Agglutination Studies


Book Description




Avian Influenza Virus


Book Description

With the growing global fear of a major pandemic, avian influenza (AI) virus research has greatly increased in importance. In Avian Influenza Virus, an expert team of researchers and diagnosticians examine the fundamental, yet essential, virological methods for AI virus research and diagnostics as well as some of the newest molecular procedures currently used for basic and applied research. They present exciting, cutting-edge new methods that focus both on studying the virus itself and on work with avian hosts, an area greatly lacking in research.







Plant Lectins


Book Description

This volume surveys the chemistry, biochemistry, biosynthesis, metabolism and pharmacological properties of lectins. Lectins, which are most commonly found in plants, are widespread natural products with striking biological activities. Their specific ability to recognise and bind to simple or complex saccharides facilitates their role as effective information protein molecules. As agents of cell-to-cell recognition, lectins promote symbiosis between plants and specific nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria. As natural defensive molecules, they can protect plants against predators such as bacteria, fungi and insects. As part of our diet, lectins are powerful exogenous growth factors in the small intestine and influence our health, the digestive function and the bacterial ecology of the alimentary tract. Lectins are also important research tools in preparative biochemistry and cell science.







Neurobrucellosis


Book Description

This book provides an in-depth review of knowledge of neurobrucellosis, which remains common despite significant improvements in preventive measures, neuroradiological techniques, and treatment methods. The chapters are organized into five sections, the first three of which address cranial and intracranial brucellosis, spinal brucellosis, and brucellosis of the peripheral portions of the nervous system. The fourth section focuses on laboratory studies in neurobrucellosis, and the closing section is devoted to therapy, encompassing both medical approaches and the surgical procedures used to treat the complications associated with brucellosis involving the spine, brain, and peripheral nerves. Despite the impressive efforts to eradicate the disease, brucellosis still poses a great threat in the Mediterranean Basin, where it originated, as well as in South and Central America, the Caribbean, and Africa. Written and edited by leading international authorities in the field, this comprehensive book will be an ideal up-to-date reference for neurosurgeons, neurologists, and specialists in infectious disease who are seeking either basic or more advanced information on the disease and its diagnosis and treatment.




Basic Serological Testing


Book Description

This book discusses in detail various serological tests that are used to identify medical conditions and diseases, from a general overview of each test to the equipment and steps needed to carry them out. The book is aimed specifically at immunology students and professionals who may occasionally need to use these tests, and thus lack training and experience in performing them. The book provides a brief overview of the immune system, including antibodies, antigens, and their interactions. The bulk of the book is comprised of 16 chapters that each explain different serological tests. These chapters start with a general introduction of the test or disease being detected, followed by the test principle, reagents required for the test, procedures and steps to perform the test, and, finally, result interpretation. Both test principles and result interpretation segments include illustrations to aid comprehension. In addition, the book also enables the reader to distinguish between positive and negative results in serological testing.










Collected Studies


Book Description