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Novel Biomarker Detects Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Better than Conventional ... 
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As everyone is returning from their summer holidays, it is again time for IBBL (Integrated BioBank of Luxembourg) to launch its annual Biospecimen Proficiency T (RT @ISBER_ORG: Register for the #Biospecimen Proficiency Testing Programme at IBBL - ...
Alfredo Corell's insight:
IBBL provides a biospecimen Proficiency Testing (PT) programme to laboratories working with biospecimens, including biorepositories, research organisations and bioservice providers. - See more at: http://www.ibbl.lu/ibbl-services/pt/#sthash.pHEi0781.dpuf Endorsed by ISBERG: http://www.isber.org/
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Basophil activation tests were more accurate than other tests in distinguishing between peanut allergy and tolerance in children, reducing the need for oral food challenges, according to recent study results.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
Santos AF. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2014.04.039.
July 28, 2014 Researchers studied 43 peanut-allergic (mean age, 5.5 years; 74.4% males), 36 peanut-sensitized but tolerant (mean age, 4 years; 63.9% males) and 25 non-peanut-sensitized nonallergic children (mean age, 5 years; 72% males) using skin prick test (SPT) and specific IgE (sIgE) to peanut. “BAT [basophil activation test] was performed using flow cytometry, and its diagnostic performance was evaluated in relation to allergy vs. tolerance to peanut and validated in an independent population (n=65),” the researchers wrote. There was a peanut dose-dependent upregulation of CD63 and CD203c in peanut-allergic children, based on BAT. Non-peanut-sensitized nonallergic and peanut-sensitized children, however, showed no significant response (P<.001, both). There was 97% accuracy, 95% positive predictive value and 98% negative predictive value in the BAT optimal diagnostic cutoffs.
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Alfredo Corell's insight:
Significance
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder that is notoriously difficult to diagnose, characterize, and properly treat with tests that are available to clinicians today. Therefore, clinicians would benefit from additional tools that objectively characterize asthma in patients. In this work, we describe a handheld microfluidic device that discriminates asthma from allergic rhinitis patients based on neutrophil function—an inflammatory cell that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. The device can sort neutrophils from a drop of whole blood within minutes, and was used in a clinical setting to characterize asthmatic and nonasthmatic patients. This technology provides a new tool for clinicians to characterize asthma based on cellular function.
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La Sociedad Española de Alergología e Inmunología Clínica (SEAIC) ha defendido este jueves el empleo del diagnóstico molecular como complemento a las pruebas...
Alfredo Corell's insight:
La confianza en la coste-eficiencia de esta prueba de detección consistente en un análisis de sangre la razona el experto en un estudio realizado en la Comunidad de Madrid y publicado en la revista 'Allergy'. En él, ha confirmado que supone un ahorro del gasto y generar información "no solo a la ora de elegir una vacuna u otra, sino que predice un poco cual va a ser la evolución del paciente". Por ello, sostiene que debe realizarse en "prácticamente todo tipo de pacientes", como los alérgicos a alimentos, pólenes, ácaros o epitelios de animales. A pesar de que existen casos de pacientes muy sencillos y que "se solventan con pruebas cutáneas", advierte de que "cada vez hay más pacientes que aparentemente son sensibles a muchas cosas, y que son los que se benefician".
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New FREE Perspectives: Methods-Based Proficiency Testing in Molecular Genetic Pathology http://t.co/XE2963lhEL
Alfredo Corell's insight:
This Perspectives article describes methods-based proficiency testing (MBPT), the benefits and limitations of MBPT, why the time is right for MBPT in molecular diagnostics, and how MBPT for next-generation sequencing is being developed by the College of American Pathologists. The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics Accepted 11 February 2014. published online 20 March 2014.
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Alfredo Corell's insight:
Discusión La logística en el campo de la preanalítica es determinante en el buen funcionamiento de los laboratorios y un rasgo diferencial entre los que apuestan por la calidad y la innovación. Hemos creído conveniente redactar este artículo para que el personal sanitario encargado de la planificación y el seguimiento de las rutas de transporte de muestras sepa a qué tipo de problemas se enfrenta y cómo puede valorarlos. Consideramos que el ejemplo descrito, pese a su sencillez, puede despertar el interés del público al que va dirigido, y ayudar a la evaluación y mejora del proceso de recogida, traslado y análisis de las muestras.
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There is a growing need for multiplexed specific IgE tests that can accurately evaluate patient sensitization profiles.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
There is a growing need for multiplexed specific IgE tests that can accurately evaluate patient sensitization profiles. However, currently available commercial tests are either single/low-plexed or require sophisticated instrumentation at considerable cost per assay. Here, we present a novel convenient lateral flow microarray-based device that employs a novel dual labelled gold nanoparticle-strategy for rapid and sensitive detection of a panel of 15 specific IgE responses in 35 clinical serum samples. Each gold nanoparticle was conjugated to an optimized ratio of HRP and anti-IgE, allowing significant enzymatic amplification to improve the sensitivity of the assay as compared to commercially available detection reagents. The mean inter-assay variability of the developed LFM assay was 12% CV, and analysis of a cohort of clinical samples (n=35) revealed good general agreement with ImmunoCAP, yet with a varying performance among allergens (AUC=[0.54-0.88], threshold 1 kU). Due to the rapid and simple procedure, inexpensive materials and read-out by means of a consumer flatbed scanner, the presented assay may provide an interesting low-cost alternative to existing multiplexed methods when thresholds >1 kU are acceptable
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Rapid Flow Cytometric Prenatal Diagnosis of Primary Immunodeficiency (PID) Disorders: http://t.co/FVhdPQz5vY #flowcytometry
Alfredo Corell's insight:
February 2014 Abstract Objectives Primary Immunodeficiency diseases (PID) are a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders of immune system. Immunophenotypic evaluation of PIDs using flowcytometry provides important clues for diagnosis of these disorders, though confirmation requires identification of underlying molecular defects. Prenatal diagnosis (PND) forms an important component of management in families affected with severe PID. However, molecular diagnostic facilities for each of these diseases are not available and may not be possible to perform in all cases. In such scenario we opted for phenotypic prenatal diagnosis by cordocentesis for families with index case having immunophenotypically well characterized PID. MethodsNormal reference ranges of lymphocyte subsets, CD 18/CD11 integrins on leukocytes, MHC class II expression and oxidative burst activity of fetal neutrophils at 18 weeks of gestation were previously established on 30 cord blood samples. PND was performed in 13 families with PIDs. Maternal contamination was ruled out by VNTR analysis. ResultsOut of 13 fetuses, nine were found to be unaffected (three cases with leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD-I), four cases with severe combined immunodeficiency diseases (SCID), one with X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and one with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD)] and three were found to be affected (one with T-B+NK-SCID, one with MHC class II deficiency and one with LAD-I). Diagnosis was confirmed by testing the cord blood samples after delivery and further follow-up of the children. In one family diagnosis could not be offered due to maternal contamination. No procedure related complications were observed. ConclusionFlowcytometry offers rapid and sensitive method for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling for selected phenotypically well characterized PID in cases where molecular diagnostic facilities are not available.
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Really useful Google Glass use: immunoassay diagnostic test http://t.co/oUrgFkoPCz
Alfredo Corell's insight:
Download the coplete journal publication: http://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/nn500614k
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Science World Report Novel immune signature 'predicts severity of flu symptoms' Medical News Today Looking into the inflammatory response further, the researchers discovered that high levels of three cykotines at flu diagnosis - MCP-3, interferon...
Alfredo Corell's insight:
High levels of three cytokines 'predicts severe flu symptoms'
Looking into the inflammatory response further, the researchers discovered that high levels of three cytokines at flu diagnosis - MCP-3, interferon alpha 2 (IFNa2) in the nasal and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the blood - predicted the occurrence of severe flu symptoms later.
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Programa de Garantía Externa de Calidad para Laboratorios de Inmunología Diagnóstica
Alfredo Corell's insight:
Direct link to schemes and prizes: http://www.geclidsei.uva.es/mod/resource/view.php?id=2008 Direct link to Registration form: http://www.geclidsei.uva.es/mod/feedback/view.php?id=3203
Gilbert C FAURE's curator insight,
February 7, 2014 3:47 AM
quality controls by immunologists for immunologists |
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Newborn Screening for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency in 11 Screening Programs in the United States
Alfredo Corell's insight:
JAMA. 2014;312(7):729-738. doi:10.1001/jama.2014.9132. link: http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1896983&resultClick=3 Conclusions and Relevance Newborn screening in 11 programs in the United States identified SCID in 1 in 58 000 infants, with high survival. The usefulness of detection of non-SCID T-cell lymphopenias by the same screening remains to be determined.
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New diagnostic procedure helps differentiate psoriasis from eczema
Alfredo Corell's insight:
Other comment on the health press: http://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de/en/news/latest-news/press-information-news/article/24557/index.html The research paper: http://stm.sciencemag.org/content/6/244/244ra90
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The International Clinical Cytometry Society and the European Society for Clinical Cell Analysis is proud to announce the first collaborative practical course focusing on clinical cytometry.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
We welcome you to take part in this unique course offering that will focus on practical, hands-on, clinical flow cytometry education in a small group format. Content will focus on both basic fundamentals, as well as, specific clinical application. Most importantly, the final curriculum will be determined using feedback from the current course registrants to ensure an optimal experience for all attendees.
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An improved assay for assessing MRD status in patients with multiple myeloma is contributing to the momentum for using MRD as a surrogate endpoint for survival in clinical trials and as a tool with the potential to help guide therapy choices.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
In March, the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) launched a new, automated flow cytometry test that is sensitive to 10-6 (1 cell in a million) and provides a computerized printout of MRD levels. The new test offers a more reliable method of assessing MRD status in an area that currently lacks standardization, said Durie, who is cofounder and chair of the IMF. - See more at: http://www.onclive.com/publications/oncology-live/2014/april-2014/new-mrd-assay-helps-move-testing-forward-in-multiple-myeloma-research/1#sthash.0RGCy54i.dpuf
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Alfredo Corell's insight:
CYTO U and ISAC present their first online course: Flow Cytometry Biosafety
Authored by Kevin Holmes, Peter Lopez, Steve Perfetto, Hank Pletcher, and Ingrid Schmid, the Flow Cytometry Biosafety Course provides a summary of biosafety principles as they apply to flow cytometry and cell sorting. Register: http://cytou.peachnewmedia.com
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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease in which a heterogeneous course and different pathogenic mechanisms are implicated in chronic inflammation and joint destruction.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease in which a heterogeneous course and different pathogenic mechanisms are implicated in chronic inflammation and joint destruction. Despite the diagnostic contribution of anti-citrullinated protein/peptide antibodies (ACPAs) and rheumatoid factors, about one-third of RA patients remain seronegative. ACPAs belong to a heterogeneous family of autoantibodies targeting citrullinated proteins, including myelin-basic protein, several histone proteins, filaggrin and fibrin, fibrinogen or vimentin. In addition to ACPAs, antibodies directed against other post-translationally modified-carbamylated proteins (anti-CarP) were detected in up to 30% of ACPA-negative patients. Using phage display technology, further autoantibodies were recently discovered as candidate biomarkers for seronegative RA patients. Furthermore, in clinical practice, ultrasound may reveal subclinical synovitis and radiographically undetected bone erosions. To improve diagnostic certainty in undifferentiated arthritis and seronegative patients, ultrasound imaging and several new biomarkers may help to identify at risk patients and those with early disease. In this commentary we summarize recent advances in joint ultrasound and future potential of serological biomarkers to improve diagnosis of RA.
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Una de las preguntas peor valoradas en las encuestas de satisfacción que hacemos los laboratorios a los clínicos es la comunicación de cambios y novedades. Debemos plantearnos que, si esto es así, es porque no utilizamos los canales adecuados; seguramente será preciso combinar diferentes canales dependiendo de los hábitos y de los medios de que disponga el clínico.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
La digitalización de nuestro medio laboral es un hecho y en nuestro campo tenemos que liderar esta nueva perspectiva de futuro, esta nueva forma de intercambio de información, de intercambio de datos, de intercambio de ideas. Compartir la información permite crear una inteligencia colectiva. Nos encontramos en un punto de consolidación de la digitalización de la información y de crecimiento del potencial que tiene el intercambio de información a través de las redes sociales. Tenemos que saber aprovecharlo. Debemos estar presentes en estos cambios ya que de lo contrario, otros ocuparán nuestro lugar.
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Blood samples are usually collected daily from different collection points, such hospitals and health centers, and transported to a core laboratory for testing. This paper presents a project to improve the collection routes of two of the largest clinical laboratories in Spain. These routes must be designed in a cost-efficient manner while satisfying two important constraints: (i) two-hour time windows between collection and delivery, and (ii) vehicle capacity.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
BMC Health Services Research 2014, 14:12 doi:10.1186/1472-6963-14-12 The electronic version of this article is the complete one and can be found online at:http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6963/14/12
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Celiac.com
Alfredo Corell's insight:
This article originally appeared in the Spring 2013 edition of Celiac.com's Journal of Gluten-Sensitivity. Celiac.com 03/04/2014 - The question. What is the spectrum of gluten related disorders?
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PubMed comprises more than 23 million citations for biomedical literature from MEDLINE, life science journals, and online books. Citations may include links to full-text content from PubMed Central and publisher web sites.
Alfredo Corell's insight:
Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2014 Feb 26. [Epub ahead of print] Laboratory Diagnosis of Primary Immunodeficiencies. Abstract Primary immune deficiency disorders represent a highly heterogeneous group of disorders with an increased propensity to infections and other immune complications. A careful history to delineate the pattern of infectious organisms and other complications is important to guide the workup of these patients, but a focused laboratory evaluation is essential to the diagnosis of an underlying primary immunodeficiency. Initial workup of suspected immune deficiencies should include complete blood counts and serologic tests of immunoglobulin levels, vaccine titers, and complement levels, but these tests are often insufficient to make a diagnosis. Recent advancements in the understanding of the immune system have led to the development of novel immunologic assays to aid in the diagnosis of these disorders. Classically utilized to enumerate lymphocyte subsets, flow cytometric-based assays are increasingly utilized to test immune cell function (e.g., neutrophil oxidative burst, NK cytotoxicity), intracellular cytokine production (e.g., TH17 production), cellular signaling pathways (e.g., phosphor-STAT analysis), and protein expression (e.g., BTK, Foxp3). Genetic testing has similarly expanded greatly as more primary immune deficiencies are defined, and the use of mass sequencing technologies is leading to the identification of novel disorders. In order to utilize these complex assays in clinical care, one must have a firm understanding of the immunologic assay, how the results are interpreted, pitfalls in the assays, and how the test affects treatment decisions. This article will provide a systematic approach of the evaluation of a suspected primary immunodeficiency, as well as provide a comprehensive list of testing options and their results in the context of various disease processes.
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In most cases, the autoantibodies are against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR). Recently, other targets have been described such as the MuSK protein (muscle-specific kinase) or the LRP4 (lipoprotein related protein 4).
Alfredo Corell's insight:
In most cases, the autoantibodies are against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR). Recently, other targets have been described such as the MuSK protein (muscle-specific kinase) or the LRP4 (lipoprotein related protein 4). Link to the Journal Paper: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0896841114000055
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New diagnostic test for coeliac disease Australian Life Scientist “Current diagnosis of coeliac disease is limited by the need for intestinal biopsies and patients to be eating gluten,” said Dr Jason Tye-Din, head of coeliac research at the Walter...
Alfredo Corell's insight:
The test involves a ‘cytokine release’ test that measures the T cell response to gluten after three days of consumption. A positive response is highly predictive of coeliac disease. - See more at: http://lifescientist.com.au/content/health-medical/news/new-diagnostic-test-for-coeliac-disease-589441552#sthash.Qg8Q3dlz.dpuf
Gilbert C FAURE's comment,
February 7, 2014 2:10 PM
the problem is the choice of peptides to cover MHC diversity!
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Conclusion.
Serum 14-3-3η is a novel RA mechanistic marker that is highly specific, associated with worse disease, and complements current markers, enabling a more accurate diagnosis of RA.
link to the Journal of Rheumatology:
http://jrheum.org/content/early/2014/08/21/jrheum.131446.full.pdf+html