful, although immunosuppressive therapy is frequently necessary. Thymoma or thymic hyperplasia can occur, implicating surgery. In AChRAb negative generalized MG patients, a very variable percentage has IgG4 antibodies towards muscle specific tyrosine kinase (MuSKAb): typically, bulbar weakness is the first symptom often associated with neck and respiratory involvement. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are less effective and induce frequent side effects; first and second line suppressive treatments are commonly required. More rarely, IgG towards low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (Lrp4Ab), agrin or cortactin are detected: if there are not associated AChRAb or MuSKAb, often patients present with milder forms of MG. Few patients have been demonstrated positive to AChRAb or to other autoantibodies with the more sensitive cell based assay. Finally, titin and ryanodine receptor antibodies can occur in association with AChRAb MG, indicating the possibility of thymoma or, in the context of late-onset myasthenia gravis, severe disease with a need for long-term immunosuppression and no response to thymectomy. In regards to immune-related molecules, two recent studies reported increased serum levels of a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), cytokines IL-19, IL-20, IL-28A and IL-35, matrix metalloproteinase 10 (MMP-10), which is a member of the metalloproteinase family, transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α), a growth factor that has important roles for epithelial proliferation and differentiation, and the extracellular newly identified receptor for advanced glycation end-products binding protein (EN-RAGE, also known as protein S100-A12), a protein that binds to calcium, zinc and copper. These three last proteins are involved in the cell cycle progression and differentiation, and play multiple roles in immunity response. Circulating microRNAs (miRNA) have been reported to be potential biomarkers in some MG patients; in particular, miR-150-5p and miR-21-5p for AChRAb MG and the let7 family for MuSKAb MG. These miRNA are involved in the development of T- and B-cell autoimmune responses. Some HLA associations have been reported, such as DR3-B8-A1 in early onset AChRAb MG and DR14, DR16 and DQ5 in MuSKAb MG. Characterization of novel humoral biomarkers is a topic of great importance for diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of the various subgroups of MG, although it remains a partially fulfilled clinical need. Other serum biomarkers are currently the subject of active research.

The new edition of this textbook integrates the history, epidemiology, pathology, pathophysiology, therapeutics, and supportive care of modern neoplastic hematopathology. Now in its sixth edition, this classic and invaluable text brings together a team of internationally renowned experts and offers in-depth coverage of the complex interface between diagnosis and therapy. The textbook is divided into five major sections, with the first four covering the spectrum of hematologic neoplasia, including chronic leukemias and related disorders, acute leukemias, myeloma and related disorders, and lymphomas, and the fifth section covering a variety of topics in supportive care. Chapters are presented in an accessible and easy-to-read layout, providing updates on the tremendous progress made in the last decade in the understanding of the nature of hematologic malignancies and their treatment.Neoplastic Diseases of the Blood, Sixth Edition is an authoritative and indispensable resource for students, trainees, and clinicians, sure to distinguish itself as the definitive reference on this subject.

The third edition of this important, gold-standard title outlines a range of significant advances in the study and understanding of myasthenia gravis. The overarching goal of this new edition is identical to the first and second -- to provide the clinician and the scientist with a common resource for understanding the profound achievements in the clinical, translational, and basic sciences of neuromuscular transmission disorders. In addition to several new authors and an extensive update of all chapters, this third edition includes summaries of pre-clinical research standards for autoimmune MG, along with a broad summary of MG clinical trial performance. The now greater understanding of the clinical presentation of MuSK-related MG and identification of potential new autoantigens, including LRP-4, is discussed. The development of treatment guidelines by groups in Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, and an international consortium is also outlined. Myasthenia Gravisand Related Disorders, Third Edition, is an invaluable resource for meeting the many and varied needs of clinicians who treat patients with myasthenia gravis.

This book discusses the topic of the HLA antigen system. Chapters discuss topics such as; animal studies, the possible mechanisms of HLA and disease associations, statistical and genetic considerations, the clinical use of HLA typing, as well as the current status of HLA and disease associations.

The Digestive System in Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Second Edition, represents the state-of-the-art in the field of digestive disorders in the most common systemic autoimmune diseases. This volume consists of an introductory chapter on imaging techniques in digestive diseases, followed by eight chapters on digestive manifestations in specific systemic autoimmune diseases. The final five chapters deal with digestive diseases with an autoimmune pathogenesis and systemic manifestations. International in scope, the table of contents reads like a Who's who in clinical research on systemic autoimmune diseases. More than 20 contributors from the European Union, the United States, Mexico, and South Africa share their knowledge in this detailed volume. The book provides an overview of our current understanding of digestive disorders in the most common systemic autoimmune diseases. - Completely updated, including five new chapters - Presents up-to-date information, giving the reader easy access to individual topics in one place - Written by leading international clinical and scientific experts on autoimmune and digestive diseases - Provides a practical guide to the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of digestive involvement in patients with autoimmune diseases that will be useful for all medical specialties - Includes several diseases and conditions not included in other texts, some of which have only recently emerged - Designed to serve as a guide to clinical practice

Meyler's Side Effects of Drugs: The International Encyclopedia of Adverse Drug Reactions and Interactions, Sixteenth Edition, Seven Volume Set builds on the success of the 15 previous editions, providing an extensively reorganized and expanded resource that now comprises more than 1,500 individual drug articles with the most complete coverage of adverse reactions and interactions found anywhere. Each article contains detailed and authoritative information about the adverse effects of each drug, with comprehensive references to the primary literature, making this a must–have reference work for any academic or medical library, pharmacologist, regulatory organization, hospital dispensary, or pharmaceutical company. The online version of the book provides an unparalleled depth of coverage and functionality by offering convenient desktop access and enhanced features such as increased searchability, extensive internal cross-linking, and fully downloadable and printable full-text, HTML or PDF articles. - Enhanced encyclopedic format with drug monographs now organized alphabetically - Completely expanded coverage of each drug, with more than 1,500 drug articles and information on adverse reactions and interactions - Clearer, systematic organization of information for easier reading, including case histories to provide perspective on each listing - Extensive bibliography with over 40,000 references - A must–have reference work for any academic or medical library, pharmacologist, regulatory organization, hospital dispensary, or pharmaceutical company

This book helps scientists, clinicians and other interested individuals understand recent clinical advances and challenges for the future. It covers many basic aspects of the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis C, HCV infections in particular populations, approaches to therapy, and prevention and control of HCV Infection. The book provides a succinct review of the large amount of data generated by multiple groups over the past two decades that has revealed the natural history of HCV infection. Similarly, it summarizes current understanding of the origins of HCV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma, cirrhosis and hepatic fibrosis. Extra-hepatic manifestation and metabolic disorders related to HCV infection are described. In this volume, these clinically important aspects of HCV infection are comprehensively described. Highlights are description of newly developed direct- acting antivirals. The authors represent a worldwide distribution of leaders in the field reflecting the global nature of HCV infection. Based on recent data concerning the genetic- and geographical diversity of HCV, and increased global disease burden of HCV infection, challenges for global control of HCV infections are described.

Encyclopedia of Immunobiology, Five Volume Set provides the largest integrated source of immunological knowledge currently available. It consists of broad ranging, validated summaries on all of the major topics in the field as written by a team of leading experts. The large number of topics covered is relevant to a wide range of scientists working on experimental and clinical immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, veterinary science, physiology, and hematology. The book is built in thematic sections that allow readers to rapidly navigate around related content. Specific sections focus on basic, applied, and clinical immunology. The structure of each section helps readers from a range of backgrounds gain important understanding of the subject. - Contains tables, pictures, and multimedia features that enhance the learning process - In-depth coverage allows readers from a range of backgrounds to benefit from the material - Provides handy cross-referencing between articles to improve readability, including easy access from portable devices

THE authoritative guide for clinical laboratory immunology For over 40 years the Manual of Molecular and Clinical Laboratory Immunology has served as the premier guide for the clinical immunology laboratory. From basic serology testing to the present wide range of molecular analyses, the Manual has reflected the exponential growth in the field of immunology over the past decades. This eighth edition reflects the latest advances and developments in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with infectious and immune-mediated disorders. The Manual features detailed descriptions of general and specific methodologies, placing special focus on the interpretation of laboratory findings, and covers the immunology of infectious diseases, including specific pathogens, as well as the full range of autoimmune and immunodeficiency diseases, cancer, and transplantation. Written to guide the laboratory director, the Manual will also appeal to other laboratory scientists, especially those working in clinical immunology laboratories, and pathologists. It is also a useful reference for physicians, mid-level providers, medical students, and allied health students with an interest in the role that immunology plays in the clinical laboratory.

Epstein Barr virus (EBV) was discovered as the first human tumor virus around 50 years ago. Since its discovery in Burkitt's lymphoma it has been associated with various other malignancies, infectious mononucleosis and even autoimmune diseases. The two book volumes on EBV summarize the first 50 years of research on this tumor virus, starting with historical perspectives on discovery, oncogenicity and immune control, reviewing the role that the virus plays in the various associated diseases and concluding with a discussion on how the immune system keeps persistent EBV infection under control in healthy EBV carriers and can be used to treat EBV associated diseases. The respective 32 chapters are written by international experts from three continents for health care providers, biomedical researchers and patients that are affected by EBV. The assembled knowledge should help to understand EBV associated diseases better and to develop EBV specific vaccination in the near future.

Myasthenia gravis is a complex subject, multidisciplinary and challenging in terms of its clinical, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects. This is evident in the gradual changes over time and in the variety of clinical presentations, the mutable therapeutic responses and the difficulties to standardize the evaluation of results. It is remarkable to review the many advances made in the field of myasthenia gravis. This book is proof of considerable progress made and of the fact that new knowledge today is acquired in shorter time than in the past. This acceleration is a signal of many successful technological advances in clinical and laboratory research. Even in myasthenia gravis, as in other research areas, researchers expect more from new achievements in rapid growing disciplines such as with immunology and genetics. To this, the authors'wanted to draw the attention of the readers.

Engineered MSCs from Patient-Specific iPS Cells, by Irina Eberle, Mohsen Moslem, Reinhard Henschler, Tobias Cantz Fate of Intravenously Injected Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Significance for Clinical Application, by Beate Wagner, Reinhard Henschler The Implications of Stem Cell Applications for Diseases of the Respiratory System, by Mei Ling Lim, Philipp Jungebluth, Paolo Macchiarini Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Applications in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, by Birgit Weyand, Peter M. Vogt General Principles for the Regeneration of Bone and Cartilage, by Michael Jagodzinski, C. Haasper Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells Explored in the Dental Field, by K. M. Fawzy El-Sayed, C. Dörfer, F. Fändrich, F. Gieseler, M. H. Moustafa, H. Ungefroren Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy and Lung Diseases, by Khondoker M. Akram, Sohel Samad, Monica Spiteri, Nicholas R. Forsyth Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Cellular Immunotherapeutics in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, by Claudia Papewalis, Daniela Topolar, Barbara Götz, Stefan Schönberger, Dagmar Dilloo New Cell-Based Therapy Paradigm: Induction of Bone Marrow-Derived Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells into Pro-Inflammatory MSC1 and Anti-inflammatory MSC2 Phenotypes, by Aline M. Betancourt Interactions Between Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Dendritic Cells, by Grazia Maria Spaggiari, Lorenzo Moretta MSC and Tumors: Homing, Differentiation, and Secretion Influence Therapeutic Potential, by Naomi D'souza, Jorge Sans Burns, Giulia Grisendi, Olivia Candini, Elena Veronesi, Serena Piccinno, Edwin M. Horwitz, Paolo Paolucci, Pierfranco Conte, Massimo Dominici Sources of Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Current and Future Clinical Use, by Michela Pozzobon, Martina Piccoli, Paolo De Coppi Role of the EU Framework in Regulation of Stem Cell-Based Products, by Giovanni Migliaccio, Cristina Pintus

Typically, manuals of pediatric hematology-oncology are written by specialists from high-income countries, and usually target an audience with a sub-specialist level of training, often assisted by cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment facilities. However, approximately 80% of new cases of cancer in children appear in mid- and low-income countries. Almost invariably, general practitioners or general pediatricians without special training in oncology will look after children with malignancies who enter the health care system in these countries. The diagnostic facilities are usually limited, as are the treatment options. The survival figures in these conditions are somewhere below 20%, while in high-income countries they are in the range of 80% for many childhood cancers. Pediatric Hematology-Oncology in Countries with Limited Resources is the only book of its kind to provide specific guidance applicable to limited resource settings and builds up from the foundation of general practitioner or general pediatrician competence. Written and edited by leaders in the field, this manual educates physicians on the essential components of the discipline, filtered through the experience of specialists from developing countries, with immediate applicability in the specific healthcare environment in these countries.​

Immune Biology of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation provides clinical and scientific researchers with a deep understanding of the current research in this field and the implications for translational practice. By providing an overview of the immune biology of HSCT, an explanation of immune rejection, and detail on antigens and their role in HSCT success, this book embraces biologists and clinicians who need a broad view of the deeply complex processes involved. It then moves on to discuss the immunobiology mechanisms that influence graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect, and transplantation success. Using illustrative figures, highlighting key issues, describing recent successes and discussing unanswered questions, this book sums up the current state of HSCT to enhance the prospects for the future. Allogeneic HSCT is a medical procedure in which a patient receives blood-forming stem cells from a genetically similar but not identical donor. This procedure is commonly performed for people with diseases of the blood, bone marrow, or certain cancers, but it remains risky with many possible complications. As such, experimental practice is reserved for preclinical animal models including the mouse and dog. These animal models have been essential in developing transplant protocols, including preclinical testing of conditioning regimens, treatment of GVHD, and understanding the pathology of GVHD as well as the immunological mechanisms of GVHD and GVL effect. However, recent research has revealed significant species differences between humans and animal models that must be considered when relating animal model studies to clinical allogeneic HSCT scenarios. - Brings together perspectives leading laboratories and clinical research groups to highlight advances from bench to the bedside - Guides readers through the caveats that must be considered when drawing conclusions from studies with animal models before correlating to clinical allogeneic HSCT scenarios - Categorizes the published advances in various aspects of immune biology of allegeneic HSCT to illustrate opportunities for clinical applications

Modern cell biology has brought improvements in therapy for advanced malignant diseases through immunomodulation, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and other advanced techniques. Collected here are selected papers from the Fifth International Symposium of Keio University for Life Sciences and Medicine on Cell Therapy.All chapters include innovative basic research for clinical application: immunotherapy, cancer vaccination, molecular biology of hematopoietic stem cells, stem cell processing, and gene therapy.The book is divided into three parts: Immunotherapy for malignant diseases; Hematopoietic stem cell biology and clinical application; and International collaboration in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Included in the third part is information on bone marrow registries from around the world.The book thus presents up-to-date information on biological and clinical aspects of treatment, with insight into the future of cell therapy.

GvHD prevention without compromising the graft versus malignancy potential or the immunodefence against infectious agents is the art of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. This book summarizes state-of-the-art GvHD preventive strategies based on animal models and clinical trials. It focuses on novel approaches as well as important supportive measures with relevance for clinical practice. This critical overview is intended for transplant specialists as well as novices and colleagues taking care of patients in the field of hematopoietic cell transplantation.

This book gives a concise review of the known human retroviruses; the onco-retroviruses HTLV-1 and -2 and the AIDS-associated lentiviruses HIV-1 and -2. History, classification, general and genomic structure, and basic biologic facts of retroviruses are described in introductory chapters. Subsequent chapters deal with the epidemiology, disease spectrum, structure and functions of the viral genes and proteins of the individual viruses. A separate chapter describes the various humoral and cellular immune mechanisms in response to HIV and their use with respect to diagnosis and treatment. Special attention is given to the complicated pathogenesis of AIDS and the consequences with regard to therapy and vaccination. The book ends with a critical review of recent work suggesting a possible role of still other retroviruses in human disorders including malignancies, autoimmune, or neurologic diseases. The book is designed to give the reader a broad, but detailed view of human retroviruses and the diseases associated with them. It tries to connect the viral, immunologic, and pathologic aspects of these infections to unifying concepts - no quick answers though, but profound critical information on a complicated topic.

It is now 10 years since the first AIDS cases were reported in the USA. In that relatively short period of time, study of the disease has moved from the level of early clinical description to exhaustive and extensive laboratory characterization of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the immune responses directed towards it and reasons for their failure. This volume provides contributions from clinical and basic scientists who are actively involved in research in a number of areas of current interest and controversy. Further progress in the clinical management of the HIV-infected patient will undoubtedly build on the basic knowledge about HIV and its modes of pathogenesis. The intimate relationship between HIV and the human immune system provides observations and questions that are relevant to viral immunopathogenesis in general. In the first chapter the clinical features of HIV immunodeficiency are re­ viewed, and aspects of its changing face are discussed. Dr Tersmette then presents evidence for changing viral characteristics at different stages of the disease. This view of close competition for ascendancy between HIV and the host immune response raises questions about current approaches to therapy.

Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren's syndrome, psoriasis, scleroderma (SSc) and myositis are heterogeneous disorders that result from interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Type I interferons (IFNs), especially IFN-α/β, have multiple biological functions including anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, immuno-modulation, anti-proliferation, and intensive studies over decades have also revealed important roles in autoimmunity and cancer. Sustained Type I IFN elevation has been implicated in immune responses against self-antigens and tissue damage, which has led to the hypothesis that type I IFN might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of some autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. This book provides an overview of many key topics surrounding type I IFNs, beginning with detailed discussion of the type I IFN signaling pathway, the interplay between components that regulate this pathway, its involvement in autoimmunity, and a detailed review of the roles of type I IFNs in a series of well characterized inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

This volume describes high-throughput approaches to a series of robust, established methodologies in molecular genetic studies of population samples. Such developments have been essential not only to linkage and association studies of single-gene and complex traits in humans, animals and plants, but also to the characterisation of clone banks, for example in mapping of genomes. Chapters have been written by developers or highly experienced end-users concerned with a diverse array of biological applications. The book should appeal to any researcher for whom costs and throughput in their genetics laboratory have become an issue.

This book is a comprehensive and up-to-date compendium on all aspects of blood and marrow transplantation in children. After an introductory chapter describing the history of pediatric blood and marrow transplantation, subsequent chapters discuss pediatric-specific aspects of transplantation, including stem cell sources suitable for transplantation, preparative regimens, graft-versus-host disease, complications related to transplantation, and late effects. The role of blood and marrow transplantation in various specific pediatric diseases is then examined, and the closing chapter considers future directions. The authors are all internationally recognized experts and offer a largely evidence-based consensus on etiology, biology, and treatment. This handbook has far-reaching applicability to the clinical diagnosis and management of pediatric diseases that are treatable with blood and marrow transplantation and will prove invaluable to specialists, generalists, and trainees alike.

Neoplastic Diseases of the Blood integrates the history, epidemiology, pathology, pathophysiology, and therapeutics of modern neoplastic hematopathology. The book is divided into five major sections, with the first four covering the spectrum of hematologic neoplasia— Chronic Leukemias and Related Disorders, Acute Leukemias, Myeloma and Related Disorders, and Lymphomas. The fifth section covers a variety of topics in supportive care. Now in its fifth edition, this classic and invaluable text brings together a team of internationally renowned experts and offers in-depth coverage of the complex interface between diagnosis and therapy. Chapters feature an accessible and easy-to-read layout and provide updates on the tremendous progress made in the last decade in the understanding of the nature of hematologic malignancies and their treatment. An authoritative and indispensable resource for students, trainees, and clinicians, this fifth edition is sure to distinguish itself as the definitive reference on this topic.

Diabetes mellitus is a very common disease which affects approximately 150,000,000 worldwide. With its prevalence rising rapidly, diabetes continues to mystify and fascinate both practitioners and investigators by its elusive causes and multitude of This textbook is written for endocrinologists, specialists in other disciplines who treat diabetic patients, primary care physicians, housestaff and medical students. It covers, in a concise and clear manner, all aspects of the disease, from its pathogenesis on the molecular and cellular levels to its most modern therapy.

The motivation for us to conceive this work on regulation was mainly our belief that it would be fun, and at the same time productive, to approach the subject in a way that differs from that of other treatises. We thought it might be interesting and instructive-for both author and reader-to examine a particular area of investigation in a framework of many different problems. Cutting across the traditional boundaries that have separated the sub­ jects in past volumes on regulation is not an easy thing to do-not because it is difficult to think of what interesting topics should replace the old ones, but because it is difficult to find authors who are willing to write about areas outside those pursued in their own laborato­ ries. Anyone who takes on the task of reviewing a broad area of interest must weave together its various parts by picking up the threads from many different laboratories, and attempt to produce a fabric with a meaningful design. Finding persons who are likely to succeed in such tasks was the most difficult part of our job. In the first volume of this treatise, most of the chapters dealt with the mechanisms of regulation of gene expression in microorganisms. This second volume involves a somewhat broader area, spanning the prokaryotic-eukaryotic border.

Currently blood is a volatile issue. The safety of blood and the quantification of transfusion risks have been dominant themes that have stimulated the development of alternative approaches in this rapidly developing area. In clinical medicine conventional blood and its components are used in supportive therapies dependent on the choice of apparent uncritical trigger factors. A compounding factor is depth of prospective clinical trials for evidence. Such trials in critical care areas would be of enormous value, not only in recording adverse effects and under-transfusion, but also indicating the value of decision analysis and cost-effectiveness in transfusion practice. Alternative approaches include the use of cytokines, growth factors, humanised monoclonal antibodies, recombinant plasma factors, and buffy coat derived natural human interferons. These are being increasingly implemented in the clinic. Solutions for oxygen transport are being developed and fibrinogen coated microcapsules are being investigated for thrombocytopenia. In surgical patients, various crystalloid and colloid combinations are explored as volume replacements. To avoid allogeneic transfusions, beneficial blood saving methods include various strategies, such as autologous deposits, normovolemic haemodilution and various agents including aprotinin, tranecamic acid, desmopressin and erythropoietin, but their use in hospital shows considerable variations. That umbilical cord blood could be a significant source of allogeneic stem cells in related and unrelated transplantation is illustrated by the increasing number of cord blood banks in Europe and elsewhere. Future blood resources are likely to face several challenges: immediate challenges relate to increased regulatory and political oversights; intermediate solutions would offer some improvements in public health and alleviate public fear but probably not address the economic challenges thrust upon the medical care system. As we approach the year 2000, the major concerns about transfusion medicine remain its logistics, safety and effectiveness. This theme is presented in the proceedings of the 22nd International Symposium on Blood Transfusion, developed in 21 up-to-date topics, collected and discussed in four sections. This book will be of timely value to students, professionals and all others interested or involved in the field of transfusion medicine, whether clinical or related.

The objective of the program committee of the Fifth International Symposium on Atherosclerosis was to bring together experts in many disciplines to broaden the scope of the attack on this disease and to foster interaction. Our hope was that such interaction would accelerate the eradication of the disease. The symposium achieved that objective and con­ tinued the tradition of the previous symposia in providing a forum for summaries of recent research developments in the study, treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis. The leading authorities and researchers in this field and in the related areas of interest have presented the newest information, concepts and ideas that have evolved in the past three years since the previous meeting in Tokyo. The most promising fields for future investigation are clearly identified, as are the nature of the controversies that persist in some highly important aspects of treatment of this disease. The appearance of these proceedings so soon after the meeting will greatly enhance the impact of the symposium on current research in atherosclerosis. The program committee is particularly indebted to the excellent response of the inves­ tigators for their willingness to participate in the symposium and for their successful efforts in bringing high quality to their presentations. Their cooperation in the expeditious delivery of manuscripts for this volume has been particularly gratifying. The efforts of Ms. Barbara Allen in preparing this volume bear special note.

Ankylosing spondylitis, the third most common form of chronic arthritis, is a systemic rheumatic disorder characterized by inflam­ mation of the axial skeleton (spine and sacroiliac joints), and a host of systemic manifestations. With comprehensive care, the vast majority of patients can lead full, productive lives. However, management can succeed only with patient education and exercise. Recent communication from my co-editor, Carson Dick, serves to remind me that there are several unresolved issues concerning drug therapy in ankylosing spondylitis. Clearly, in spite of my views, there are others who do not believe that the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alter favorably the course of disease and they must be administered for prolonged periods and in anti-inflammatry quan­ tities to be effective. I would agree with Carson Dick that aspirin and phenylbutazone are way down the list of drug priorities following the marketing of other NSAIDs that are effective and safer. I am grateful to my contributors to this volume, all recognized authorities on their particular topic. It has been a privilege col­ laborating with them on this particular volume. ABOUT THE EDITOR John J. Calabro, MD, is Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and Director of Rheumatology at Saint Vincent Hospital, both in Worcester, Mas­ sachusetts, USA. He is the author of over 260 scientific articles, including several monographs and a book on arthritis for patients.

The past 20 years have seen a surge of research into colorectal cancer, which is a reflection of the need to improve our methods of treating patients suffering from this increasingly common form of cancer. Greater knowledge of the basic mechanisms involved in colorectal carcinogenesis is an essential prerequisite to improvements in cancer prevention. In this volume the editors have brought together an impressive list of experts to cover the epidemiology, pathophysiology, morphology and basis for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to early detection and prevention. This broad scientific approach provides the reader with up-to-date review of our current state of knowl­ edge of colorectal carcinogenesis and indicates how this information can be used to generate more research and create new opportunities for diagnosis and treatment. This is a book of knowledge and ideas, some of them still at the stage of theoretical interest, but others with practical potential for the care of patients. I recommend it to those who have a research interest in colorectal carcinogenesis, as well as to readers who wish to know just how far medical scientists have progressed in their efforts to achieve the ideal of cancer prevention.

Since the first observations of viral interference with antigen presentation in the MHC class-I pathway, the field has advanced to a detailed analysis. We know numerous genes and for some of them we have profound information on their mechanistic function. The antigen presentation pathway is affected at all stages starting from proteasomal degradation of an antigenic viral protein, as shown for EBV, transfer of the proteasomal cleavage products as peptides in the ER by specific transporters, the loading of the nascent MHC class-I molecule, and finally the transport of the complex to the surface and presentation in a normal or deranged form. All these different steps of the MHC class-I antigen presentation pathway are targets for viral proteins. Not only MHC class-I but also MHC class-II proteins are a target of viral influence either by direct downregulation and degradation of proteins or by interference of signal transduction pathways.

The symposium'Prehistoric Iberia: genetics, anthropology and linguistics'was held in the Circulo de Bellas Artes, Madrid on 16th -17th November 1998. The idea was bringing together specialists who could address not clearly resolved historic and prehistoric issues regarding ancient Iberian and Mediterranean populations, following a multidisciplinary approach. This was necessary in the light of the new bulk of genetic, archeological and linguistic data obtained with the new DNA technology and the recent discoverings in the other fields. Genes may now be easily studied in populations, particularly HLA genes and markers of the mitochondrial DNA and the Y chromosome. Basques, Iberians, North Africans, Berbers (Imazighen) and Mediterraneans have presently been widely studied. The genetic emerging picture is that Mediterraneans are closely related from West (Basque, Iberians, Berbers) to East (Jews, Lebanese, Cretans); however, Greeks are outliers in all the analyses done by using HLA genes. Anthropologists and archeologists showed how there was no people substitution during the revolutionary Mesolithic-Neolithic transition; in addition, cultural relationships were found between Iberia and predinastic Egypt (EI Badari culture). Basque language translation into Spanish has been the key for relating most Mediterranean extinct languages. The Usko-Mediterranean languages were once spoken in a wide African and European area, which also included parts of Asia. This was the'old language'that was slowly substituted by Eurasian languages starting approximately after the Bronze Age (or 2,000 years BC).

Seer, forecaster, prophet, geomancer, or tout - all predict future events as physicians must. The medical activity is prognosis from the Greek pro (forward) and gnosis (special knowledgeL thus foreknowledge, and the practitioner is the prognosticator, a sobriquet which falls unhappily upon the ear. Like it or not, there is nothing more critical in the management of chronic rheumatic conditions than a reasonably clear picture of what time and disease will bring. The knowledge is so much a part of ordinary medical thinking that we rarely grace it with the label prognosis. But, like so much of'ordinary medical thinking'(an oxymoron, perhaps), quantitative data are very thin and the chestnuts of personal observation and authority figure assertion loom large. Unlike several books I have seen or written, this one on prognosis needs no justification. The entirety of a person's life contributes to and confounds what the future holds. The ingredients include education levet income, support structures such as family, housing, occupation, availability of medical services, diagnosis, treatment, rate of disease progression, age, gender, race, marital status, and others too numerous to mention or too arcane to be recognized. One would think the task of estimating prognosis impossible. And yet there is light on the horizon -we do know a few things such as the effect of high rheumatoid factor titers on the prognosis of RA or the likely outcome of certain kidney lesions in SLE.

This volume deals with the structure and function of molecules that have, during the last decade, turned out to have a central role in immune responses. Trans­ plantation antigens were discovered and characterized by Gorer about 50 years ago, and the biological basis for the unequalled complexity of their variability between individuals within a species, in spite of extreme conservation between species, was the subject of intense research and discussion for many years. During the days of belief in'immune surveillance'against spontaneously developing tumors, it was suggested that histoincompatibility between members of one species would prevent cancer from being a contagious disease and thus a threat to the species. Immunologists involved in human transplantation had to learn and care about the complexity, especially after 1967, when it was found that HLA antigens were the products of the human MHC. Rejection of HLA-identical sib kidney grafts was so rare, even in those days, that cases of rejection were described in scientific papers.

This book will serve as a primer for both laboratory and field scientists who are shaping the emerging field of molecular epidemiology. Molecular epidemiology utilizes the same paradigm as traditional epidemiology but uses biological markers to identify exposure, disease or susceptibility. Schulte and Perera present the epidemiologic methods pertinent to biological markers. The book is also designed to enumerate the considerations necessary for valid field research and provide a resource on the salient and subtle features of biological indicators.

M. BENcovA Slovak Foundation Education in Immunogenetics Kopanice 25, 821 04 Bratislava Slovak Republic Short History of Slovakia After the end of the 5th century, the major part of Central Europe was dominated by Slavs (Slovaks). They had already in the 7th century settle­ ments in the vicinity of towns Bratislava, Devin, Nitra to create the Slovak's state formation with the name'The Empire of Sam', territory of which corresponded to that of Slovakia of present. The Empire of Sam was also the first state formation in the Central Europe (as present states Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia etc.) Very important town of this state was Nitra, with the biggest Castle in the Central Europe with his Duke Pribina. The first Church of the Central Europe was built here in the year 830, and it is now considered to be the'Slovak Bethlehem'. In the year 880, Nitra also became the first Office of Bishops. Later, the Slovak Duke Pribina and Moravian Duke Mojmir (Moravia corresponded to eastern part of the present Czech Republic) joined their formations to common state'Greate Moravian Empire'. The strongest King of the Great Moravian Empire was Svatopluk (864 A. D.), who spread his empire over Czech Republic, Hungary and part of Poland, Ukraine and eastern Germany of present, which at that time still did not exist as state formations.