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This book discusses the role of the microbiome in rheumatic diseases and details its implications for patient treatment. Recently, with technological advances, there has been significant research into the microbiome. This has enabled us to more profoundly understand its role in our immune system maturation as well as the role played by microorganisms in autoimmunity and the deeply related rheumatic diseases. This book comprehensively explains the emerging microbiome research through the interrelationships of biomedical sciences, including: immunology, microbiology, bioinformatics, and, with special emphasis, the clinical aspect of rheumatology. It examines the interplay between infectious organisms and major autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and vasculitis, and explains how to apply that knowledge to diagnostic techniques and treatment decisions. The international team of expert authors provides insight into current therapies and future interventions specifically targeting the microbiota and explores the impact of our deeper understanding on enhancing personalized medicine. The Microbiome in Rheumatic Diseases and Infection is an essential resource for rheumatologists, pediatricians, internists, microbiologists, and critical care providers caring for children and adults with rheumatic diseases.

Bacterial Pathogens and their Virulence Factors contains a detailed description of 32 major bacterial pathogens that affect human health and their associated virulence determinants. Chapter 1 gives an overview of the different types and classes of general virulence factors involved in host cell adherence and invasion, dissemination within the host, host cell damage, and evasion of host defense systems, as well as mechanisms by which these virulence factors are regulated. Chapters 2 through 33 give concise descriptions of the disease states associated with the 32 bacterial genera and their major pathogenic species, along with an in-depth description of the individual virulence factors that have been found to be functionally involved in pathogenicity. A detailed bibliography derived from primary literature and review articles accompanies each of these chapters, allowing the reader to delve more deeply into individual pathogens and their virulence determinants. Chapter 34 discusses the exciting possibilities and initial successes of using detailed information on a pathogen's virulence toolkit to design new therapeutics aimed at specific virulence traits.

The two volumes included in Antimicrobial Drug Resistance, Second Edition is an updated, comprehensive and multidisciplinary reference covering the area of antimicrobial drug resistance in bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites from basic science, clinical, and epidemiological perspectives. This newly revised compendium reviews the most current research and development on drug resistance while still providing the information in the accessible format of the first edition. The first volume, Antimicrobial Drug Resistance: Mechanisms of Drug Resistance, is dedicated to the biological basis of drug resistance and effective avenues for drug development. With the emergence of more drug-resistant organisms, the approach to dealing with the drug resistance problem must include the research of different aspects of the mechanisms of bacterial resistance and the dissemination of resistance genes as well as research utilizing new genomic information. These approaches will permit the design of novel strategies to develop new antibiotics and preserve the effectiveness of those currently available. The second volume, Antimicrobial Drug Resistance: Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects, is devoted to the clinical aspects of drug resistance. Although there is evidence that restricted use of a specific antibiotic can be followed by a decrease in drug resistance to that agent, drug resistance control is not easily achieved. Thus, the infectious diseases physician requires input from the clinical microbiologist, antimicrobial stewardship personnel, and infection control specialist to make informed choices for the effective management of various strains of drug-resistant pathogens in individual patients. This 2-volume set is an important reference for students in microbiology, infectious diseases physicians, medical students, basic scientists, drug development researchers, microbiologists, epidemiologists, and public health practitioners.

This is the first of four volumes that together offer an authoritative, in-depth reference guide covering all aspects of the management of oral cancer from a multidisciplinary perspective and on the basis of a strong scientific foundation. This volume, on tumor biology, epidemiology, etiology, emerging role of cancer stem cells and prevention of oral cancer, opens by discussing oral carcinogenesis in general and the role of particular carcinogens and human papillomavirus. Global epidemiology and changes in disease prevalence are then addressed. Up-to-date information is provided on emerging cancer biomarkers, and the biologic basis of personalized therapy is explained. Histopathological features of malignant and premalignant neoplasms and their relevance to management are described. Further chapters focus on the current status of chemoprevention, the management of oral submucous fibrosis, and the value of various diagnostic adjuncts. The volume concludes by critically evaluating theefficacy of oral screening methods.Volume 1: Biology, Epidemiology, Etiology, and PreventionVolume 2: Diagnosis and ManagementVolume 3: Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstructive SurgeryVolume 4: Rehabilitation and Supportive Care

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted field of protease in the cellular environment and focuses on the recently elucidated functions of complex proteolytic systems in physiology and pathophysiology. Given the breadth and depth of information covered in the respective contributions, the book will be immensely useful for researchers working to identify targets for drug development. Multidisciplinary in scope, the book bridges the gap between fundamental and translational research, with applications in the biomedical and pharmaceutical industry, making it a thought-provoking read for basic and applied scientists engaged in biomedical research. Proteases represent one of the largest and most diverse families of enzymes known, and we now know that they are involved in every aspect of a given organism's life functions. Under physiological conditions, proteases are regulated by their endogenous inhibitors. However, when the activity of proteases is not correctly regulated, disease processes such as tumour progression, vascular remodelling, atherosclerotic plaque progression, ulcer, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and inflammation can result. Many infective microorganisms require proteases for replication or use them as virulence factors, which has facilitated the development of protease-targeted therapies for a variety of parasitic diseases.

The two volumes included in Antimicrobial Drug Resistance, Second Edition is an updated, comprehensive and multidisciplinary reference covering the area of antimicrobial drug resistance in bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites from basic science, clinical, and epidemiological perspectives. This newly revised compendium reviews the most current research and development on drug resistance while still providing the information in the accessible format of the first edition. The first volume, Antimicrobial Drug Resistance: Mechanisms of Drug Resistance, is dedicated to the biological basis of drug resistance and effective avenues for drug development. With the emergence of more drug-resistant organisms, the approach to dealing with the drug resistance problem must include the research of different aspects of the mechanisms of bacterial resistance and the dissemination of resistance genes as well as research utilizing new genomic information. These approaches will permit the design of novel strategies to develop new antibiotics and preserve the effectiveness of those currently available. The second volume, Antimicrobial Drug Resistance: Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects, is devoted to the clinical aspects of drug resistance. Although there is evidence that restricted use of a specific antibiotic can be followed by a decrease in drug resistance to that agent, drug resistance control is not easily achieved. Thus, the infectious diseases physician requires input from the clinical microbiologist, antimicrobial stewardship personnel, and infection control specialist to make informed choices for the effective management of various strains of drug-resistant pathogens in individual patients. This 2-volume set is an important reference for students in microbiology, infectious diseases physicians, medical students, basic scientists, drug development researchers, microbiologists, epidemiologists, and public health practitioners.

This book is based on selected papers from keynote and symposium sessions given at the 16th International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) World Congress, held in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil August, 2012. The theme of the Congress was the challenges faced by food science in both the developed and developing regions of the world. The symposia featured prominent world-renowned keynote and plenary speakers, young researchers, and the technical sessions covered the whole spectrum of basic and applied food science and technology, including consumer issues and education, diets and health, ethnic foods, and R&D.​

This book provides the current updated knowledge on all essential aspects in the rapidly evolving area of Helicobacter pylori research. H. pylori is a class I carcinogen and one of the most common infections in the world. While most people colonized by H. pylori will remain asymptomatic, up to 20% of them may develop serious gastroduodenal disease such as peptic ulcers or gastric cancer. H. pylori is the only known bacterium linked to the development of cancer and consequently is an important focus of research. Outstanding international experts from diverse scientific disciplines contribute here to give detailed insights into the current understanding concerning the physiology and role of this pathogen. Both basic science and clinical research with actual practical consequences are taken into account. The chapters target microbiology, epidemiology, genetics, biochemistry, interactions with the immune system, signal transduction, pathogenic mechanisms inthe gastroduodenal mucosa, gastric disease development, and therapy including antibiotics or probiotics treatment as well as vaccination strategies. This book is an important reference not only for clinicians but also microbiologists. It provides in a single volume an up-to-date summary of our current knowledge of this microbe and the multiple ways in which it impacts upon public health in all parts of the world.

This book presents the latest insights into the role of nutrition and diet in the pathophysiology and clinical outcome of many digestive diseases, including gastrointestinal cancer, gastroesophageal reflux, gastroparesis, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, autism and other severe neurological diseases, and liver disease. The editors have aimed to build upon the dissemination of scientific information on human health and nutrition that took place at Expo Milano 2015 (theme: “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life”) by bringing together distinguished experts in gastroenterology from prestigious Italian universities and hospital centers to tackle novel topics in human nutrition and diet. In the context of modern, high tech gastroenterology, it is easy to neglect or underplay the importance of factors such as nutrition. Readers will find this book to be an excellent source of the most recently acquired scientific knowledge on the topic, anda worthy legacy of Expo Milano 2015.

This book provides a detailed review of the most recent pathogenetic, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in connection with Helicobacter pylori, along with priority areas in research and trends in clinical practice to address this significant pathogen acknowledged as the causative agent in a wide range of diseases, including gastric adenocarcinoma, MALT lymphoma and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Medical authorities worldwide now recommend a “test and treat” strategy for this bacterial infection. Eradication therapy approaches range from general mass eradication therapy to tailor-made therapy for antibiotic-resistant refractory infection. In regions with high prevalence of H. pylori infection, the infection itself would be considered a major parameter to predict the risk of gastric adenocarcinoma development. The main interest has shifted recently to the risk stratification strategy for gastric cancer development and to the wide-ranging application of its serological prevention program.This book will benefit all gastroenterologists, hematologists, dermatologists, primary care doctors, epidemiologists, physicians who related with community hygiene, as well as basic scientists, particularly microbiologists, bacteriologists, pathologists, molecular biologists, biochemists, immunologists and oncologists.

​​Fungal nanobiotechnology has emerged as one of the key technologies, and an eco-friendly, as a source of food and harnessed to ferment and preserve foods and beverages, as well as applications in human health (antibiotics, anti-cholesterol statins, and immunosuppressive agents), while industry has used fungi for large-scale production of enzymes, acids, biosurfactants, and to manage fungal disease in crops and pest control. With the harnessing of nanotechnology, fungi have grown increasingly important by providing a greener alternative to chemically synthesized nanoparticles.

This book presents the current state of knowledge regarding the ability of Helicobacter pylori to colonize the gastrointestinal tract, the global epidemiology of H. pylori infection, transmission routes, the pathophysiology of H. pylori-related gastroduodenal and other diseases, diagnosis and treatment methods, guidelines for eradication, antibiotic resistance, the reinfection rate after H. pylori eradication, and animal models of H. pylori or related Helicobacter infection. The aim is to equip readers around the world with the understanding required in order to implement effective methods of H. pylori eradication and to enhance clinical outcomes for patients. The text is clearly written and is complemented by many helpful illustrations. This book will be a great asset in clinical practice for all practitioners who are involved in caring for patients with H. pylori-related diseases or have an interest in the subject. It will also be a useful source of information for medical students and for intelligent laypeople seeking information on H. pylori.

This textbook provides a comprehensive and state-of-the-art overview of the major issues specific to the field of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. The first part of the book, Gastroenterology and Nutrition, presents in a systematic way the overall scope of issues encountered by children (newborn to teenagers) suffering from disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas and/or presenting nutritional issues. These chapters are structured in logical sections to facilitate consultation and include major topics ranging from congenital disorders to gastrointestinal problems of the newborn, infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, and approach to nutritional problems in the various pediatric ages. The second part of the book, Hepatology, is articulated in a series of chapters which present a comprehensive review of congenital and acquired disorders of the biliary tract and liver. This section also includes a critical analysis of available diagnostic andtherapeutic procedures and future perspectives.Written by experts in the field, Textbook of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition: A Comprehensive Guide to Practice constitutes a much needed, innovative resource combining updated, reliable and comprehensive information with agile consultation for a streamlined approach to the care of children with such disorders.

What should you do when you have restricted resources? Written by the most prominent experts from the North and the South countries, this book offers a unique complement to classical hematology and oncology textbooks focusing on specific issues concerning cancers in tropical areas. It presents a thorough review of the specific biological, clinical and therapeutic characteristics of cancers in tropical areas, including their background and epidemiology, public health consequences and transcultural mediation. As such, it will be a valuable resource for all hemato-oncology practitioners, students of oncology or tropical medicine, and other physicians involved in the care of cancer patients who live in tropical countries.

This book offers comprehensive information on the polymorphisms of genes encoding pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Following a short description of the general role of PRRs in the immune system, the structure and function of Toll-like and NOD-like receptors are examined in detail. The main focus is on the role of inherited variation in PRRs and their correlation to cancer and cardiovascular diseases. A review of all epidemiological investigations is included, and a concept of genomic risk markers for the prevention of various diseases is also discussed.

The leading textbook on the subject. A completely rewritten and up-to-date fifth edition, based upon the highly respected fourth edition, edited by C. Jacobs, C.M. Kjellstrand, K.M. Koch and J.F. Winchester. Considered the global resource for dialysis specialists, dialysis manufacturers and scientists for over two decades, this authoritative, highly acclaimed major reference work has been completely rewritten and revised in a much-awaited 5th edition. All previous chapters have been updated to include the very latest advancements and understandings in this critical and complex field. New sections include those on computerization of dialysis records, online monitoring and biofeedback, patient sexual function, patient selection and integration, use of exercise in improving patient health, design of randomized trials, and more. This new edition is truly global in scope and features the contributions the top experts from around the world.

Bei zahlreichen viszeralen und onkologischen Erkrankungen im Kindesalter ist die chirurgische Therapie indiziert. Alle kinderchirurgisch relevanten Erkrankungen der Thorax- und Abdominalorgane werden umfassend und fundiert in diesem Buch beschrieben: gezielte Diagnostik, Indikation zur operativen und konservativen Therapie, Auswahl des geeigneten Operationsverfahrens, Krankheitsverlauf und Krankheitsfolgen.Auch die allgemeine Chirurgie des Kindesalters kommt nicht zu kurz: eigenen Kapitel gehen auf die Besonderheiten des operativen und perioperativen Vorgehens bei Kindern sowie wichtige Notfallsituationen ein. Neu in der 2. Auflage ist ein Kapitel zur bariatrischen Chirurgie bei Kindern.Inhaltliche Breite und Tiefe lassen sich verbinden: seltene Erkrankungen und Krankheitsformen sind berücksichtigt, die diagnostischen und therapeutischen Empfehlungen werden ausführlich begründet. Zahlreiche angesehene Kinderchirurgen und Pädiater aus dem ganzen deutschsprachigen Raumhaben mit ihrem Wissen dazu beigetragen.

Seit der 1. Auflage dieses Bandes hat die Hepatologie eine gewaltige Entwicklung auf vielen Gebieten erfahren. Der enorme Aufschwung der Laparoskopie und Endoskopie, die Forschungsergebnisse der Virologie und Immunologie sowie die neuen Methoden der Molekularbiologie und Genetik haben für die Klassifikation, Therapie und Prognose der Krankheiten der Leber- und Gallenwege neue Akzente gesetzt. Insgesamt liegt ein aktueller, mit modernen Methoden durchgeführter, durch instruktives Bildmaterial dokumentierter Band vor, der eine präzise informative Zusammenschau für den Kliniker und Pathologen über die vielfältigen Erkrankungen der Leber und Gallenwege vermittelt.

H. pylori infection, both in man and in the laboratory animal, has become a standard model to investigate fundamental problems in biology, such as microbial-host interactions, intracellular signalling, modulation of inflammation, mucosal atrophic metaplasia, and microbial resistance, to name just a few. The issues addressed in this book are grouped according to their leading theme. Topics include: the new Helicobacters, strain differences of H. pylori and their consequence on microbial-host interactions and the effects of H. pylori infection on the gastric mucosa. The role of H. pylori is explained in relation to: gastric carcinogenesis; gastroesophageal reflux disease; dyspepsia and long-term acid suppression. Eradication therapies are reviewed with respect to their global consequences and problems. The last two sections are devoted to a global update on therapeutic indications and finally on priorities for further research. These proceedings accurately reflect the state-of-the-art presentations delivered by world experts. This latest volume will further enrich this top-class series on H. pylori infection.

Der vorliegende Band „Verdauungstrakt und Peritoneum“ enthält die Pathologie des Ösophagus, Magens, Dünndarms und des Kolorektums. Die Verfasser sind renommierte gastroenterologische Pathologen. Die Beiträge folgen in ihrer Didaktik und Gestaltung dem Text der vorausgegangenen Auflagen. Ziel ist es, die Pathologie der Erkrankungen des Gastrointestinaltrakts verbunden mit Epidemiologie, Ätiologie, Pathogenese, Genetik, Klinik und Endoskopie darzustellen. Dem praktizierenden Pathologen soll damit ein Instrument an die Hand gegeben werden, das ihn schnell und adäquat diagnostisch berät und auch über den „seltenen Fall“ informiert. Da die Beiträge die morphologischen und differentialdiagnostischen Probleme im Zusammenhang mit den wichtigsten klinisch-diagnostischen Informationen darstellen, ist dieses Buch nicht nur für Assistenzärzte in der Weiterbildung zum Pathologen oder Fachärzte für Pathologie, sondern auch für Studenten, Gastroenterologen, Internisten und Viszeralchirurgen sehr attraktiv.

Aging trends in the United States and Europe continue to demonstrate an increasingly older society, a trend that is unlikely to change for decades to come. This trend renders it prudent for health care providers to better prepare for the changes in society and their health needs. The current number of older adults (aged over 65), about 13% of the U.S. population, is expected to grow to over 20% in the next 20 years. Preparation for the changes in society involves provision of training for current and future generations of physicians to deal with health problems of older adults.Training programs in internal medicine and gastroenterology are required to deal with disorders of aging in the present day hospitalized, long-term care and community older adults. Physiological changes and disease processes in older adults differ significantly from those of the young; these are aspects that trainees and practicing physicians need to have an understanding of. Yet texts devoted to gastrointestinal illness in the elderly are scant at this stage and are clearly in demand.This text provides a comprehensive overview of gastrointestinal disease and disorders in older adults. Divided into sixteen sections, this major reference work covers all aspects of gastroenterology as it pertains to older adults, including epidemiology, gastrointestinal physiology, motility disorders, luminal disorders, hepatobiliary disease, systemic manifestations, neoplastic disorders, gastrointestinal bleeding, and gastrointestinal cancer. In addition to fully revised chapters from the previous edition of Geriatric Gastroenterology, the latest edition features new chapters on drug injury to the GI tract, gut microbiota and aging, dysphagia, diabetes and its manifestations, and nursing for GI disorders. Nutrition and related disorders, as well as capsule endoscopy and its utility in the geriatric population, are also highlighted in the text. Presented in a simple, easy to read format, the volume includes numerous figures, tables, and key points to enable ease of understanding.

Although its underlying concept is a relatively simple one—the measurement of the human body and its parts—anthropometry employs a myriad of methods and instruments, and is useful for a variety of purposes, from understanding the impact of disease on individuals to tracking changes in populations over time. The first interdisciplinary reference on the subject, the Handbook of Anthropometry brings this wide-ranging field together: basic theory and highly specialized topics in normal and abnormal anthropometry in terms of health, disease prevention, and intervention. Over 140 self-contained chapters cover up-to-date indices, the latest studies on computerized methods, shape-capturing systems, and bioelectrical impedance, data concerning single tissues and whole-body variables, and reports from different areas of the world. Chapters feature helpful charts and illustrations, cross-references to related chapters are included, and key points are presented in bullet form for ease of comprehension. Together, the Handbook's thirteen sections entail all major aspects of anthropometrical practice and research, including: Tools and techniques. Developmental stages, from fetus to elder. Genetic diseases, metabolic diseases, and cancer. Exercise and nutrition. Ethnic, cultural, and geographic populations. Special conditions and circumstances. The Handbook of Anthropometry is an invaluable addition to the reference libraries of a broad spectrum of health professionals, among them health scientists, physicians, physiologists, nutritionists, dieticians, nurses, public health researchers, epidemiologists, exercise physiologists, and physical therapists. It is also useful to college-level students and faculty in the health disciplines, as well as to policymakers and ergonomists.

Endoscopy has revolutionized clinical gastroenterology. In 1961 Basil Hirschowitz published the first flexible endoscopic examination of the stomach and duodenal bulb. We moved from flexible fiberendoscopes to current video-endoscopic equip­ ment. Current video-endoscopes incorporate a black and white or color'chip'at the tip of the instrument which transforms the visual image into electronic signals. The size of the pincet is constantly getting smaller, heading for 5 /Lm, further increasing the resolution. The signals are reassembled into high-quality color images in a video monitor. Endoscopes are now used to examine the entire gastrointestinal tract from esophagus to rectum, including the biliary and pancreatic ductal system. Targeted endoscopic biopsy offers rapid and precise diagnosis. Endoscopic ultrasonography is of unsurpassed accuracy in staging gastrointestinal tumors, in assessing pancreatic and biliary disease, and disorders of the rectum and anal canal. Moreover, targeted cytological sampling is possible of abnormalities of the intestinal wall or peri­ intestinal lymph node. Yet despite these glamorous achievements changes are to be expected in the overall emphasis of diagnostic endoscopy. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography may very well compete for a substantial fraction of diagnostic ERCP. Virtual colonoscopy or computed tomographic colography may well compete with (and take over?) screening/surveillance colonoscopy.

The fourth meeting in the very successful series Helicobacter pylori: Basic Mechanisms to Clinical Cure was held on the island of Bermuda in late March 2000. This was only some two years after the third meeting in San Diego and it seemed hardly possible that there would be so much new information. However, as the contributions in this volume testify, there was plenty of exciting new information with important implications for both understanding this infection and for clinical management. Some of this information was of a fundamental nature, such as the role of the acid­ sensitive urel channel in regulating the influx of urea and the formation of ammonia transported back in the microbial periplasmic space to neutralize acid; the observation of genetic polymorphism of the IL-1~ gene as an explanation of achlorhydria and gastric cancer risk in the first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients; and the peculiar biochemical and physio­ logical consequences of the genome of the microorganisms. The format of the meeting, with short fifteen-minute state-of-the-art pre­ sentations by world experts closely involved in Helicobacter research fol­ lowed by ample time for panel discussions, was again followed this year. Traditional aspects included detailed study of the microbial characteristics, the novel Helicobacters, the interaction with the human host, the peculiarities of the inflammatory immune response, the short and long-term mucosal consequences, the effects on acid secretion, the problem of gastric malignancy and the therapeutic possibilities.

Portal hypertension is the most important complication of a great variety of both acute and chronic liver diseases. Nevertheless, hepatic cirrhosis is the most frequent cause of portal hypertension. Gastrointestinal bleeding due to rupture of oesophageal varices is, without doubt, the most severe complication of portal hypertension. At present, great advances are being made in the pathophysiology and in the development of new therapeutic tools for controlling and preventing this severe clinical event. This book contains the papers presented and discussed during the Symposium on'Portal Hypertension in the 21st Century', held in Montréal, Canada, in April 2004, and sponsored by Axcan Pharma Inc. and NicOx S.A. There are eight sections covering basic mechanisms, new drugs, prevention and current treatment of variceal bleeding, prevention of recurrent bleeding and hepatic hemodynamic monitoring. An international faculty of authors have contributed chapters at an outstanding scientific level which will be vital reading for scientists and clinicians alike.

Clinical Mycology offers a comprehensive review of this discipline. Organized by types of fungi, this volume covers microbiologic, epidemiologic and demographic aspects of fungal infections as well as diagnostic, clinical, therapeutic, and preventive approaches. Special patient populations are also detailed.

Wann müssen Patienten im Kindesalter chirurgisch behandelt werden? Welches Operationsverfahren ist in welcher Situation indiziert? Welcher Krankheitsverlauf und welche Krankheitsfolgen sind zu erwarten? Die Antworten finden Sie in diesem Buch. Die diagnostischen Möglichkeiten bei den Erkrankungen der Thorax- und Abdominalorgane sind ausführlich beschrieben, ebenso die operativen und konservativen Therapieoptionen. Informationen zu Ätiologie, Klinik und Prognose runden die Darstellung ab. Zusätzlich werden die wichtigsten Themen der allgemeinen Chirurgie des Kindesalters dargestellt. Zahlreiche renommierte Kinderchirurgen und Pädiater aus dem ganzen deutschsprachigen Raum haben mit ihrem Expertenwissen zu diesem Buch beigetragen.

Our gut is colonized by numerous bacteria throughout our life, and the gut epithelium is constantly exposed to foreign microbes and dietary antigens. Thus, the gut epithelium acts as a barrier against microbial invaders and is equipped with various innate defense systems. Resident commensal and foreign invading bacteria interact intimately with the gut epithelium and can impact host cellular and innate immune responses. From the perspective of many pathogenic bacteria, the gut epithelium serves as an infectious foothold and port of entry for disseminate into deeper tissues. In some instances when the intestinal defense activity and host immune system become compromised, even commensal and opportunistic pathogenic bacteria can cross the barrier and initiate local and systematic infectious diseases. Conversely, some highly pathogenic bacteria, such as those highlighted in this book, are able to colonize or invade the intestinal epithelium despite the gut barrier function is intact. Therefore, the relationship between the defensive activity of the intestinal epithelium against microbes and the pathogenesis of infective microbes becomes the basis for maintaining a healthy life. The authors offer an overview of the current topics related to major gastric and enteric pathogens, while highlighting their highly evolved host (human)-adapted infectious processes. Clearly, an in-depth study of bacterial infectious strategies, as well as the host cellular and immune responses, presented in each chapter of this book will provide further insight into the critical roles of the host innate and adaptive immune systems and their importance in determining the severity or completely preventing infectious diseases. Furthermore, under the continuous threat of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, the topic of gut-bacteria molecular interactions will provide various clues and ideas for the development of new therapeutic strategies.

'Noninvasive Vascular Diagnosis: A Practical Guide to Therapy'is the newest definitive text on the current techniques used in assessing vascular disorders. Readers of Noninvasive Vascular Diagnosis will receive authoritative information and will be guided through the establishment and accreditation of a vascular laboratory and introduced to the physics of diagnostic testing. Chapters, written by selected experts, comprehensively explain the use of ultrasound in diagnosing cerebrovascular, renovascular, visceral ischemia and peripheral arterial disease as well as venous disorders and deep abdominal vascular conditions. Noninvasive Vascular Diagnosis contains over 300 illustrations, many of them in colour. Due to the special sections which give clinical correlations, this book will be invaluable to physicians who treat vascular disorders, surgeons, cardiologists, vascular radiologists and the vascular laboratory staff.

Oncology: An Evidence-Based Approach is a textbook designed to reflect the principles and current practice of oncology with contributors from the fields of medical, surgical, and radiation oncology. The textbook will incorporate an evidence-based approach, enabling the reader to make decisions on the basis of concrete data. Sections on solid tumors, hematologic malignancies and the practice of oncology address the natural history and therapy for the full spectrum of neoplastic diseases in the adult. Further sections present fundamentals of supportive care of the cancer patient, the management of oncologic emergencies and acute toxicities of therapy, as well as care of metastatic disease and the terminally-ill patient. Breaking new ground, the textbook features thoughtful, in-depth sections on cancer prevention and control, cancer surviorship, the economics of cancer care, and cancer informatics. Cancer imaging is covered with an organ system-based approach, with an additional chapter on the especially intriguing potential of PET. Furthermore, a comprehensive section on translational basic science reviews the fundamentals of molecular biology, the cell cycle and signal transduction, carcinogenesis, cancer genetics, the biology of invations and metastasis, and tumor immunology.

I am delighted to be able to write the foreword for this new book on Helicobacter pylori by three pioneers in the field, Vlf West­ blom, Steven Czinn and John Nedrud. Because of their long experience in both basic and clinical aspects of H. pylori, the editors have been able to produce a volume which is authoritative and up to date in the science of H. pylori, while still being concise and interesting for the practicing physician or H. pylori novice. To achieve this, they have collected a very distinguished group of authors from within the Vnited States and around the world. The chapters are sequenced in approximately the same order as developments in H. pylori science over the past 15 years. The first chapter on the discovery of H. pylori is by Cliodna McNulty, who was the first person to culture the organism in Europe. The epidemiology is then described followed by the main clinical as­ sociations, which are gastritis and dyspepsia, peptic ulcers, can­ cers and lymphoma. This naturally leads to discussion of the laboratory aspects of H. pylori, especially the microbiology, in­ cluding essential information on antibiotic resistance patterns. Next, virulence and pathogenicity of H. pylori are explained as defined in studies using animal models, then by discussion of the metabolism of the organism. Finally, the interaction of the bac­ terium with the host immune systems is dealt with, including the implications of these findings as they relate to the development of future vaccines.