Lysosomal storage diseases are inherited metabolic disorders characterized by severe pathology, typically involving the brain. Although individually rare, they collectively represent a significant group of diseases that primarily present in early infancy or childhood. In recent years considerable progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms that lead to disordered function of the lysosomal system and to lysosomal storage. Unravelling the basis for these diseases is providing unique insight into the normal biology of cells and pointing the way to the development of therapeutic strategies for their treatment.

Lysosomal Disorders of Brain details recent advances in the molecular and cellular pathologies of these diseases and in the development of effective therapies. After an overview of the biology of the endosomal-lysosomal system and the types of diseases resulting from defects in this system, the book describes in detail the molecular mechanisms of storage, model systems and pathophysiological mechanisms, and finally, new advances toward treatment. With each chapter written by leading experts in their field, this book will be valuable for scientists and clinicians in helping them understand the role of lysosomes in normal cells and mechanisms underlying these disorders, how they can be diagnosed, and the treatment options that are currently available.

This book intends to provide information about detection and health effects due to bacteria, fungi and viruses in indoor environments. The book will cover also information about preventive and protective measures to avoid health-hazardous. Case studies will be also addressed to enrich the book with the expertise of each invited author. The book also intends to fill a gap regarding information about all biologic agents, since most of the books available are dedicated to only one type of microorganisms. For various different biologic agents and metabolites this book will compile information about indoors presence, detection methods, exposure assessment and health effects. Several problems regarding the exposure of biologic agents will be presented through case studies, and also the implementation of preventive and protective measures to avoid/minimize exposure. Besides, all the book will focus on occupational health and/or public health point of view.

Three times in the last century, influenza viruses have undergone major genetic changes resulting in global pandemics that had devastating effects. The most infamous pandemic was the "Spanish Flu" which affected up to 25% of the world population and is thought to have killed at least 40 million people. In 1997 and 2003, a new influenza A virus of H5N1 subtype emerged in Asia and was transmitted directly from birds to humans with lethal outcomes. Despite monumental efforts to contain them, the H5N1 viruses expanded their territory and caused a major outbreak in wild waterfowl in China in 2005. Despite extensive, coordinated efforts by various agencies and disciplines, both national and international, we are ill-equipped for a new influenza pandemic. In fact, it is highly unlikely that adequate supplies of vaccine for the H5N1 viruses will be prepared prior to the occurrence of the next pandemic. To combat the outbreaks that will undoubtedly occur in the near future, a better understandi

In 74 chapters, Gastrointestinal Oncology brings together a diverse group of specialists to provide the most authoritative, up-to-date and encyclopedic volume currently available on the subject. The first part of this text introduces a series of concepts and topics taht are important to gastrointestinal malignancies in general. These topics include epidemiologic principles, prevention, screening, familial GI cancers, developmental and molecular biology, pathobiology, general therapeutic principles, emerging therapies, and palliative care. The second part of the book covers each of the specific cancers affecting the human gastrointestinal tract. These chapters are introduced by state of the art discussions outlining our current understanding of the pathobiology and molecular biology relevant to each cancer. Subsequent sections describe the multidisciplinary management of specific clinical situations. By organizing the treatment-related chapters around clinical scenarios, the reader will readily find the information necessary to effectively manage the complex clinical situations encountered by patients with gastrointestinal malignancies.

There has been an explosion of knowledge and enormous progress in the fundamental understanding of the biology of cancer in recent years. This has included the realisation that cancer occurs when normal cellular functions are disturbed leading to a malignant phenotype. Much research has focussed on understanding the types of disturbances that can occur, the contribution that these abnormalities can make to the development and behaviour of particular cancers and more recently, the recognition that these cellular and genetic abnormalities can provide rational targets for new therapeutic approaches. Information about the biology of cancers that occur in children has increased in parallel with these more general advances and this book is intended to provide a focus for readers who wish to have an understanding of our current state of knowledge.

A international group of editors and contributors provide guidelines on the molecular biology and pathology of paediatric oncology, aimed at clinicians and scientists working in the specialty who wish to understand current developments in molecular pathology as applied to their field. The book is a broad ranging review focusing on the impact of molecular and cytogenetic techniques on our understanding of the aetiology, clinical behaviour, diagnosis and management of paediatric cancer. The first section outlines the laboratory handling of tissue samples, theory and methodology of cytogenetic and molecular techniques and discusses predisposition syndromes. The second section highlights the application of cytogenetic and molecular methods in diagnosis and treatment of the major paediatric cancers.

ALSO PUBLISHED BY OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Oncology - an Oxford Core Text, Edited by RAJ Spence OBE & P Johnston

Oxford Handbook of Oncology, Edited by J Cassidy, D Bissett & RAJ Spence OBE

This volume gives a state-of-the-art overview on macrophage functions in various invertebrate and vertebrate systems and diseases. It also covers various aspects of macrophage development and formation, behavior and response to nano- and biomaterials, the latter of which have become very important components of modern medicine. Macrophages are evolutionarily conserved phagocytotic cells. In recent years macrophages have emerged as one of the most versatile cells of immune system, which, depending on the milieu and circumstance, participate in development or inhibition of cancer, regeneration, wound healing, inflammation, organ rejection and interaction between mother and a fetus. This book will be of particular interest to researchers working in immunology, cancer research, developmental biology, or related fields.

This volume describes the most common laboratory procedures for isolation, identification and characterization of polioviruses used in clinical and research laboratories. Written for the Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Poliovirus: Methods and Protocols aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.

This volume brings together recent developments in quasispecies theory extended to variable environments and practical applications in elucidating viral dynamics and treatment designs. In particular, the existence of an error threshold in rugged fitness landscapes has opened the way to a new antiviral strategy termed lethal mutagenesis, which is now under intensive theoretical, experimental and clinical investigation. As such the book explains how an understanding of quasispecies dynamics within infected organisms has increased our knowledge of viral disease events. From a clinical perspective, population dynamics highlights important problems for viral disease control, such as the selection of drug-resistant mutants that often accompanies treatment failures, and suggests means of increasing the effectiveness of antiviral treatments. The book is intended for students and scientists interested in basic and applied aspects of biophysics, chemistry, biology, evolution and medical virology.

The chapters in this topical volume of Advances in Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Public Health present exciting, insightful observations on emerging viral infections like influenza, Middle East respiratory syndrome, or mosquito-transmitted diseases, as well as the potential of social media in preventing and fighting infectious diseases. This rapidly developing field of study, which involves interdisciplinary and challenging research conducted in both industrialized and limited-resource countries, can yield vital information for the life and social sciences, for public health, and for healthcare in general. The aim of this volume is to contribute to the development of knowledge on emerging infections in the endless struggle between viruses and man. The chapters selected are not intended as a systematic collection of all emerging infections, but instead highlight recent discoveries and provide insights on today's hot topics. The book offers a valuable resource for all scientists working in the field of emerging viral infections and possible vaccines, as well as for laboratory and medical staff whose work involves preventing, controlling and combatting infectious diseases.

The field of macrophage research has grown enormously since publication of the first edition of this book. The Macrophage, Second Edition provides a unique, comprehensive review of the current scientific knowledge of the multifaceted role of this important and intriguing cell in health and disease. In 16 chapters, written by experts in the field, it covers the basic biology and diverse functions of macrophages in specific diseases and the complex interactions between macrophages and other cells. Ranging from their role in the defence against pathogens, their role as hosts for pathogens (including HIV), their complex roles in diseases such as arthritis and cancer, and their potential for use in novel gene therapy approaches to disease treatment, the book gives an up to the minute account of active macrophage research.

The editors have included a broad range of topics that will appeal not only to immunologists and cell biologists but will also be of interest to those working in the specific disease areas covered.

DNA Methods in Clinical Microbiology describes the novel DNA-based technology now used in the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases. It is a concise, yet readable, overview written primarily for clinicians, clinical microbiologists, medical students and undergraduates in medical and veterinary microbiology. The book has two primary aims. First, to explain the principles of these methods at the molecular' level. Second, to provide a clinical perspective by reporting results from actual DNA-based investigations on a range of specimens. Those approaching DNA methods for the first time are assisted by a brief rA(c)sumA(c) of the relevant features of nucleic acids (Chapter 2): this information is essential for an understanding of later chapters. Subsequent text covers detection, characterization and quantification of pathogens by a variety of methods - e.g., target amplification (PCR, LCR, NASBA, TMA and SDA), signal amplification (bDNA) and probe-based techniques; the chapter on typing describes nearly twenty named molecular methods, including spoligotyping and MLST. All chapters include an adequate range of current reference from which, if required, detailed protocols can be obtained. The diagrams are clear, and readers are assisted by a detailed index.

This book focuses on waterborne pathogens and significant diseases occurring along major rivers around the globe, including key examples like the Amazonas, Mekong River and Nile. Written by leading international experts, it offers unique insights into local riverine infection risks in times of global warming, and addressing these through advances in diagnosis, health management and the development of simple but effective control measures. It also sheds light on why former societies collapsed due to transmitted diseases during periods of climate change, droughts and floods, to help establish effective preventive measures for the future. The book appeals to a wide readership, from scientists in the field of parasitology, infectious diseases and epidemiology, to healthcare managers and general readers with an interest in pathogen spread along the largest rivers on earth. It particularly highlights past and current control mechanisms in times of global warming and assesses potential future health hazards.

This book presents a comprehensive and state-of the-art approach to vascular disease for the geriatric patient, focusing on vascular pathology and interventions but also on perioperative care, anesthetic care, functional outcomes and quality of life, as well as ethical considerations that impact decision making. The book addresses open and endovascular interventions in different vascular beds, as well as preoperative workup and optimization, anesthetic considerations, all aspects and expectations of the postoperative care and recovery and is the only book to include specialize in the intricacies of the care of the geriatric patients, the challenging recovery and neurocognitive changes, and ethical considerations for the end stage geriatric patient or in the setting of postoperative complications. Written by experts in the field, each section addresses patient selection, pre-operative considerations, technical conduct of the most common operations with open or endovascular options, and avoiding complications. A brief review of the existing literature addressing the particular topic follows in each section. With its concise yet comprehensive summary of the field, Vascular Disease in Older Adults is the ultimate resource for geriatricians, cardiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and all physicians of who care for the aging patient with vascular disease.

The topic of this book, Collectins, is a family of proteins whose major function is in innate immunity, where Collectins act as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). In general they recognize targets such as microbial surfaces and apoptotic cells, and once bound to a target, Collectins promote the clearance of microorganisms and damaged host tissue. New cell-surface proteins and glycoproteins, which act as Collectin receptors, are currently being identified. Some Collectins, particularly MBL, activate the complement system, which enhances the ability of antibodies to fight pathogens, via three MBL-associated proteases, the MASPs. Additionally, recent research has begun to show wider-ranging activities of Collectins, such as: * Their role in metabolism, and therefore their involvement in lifestyle diseases such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. * Their ability to modulate the adaptive immune response, as well as to recognize and trigger apoptosis of cancer cells, which makes them effective in the annihilation of cancer cells with multiple mutations. * The regulation of their expression by gonadal steroid hormones implicates them with critical roles in both male and female fertility. * Altered levels of Collectins have been associated with various autoimmune diseases. This book brings together current knowledge of the structure, functions and biological activities of Collectins, to describe their integral role in human health.

Herpesviruses, classified in the family Herpesviridae, are important human and animal pathogens that can cause primary, latent or recurrent infections and even cancer. The major interest in research on herpesviruses today focuses on understanding the organization of the DNA genome, as well as on characterizing the viral genes in regard to their control and function. Modern techniques have allowed the viral DNA to become a molecular tool in the study of gene function, since it is now possible to implant the DNA into eukaryotic cells. This book contains original studies on the structure and organization of the DNA of human and animal herpes viruses. The various chapters acquaint the reader with the organization of the viral DNA, the mRNA transcripts, the replicative intermediates of the viral DNA, defective DNA genomes and their mode of synthesis, analyses of the viral DNA sequences in transformed cells, and the relationship between the presence of viral DNA fragments in the cancer cells and the transformed state of the cells."

This book explores the many mechanisms by which the most prevalent Spirochetal pathogens persist in a healthy immune-competent host. Among them are the direct and indirect suppression of host immune signals, phase and antigenic variation, escaping recognition by host complement proteins, and seclusion into immune privileged sites. We also explore antibiotic therapy for control of infection, a baffling topic that lends itself to exalted interpretation.

This books comprises of 24 chapters by experts from developed and developing countries. The book cover Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, the UK and England, USA, West Africa, and Zambia. FOREWORD by David J. Hunter, Emeritus Professor, Newcastle University, the UK.

This expert volume in the Diagnostic Pathology series is an excellent point-of-care resource for practitioners at all levels of experience and training. Covering the full range of nonneoplastic and neoplastic conditions of the female genital tract, it incorporates the most recent scientific and technical knowledge in the field to provide a comprehensive overview of all key issues relevant to today's practice. Richly illustrated and easy to use, the third edition of Diagnostic Pathology: Gynecological is a visually stunning, one-stop resource for every practicing pathologist, resident, student, or fellow as an ideal day-to-day reference or as a reliable training resource. Covers all areas of gynecologic pathology, organized into six easy-to-reference anatomic Covers all areas of gynecologic pathology, organized into seven easy-to-reference anatomic sections: vulva, vagina, uterine cervix, uterine corpus, fallopian tube and broad ligament, ovary, and peritoneum Includes all frequently encountered conditions plus extensive coverage of uncommon entities, such as inflammatory diseases of the vulva, discussed by experts in dermatopathology Provides updated differential diagnoses and diagnostic pearls as well as extensive revisions based on the 2020 WHO Classification of Tumors: Female Genital Tumors, including staging issues and measurement standards Reflects important molecular updates in endometrial carcinoma classifications as well as updated classifications for squamous and glandular tumors for the lower genital tract, both in situ and invasive Updates ancillary techniques, newly encountered pitfalls, and advances in the molecular landscape of epithelial and mesenchymal tumors Features more than 2,500 superb images in print and online, including many new gross and microscopic images as well as diagnostically relevant immunohistochemical and molecular findings Includes an eBook version that enables you to access all text, figures, and references, with the ability to search, customize your content, make notes and highlights, and have content read aloud

Gastroenteritis viruses are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in humans. Many hundreds of thousands of children die annually from rotavirus diarrhoea in the developing world, and although in industrialized countries rotavieus infection is rarely fatal, the economic burden of the disease is substantial. Human caliciviruses have emerged as a significant cause of viral gastroenteritis globally. This book contains presentations and discussions by internationally recognized experts on virus structure, replication, pathogenesis, immune response and correlates of protection, molecular-epidemiological surveillance, advances in treatment, and efforts to develop vaccines, particularly against rotavirus disease. The spectrum of viruses covered comprises rotaviruses, human caliciviruses, astroviruses, coronaviruses and viruses causing gut disease in the immunocompromized host. The book not only conveys facts but also gives ample room to lively discussions on many issues at the forefront of research and development.

This book is the second volume in the series Livestock Diseases and Management, and reviews the importance and implications of animal origin viral zoonoses. It also highlights the specific etiology and epidemiology of these viral infections and discusses their various biological and mechanical transmission mechanisms. Further, the book reviews various measures for controlling viral zoonoses and examines novel therapeutic and prophylactic strategies. Discussing recent studies on the pathogenesis and host immune response to these infections, it underscores the importance of using vaccines against these viral diseases to reduce the risk of them being transmitted to humans.Lastly, it describes in detail the challenges posed by these viral infections and our readiness to face them.

This volume discusses the interactions between viruses and their host cells, and explores the roles of host and viral genes and non-coding RNAs in the virus replication cycle. During infection, viruses express a variety of genes, encoding proteins and RNAs that serve to subjugate the cell - by redirecting cellular processes to support viral replication and, at the same time, by mitigating the cellular response to infection. In this book, experts discuss these interactions in depth, and elaborate on our current understanding of virus-cell interactions for a diverse range of viruses, including positive and negative sense RNA viruses, DNA viruses, and a vector-borne virus. The roles of non-coding RNAs are also discussed. While each class of viruses has distinct replication requirements, this volume reveals unique features and commonalities in viral replication cycles. Accordingly, it represents a valuable source of information for researchers and clinicians alike.

Sickle cell disease was recognized to have a molecular basis more than 50 years ago, since when knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disease has paralleled the developments of molecular biology. Characterized by a striking red cell deformity, a great deal has been learnt about the mechanisms involved and animal models developed over the last 10 years have contributed to these studies. Despite greater understanding of the molecular mechanisms, this knowledge has had little impact in improving management at the bedside. It is the authors' belief that much of importance remains to be learnt from clinical studies which ultimately may define the questions most relevant for our molecular colleagues to answer. Jamaica has provided a superb setting for clinical studies, which initially documented the extremely variable clinical course and then proceeded to seek the determinants in a Cohort Study based on newborn diagnosis and follow-up which has continued for the past 27 years. This new edition of Sickle Cell Disease reviews the history and many of the recent developments in laboratory studies but retains the perspective of a practising clinician. A critical appraisal of the available observations and evidence has sought to define the best practice in its management.

Translational medicine addresses the gap between research and the clinical application of new discoveries. To efficiently deliver new drugs to care centers, a preclinical evaluation, both in vitro and in vivo, is required to ensure that the most active and least toxic compounds are selected as well as to predict clinical outcome. Antimicrobial nanomedicines have been shown to have higher specificity in their therapeutic targets and the ability to serve as adjuvants, increasing the effectiveness of pre-existing immune compounds. The design and development of new standardized protocols for evaluating antimicrobial nanomedicines is needed for both the industry and clinical laboratory. These protocols must aim to evaluate laboratory activity and present models of pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic and toxicokinetic behavior that predict absorption and distribution. Likewise, these protocols must follow a theranostics approach, be able to detect promising formulations, diagnose the infectious disease, and determine the correct treatment to implement a personalized therapeutic behavior. Given the possibilities that nanotechnology offers, not updating to new screening platforms is inadequate as it prevents the correct application of discoveries, increasing the effect of the valley of death between innovations and their use. This book is structured to discuss the fundamentals taken into account for the design of robust, reproducible and automatable evaluation platforms. These vital platforms should enable the discovery of new medicines with which to face antimicrobial resistance (RAM), one of the great problems of our time.

This book reviews the current concepts in biofilm formation and its implications in human health and disease. The initial chapters introduce the mechanisms of biofilm formation and its composition. Subsequently, the chapters discuss the role of biofilm in acute and chronic infections. It also explores the pivotal role of both innate and adaptive immunity on the course of biofilm infection. In addition, the book elucidates the bacterial biofilm formation on implantable devices and the current approaches to its treatment and prevention. It analyzes the possible relationship between antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation. Finally, the book also summarizes the current state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches for preventing and treating biofilms. This book is a useful resource for researchers in the field of microbiology, clinical microbiology, and also medical practitioners.