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Next-Generation MicroRNA Expression Profiling Technology
by Jian-Bing FanThe rapid pace of microRNA (miRNA) research continues to drive the advances of techniques for miRNA expression profiling, and innovative technologies that are more sensitive, specific, quantitative, and that are compatible with a wide range of biospecimens have been developed during the past few years. In Next-Generation MicroRNA Expression Profiling Technology: Methods and Protocols, expert researchers in the field contribute detailed examinations of the most current approaches being used today. This volume includes comprehensive coverage of methodologies that have been developed for miRNA profiling, as well as next-gen sequencing technology, miRNA databases, and specialized applications, such as cancer studies and miRNA-based non-invasive biomarker development. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular BiologyTM series format, chapters feature 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 cutting-edge, Next-Generation MicroRNA Expression Profiling Technology: Methods and Protocols provides an ideal guide for novices and experts alike who are seeking to utilize these powerful technologies.
Next-Generation Nanobiosensor Devices for Point-Of-Care Diagnostics
by Gorachand DuttaThis book reviews the potential of next-generation point-of-care diagnosis in healthcare. It also discusses the printed chip-based assay (Lab-on-a-Chip, Lab-on-a-PCB) for rapid, inexpensive biomarkers detection. The book presents the development of sensory systems based on the use of nanomaterials. It examines different biosensors for medical diagnosis using surface modification strategies of transducers. It presents electrochemical concepts based on different nanobiomaterials and nanocomposites for cancer theranostics. Notably, the book examines the recent advances in wearable, cost-effective hemodynamic sensors to detect diseases at an early stage. It further explores the combination of redox cycling and electrochemical detection to develop ultrasensitive and reproducible biosensors for point-of-care testing. Finally, the book summarizes the significant challenges in the point of care diagnostics and its future opportunities in healthcare.
Next-Generation Sequencing: Standard Operating Procedures and Applications
by Prashanth N. Suravajhala Jeffrey W. BizzaroThis cutting-edge reference book compiles standard operating procedures, protocols, and applications of next-generation sequencing (NGS). It discusses genomic testing applications through NGS. It pays special focus on the protocols for cataloguing variants of uncertain significance. Over the years, NGS and advanced bioinformatics approaches have allowed the transition of genomic assays into translational practices. The book covers visualisation of NGS datasets, investigation of early development impairment, and metagenome protocols. It also discusses the challenges in NGS methods.Key Points: Includes case studies of application of NGS in different taxa like humans, rodents, plants, and bacteria Compiles protocols from various reputed companies like Illumina, PacBio, and ThermoFisher Discusses the translational applications of NGS methods Reviews machine learning heuristics for NGS data interpretation Discusses emerging genomic assay technologies and characterising mechanisms of disease prevalence The book is meant for researchers and industry experts in genomics, computational biology, and bioinformatics.Chapter 7 and 9 of this book is freely available as a downloadable Open Access PDF at http://www.taylorfrancis.com under a Creative Commons [Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives (CC BY-NC-ND)] 4.0 license.
Next-Generation Therapies and Technologies for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases
by Paola Mina-OsorioAs our understanding of immune mediated chronic inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) grows, it becomes more and more clear that these conditions result from the convergence of a multitude of pathogenic mechanisms whose relative individual contribution is different in different patient subsets. Promising new technologies have been conceived that address the hypotheses that targeting multiple pathways simultaneously, selectively delivering therapeutics to areas of inflammation and/or resetting the immune system, could take efficacy to new levels. However, we have long waited for the arrival of some of these technologies to the bedside, or even far enough in the drug development process in spite of the initial enthusiasm. Some of the examples covered in this book include bispecific antibodies and genomic medicines, microparticles and targeted delivery of drugs to inflamed vasculature. Most published reviews and book chapters on novel therapies for inflammatory diseases describe positive attributes of molecules or technologies under investigation and the rationale for developing them into therapeutics. The originality and potential value of this book is not in the description of these targets or technologies from the point of view of their structure or mechanism of action exclusively, but rather, in making an effort to critically address the question of what is needed to move these technologies into the clinic. Has the technology not made it past the preclinical stage and why? Has it already been tested in humans and failed? What are the potential reasons behind those failures? What do experts in each field believe can be done better to increase the probabilities of success? In addition, the authors address the competitive landscape and summarize clinical studies that have failed in the respective area. They talk about the patient populations that would be required for the successful conduction of a clinical trial to test certain molecules, and they proactively share their views regarding both the potential and the drawbacks of targets or methodologies.
Nezhat's Operative Gynecologic Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy
by Camran Nezhat Farr Nezhat Ceana NezhatThis book catalogs the full spectrum of minimally invasive procedures in gynecology, oncology, and infertility treatment. High-quality color pictures supplement many of the presentations. The book covers subjects as varied as endometriosis, urinary incontinence, infertility, ovarian cancer, and appendiceal disease. It also discusses general surgical laparoscopic issues and the management of complications during laparoscopy. The three editors have pioneered some of the most important laparoscopic procedures used today, and their work has opened up the video laparoscopy field for surgeons worldwide. The contributors have extensive experience in laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. Many of them have established some of the surgical techniques discussed.
Ngoma: Discourses of Healing in Central and Southern Africa
by John M. JanzenNgoma,in Bantu, means drum, song, performance, and healing cult or association. A widespread form of ritual healing in Central and Southern Africa, ngoma is fully investigated here for the first time and interpreted in a contemporary context. John Janzen's daring study incorporates drumming and spirit possession into a broader, institutional profile that emphasizes the varieties of knowledge and social forms and also the common elements of "doing ngoma." Drawing on his recent field research in Kinshasa, Dar-es-Salaam, Mbabane, and Capetown, Janzen reveals how ngoma transcends national and social boundaries. Spoken and sung discourses about affliction, extended counseling, reorientation of the self or household, and the creation of networks that link the afflicted, their kin, and their healers are all central to ngoma--and familiar to Western self-help institutions as well. Students of African healing and also those interested in the comparative and historical study of medicine, religion, and music will find Ngomaa valuable and thought-provoking book.
Nicholas Cooke
by Stephanie CowellStephani Cowell's debut novel artfully imagines an authentic reality that takes place in Elizabethan England. At just five years old, Nick looks on as his father is hanged as a thief. A series of resulting events result in Nick having to flee to London. Nick takes up with Will Shakespeare and becomes a successful leading actor.
Nicht ärgern - ändern!
by German Quernheim Claudia StyrskyNicht ärgern - ändern! Gerade in Berufen, in denen man es mit kranken Menschen zu tun hat, ist die Belastung für die Mitarbeiter besonders hoch - und damit auch das Risiko des Burnout. So denkt allein in der Pflege jede 5. Pflegekraft mehrmals im Monat darüber nach, aus dem Beruf auszusteigen. Zu viele Patienten in zu kurzer Zeit, ständige Neuerungen durch immer neue Gesetze, das immer schlechte soziale Gewissen... Gründe gibt es viele. Doch statt sich immer nur zu ärgern, in Gedanken schon die Kündigung formulierend, kann man sein "Schicksal" auch selbst in die Hand nehmen. Ändern heißt die Devise! Anhand von Beispielen aus dem Alltag gibt der Autor German Quernheim zahlreiche Tipps und Tricks: knapp, humorvoll und umsetzbar. Mit zahlreichen Selbsttests, Übungen und Trainingsprogrammen
Nicht-alkoholische Fettlebererkrankung: Diagnostik und Therapie der NAFLD
by Frank Lammert Andreas Geier Ali CanbayDie nicht-alkoholische Fettlebererkrankung gilt als "neue Seuche der Hepatologie", als diejenige Lebererkrankung mit den höchsten Zuwachsraten weltweit. Prognosen sagen eine Zunahme des Phänomens um 50% und eine darauf basierende Verdreifachung der Zirrhoseraten bis 2030 voraus.Dieses Buch dient zum Nachschlagen zu allen Fragen um das vielfältige Krankheitsbild der nicht-alkoholischen Fettleber (NAFLD). Es bildet den aktuellen Stand der Wissenschaft ab mit seinen diagnostischen Verfahren und Therapieoptionen sowie neuen Entwicklungen auf diesem Gebiet.Tabellen, Übersichten und Algorithmen, erlauben ein schnelles Erfassen der wichtigsten Punkte und eine strukturierte Diagnostik und Therapie. Grundlagen zur Pathogenese und Physiologie führen in das Thema ein. Weiterhin werden die Differentialdiagnostik und unterschiedliche Therapieverfahren erläutert. Dabei wird die gesamte therapeutische Bandbreite von der Verhaltensänderung über die Ernährung bis hin zu den neusten Medikamenten dargestellt. Auf spezifische Patientengruppen wie z.B. Kinder oder adipöse Patienten wird gesondert eingegangen. Weiterhin werden auch Komorbiditäten wie z.B. Hepatozelluläres Karzinom bei NAFLD oder NAFLD bei chronischen Lebererkrankungen und der Einfluss von Genussmitteln detailliert besprochen. Für alle Gastroenterologen und Hepatologen sowie für interessierte Internisten und Weiterbildungsassistenten ein praktisches Nachschlagewerk.
Nichtmedikamentöse Therapie von herausforderndem Verhalten bei Demenz: MIBUK für Pflegekräfte und Pflegemanager
by Christine MoikHerausforderndes Verhalten in Zusammenhang mit dementiellen Abbauprozessen (BPSD) führt Pflegepersonen häufig an ihre persönlichen Grenzen. Um mit BPSD professionell umzugehen sind ein hohes fachliches Wissen, systemisches Denken und passende strukturelle Rahmenbedingungen notwendig. Das von der Autorin entwickelte ganzheitliche MIBUK-Programm schließt diese Lücke in der nichtmedikamentösen Therapie von BPSD, indem es über fünf sinnstiftende Prinzipien (Milieugestaltung, Interaktion, Biografiearbeit, Uraschenanalyse, Kreativität) adäquat und professionell auf herausforderndes Verhalten antwortet. Das Programm zeigt Wege auf wie Pflegeinterventionen bei BPSD sinnvoll und pointiert eingesetzt sowie dokumentiert werden können. Gleichzeitig wird Führungskräften im zweiten Teil des Buches ein Managementkonzept präsentiert, welches die nichtmedikamentösen Therapieformen angemessen unterstützt, sodass Wirtschaftlichkeit und Humanismus verbunden werden. Pflegerisches Handeln bezogen auf nichtmedikamentöser Therapieformen wird sicht- und messbar, die Probleme des Langzeitpflegebereich könnten ein Stück weit mehr gelöst werden.Das Buch richtet sich an Pflege-, Betreuungs- und Führungskräfte in der Altenpflege, Entscheidungsträger im Umfeld der Langzeitpflege sowie pflegende Angehörige sowie Angehörige von Bewohnern in Pflegeheim werden darin viele wertvolle Informationen finden.
Nichtorganische Schlafstörungen
by Carolin MarxDas Buch stellt ein Therapiekonzept für Hausärzte, Psychiater, Neurologen und Psychotherapeuten vor, die an der Versorgung von Patienten mit nichtorganischen Schlafstörungen beteiligt sind. Eine gute Vernetzung innerhalb des Behandlungssystems ist nötig, um nicht nur pharmakologisch, sondern auch psychotherapeutisch in die Dynamik einer nichtorganischen Schlafstörung eingreifen und eine nachhaltige Verbesserung der Symptomatik erzielen zu können. Orientiert an den Vorgaben der „S3-Leitlinie nicht erholsamer Schlaf“, bildet das kognitiv-verhaltenstherapeutische Manual das „Modell der Dynamik der Schlafstörungen“ ab: Mithilfe von 20 Therapiebausteinen mit wirksamen praktischen Übungen können vorhandene und erforschte Techniken zur Linderung nichtorganischer Schlafstörungen in den Alltag von Patienten und Behandlern integriert werden.
Nickel and the Skin: Absorption, Immunology, Epidemiology, and Metallurgy (Routledge Revivals)
by Howard I. Maibach Jurij J. HostynekFirst published 2002, Allergic contact dermatitis from nickel is a continuing and increasing health problem. Nickel dermatitis may occur in sensitized individuals following contact with nickel-containing items such as jewelry, zippers, buttons, and other objects; by nickel leaching from implants and prostheses; and following occupational exposures. Although the most common of the health effects associated with exposure to nickel, the skin penetration of nickel and its compounds is poorly understood.Nickel and the Skin: Absorption, Immunology, Epidemiology, and Metallurgy gives an extensive, updated review of major topics and new topics, and covers material progress in the field of nickel hypersensitivity. Its content complements the mandate of NiPERA, the Nickel Producers Environmental Research Association, which is to promote the health and safety of those exposed to nickel or nickel containing products in the workplace and general environment. Many books on the toxicology of metals discuss nickel and its alloys in general terms. This one provides you with in-depth information on the causes, diagnosis, prognosis, and prevention, all in one source. Nickel and the Skin: Absorption, Immunology, Epidemiology, and Metallurgy provides a guide to the evaluation and treatment of what has become the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis.
Nicolaus Steno: Biography and Original Papers of a 17th Century Scientist
by Troels Kardel Paul MaquetThis is by far the most exhaustive biography on Niels Stensen, anatomist, geologist and bishop, better known as "Nicolaus Steno". We learn about the scientist’s family and background in Lutheran Denmark, of his teachers at home and abroad, of his studies and travels in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Bohemia and Germany, of his many pioneering achievements in anatomy and geology, of his encounters with Swammerdam, Malpighi and with members of the newly established Royal Society of London and the Accademia del Cimento in Florence, and with the philosopher Spinoza. It further treats Stensen’s religious conversion. The book includes the full set of Steno's anatomical and geological scientific papers in original language. The editors thoroughly translated the original Latin text to English, and included numerous footnotes on the background of this bibliographic and scientific treasure from the 17th century.
Nicolien van den Broeken
by Nicolien Van Halem A. Gelton T. Terink P. De GrootZorgsetting: Kinderen en jeugdigen Setting: KraamafdelingKorte inhoud: Nicolien van den Broeken is verpleegkundige en werkzaam op de kinderafdeling van een algemeen ziekenhuis. Op deze afdeling krijgt zij te maken met kinderen met zeer verschillende zorgbehoeften. Dit heeft te maken met de verschillende ontwikkelingsfasen waarin deze kinderen zich bevinden en de diversiteit van opnames op een kinderafdeling. Zo heeft Nicolien te maken met chronisch zieke kinderen, kinderen met een levensbedreigende aandoening, met psychosomatische problematiek en met acute en geplande opnames. Bovendien spelen ouders een belangrijke rol op een kinderafdeling. Zij participeren in de zorg voor hun kind en kunnen 24 uur per dag aanwezig zijn. Dit betekent voor de verpleegkundige dat zij naast de zorg voor het kind, een taak heeft in de begeleiding van de ouders.
Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Signaling in Neuroprotection
by Akinori Akaike Shun Shimohama Yoshimi MisuThis open access book presents the roles and mechanisms of signal transduction triggered by nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) stimulation in neuroprotection against toxic effects of risk factors of neurodegenerative diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests that nAChRs in the CNS play important roles not only in excitatory neurotransmission but also in neuronal survival and related functions. Neuroprotection mediated by nAChRs in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease is the major topic of this book. In response to rapidly evolving areas in clinical and laboratory neuropharmacology and neurochemistry, this volume provides in-depth coverage of neuroprotection in basic research and future developments in the clinical application of effective neuroprotective strategies in neurodegenerative diseases. This work appeals to both basic and clinical researchers in several fields, such as neuroscience, neurology, and pharmacology.
Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Technologies
by Ming D. LiThis volume provides properties, biological function, methods, and approaches for manipulating nAChRs in different organisms. Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Technologies guides readers through molecular techniques and behavioral tests used to investigate nicotinic drugs, chronoamperometry, emerging technologies and methods for the analysis of nAChRs, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), fluorescence techniques, spectral confocal, allosteric modulators of a7-nAChRs, and a comprehensive evolutional relation for most nAChR subunits, in both vertebrate and invertebrate species. Written for the popular Neuromethods series, chapters include the kind of detail and key implementation advice that ensures successful results in the laboratory. Authoritative and practical, Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Technologies aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.
Nicotinic Receptors
by Robin A. J. LesterA comprehensive overview of nicotinic receptors that addresses their history from crystal structure to behavior as well as their implications in disease and potential as therapeutic targets. It includes background information on all subtypes of nicotinic receptors, the most recent information on the distribution throughout the nervous system and discussion of their implications in learning and memory, addiction and neurological and psychiatric disease such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Takes advantage of several recent developments in the fields of optogenetics, viral expression and gene analysis to focus on current knowledge on the functional aspects of nicotinic receptors.
Nicotinic Receptors in the Nervous System (Frontiers in Neuroscience)
by Edward D. LevinFeaturing a unique approach, Nicotinic Receptors in the Nervous System provides integrated coverage of research on neuronal nicotinic systems relevant to smoking addiction and cognitive dysfunction. By bringing together molecular and neurochemical applications, the book provides the key to understanding function and dysfunction of nicotinic systems and how they are significant for disease, addiction, and the development of novel drug treatments. The book presents readers with the basic mechanistic background for these treatments as well as the functional assessment necessary to determine therapeutic effects.
Nierenerkrankungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter
by Jörg Dötsch and Lutz T. WeberDas Buch kann als Grundlage für die Weiterbildung auf dem Gebiet der Pädiatrischen Nephrologie dienen und ist zugleich nützlich zum Nachschlagen für alle klinischen Pädiater, die Kinder und Jugendliche mit Erkrankungen der Nieren und ableitenden Harnwege behandeln. Besprochen werden die häufigsten Erkrankungsgruppen aus der Nephrologie einschließlich der Diagnostik und der Pharmakotherapie. Nach Klärung der Grundlagen bietet ein Praxisteil übersichtliche Algorithmen zur Diagnostik und Therapie für die wichtigsten Krankheitsbilder zum schnellen Nachlesen an. Namhafte pädiatrische Nephrologen haben zusammen mit Autoren aus den angrenzenden bzw. diagnostischen Disziplinen wie Kinderurologie, Radiologie und Pathologie ein Werk verfasst, das mit diesem interdisziplinären Ansatz die Arbeit am pädiatrischen Patienten mit Nierenerkrankungen in besonders praxisorientierter Weise unterstützen kann.Der InhaltGrundlagen und Praxis sowie diagnostische und therapeutische Algorithmen von: Harntransportstörungen, Harnwegsinfektionen, Fehlbildungen – glomerulären Erkrankungen – tubulären Erkrankungen – ziliären und syndromalen Erkrankungen – Niereninsuffizienz – Hypertonie – Nierenersatztherapie. Die HerausgeberProf. Dr. med. Jörg Dötsch ist Direktor der Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin an der Uniklinik Köln.Prof. Dr. med. Lutz T. Weber ist Geschäftsführender Oberarzt und Ärztlicher Leiter der Kindernephrologie an der Klinik und Poliklinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Uniklinik Köln.
Nierziekten en milieu intérieur
by J. M. Wilmink A.J.M. Donker J. J. Weening P. M. WeeVoor de bestudering en analyse van de nu volgende ziektegeschiedenissen (alle aan de dagelijkse praktijk ontleend) dienen bijvoorbeeld als basis: Textbook of Medicine. R.L. Souhami, J. Moxham, second edition, Churchill-Livingstone 1994, hoofdstuk 19, pag. 767 en 768, hoofdstuk 20 pag. 781-841, hoofdstuk 21 pag. 842-857. 1 Recidiverende macroscopische hematurie bij een 14-jarige jongen Een 14-jarige jongen, voorheen altijd gezond, heeft het afgelopen halfjaar driemaal een periode doorgemaakt van een pijnloze, zeer forse hematurie gedurende enkele dagen. De patiënt heeft daarbij geen koliekpijnen op- merkt, doch wel koorts tot 39°C, en was daarbij ook wel wat ‘verkouden’. De urine zag er donkerrood uit van het bloed (het urinesediment was bloed) en bevatte geen stolsels. De patiënt heeft nooit steentjes uitgeplast. Bij lichamelijk onderzoek blijkt de bloeddruk 110/65 mm Hg, het - chaamsgewicht 58 kg en de temperatuur 36,8°C. Geen oedeem. De nier- ges zijn niet druk- of slagpijnlijk en de nieren zijn niet palpabel of pijnlijk.
Night Eating Syndrome
by Kelly C. Allison Jennifer LundgrenIn one indispensable volume, this book combines a complete overview of night eating syndrome (NES) with evidence-based treatment guidelines and clinical tools. Experts in the field review the biological underpinnings of NES and its common comorbidities; explain how the basic science can inform clinical practice; and discuss issues in assessment and diagnosis. Vivid case examples are featured. Of special utility for clinicians, the book includes a manual for delivering an empirically supported cognitive-behavioral treatment protocol. Reproducible client forms can be photocopied from the book or downloaded and printed in a convenient 8 1/2" x 11" size.
Night Shift
by Robin CookIn this exhilarating new medical thriller by bestselling author Robin Cook, fan favorites Jack and Laurie are lured into the dark underbelly of hospital dangers when an internist dies mysteriously.Colleagues-turned-spouses Dr. Laurie Montgomery and Dr. Jack Stapleton already have their plates full with demanding forensic pathology work and family pressures. The last thing they need is the sudden death of a colleague. Yet when Laurie&’s apparently vital and healthy longtime friend Dr. Sue Passero dies mysteriously in the hopsital parking garage, an autopsy is required, and it falls uncomfortably under Laurie&’s purview as the chief medical examiner. So when Laurie asks Jack to take special care with the case, he can hardly refuse.With his curiosity sparked by an inconclusive autopsy, the indefatigable Jack is compelled to resolve the case at hand, and sets out to investigate on-site at Manhattan Memorial Hospital, even though it means blatantly defying the Office of Chief Medical Examiner&’s rules. What started out as an inquiry into Sue&’s tragic passing soon turns into a deadly and dangerous chess game between Jack and the clever and deranged killer, who might just administer another lethal blow if Jack isn&’t careful.
Night Shifts with the Miami Doc: Greek Island Fling To Forever / Night Shifts With The Miami Doc (Mills And Boon Medical Ser.)
by Ann McIntoshFrom fast-paced hospital days…To slow, sultry nights!Dr. Regina Montgomery’s temporary job in Miami is a chance to refocus on her goal of becoming chief of medicine. But she’s unprepared for her former resident, Dr. Mateo Herrera, to be working in the same hospital. When Mateo makes it clear he wants her…the term night shift takes on a whole new meaning! But Mateo’s family needs him, and Regina has fought long and hard for her career back in California…From Harlequin Medical: Life and love in the world of modern medicine.
Night Theater: A Novel
by Vikram ParalkarA surgeon must bring a dead family back to life in this fabulist debut novel set in rural India, called “otherworldly” and “a haunting contemplation of life, death, the liminal space in between, and the dogged search for resurrection” (Kirkus Reviews, starred).Fleeing scandal in the city, a surgeon accepts a job at a village clinic. He buys antibiotics out of pocket, squashes roaches, and chafes at the interventions of the corrupt officer who oversees his work.But his outlook on life changes one night when a teacher, his pregnant wife, and their young son appear. Killed in a violent robbery, they tell the surgeon that they have been offered a second chance at living if the surgeon can mend their wounds before sunrise.So begins a night of quiet work, “as if the crickets had been bribed,” during which the surgeon realizes his future is tied more closely to that of the dead family than he could have imagined. By dawn, he and his assistant have gained knowledge no mortal should have.In this inventive novel charged with philosophical gravity and sly humor, Vikram Paralkar takes on the practice of medicine in a time when the right to health care is frequently challenged. Engaging earthly injustice and imaginaries of the afterlife, he asks how we might navigate corrupt institutions to find a moral center. Encompassing social criticism and magically unreal drama, Night Theater is a first novel as satisfying for its existential inquiry as for its enthralling story of a skeptical physician who arrives at a greater understanding of life's miracles.
Night Train to Lisbon
by Barbara Harshav Pascal MercierA huge international bestseller spanning Europe and the twentieth century, this ambitious novel plumbs the depths of our shared humanity to offer up a breathtaking insight into life, love, and literature itself. Raimund Gregorius teaches classical languages at a Swiss lycee, and lives a life governed by routine. One day, a chance encounter with a Portuguese woman inspires him to question his life-and leads him to an extraordinary book that will open the possibility of changing it. Inspired by the words of Amadeu de Prado, a doctor whose intelligence and magnetism left a mark on everyone who met him and whose principles led him into a confrontation with Salazar's dictatorship, Gergorius boards a train to Lisbon. As Gregorius becomes fascinated with unlocking the mystery of who Prado was, an extraordinary tale unfolds.