...Stem Cell Research Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body during early life and growth. In addition, in many tissues they serve as a sort of internal repair system, dividing essentially without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential either to remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell. Different types of stem cells Embryonic stem cells - These stem cells come from embryos that are three to five days old. At this stage, an embryo is called a blastocyst and has about 150 cells. These are pluripotent stem cells, meaning they can divide into more stem cells or can become any type of cell in the body. This versatility allows embryonic stem cells to be used to regenerate or repair diseased tissue and organs, although their use in people has been to date limited to eye-related disorders such as macular degeneration. Adult stem cells - These stem cells are found in small numbers in most adult tissues, such as bone marrow or fat. Compared with embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells have a more limited ability to give rise to various cells of the body. Until recently, researchers thought adult stem cells could create only similar types of cells. For instance, researchers thought that stem cells residing in the bone marrow could give rise...
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...ABSTRACT Stem cells have offered much hope by promising to greatly extend the numbers and range of patients who could benefit from transplants, and to provide cell replacement therapy to treat debilitating diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease. The issue of stem cell research is politically charged, prompting biologists to begin engaging in ethical debates, Stem cell research offers great promise for understanding basic mechanisms of human development and differentiation, as well as the hope for new treatments. However, human stem cell research also raises sharp ethical and political controversies. This paper will discuss the types of stem cells as well as some of the controversies involved in stem cell research. Introduction According to Wikipedia, stem cell can be defined as “biological cells found in all multicellular organisms, that can divide (through mitosis) and differentiate into diverse specialized cell types and can self-renew to produce more stem cells.” A stem cell could be regarded as one of the basic building blocks of the human body. Stem cells are important because they have the ability to become different cell types, and scientists are working on developing ways to use stem cells to repair or regenerate damaged organs or tissues. This could lead to therapies for a whole range of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's, although at present it is impossible to tell whether this will happen...
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...The most effective treatment is a bone marrow transplant. This is where stem cells (that will form blood and immune cells) are taken from the bone marrow of a healthy donor and injected into the SCID patient (Foundation). If the transplant works, these new cells will stimulate the production of the needed immune cells. Transplants done within the first few months of life are most successful. The tissue must be "matched" to the patient, however, which can limit the usefulness of this therapy. Siblings make the best donors, as their cells usually have a similar genetic makeup. However, a parent's marrow is also acceptable. Some children do not have family members who are suitable for the donors - in such cases; doctors may use stem cells from an unrelated donor to help the patient (National Human Genome Research Institute). The likelihood of a good outcome also is greater if the transplant is done early, within the first few three months of life, if possible. (genetic science learning center). About 1 out of every 100,000 babies is born with SCID. SCID is sometimes called Bubble Boy disease. In the 1970s, a boy named David Vetter had to live in...
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...Stem Cell Research Paper Stem Cell Research Paper Human Biology The human body is capable of many miraculous feats. Every hour, every minute, every second, millions of cells are working to maintain homeostasis within the body. This paper is going to focus on one type of cell in particular, the stem cell. The properties of this little cell are amazing. These unique cells self-regenerate through cell division, and in addition to being unspecialized, have the ability to develop into many different specialized cells of the body. Numerous studies have shown the potential of stem cells to cure cancers, as well as slow or reverse the damages of some neurological disorders, yet stem cell researchers have met with both public and legal resistance during their attempts to show the incredible usefulness of these cells. Therefore, the question is, with stem cell research showing the potential to reverse the damage from or slow the progression of neurological disorders, and possible cures for cancer and other diseases and disorders are the possible benefits too much to ignore? The ability to self-regenerate is one the things that makes the stem cell such an appealing area to study. Most cells and organs in the body do not have the ability to self-regenerate, nor self-repair but stem cells can do both. Stem cells themselves are unspecialized, in that they have so special function (Stem Cell Basics, 2009). Part of the beauty of the stem cell is that through cellular...
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...Introduction Human embryonic stem cells (hES cells) are currently discussed not only by the biologists by whom they were discovered but also by the medical profession, media, ethicists, governments and politicians. There are several reasons for this. On the one hand, these ‘super cells’ have a major clinical potential in tissue repair, with their proponents believing that they represent the future relief or cure of a wide range of common disabilities; replacement of defective cells in a patient by transplantation of hES cell‐derived equivalents would restore normal function. On the other hand, the use of hES cells is highly controversial because they are derived from human pre‐implantation embryos. To date, most embryos used for the establishment of hES cell lines have been spare embryos from IVF, but the creation of embryos specifically for deriving hES cells is also under discussion. The most controversial variant of this is the transfer of a somatic cell‐nucleus from a patient to an enucleated oocyte (unfertilized egg) in order to produce hES cells genetically identical to that patient for ‘autologous’ transplantation (so‐called ‘therapeutic’ cloning); this may prevent tissue rejection. The question ‘Can these cells be isolated and used and, if so, under what conditions and restrictions’ is presently high on the political and ethical agenda, with policies and legislation being formulated in many countries to regulate their derivation. The UK has been the first to pass...
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...Stem Cell Cloning Research Braden Harrah Marshall University Abstract The term cloning of stem cell is used by scientists to describe many different processes that involve making duplicates of the different types of stem cells. In different types of cases, stem cells are duplicated for scientific study and no new results were found during the experiment of trying to clone stem cells. This led to the experiment that led to the cloning of Dolly the sheep in 1997. It used a cloning technique called that scientist have been trying to memorize and resulted in an animal that was a genetic twin. This technique can also be used to produce a stem cell from which cells called embryonic stem cells could be extracted to use in research into potential therapies for a wide variety of diseases. The diseases they are hopefully cure or give therapeutic help to is Parkinson’s and Alztimers disease. Introduction Stem cell cloning has been the overall climax for scientific research. Stem cell cloning has evolved ever since they found out what stem cells could do if they were cloned properly. Based on my research, the assumption that cloning stem cells can help mankind appear to be true. Throughout my research on cloning of stem cells I got the idea that if stem cells were cloned that they can cure common diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer’s. They need to practice on getting the cloning down right before even trying it on a human. They want to continue research on how to clone stems...
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...Stem cells: What they are and what they do Researchers believe stem cells offer great promise for new medical treatments. Learn about stem cell types, current and possible uses, ethical issues and the state of research. By Mayo Clinic staff You've heard about stem cells in the news, and perhaps you've wondered if they might help you or a loved one with a serious disease. You may wonder what stem cells are, how they're being used to treat disease and injury, and why they're the subject of such vigorous debate. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about stem cells. Why is there such an interest in stem cells? Researchers hope stem cell studies can help to: * Increase understanding of how diseases occur. By watching stem cells mature into cells that eventually become bones, heart muscle, nerve cells, and other organs and tissue, researchers and doctors may better understand how a variety of diseases and conditions develop. * Generate healthy cells to replace diseased cells (regenerative medicine). Researchers hope they can train stem cells into becoming specific cells so that those specialized cells can be used to regenerate and repair diseased or damaged tissues in people. People who might benefit from stem cell therapies include those with spinal cord injuries, type 1 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis. Stem cells could also be grown to become new...
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...As the relevance of chronic tendon injuries and orthopedic research grow, a search for the most effective means of treatment continues. The use of anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids is being replaced, and occasionally supplemented, with physical therapy and strength training. This is due to the current research pointing toward evidence that inflammation is not the cause of degeneration within the tendon. This review will attempt to introduce the basic physiological concepts relating to the development of tendinopathies and their treatments, as well as give an overview of current developments lending momentum to the idea that eccentric loading of the tendon is presently the most effective mode by which treatment of degenerating tendons...
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...Application of Clinical Psychology: Betty Ford Courtney Bowers, Tina Colbert, Janell Thomas, Mervin Waldron PSY/480 March 30, 2015 Tara Thompson Application of Clinical Psychology: Betty Ford Substance abuse can stem from a variety of biological, psychological, and social factors. These factors may vary from addict to addict, and it is the role of clinical psychology to examine the roots of addiction, and what type of treatment, such as interventions, would apply to and possibly work best for each individual. Interventions have to be rational as they apply to a patient, and the clinical psychology professional would have to have a plan as to who is involved, where will it be, what should happen, and what specific areas the intervention will focus on. We will examine the case study of Betty Ford, and uncover the possible reason for addiction as well as what type of interventions may work best and why. The Case of Betty Ford Many have heard of the Betty Ford Clinic, but most think Betty Ford, former first lady opened the clinic up because she wanted to help substance abuse addicts. In fact, that is precisely what she wished to accomplish, but for reasons other than just helping. Betty Ford was an addict herself. In 1978, Ford admitted that she was an addict, and a week later went into a treatment program. Inspired by the ability to overcome drugs and alcohol through treatment, in 1982, the Betty Ford Clinic was opened. Substance abuse doesn't lend itself to...
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...PRO Designer Babies Designer babies are the concept that involves the isolation of human embryos from a willing human donor. The individuals involved in the process are allowed to choose the traits and the genes that they desire to be present in the embryo and the eventual baby. The idea is technically called the liberal eugenics. Genetic engineering was incorporated in certain species of plants to modify crop yields and improve resistance to certain crop diseases. The scientists inserted a given gene into plasmid bacteria to ensure that the plant cell assumed the new DNA. The technology has allowed many plant species to thrive in harsh conditions, including cold, hot, and effectively resist pests. There are different edible foods, which have been designed through the technology. The last century has recorded discoveries that have involved immense benefits on human lives. The findings involve the use of genes, which refer to the reason behind the different characteristics and features among different humans. However, the new technology involves knowledge, which facilitates an alteration of the human characteristics. Humans have benefited from the technology of designer babies by elimination of the harmful genes as experienced in 2001 in Los Angeles. Contrarily, religion nd the society continue to question the social and moral well-being of creating a child with the traits that the parents desire. The opponents of the technology argue that genetic technology is uncertain and...
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...through environmental interventions. It was in this decade that Kolcaba began to develop a theory of comfort when she was a graduate student at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio. She is currently a nursing professor at the University of Akron in Ohio. Kolcaba's (1992) theory was based on the work of earlier nurse theorists, including Orlando (1961), Benner, Henderson, Nightingale, Watson (1979), and Henderson and Paterson. Other non-nursing influences on Kolcaba's work included Murray (1938). The theory was developed using induction (from practice and experience), deduction (through logic), and from retroaction concepts (concepts from other theories). The basis of Kolcaba's theory is a taxonomic structure or grid that has 12 cells (Kolcaba, 1991; Kolcaba & Fisher, 1996). Three types of comfort are listed at the top of the grid and four contexts in which comfort occurs are listed down the side of the grid. The three types are relief, ease and transcendence. The four contexts are physical, psycho-spiritual, sociocultural and environmental. Kolcaba does not believe that a...
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...Introduction In the case study of Mr. J; he has been exhibiting dyspnea upon exertion and fatigue. His blood pressure was 170/95 mmHg. After reviewing his labs; his LDL level was 200 mg/dl. Upon physical examination, he was found to have peripheral edema and jugular vein distention. A chest X-ray revealed cardiomegaly and pleural effusion. An echogram has also been scheduled. Based on his signs and symptoms, the physician suspects Mr. J has new onset Stage C heart failure. Mr. J has multiple prescribed drugs for Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, Parkinson’s, Gout and Depression. After careful reviewing Mr. J’s medications there is concerns ineffective pharmacological management. Ineffective pharmacological management refers to medication therapy prescribed that does not take into account the patient’s age, diagnoses and comorbidities; therefore leading to complications of existing health problems. Side effects, adverse reactions and drug to drug interactions have to also be considered when reviewing a patient’s medication regimen. The drug categories most commonly involved in adverse reaction are cardiovascular agents, antibiotic, diuretics, anticoagulants, hypoglycemic, steroids, opioids, anticholinergic, benzodiazepines, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Nurses have the unique opportunity to help identify patients at risk for ineffective pharmacological management and educate patients and families about risk reduction. In this case study I will explore potential problems...
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...Quality of Red Blood Cells Isolated from Umbilical Cord Blood Stored at Room Temperature Mariia Zhurova, 1 John Akabutu, 2 and Jason Acker 3 ,* Author information ► Article notes ► Copyright and License information ► ------------------------------------------------- Abstract Red blood cells (RBCs) from cord blood contain fetal hemoglobin that is predominant in newborns and, therefore, may be more appropriate for neonatal transfusions than currently transfused adult RBCs. Post-collection, cord blood can be stored at room temperature for several days before it is processed for stem cells isolation, with little known about how these conditions affect currently discarded RBCs. The present study examined the effect of the duration cord blood spent at room temperature and other cord blood characteristics on cord RBC quality. RBCs were tested immediately after their isolation from cord blood using a broad panel of quality assays. No significant decrease in cord RBC quality was observed during the first 65 hours of storage at room temperature. The ratio of cord blood to anticoagulant was associated with RBC quality and needs to be optimized in future. This knowledge will assist in future development of cord RBC transfusion product. Go to: ------------------------------------------------- 1. Introduction Fetal and neonatal anemias are among the most serious complications of pregnancy and postnatal development. The causes of fetal anemia include immune haemolytic disease [1],...
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...Antibodies………………………………………………………..9 6.0 Purpose of IGY Inc. – Antibody Extraction 10 7.0 IGY for Use in Humans ………………..………………………………………………………….11 8.0 References 15 IGY Immune Technologies & Life Sciences Inc. 1.0 The Immune System The human immune system is comprised of a complex network of lymphoid organs and highly specialized cells that protect the body against infection by recognizing and killing pathogens. This immune system includes lymphatic organs and vessels, lymph nodes, white blood cells, specialized cells and serum factors. The immune system utilizes both the lymphatic vessels and the blood circulatory system to transport white blood cells called lymphocytes through out the body (1). The immune system can be classified as an innate or adaptive system. As a first line of defense against pathogens, we depend on innate immunity. Innate immunity is nonspecific and includes physical barriers such as skin, mucous membranes and secretions with antimicrobial activity including tears and mucous. Pathogens that cross this line of defense are often destroyed by phagocytes which are white blood cells that engulf and digest cellular debris and foreign agents by the process known as phagocytosis. However, innate immunity is not sufficient to ward off all invaders. Thus, to allow for a stronger immune response and immunological memory, we have developed a specific, inducible system of defense called the adaptive or acquired immune system. A substance...
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...Heart Failure Western Governors University Pathopharmacological Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice Heart Failure It is estimated that about five million people in the United States are living with heart failure with an overwhelming number of 550,000 newly diagnosed cases each year, costing the nation roughly $32 billion dollars per year (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016). Heart failure is a complex, pathophysiological condition in which the ventricles of the heart is weakened and unable to pump effectively to meet the body’s needs for nutrients or has lost adequate filling capacity. Clinical presentations of heart failure depends on which ventricles have failed to pump blood adequately; left ventricular failure, also known as congestive heart failure (CHF) is more common than right ventricular failure (McCance & Huether, 2014). The most common symptoms of heart failure are shortness of breath, fatigue, and peripheral edema. HF is not a disease, but rather a manifestation of a diseased heart. Large number of disorders can lead to heart failure, and with the aging population and many surviving primary cardiac events, it is no surprise that the most common reason for hospitalization in patients older than 65 years old is heart failure (McClintock, Mose, & Smith, 2014). Heart failure has become a major public health problem because it is the only cardiac condition that continues to increase in prevalence (McClintock, Mose, & Smith, 2014)...
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