Description
Taylor & Francis Subclinical Atherosclerosis Assessing The Risks by Jesus A. Bianco
It is now known that the Framingham score - the basis for the estimation of the total (global) 10-year risk in individuals without known cardiovascular disease or diabetes - has limitations. So, to refine cardiovascular risk prediction, experts are investigating new techniques for determining risk factors. This book assesses the role of conventional and emerging serum markers and imaging modalities to detect and measure subclinical atherosclerosis. At the present time, non-invasive CT coronary angiography appears promising for assessing calcium plaques but also vulnerable soft plaques in the coronary arteries that may result in a myocardial infarction. CT coronary angiograms, carotid ultrasound investigation, magnetic resonance plaque characterization, and coronary blood flow measurement by positron emission tomography are also discussed and compared. This book is aimed at disseminating an understanding of the potential of these techniques to a wider audience. Part 1. Molecular Biology: BCR/ABL Gene Structure and BCR Function. BCR/ABL Protein Domain Function and Signaling. Adhesion/Integrin Abnormalities. Animal Models. Progenitor Cell Dynamics. Target-Directed Therapies. Complementation of Cytokine Signaling Pathways. Part 2. Conventional Therapy: IFN Dosage Regimens. Chemotherapy vs IFN. Biology of IFN. Prognostic Scores in CML. Chemotherapy and Combination Chemotherapy. IFN and Ara-C. Part 3. Allografting: Donor Selection. Prognostic Factors. Timing. Conditioning Regimens. Blood vs Marrow Stem Cells. Results with Sibling/Alternative Donors. Monitoring. Relapse. Basis of GVL. Donor Lymphocyte Infusions. Part 4. Autografting: Genetic Approaches to Treatment of CML. Specific Chemical Inhibitors of ABL Tyrosine Kinase. Immunotherapeutic Strategies. Autografting with Unmanipulated Stem Cells. Autografting with Cultured Marrow. Autografting with Ph-Negative Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells. Long-term Follow-up of Autologous Transplant Therapy. Target-Directed Therapies and ST1571.