Biomedical Data Processing

Since its inception about 15 year ago, MALDI-IMS has been developed into a powerful and versatile tool for biomedical research. It allows for the investigation of the spatial distribution of molecules at complex surfaces. The combination of molecular speciation with local analysis makes a chemical microscope that can be used for the direct biomolecular characterization of histological tissue section surface. However, successful detection of the analytes of interest at the desired spatial resolution requires careful attention to several steps in the IMS protocol matrix selection, matrix coating, data acquisition, and data processing. MALDI-IMS is increasingly playing an important role in the drug discovery and development and disease treatment. 

Advanced computing power and computational tools have made possible the collection and complex analysis of very large amounts of biomedical data, contributing to improvements in health care and understanding of biological processes. However, in many cases, these improvements can only be realized if researchers, practitioners, and patients themselves can effectively, satisfactorily, and safely operate equipment and systems. 

Liu, Y. Dong, X. Peng, W. Study on Digital Data Processing Techniques for 3D Medical Model, Bioinformatics and Biomedical Engineering, 4, 2010, 1-4. 

Hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity are the most fundamental properties to be controlled for materials whenever they are utilized in biomedical devices. Protein-adsorption behavior on several biomaterials of different hydrophilicity was discussed by comparing available data with two modellings (Ikada and Peppas) for the protein-adsorption process. The adsorptive behavior of poly(HEMA) carrying polyamine functional groups was also discussed. It is well-known that protein adsorption is the first event when any of the body fluids encounters an artificial material. 

MICHAEL LEVIN is President and CEO, Metropolitan Computing Corporation (MCC), East Hanover, New Jersey, specializing in process analytical instrumentation as well as data acquisition and control systems for tablet presses, mixers, roller compactors, and other equipment. Prior to forming MCC in 1985, he was a consultant to pharmaceutical companies such as Merck, Sandoz, and Warner-Lambert. A member of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, and the Biomedical Engineering Society, Dr. Levin received the Ph.D. degree (1985) in biomathematics from the University of Washington, Seattle. 

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