enews
International Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine

Communications and Publications Division (CPD) of the IFCC
Editor: Katherina Psarra, MSc, PhD
IFCC Office, Via C. Farini, 81
20159 Milano, Italy
E-mail: enews@ifcc.org

news

№ 12
December 2023

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enewsIn this issue
Editorial
Message from the eNews Editor

4

The voice of IFCC
Message from the IFCC President

5

IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP) report:

9

Turkish Biochemical Society (TBS) International Biochemistry Congress 2023 andthe 34th National Biochemistry Congress- Exploring the Depths of Knowledge: A
Multifaceted Experience at the Laboratory Medicine Congress
20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH): the Filipino spirit of QA and Integrative AI

11

at its Finest!
Introducing the IFCC’s Database of Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine

17

IFCC: the people
IFCC Call for Nominations

19

IFCC: the Young Scientists
Mentor and Mentee interview

21

Contribute to IFCC eNews
Enhanced resource utilization, reduced waste, and expedited transplantation

25

through real-time donor screening for infectious disease

News from Regional Federations and Member Societies
LIII National Mexican Congress of Clinical Pathology “One Health”

28News from Artificial Intelligence improves precision in the Clinical Laboratory

32

Medlab Africa Conference, 17 - 19 October 2023, Johannesburg, South Africa

33

Cardiometabolic Health Symposium Explores Innovations in a Technological Era

36

Society of Medical Biochemists of Serbia - Professor Ivan Berkeš Scientific Fund

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IFCC’s Calendar of Congresses, Conferences & Events
IFCC and Regional Federations events46

Corporate Member events with IFCC auspices

47

Other events with IFCC auspices

47

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Editorial
Dear colleagues
December is already on the way, holidays are approaching and we arehere with the December issue.
In this issue our President, Prof Khosrow Adeli is offering us a real
report of what has been achieved during his presidency, which wasreally immense and at which difficult times! You can read all about it
in his message but what I feel obliged to say and to thank him andhis board immensely for it, is that IFCC has been present in our lives
throughout the epidemic. IFCC has been there all the time. Webinars
and new committees and task forces facing all the challenges
presented were there for us. In this way IFCC has strengthened
its position in our scientific life and made us look at it to draw
inspiration for our professional life. This has been the most important
accomplishment. Thank you very much Khosrow and the whole EB forthat.

Katherina Psarra, MSc,
PhD, eNews Editor

In this issue you will find VLP and Congresses reports from many
places like South Africa and Mexico, Turkey and Philippines. This isalso an important accomplishment. IFCC officers traveling around theworld, offering their knowledge to the local societies and offering us
via their reports glimpses of places and colleagues, we would neverthink we would join.
The Serbian society offers rewards to distinguished young scientists
in honour of its founder and mentor and the Spanish Society
investigates the pros and cons of AI application in the labs.
Enjoy this issue, dear colleagues, and let’s all of us wait for happy andrestful holidays.

Katherina

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The voice of IFCC
Farewell Message from Professor Adeli, IFCC President(June 2020- December 2023)
December 2023
By Khosrow Adeli

Serving as the president of the IFCC Organization for the past three-plus
years has been an immensely gratifying experience. It has proven to
be a journey filled with fascination, rewards, and, at times, considerable
challenges – marking the busiest period of my life, surpassing all
expectations. During this time, I had the privilege of meeting numerous
individuals across the IFCC World, engaging with national societies
and corporate members, and actively participating in scientific eventsworldwide.
In my role as the IFCC ambassador, I dedicated myself to sharing theorganization’s vision with thousands of colleagues across various
regions and countries. Interacting with many of you has been a sourceof immense learning over the past three years. Throughout this period,
my overarching goal has been to fortify the IFCC as an organization,enhancing its strength both internally and externally, and amplifying its
core mission of “Advancing excellence in laboratory medicine for better
healthcare worldwide.” Collaborating closely with the Executive Board,
and with their unwavering support, we implemented numerous changes
that we believe have significantly bolstered the organization. Thesechanges I believe have rendered the IFCC more relevant and beneficial toits primary stakeholders – our esteemed national societies and corporate
members.

Prof. Khosrow Adeli
PhD, FCACB, DABCC,FAACC

The key changes over the past few years have included:
•

•

•

•

IFCC Office: Strengthening the IFCC Office by hiring additional staff
some with science degrees, doubling our full-time staff complement tosix (6). This has been essential to support the growing number of new
IFCC programs.
IFCC Finances: Recruiting an international accounting firm, KPMG,
to perform full accounting of IFCC finances including all income andexpenses.
IFCC Contracts: Renegotiating our long-standing contracts with thecurrent PCO to significantly increase IFCC share of conference income
as well as income for IFCC regional federations. This change hashelped provide funding for many new programs initiated in the past
couple of years.
IFCC Statutes: Key changes to IFCC Statutes were proposed by
the EB and recently approved by the IFCC Council (National Society
Members) by a majority vote of >90%. The key changes include
expansion of membership to other specialties in laboratory medicine
in addition to clinical chemistry and changes to the election process
for EB members, limiting board membership in the same position to no
more than six years in total and preventing nomination to more than
one position in the same year or election cycle.

Article continued on the next page5

Farewell Message
from Professor Adeli

•
•

•

•
•
•

IFCC Regional Federations: Significantly increasing IFCC’s financial contributions to Regional
Federations including AFCC, APFCB, AFCB, and COLABIOCLI.
IFCC Scientific Exchange Program: Strengthening the IFCC Scientific Exchange program by
doubling its budget to increase the number of awards and establishing a formal application
schedule biannually, in October and March of each year.
IFCC Young Scientist Scholarships: Substantially increasing support for our young scientists
by providing 50 IFCC Scholarships annually to young scientists from developing countries andscheduling a Young Scientists Forum every year at each major IFCC conference including the
IFCC WorldLab and EuroMedLab Congresses.
IFCC Website: A new, modern, and user-friendly IFCC Website developed in 2023 incollaboration with IFCC Office staff, CPD and our new IT partner, DIGIWEDO.
IFCC eNews: A new layout and expanded IFCC eNews in collaboration with DIGIWEDO, IFCC
Office staff, CPD and eNews Editor.
IFCC eJournal: A new layout and format for the IFCC Electronic Journal, eJIFCC, incollaboration with Digiwedo, IFCC Office staff, CPD and eJIFCC Editor.

IFCC Response to COVID-19 Pandemic: My term commenced amidst the unfortunate onset of the
COVID-19 pandemic, posing a significant challenge. However, in response to this global crisis, the
IFCC Executive Board promptly established a dedicated taskforce on COVID-19 and introduced an
online resource known as the IFCC Information Guide on COVID-19. The taskforce, in collaboration
with the online resource, systematically compiled and disseminated the most recent evidence andupdated information to the IFCC membership. Covering topics such as population screening anddiagnosis, biosafety guidelines for clinical laboratories, and laboratory monitoring of hospitalized
patients with COVID-19, the taskforce’s guidelines not only synthesized the current evidence but
also offered practical recommendations to clinical laboratories worldwide. This collaborative effort
supported the vital role of clinical laboratories in their battle against the unprecedented andunfortunate pandemic.
New IFCC Programs Developed during the term of the current Executive Board (20212023): Over the past few years, the IFCC EB has launched several innovative programs to further
advance IFCC’s mission and support our membership around the world, including:
1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Launch of IFCC LIVE Webinar Series in 2020: A very popular program with an average of over
4000 registrants from over 100 countries around the work at each webinar. It has become akey educational program of IFCC with speakers from IFCC divisions, taskforces as well as many
IFCC national societies.
Launch of the IFCC Global MEDLAB WEEK in 2022 to celebrate the pivotal role of laboratory
medicine and laboratory professionals in both public health and patient care. The program
continues to grow in popularity with over 30 countries involved in this joint global celebrationin 2023.
Taskforce on Global Laboratory Quality established in 2021 to support clinical laboratories
through provision of free EQA programs and training in both IQC and EQA. The program iscurrently supporting 100 clinical laboratories in 10 countries in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe,and Latin America.
Taskforce on Global Newborn Screening established in 2021 to provide scientific oversightof a new IFCC program to advocate and initiate newborn screening programs in developing
countries around the world.
Taskforce on Global eLearning and eAcademy launched in 2021 and responsible fororganizing and delivering LIVE global webinars (biweekly). This is an important way by which
IFCC can give back to national societies around the world and their members especially young
scientists and trainees.

Article continued on the next page6

Farewell Message
from Professor Adeli

6.

7.

8.

9.

Taskforce on Global Reference Interval Database launched in 2022 with the aim of creating
a global reference interval database, which will act as a key resource for pediatric, adult,
and geriatric reference intervals for the entire lab medicine community and clinical programsaround the world.
Taskforce on Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine established in 2022 to promote
the value of laboratory medicine by gathering evidence to demonstrate the critical roleof laboratory medicine in clinical decision making and healthcare delivery as well as
communicating these findings to key stakeholders and the public.
Taskforce on Environmental Impact of Laboratory Medicine recently launched in 2023
will review the available evidence and develop evidence-based guidelines for both clinicallaboratories and IVD industry. It will also identify measures/tools that can detect and quantify
the impact of laboratory chemicals and waste on human and environmental health.
Taskforce on Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines recently launched in 2023 tocoordinate development of various types of guidance documents, encompassing best practicerecommendations, position papers, and comprehensive evidence-based and graded practiceguidelines. Our primary aim is to provide guidance, establish standards, and promote bestpractices within the field of laboratory medicine. Undoubtedly, these resources will contributesignificantly to enhancing the quality of laboratory practices worldwide, with a particular focus
on benefiting developing countries.

The introduction of these new programs and taskforces has streamlined the development of vital
initiatives designed to tackle various priority areas in which IFCC plays a pivotal role in supporting
our members and the wider laboratory medicine community. The substantial contributions ofthese taskforces, alongside the continuous initiatives within the IFCC Divisions, will uphold theorganization’s elevated level of engagement and efficiency, both within the organization and in its
external endeavors.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all IFCC Office staff and Executive
Board members who collaborated closely with me in developing and implementing these vital
programs, contributing to IFCC’s high productivity and visibility in recent years. Additionally, I
extend my warm congratulations to Professor Tomris Ozben, the incoming IFCC President, on her
election to this pivotal position. I offer her my best wishes for a successful term, and, as the pastpresident starting in 2024, I commit to providing my utmost support to her and the new Executive
Board in achieving continued success in advancing this valuable organization within the field oflaboratory medicine.
Cheers and Happy Holidays to you all in the IFCC family
Khosrow7

www.dubai2024.org

26th International Congress ofClinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
17th Congress of Arab Federationof Clinical Biology
10th Saudi Society for Clinical
Chemistry Annual Meeting
8th UAEGDA International Genetic
Disorders Conference

DEADLINES
15 January 2024
Deadline for poster abstract submission

Dubai World
Trade Centre (DWTC)

15 March 2024
Deadline for reduced registration fees
The Preliminary Program is now
available on the congress website!

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IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP)
report: Turkish Biochemical Society (TBS) International
Biochemistry Congress 2023 and the 34th National
Biochemistry Congress- Exploring the Depths ofKnowledge: A Multifaceted Experience at the Laboratory
Medicine Congress
29 October - 1 November 2023 - Liberty Lykia Congress
Center, Fethiye, Muğla, Türkiye
By Dr. Qing Meng, TF- GLQ Co-Chair, Professor and Chief, Clinical Chemistry and Special Chemistry LaboratoriesThe
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the IFCC-Abbott VLP and its Chair, Prof. Sedef Yenicefor giving me the privilege to speak at the TBS International Biochemistry Congress 2023 and 34th
National Biochemistry Congress. This congress was organized by the Turkish Biochemical Society
under the auspices of IFCC, EFLM, and FEBS. This prestigious event convened 684 participants at
the Liberty Lykia Congress Center in Fethiye, a stunning resort boasting crystal-clear waters andmajestic landscapes. Over four days, the congress featured a meticulously organized scientificprogram, engaging poster presentations, and a vibrant exhibition, creating a multifaceted experienceat the intersection of laboratory medicine and scientific exploration.
The congress featured with an opening lecture given by Prof. Gökhan Hotamışlıgil from theHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, USA, on “Subcellular Molecular Architecture as a Critical
Determinant of Metabolic Programming”, in which he presented his revolutionary research findings
on cell biology. The scientific program was enriched with various topics and presentations by
distinguished speakers. EFLM President and IFCC President-Elect, Prof. Tomris Ozben delivered akeynote lecture on “Implementation for Sustainable Practices in Medical Laboratories: Switching
Clinical Laboratories to Green Labs.”, delving into the intersection of science and environmental
consciousness, paving the way for a more eco-friendly future in lab medicine. EFLM President-Elect,Prof. Mario Plebani emphasized the future of laboratory medicine through integrated diagnostics andthe need for standardization and harmonization of immunoassays and the post-analytical phase.
Prof. Giuseppe Lippi’s insights into the preanalytical phase added depth to the scientific panorama,focusing on strategies for ensuring the quality and accuracy of subsequent analyses. Prof. Sedef
Yenice curated a session dedicated to updating medical laboratory guidelines and international
standards. Prof. Kristin Moberg Aakre from the University of Bergen, Norway, spoke about the“Current Update of the IFCC Committee on Clinical Application of Cardiac Biomarkers Educational
Recommendations” and gave the young scientists insightful information on the topic “Establish Your
Research: A Roadmap for Young Investigators” in the session “Young Investigator Roadmap”.
I had the privilege of contributing to two keynote presentations on October 30th and 31st. The
first, titled “Current Advances in Clinical Application of Tumor Biomarkers: Utility, Challenge, andPerspective,” discussed the utilization of tumor markers and the changing landscape of tumor
markers in the new era of precision medicine. The second presentation, “Career Development for
Young Scientists in Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine,” navigated the diverse avenues
for career development in clinical biochemistry and laboratory medicine.

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IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer
Programme (VLP) report

The level of engagement, interactions, and enthusiasm displayed by the participants, especially theyoung scientists, was incredible. Exchanging knowledge and insights with such a dedicated group
fostered a sense of camaraderie and created lasting memories beyond academic discourse.
Beyond the science, the congress served as a cultural kaleidoscope, offering glimpses into the richhistory and traditions of Turkey. The 100th anniversary celebration of the Turkish Republic added
significance to the event, intertwining scientific exploration with a commemoration of cultural
milestones. The sensory pleasures extended beyond the lecture halls, encompassing local cuisine
and inviting beaches, complemented by the pleasing weather. These elements, seemingly unrelated
to the scientific agenda, contributed to the overall experience.
I am deeply thankful to the Turkish Biochemical Society and the organizing committee for theirpursuit of scientific excellence. My gratitude extends to fellow attendees who made my stay
enjoyable and memorable. The support, assistance, and hospitality throughout my time at theconference were invaluable. My experience as a visiting lecturer in Turkey through the IFCC
and Turkish Biochemical Society was an unforgettable journey of discovery, both culturally andscientifically.

Professor Qing MengGroup photo: Prof. Ozben (center) and Prof. Meng (left) withdelegates at the conferenceProf. Meng with participants

L - R: Hikmet Can Cubukcu, Qing Meng, Sedef Yenice, Mario
Plebani10

20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH): the Filipino spirit of
QA and Integrative AI at its Finest!
By Bernard Gouget, IFCC Abbott VLP Programme, Chair C-MHBLM.

The 20th Annual Convention of the Philippine Council for Quality Assurance in Clinical Laboratories(PCQACL) was held in a hybrid mode, in-person and virtual, with a pre-convention workshop and a
3-days main convention on the theme “Transformation of laboratories in the digital age: Personaland institutional challenges”. This important event was organized under the Presidency of Dr Paulo
Enrico Belen, MD, DPSP, MMHoA with the collaboration of the PCQACL board.
PCQACL was established on November 15th, 2000. Today, the 800 members are coming from
hospital-based or free-standing laboratories. Several IVD companies have been accepted ascorporate members. PCQACL is an IFCC affiliate member. Elizabeth Y. Arcellana-Nuqui †, was the
IFCC representative and deeply involved in external cooperation that made her recent death aneven greater loss for us all. The event was held at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria from October
11-13th, 2023 in Quezon city within the Metropolitan Manila region in the Philippines- (in Filipino:
Kalakhang Maynila) commonly called Metro Manila, capital region and largest metropolitan area of
the Philippines. This hotel complex is at the center of Ortigas city which is a bustling commercial anda central business district that includes multinational firms, government agencies and major financial
institutions. The Medical City, one of the three hospitals in the nation accredited by the Joint
Commission International Accreditation was within walking distance, a good opportunity to have alook at it!
This place was the ideal work play destination for more than 1000 specialists and professionals in lab
medicine and with hundreds of attendees on-line. All of them were genuinely interested to expand
intelligently their knowledge and their scientific network in a friendly atmosphere. The auditorium
was equipped with the latest audiovisual techniques with five large screens. Different tools forinteractive online discussions, as smartphone applications that make it possible to offer attendees
multiple choice questions evaluated instantly, were available. The video team was highly active
to film the highlights and project them on screens in the corridors, check-in areas and exhibition
lounges. A stage with the names of IVD partner companies for souvenir photos was a remarkablesuccess! The attention to everyone and the conviviality were at its best. Thanks to the PCQACL
secretary team, coffee breaks and meals were served for each participant at their own place.
Everyone could eat and chat about what they had just heard or schedule evening outings, while
listening to the dynamic presentations from corporate members on innovations before visiting theexpo.
A daily conference bulletin was made in real-time and appeared almost instantly on-line to reachthe largest audience. The first issue was dedicated to the Pre-convention workshop on parasitology
in the digital age. Dr. Paulo Enrico Belen, the President of PCQACL, welcomed the participants
with his opening remarks and introduced Ms. Gloraidios Laicel Ison-Imbag, a science research
specialist from RITM who talked about the diagnosis of human malaria through microscopy andreiterated the importance of establishing standards in advanced malaria microscopy in support of
the National Malaria Elimination Program which aims to eliminate malaria in the Philippines by 2030.
Prof. Frederick R. Masangkay. University of Santo Tomas, discussed about the different food andwaterborne parasitic protozoans such as Cyptosporidium, Cyclospora and Giardia, as well as thecurrent methods and research development for the detection and identification of these parasites.
His colleague from the same university, Prof. Giovanni D. Milanez spoke on free-living amoebae(FLAs) in the Philippines. These pathogens are often neglected despite their public health risks. A
more general and broad discussion about parasites in the Philippines was shared by the former
undersecretary of the Department of Health, Dr. Vicente Y. Belizario, Jr. He discussed the mostcommon but often neglected tropical diseases affecting the Filipinos, especially the children. Among

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IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP) 20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH)these are the soil-transmitted helminthiasis which causes malnutrition, poor school performance andpoor health states in the children. Dr. Elia G. Paulino-Cabrera, senior consultant in Capitol Medical
Center provided an in-depth discussion regarding the techniques in diagnosing parasites from thedifferent specimens and tissues submitted in the laboratory.
My keynote lecture, an IFCC Abbott visiting lectureship, was dedicated to: “Going digital: electronic
health (eHealth) and mobile health (mHealth)”. The transition to digitalization is fast-moving and the
pandemic, while exacerbating existing inequalities, also contributed to increasing adoption of digitaltechnologies. Digital health refers to the usage of digital technologies to enable universal healthcare
access, improve healthcare quality/outcomes and enhance the health and physical and emotional
well-being of populations. Digital health knows no borders at global level, as it works independentlyof national health infrastructure. Digital health is a broad umbrella term that includes eHealth andthe use of emerging and advanced technologies in the field of, among others, big data, genomics,
and artificial intelligence. m-Health is a subset of eHealth while digital health is defined as the useof digital technologies for health, a field of practice for employing routine and innovative forms of
information and communications technology to address health needs. Both are becoming prominent
components of healthcare.
The use of mobile and wireless technologies to support the achievement of health objectives
has the potential to transform the face of health service delivery across the globe. A powerfulcombination of factors is driving this change. These include rapid advances in mobile technologies
and applications, a rise in new opportunities for the integration of mobile health into existing eHealthservices, and the continued growth in coverage of mobile cellular networks. WHO defines eHealth as
the cost-effective and secure use of information and communications technologies in support ofhealth and health-related fields, including health-care services, health surveillance, health literature,and health education, knowledge, and research. Evidence exists on the growing impact of eHealthand how it is making health systems more efficient and more responsive to people’s needs andexpectations.
Many benefices are already demonstrated: mHealth and eHealth have made healthcare services
more accessible to people around the world, especially in remote or underserved areas. Patients
can now connect with healthcare professionals, access medical information, and receive treatment
recommendations through their smartphones and electronic devices. These technologies empower
patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions, track their health metrics, and engage
in self-care. Patients are more informed about their health, leading to better health outcomes. Datadriven care enables healthcare providers to make informed decisions based on real-time patient
information and improve diagnosis accuracy and treatment effectiveness. With digitalization,
healthcare systems benefit from increased efficiency in administrative tasks, reduced paperwork,
streamlined processes, and optimized resource allocation. This efficiency leads to cost savings andimproved healthcare delivery.
Telemedicine, predictive diagnostics, wearable sensors, and a host of new applications aretransforming how people manage their health. These technologies emphasize preventive care byencouraging regular health monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and early intervention. The focus ofhealthcare shifts from treating illness to sustaining wellness. This proactive approach can reducethe burden on healthcare systems and improve overall population health. Customizations of eHealthapplications to the context of patient-centered care and management of highly complex patientswith multimorbidity will be an ongoing challenge.
The advances of new technologies and discoveries of existing ones as well as innovative
combinations of existing ones are among the many factors propelling patient empowerment, which
is fundamentally changing how we prevent, diagnose and cure diseases. It is always challenging
to predict the future and the pertinent technologies that will come to fruition in the future and will
become widespread realities. Science fiction both predicts the future and influences the scientists

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IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP) 20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH)and technologists who work to bring that future about. As science and technology progress, thegap between reality and what was once considered science fiction is closing. Smart portable medical
devices enable diagnosis and cures outside the hospital and health sensors help individuals monitor
their health connected to medical platforms. Devices nanotechnologies inside the body will monitor
our health. With widespread telemedicine, specialized diagnosis and cure will be available regardlessof one’s geographical area’s location. Robotics can significantly shift the physical burden of thehealth workers or provide comfort to the patient confined in hospitals.
One of the most promising areas of innovation in healthcare is the use of disruptive technologies
combined with artificial intelligence (AI). The use of AI in healthcare is a prime example of science
fiction becoming a science reality. AI-powered diagnostic systems can analyze vast amounts ofmedical data with incredible speed and accuracy. AI has the potential to revolutionize patientmonitoring and personalized medicine in ways that were once unimaginable. Wearable devices
equipped with nano-sensors can collect real-time health data, allowing doctors to monitor patients
remotely. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, healthcare professionals can analyze thisdata to identify trends, detect anomalies, and predict potential health risks. This initiative-taking
approach to healthcare enables early intervention and empowers patients to take control of theirwell-being. Smart devices are increasingly joining the field of IoT, which devices can seamlesslycollect and transmit patient data, enabling healthcare providers to deliver personalized care andoptimize treatment plans.
The changes and innovations may come more swiftly than imagined, such as DNA samples, which
are much cheaper today. Virtual reality (VR) is another transformative technology that is reshaping
patient care. Traditionally associated with gaming and entertainment, VR is now being leveraged
to create immersive therapeutic experiences. By merging technology and healthcare, VR offers anovel approach to patient well-being and recovery. It will be used increasingly in medical training. In
addition to AI and VR, other emerging technologies such as blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT)
are making their way into the healthcare landscape. Blockchain, with its decentralized and securenature, can enhance data privacy and interoperability, ensuring the integrity of electronic healthrecords. We should also mention the increased capacity of 3D printing of tissues, skin, blood vessels,
bones and organ transplants.
The expansion of AI into tools like Chat GPT is amazing. If we continue to advance in this field,
science fiction will become reality and have repercussions on all our lives. It is possible to think that
AI can reach singularity where human intelligence is amplified via computer interaction in the next
few years. Another hot topic is the metaverse, which really does sound like a science-fiction concept,
while healthcare in the metaverse is already an important topic. Virtual reality is now making it
possible to address the issue of mental health in the metaverse. There are also opportunities
opening in the field of pain management. Ethical and cultural issues, affordability, investment, data
security and privacy, regulatory environment are important considerations for future technologies
to become reality. In today’s interconnected world, digital technology has become synonymous with
opportunity, shaping education, healthcare, employment, and civic engagement.
The last part of the presentation illustrated how mobile phones changed our brains. The firsthandheld mobile-phone call was made 50 years ago, and since then these devices have become
an essential multi-tool that helps us run our lives. Mobile healthcare apps are revolutionizing
the healthcare ecosystem by improving communication, efficiency, and quality of service. Some
reports predict that the mobile health industry will reach a total market size of more than 189 billion
US dollars by 2025. There is a rise of foldable smartphones. The big question, of course, is what
technology will replace the smartphone? Microsoft, Facebook, Google, Apple, Amazon are all working
on computers we wear on our faces or glasses that may replace our mobile phones. Bill Gates
recently declared that electronic tattoos will be the new device to usher in the next generation oftechnology.

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IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP) 20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH)By the year 2050, humans will no longer use smart phones. Instead, their brains will be directly
connected to the internet through advanced brain-computer interfaces. When someone wants toaccess information, call a friend, turn on a light, or order something, they simply need to think about
it, and it will happen. AI algorithms will run alongside normal brain functions, helping people learn new
skills, manage their lives, and perform complex tasks. The cloud will become an extension of each
person’s brain, much like our smart phones are today, except all the information will be seamlessly
integrated into our conscious awareness of the world around us. Brain-computer interfaces, which
are systems for the exchange of information between the brain and an electronic device, arethe subject of unabated scientific interest in many laboratories in the world. Today, the practicalapplication of brain-computer interfaces is found mainly in the field of rehabilitation. Brain-computerinterfaces allow people to control machines using their thoughts. The technology is still largely
experimental, but its possibilities are vast, and it raises questions about security, ethics, and equity.
The convergence of science fiction and reality in healthcare is no longer a distant dream but apresent reality. Innovative health tech solutions powered by AI are “limitless” for integrated care.
The three days congress took place around several blocks of sessions. Block one dealt with
antibiotic-resistance by Dr Marietta L Lagrada, RMT. Dr Rose Lou Marie C Agbay presented thelatest trends in molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases. Dr Lam Choong Weng Leslie energized
the room with her presentations on the issues of the CAP accreditation. Quality in immunehistochemistry by Dr Louie Berlin Cadao and the use of AI in Anatomic-pathology by Dr Michael O
Baclig, occupied the end of the day.
Dr Madalinee Eternity D. Labio opened the second day with a topic on “Hepatitis profiles.” Melvin
Floyd See and Ms. Yehleen Dela Cruz coordinated the panel discussion on “The role of Laboratory
scientists in CART T-cell Therapy”. Dr Robert H Christenson was on-line to deliver key messages on“Evidence based Laboratory Medicine”. During the afternoon, Trustee 2024 was elected.
The last day was dedicated to “Challenges in Lab Information Technologies” delivered by Dr Alvin
Valeriano de Borja Marcelo and Dr Januario D Veloso and Dr. Eric Cinco asked the question: “Reflex
testing: are we ready? The last block was focusing on: “Revising traditional methods in Hematology”
by Dr Frederik R Llanera as well as on “New generation algorithms in hematology” by Dr Alejandro E.
Arevalo. During the coffee breaks it was possible to visit the IVD exhibition and exchange with theyoung generations.
The quality of the program and the interactivity with the many participants present in the auditorium
was remarkable and rich in lessons. I was very touched by the conviviality, the President’s invitation
at the executive dinner and the Filipino friendship during these few days. Thank you also to Benzon
Pisico who allowed me to discover Intramuros! Many of my IFCC colleagues asked me if I had timeto go sightseeing and what the beaches were like. I did my excursions with all the PCQACL friends
during the four days at the convention, I made lots of discoveries and they gave me a lot withmany proofs of friendship and demonstrated the PCQACL trust by including me in the continuing
education committee. It’s impossible to deny it, Filipinos, happy-go-lucky people, have a zest for lifethat may be unrivalled on our planet. Idyllic islands and graffiti-splashed jeepneys will await my next
visit! I can only agree with the fatalism of the Filipino people who has a name” Bahala na”, a phrasethat expresses the idea that all things shall pass, and in the meantime, life is to be lived. Whatever
happens… so be it!

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IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP) 20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH)The Philippine Council for Quality Assurance in Clinical

dr Gouget at the Ribbon - cutting ceremony

Laboratories (PCQACL) Executive Board (L-R) Dr. Sarah Jane L.
Datay-Lim, Mr. Anthony Alcantara, Mr. Gerrick Joseph C. Dolor,
Dr. Paulo Enrico P. Belen; Dr. Annie P. Valdez, Ms. Josefina S.
Soriano, Dr. Emil Brian M. Garcia and Mr. Benzon C. Pisico

The fully booked conference room

2nd Prize Winner: Entry from Mary Mediatrix Medical Center
entitled “ Beating the Tiny Giant: A Call for Safe Environment”
presented by Mr. Jhudiel Albert A. Sabalvarro, RMT, DTA, MLS(ASCPi) CM.

1st prize winner: Entry from Veterans Memorial Medical
Center entitled” Optimizing Excellence: A Streamlined LIS
Implementation in the Department of Pathology at Veterans
Memorial Medical Center presented by Mr. Cyrill Juster Barros,
RMT.
Conference Bulletin

Article continued on the next page

15

IFCC-Abbott Visiting Lecturer Programme (VLP) 20th PCQACL Convention-Manila (PH)Awarding the certificate of appreciation to our honorable speakers at the preconference

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16Introducing the IFCC’s Database of Outcome Studies inLaboratory Medicine
By Zhen ZHAO, PhD, Chair IFCC Task Force on Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine (TF-OSLM), Associate Professorof Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Director, Central Lab and Clinical Chemistry
Services, New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, USA

The IFCC is excited to launch the “Database of Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine” (oslm.
ifcc.org). Developed by the IFCC Task Force on Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine (TF-OSLM),
this database is a dedicated resource for highlighting the critical role of laboratory medicine inhealthcare.
Key Highlights of the Database:
•

•
•
•

Expansive Knowledge Resource: Featuring a diverse collection of outcome studies related
to laboratory medicine, the database is a repository of publications illustrating the significant
impact of lab tests in patient care, from diagnosis to management.
Accessible Worldwide: Created for IFCC members and stakeholders globally, this free databaseis a valuable tool for supporting research, education, and policy development in healthcare.
Promote Laboratory Medicine’s Value: Through aggregating outcome studies, we aim toenhance understanding and recognition of laboratory medicine’s essential role in healthcare.
Foster Collaboration and Continuous Learning: This database is not just an information
repository; it’s a platform for knowledge sharing, research enhancement, and healthcare
advancement, reflecting the ongoing developments in laboratory medicine.
Be a Part of Our Growing Community!
Visit: oslm.ifcc.org

Your contributions and suggestions are vital. Contact Zhen Zhao (zhz9010@med.cornell.edu) or
Smeralda Skenderaj (smeralda.skenderaj@ifcc.org) to get involved.
Discover How Laboratory Medicine Shapes Patient Care Through Our Database!

17

18

IFCC: the people
IFCC Calls for Nominations
Participate into IFCC activities and give your contribution! Review theopen positions and, if interested, contact your National or Corporate
Representative.
Currently following call for nominations are open:
Communications and Publications Division (CPD)
Extended deadline•

Committee on Internet and Digital Communications (C-IDC) - webeditor position - Call for nominations letter

Please send CPD nominations to colli-lanzi@ifcc.org by 31st December
Scientific Division (SD-EC)
Scientific Division Executive Committee - 2 positions: Secretary - Call for nominations letter andMember Call for nominations letter•
Committee on Standardization of Thyroid Function Tests (C-STFT) - 2 members - Call for
nominations letter
Please send SD and C-STFT nominations to paola.bramati@ifcc.org by 10th January 2024
For any further information on nominations, please refer to your National or Corporate
Representative - contacts are available here.
For all open call for nominations visit: https://ifcc.org/about/ifcc-calls-for-nominations/19

Point-of-Care Testing:Current Status and Future Trends
May 25, 2024
Conrad Hotel, Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Satellite Meeting

Visit the PoCT Meeting website for all the information
https://www.dubai2024.org/poct-meeting/

20

IFCC: the Young Scientists
Mentorship Interview
Presented by the IFCC Task Force for Young Scientists
By Sean Campbell, PhD, DABCC, FADLM, IFCC Task force for Young Scientists member, Director of Chemistry and
Immunology Laboratories, Assistant Professor Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore
Medical Center, NY - US

An interview with María Patricia Gentili (the Mentor)
and Ana Sofía Duarte Acuña (the Mentee)
A little while ago I had the excellent pleasure of speaking with Ana Sofía Duarte Acuña of Guatemala
and her mentor, María Patricia Gentili of Argentina, to speak about their mentor/mentee relationship.
I had a great time speaking with them and they had some excellent thoughts about mentoring which
I think you’ll appreciate!
Sean: Hello Sofía! Could you tell us about yourself and your position?
Sofía: My name is Ana Sofía Duarte Acuña, I am a Biochemistry/Medical Lab Professional with an
MSc. in Food and Nutrition from Guatemala, Central America. For many years I had the opportunity to
be Technical Director of a private Med Lab and worked with various interdisciplinary health teams on
health care projects. Working on these various projects resulted in my great interest in responding to
the health care needs in my country, so I started training in Immunology and Autoimmunity testing.
I currently direct an External Quality Assessment Program for the Asociación de Químicos Biólogos
de Guatemala, my national organization, and I am in the process of taking what I learned in my
Immunology and Autoimmunity training to help lab testing in my country.
Sean: That’s fantastic! And Patricia, could you tell us about yourself?
Patricia: My name is María Patricia Gentili, I am a Biochemist specialized in Clinical Immunology. I
am Head of Immunology at Fares Taie Laboratory, Scientific Secretary of the IX District Biochemical
Center and Associate Professor of Clinical Immunology at the Fasta University of Mar Del Plata,
Argentina.
Sean: Wonderful. Could you tell us how you met and how long you’ve been working together now?
Sofía: In June 2022, I began the application process for the exchange-internship scholarships of the
IFCC Professional Scientific Exchange Program (PSEP), to carry out the program at the Fares Taie
Laboratory in Mar del Plata, Argentina and have the opportunity to be trained in Immunology andAutoimmunity. Then in July, I received the good news that the scholarship was approved, so I madethe trip from September to December 2022.
The Fares Taie Laboratory is a recognized high-specialty center with professionals with extensive
experience and is well known for receiving other professionals for training. It is there that I had theopportunity to be assigned to my mentor. I had the joy of meeting my mentor, Dr. Patricia Gentili, whotrained me for 3 months, with whom I continue to have communication and receive advice.

Article continued on the next page21

Mentorship Interview

We have now been working together ever since we met in September 2022. Even though we’re now
at a distance, we’ve been able to continue communicating and I’ve continued learning from her. It’s
been great to have her advice for the development of projects in my country. This has allowed me tocontinue my academic, professional, and personal growth. She is a person with great experience andacademic training. She’s very passionate about her desire to teach and leave a legacy for others. For
me it has been a privilege to be one of the people learning from her.
Sean: That’s really lovely to hear. Can you describe your relationship with your mentor?
Sofía: Getting to know each other has been an enriching experience, both professionally intraining and personally through friendship. Having the opportunity to have a mentor with extensive
experience that gives one the opportunity to grow academically, develop, get advice, resolve doubts,
and receive communication is something that is valued and appreciated. I can say that she is not
only a mentor but a very special friend.
Sean: That’s really the best kind of mentorship relationship, in my experience. How about you,
Patricia, do you feel mentorship works well for mentors?
Patricia: The exchange has been very beneficial for both parties, both for us providing ourknowledge on important topics in immunology and learning the role of immunology in othercountries.
Sean: That’s really great to hear. Have you mentored others before?
Patricia: I have been a mentor with biochemists who attended from other countries (Paraguay,
Uruguay, Bolivia, etc.) and from Argentina to rotate through the area of immunology for several years
and we continue to receive students and professionals.
Sean: That’s great, it sounds like an excellent experience. Could you also speak to how mentorshiphelps young scientists and laboratorians in their career?
Patricia: It gives them a unique experience since they learn different techniques, different ways ofworking algorithms, and different clinical decisions with each laboratory test. Although these areas
follow international guidelines, there are always local modifications.
Sean: For sure, and that’s a big advantage for mentees. Sofia, can you present the advantages
you’ve seen from working with a mentor?
Sofía: The advantages of working with a mentor is that it allows you to broaden your horizon,
your network of relationships, and your ability to gain knowledge and continue advancing in yourprofessional and personal development as a laboratory professional. A mentor opens doors to newopportunities and guides you in the development of new proposals. It is a unique experience thatmust be lived.
Sean: Agreed! Could you give your peers advice as far as seeking out mentors?
Sofía: Find out as much information as possible, ask other scholarship recipients for help, and don’t
miss any opportunity to develop your skills. It may take a while to find a mentor, but there is greatvalue in spending the time to find one to work with. Find a mentor who is willing to provide you withthe knowledge and time required to train you. And you must have the commitment to respond to thedelivery of time and knowledge that the mentor provides.

Article continued on the next page22

Mentorship Interview

Sean: Totally agree with that. To that end, Patricia, can you give the mentors or aspiring mentors
in our audience some points on how to be a good mentor and how to maintain a good mentoring
relationship?
Patricia: The main thing is to help your mentee day by day and provide them with as muchinformation as possible, with material for talks, videos, practical explanations, looking into a
microscope, and with patience and dedication, providing all our experience so that they can replicate
it in their countries.
Sean: That’s awesome. On the other side, how would you suggest young scientists seek out their
mentors?
Patricia: I would suggest that you look for your mentors by thinking of professionals who are willingto provide you with all their knowledge in an authentic way.
Sean: Fantastic and agreed. To look at a concrete example of mentorship, Sofia, could you name afew projects and how your mentor helped you to accomplish your project?
Sofía: I have developed and directed two regional conferences of young scientists for Latin America(LATAM TF-YS) with the Confederación Latinoamericana de Bioquímica Clínica (COLABIOCLI). My
mentor has helped me in the preparation of both conferences. Currently, the training, advice,
and communication that I have with her is helping me in the process of implementing an area of
immunology and autoimmunity in my country.
Sean: That’s really amazing! And it’s excellent you were able to find such a great partner like Patricia.
Along the same lines, can you say what common challenges young scientists face that mentorshipcan help with?
Sofía: As young scientists, the challenges we face the most are opening a field in the world of work,
meeting new people or accessing new studies. Having a mentor helps you keep growing and moving
forward. It gives you the opportunity to make new contacts and develop new opportunities. It also
depends on how much you get involved in that two-way communication.
Sean: It really does, thank you Sofia! And Patricia, for a final question, what kind of advice do you
have for young laboratorians?
Patricia: The advice that I would give them is to start each activity with enthusiasm and passion,leaving aside the immediacy of achievements. You need to keep in mind that if one works withtenacity and dedication over the years, one will obtain its fruits.
Sean: Wonderful, thank you both so much for speaking with me, and for giving us all such a great
glimpse into your relationship. I wish you both many more fruitful years as friends and colleagues!

(L-R) María Patricia Gentili (the Mentor) and Ana Sofía Duarte
Acuña (the Mentee)

23

Indirect Reference
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Professor in Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University,
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Jakob ZIERK
Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine,
University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany

24

Contribute to IFCC eNews
Enhanced resource utilization, reduced waste, andexpedited transplantation through real-time donor
screening for infectious disease
The power of organ and tissue donation is immense. It can save, enhance and even transform thelives of those who receive such a powerful gift. On the other side of that equation are donors, their
loved ones and the people who have dedicated their lives to ensuring safe and timely donation orlive saving organs.
Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) are responsible for facilitating the organ donation
process in the United States. An integral step in this process is donor viability assessments, which
are required in order to screen donors for potential communicable diseases, including humanimmunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Screening is doneusing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed, approved or cleared donor screening
tests according to the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) policy and FDA
regulations.

Left to right: Linda Martin, Lindsey Speir, Kevin Lee, Amber
Carriker, Erica Hinterser

Like many OPOs, Mid America Transplant performed donor screening for infectious diseases inbatches using manual testing methods with an average turn-around time of 18 hours 22 minutes. In
the space of organ donation in particular, this timing is critical as tissue procurement must take place
within 24 hours of donor death. Thus, and due to time constraints, screening results from infectious
disease testing were typically not available until after tissue procurement had been completed.
Consequently, this resulted in unnecessary utilization of resources, and procurement procedures ondonors later determined to be ineligible.
Recognizing the opportunity to improve donor screening, reduce waste and enhance resource
utilization, an integrated clinical care team at Mid America Transplant sought to overhaul their donor
screening process through implementation of a fully automated donor serology testing platform. The
FDA approved test system enables real-time screening for the qualitative detection of HBV surface
antigen (HBsAg), HBV core antibody (anti-HBc), HCV (anti-HCV), HIV p24 antigen and antibody to HIV1/HIV-2 (HIV Ag/Ab Combo), and antibody to Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type I and II (anti-HTLV), on
both pre- and post-mortem specimens.
The resulting outcomes have significantly changed workflow at Mid America Transplant. Efficiency of
testing improved 94.7% with an average turnaround time of 58 minutes from laboratory receipt

Article continued on the next page25

Enhanced resource
utilization

For their efforts and outcomes this team was recognized as a 2022 UNVIANTS of Healthcare
Excellence Award winner of Distinction. Congratulations to Linda Martin, Vice President, Tissue
Operations; Lindsey Speir, Vice President, Organ Operations, Kevin Lee, President and CEO; Amber
Carriker, Director, Laboratory Services; and Erica Hinterser, Director, Tissue Procurement at MidAmerica Transplant.
To learn more about UNIVANTS please visit www.UnivantsHCE.com. To learn about educational
opportunities please visit www.healthcareELX.com

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Visit the website

News from the website

26

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News from Regional Federations and Member
Societies
LIII National Mexican Congress of Clinical Pathology “OneHealth”
By Rosa I. Sierra-Amor and Jorge M. Sanchez-Gonzalez

Rosa I. Sierra-Amor,
MSc PhD Member,
WG-eNews, IFCC
Nominations Committee

From November 1st to 4th, 2023, the city of Aguascalientes Mexico was thevenue for the LIII National Mexican Congress of Clinical Pathology “OneHealth” https://live.eventtia.com/es/liiicongresopatologia
This important congress held more than 170 professors, which lectures
included all together 23 plenary key lectures, and other 45 scientific activities
such as conferences, symposia, and courses, 32 abstracts, one international
symposium of laboratory professionals and one international symposium inconjunction with the Royal College of Clinical Pathology and the Academia.
During the Opening ceremony (Photo 1) awards were given to recognize
clinical pathology professionals contributing to the knowledge of the field oflaboratory medicine in Mexico.
In addition, we had the opportunity to listen to the expertise of several
connotated scientists from Mexico, Argentine, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada,
Colombia, Germany, France, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Peru, United Kingdom,
United States, and Uruguay.
The Opening ceremony took place at the La Estacion Theme Park (The
Railway Station), including The Old Train Station and Railway Museum, is
a historic and recreational complex located in the city of Aguascalientes, inthe state of Aguascalientes, in Mexico. La Estación Theme Park is composedof dancing fountains, the Old Railway Station Museum, fast food restaurants,
the Locomotive Engine Monument, visitor attention office, Spring water
Square, Furgón theater, Civic Plaza, Whistle Plaza and a Knowledge Cabús
are part of this unbelievable complex. It consists of four showrooms. The first
one functions as a gallery, in Showroom 2 the work of Manuel Manila Posada’s
colleague is usually shown. A third show room works as an exposition of
the followers of this art. The last room is a library and contains about five
thousand books, that include an important collection of poetry and theatre
works.

Jorge M. SanchezGonzalez MD PhD
President Congress
Organizing Committee

Article continued on the next page28

LIII National Mexican
Congress of Clinical Pathology

In this occasion and for the first time the I NATIONAL SYMPOSIUM OF CLINICAL LABORATORYPROFESSIONALS “Prospective, positioning and future of the clinical laboratory and thelaboratory medicine; from the vision of “One Health” was organized. That gathered in aninterdisciplinary commitment, experts and managers of the main organizations and institutions,academic, vocational training, and unions, accompanied by representatives of other countries. Those
who, after a debate and prior preparation, will develop in the Symposium assertive communication in
the exchange of opinions, points of view and experiences, aimed at proposing and sharing, together
with the congressmen in public debate, of the present and future needs, which have both healthprofessionals related to clinical laboratory and laboratory medicine, as the interaction with otherdisciplines associated with human development in the context of “One Health”.
This event exposed and developed the core issues of this professional practice, its future,interdisciplinarity, public health, epidemiology, educational programs, continuous professional
development, new technologies and methods, focused from different angles and points of view, todeploy a broad and updated vision of our professional work, and where clinical chemists and clinicalpathologists involved in leading the laboratory medicine in Mexico got together for the first time.
This program included the following topics:
1. Harmonization of Education presented By R. Sierra-Amor, D. Marquez, and D. Arcila.
2. The New Skills And Abilities Of The Professional Of The Laboratory By J.F. Muñoz-Valle And L.E.
Figueroa Lopez.
3. Social Determinants Of Health And The Clinical Laboratory By J.M. Sanchez-Gonzalez.
4. Future Perspective Of The Clinical Laboratory Professional At An International And Latinamerican
Level By K. Adeli And A. Justiniano-Grosz, Respectively.
5. Professional Bioethics By F. Anaya Velazquez.
6. The New Role Of Professional Associations And Associations By C.D. Navarro.
7. Redesigning Continuing Education/Professional Development By X. Diaz And E. George.
8. Importance Of Pharmacovigilance And Toxicology In The Laboratory By L. Gomez-Olivan.
9. Personalized/Precision Medicine By G. Santoscoy-Ascencio,
10. Innovation In Management To Achieve Financial Support To Laboratories That Contribute To
Reducing Social Exclusion And Achieving Universal Access To The Best Laboratory Studies By B.
Gouget.
This activity conveyed the presence of clinical pathologists and scientists from several clinicalchemistry organizations for the first time in the history of laboratory medicine in Mexico. The
scientific program of this congress was granted with auspices of IFCC and WASPaLM. Other Latin
American organizations such as the Latin American Association of clinical pathologists (ALAPAC) andthe Brazilian Society of clinical pathologists (SBPC) participated too. IFCC full member society the
CMCLabc, and three affiliated members societies CONAQUIC, CONQUILAB, FENAQC, all of themfrom Mexico together with COMECEF Board certification in Pharmaceutical sciences represented theClinical Chemist and Pharmacists that in conjunction with the Collage of Clinical Pathology of theCenter of the Republic and FEMPAC were the key organizers of the I National Symposium of ClinicalLaboratory Professionals.
Among key speakers, we had the opportunity to listen to Jose Alejandro Madrigal, MD PhD FRCPFRCPath DSc HonDSci FMedSci who gave two key plenary lectures on Resilience In The Face Of
Adversity: “A Life Dedicated To Medicine” and on Advanced Gene And Cell Therapy; Beyond the Last
Frontier.
The full scientific program can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IgUuGRGoSHhpc4swSwB3P
PktzOJjjW0O/view?pli=1
To finalize, the Speakers dinner on Friday evening was a great event, including the presentation andoath of the next president of FEMPAC, Gullermo Santoscoy Asencio, MD PhD and EB Members.

Article continued on the next page29

LIII National Mexican
Congress of Clinical Pathology

Participants at the I National
Symposium of professionals ofclinical laboratory.

With gratitude to the organizations that gave auspice to this congress, to professors thatparticipated as lecturers, to companies from the industry in vitro diagnosis, as well as to congress
attendees from all around Mexico. We are proud to say that the LIII National Mexican congress inClinical Pathology was a successful event.

Opening ceremony LIII National Mexican Congress of ClinicalLab expo and poster presentations

Pathology

30

Satellite Meeting

SATURDAY

25th
MAY
2024
INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS
OF PEDIATRIC LABORATORYMEDICINE
TOPICS:
Immunodeficiencies
Immuno-flow cytometry in pediatriclaboratory medicine
Genomics vs Mass spectrometry
in pediatric laboratory medicine

SAVE TH E DATE

Newborn Screening for SCIDs
NGS in diagnosing
undiagnosed diseases

CHAIR OFTHE CONGRESS:Tim Lang, UK

31

Artificial Intelligence improves precision in
the Clinical Laboratory••

The integration of information extraction techniques, advanced data analysis, and process
automation is changing laboratory practice: reducing errors and costs, simplifying workflows, andincreasing productivity
A balance needs to be established between the technological advance that massive data
analysis and Artificial Intelligence entails and the privacy risks for patients, as well as correctly
understanding and interpreting their results.

Laboratory Medicine is one of the specialties that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a support toolfor clinical practice. Its use has led to improved precision in laboratory tests, greater productivity,and simplification of workflows. However, the incorporation of AI in healthcare practice must notcompromise the privacy of patients, nor the correct understanding and interpretation of their results.
The XVII National Congress of the Clinical Laboratory (LABCLIN 2023), organized by the Spanish
Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQCML), the Spanish Association of Medical Biopathology (AEBMML) and the Spanish Association of the Clinical Laboratory (AEFA), addressed these issues from
October 18 to 20 in Zaragoza.
Specifically, in the symposium, “Big Data: Advanced Data Analysis and Artificial Intelligence in the
Laboratory”, moderated by Dr. Germán Seara Aguilar, from the Hospital 12 de Octubre ResearchInstitute (i+12), the use of data and AI in the healthcare field was examined in depth. According to Dr.
Germán Seara Aguilar, “the application of Artificial Intelligence in the automation of processes has
led to an improvement in precision, with a reduction in errors, and a simplification of workflows, withan increase in productivity and reduced costs.” Additionally, he said, automatic reporting improvescommunication with clinicians and patients and allows for the semi-automatic introduction of
personalized recommendations.
The incorporation of massive data analysis, Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning algorithms
in Artificial Intelligence models has greatly increased their power of application, decreasing their“explainability”, that is, the ability to understand and interpret correctly how you arrived at yourresults. The congress delved into the need to establish a balance between the technologicaladvances represented by massive data analysis and AI and the risks of privacy for patients and“explainability.”

Training needs
Data Mining and Machine Learning allow us to improve data analysis, their description, classificationand segmentation, the discovery of behavioral patterns, and the generation of predictive models.
“At the same time, it requires professional training in the field of AI, systematic interdisciplinary work,
the incorporation of mechanisms for verification and auditing of results, and an increased need for
security measures, both in computer science and in privacy, to ensure ethical management of newtechnologies,” commented Dr. Germán Seara Aguilar.
Finally, he highlighted that the current digital revolution and the expansion of massive data
analysis and Artificial Intelligence techniques are changing the way of practicing the profession andcommunicating with society. Despite this, Dr. Germán Seara Aguilar reminded that the future should
not focus on replacing professionals, “but rather on supporting them in their work, improving thequality of services and value for patients. And it doesn’t seem like it’s optional. Either we join in or it
will devastate us,” he concluded.
Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQCML)
www.seqc.es@SEQC_ML
Residentes del Laboratorio Clínico - SEQC
https://www.linkedin.com/company/seqc-ml/ SEQC-MLSEQC-MLSEQC-ML
seqcresidentes

32Medlab Africa Conference, 17 - 19 October 2023,
Johannesburg, South Africa
By Cecil J Weale, SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Health Research Unit, Department of Biomedical
Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town,
South Africa

I, Dr. Cecil J Weale, am currently in the third year of a highly impactful Postdoctoral Fellowship at
the SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Health Research Unit (CMHRU), at the Cape Peninsula Universityof Technology (CPUT), in Cape Town, South Africa. The SAMRC/CPUT CMHRU, headed by Professor
Tandi E. Matsha, the unit Founder and Director, provides a platform from which a team of researchers
collaborate to provide an integrated research programme focusing on cardiometabolic traits (obesity,
diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and chronic kidney diseases): all with respect toinflammation, genetics, epigenetics, microbiome and oxidative mechanisms. The aim of the unit is
to employ a holistic approach to investigate the context specific factors associated with diabetes
and related cardiometabolic traits. Considering this, my research endeavours revolve aroundelucidating the intricate amalgamation of genetic mechanisms and the identification of risk factors
associated with a spectrum of cardiometabolic diseases. In particular, the exploration of microRNAs,
short non-coding RNA transcripts known for their pivotal role in regulating gene expression andendeavouring to harness the power of these transcripts as potential population-specific biomarkers
for cardiometabolic diseases. More importantly, translating this knowledge into tangible benefits forthe unique landscape of South Africa.
Considering my research domain, I had the honour of being invited to share some of our research
unit’s findings at the Medlab Africa Conference, which was held in Johannesburg, from the 17th to the19th of October 2023. The Medlab Africa Conference, co-located with the Africa Health Congress, isfocused on core lab and specialist lab units, providing the platform for the showcasing of innovative
research and technologies tailored to healthcare in Africa. As such, I am highly appreciative for being
offered the opportunity to showcase some of our research at such an esteemed scientific gathering.
I had the opportunity to deliver a presentation entitled “MicroRNAs and their potential role asnovel population-specific biomarkers for dysglycaemia in a South African population”, at the Clinical
Chemistry session of the Clinical Pathology meeting, which took place on the 18th of October 2023.
This session, chaired by the distinguished Professor Annalise Zemlin, boasted a wide array of talks
by acclaimed researchers from across South Africa, spanning a plethora of important topics. These
discussions facilitated a robust exchange of knowledge, delving into crucial insights related to thechallenges posed by cardiometabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, within the African
context, as presented by Professor Nigel Crowther from Johannesburg. Additionally, the impact ofenvironmental influences, particularly endocrine disruptors, on healthcare was covered by Dr. Verena
Gounden from Durban. The significance of pinpointing reliable biomarkers for efficiently triaging
myocardial infarctions in emergency room settings was also emphasized, by Dr. Ashlin Rampul from
Durban. The importance of employing Westgard Sigma Rules for quality control in the diagnostic
laboratory was also highlighted by Dr. Jody Rusch from Cape Town. Moreover, the potential
advantages of integrating innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence into diagnostic
laboratory settings was discussed, highlighting potential applications in African healthcare – thiswas delivered by Dr. Owen Wiese from Cape Town.
Participation in the Medlab Africa Conference provided the platform for a young researcher suchas me to rub shoulders with pioneers in the field of Clinical Pathology. This also afforded me theopportunity to network with other researchers and foster collaborative efforts. Some of thesepartnerships are already unfolding, such as a MicroRNA Expression Analysis Workshop, to be offeredat Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, by our team members from the SAMRC/CPUTCMHRU who specialize in this research niche

Article continued on the next page33

Medlab Africa Conference
South Africa

In summary, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Medlab Africa organizers, as well as
the Clinical Pathology organizers, such as Professor Annalise Zemlin and Professor Rajiv Erasmus,
for giving me the opportunity to contribute to such an acclaimed and important meeting, and I hope
to participate in the next conference.

Dr Cecil J Weale delivering his talk

Speakers of the Clinical Pathology meeting (Clinical Chemistry
Session) (L-R): Prof. Annalise Zemlin, Dr. Owen Wiese, Dr. Ashlin
Rampul, Dr. Cecil J Weale, Dr. Jody Rusch, Prof. Nigel Crowther

IFCC Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines
The IFCC launches its Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines programme focusing on Best
Practice Recommendations, Position Papers & Guidelines in Laboratory Medicine
With the goal of developing and disseminating best practice recommendations/guidelines in all areasof clinical laboratory medicine and facilitating their implementation in clinical laboratories worldwide,
the IFCC is thrilled to announce its:
Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines program focusing on Best Practice
Recommendations, Position Papers & Guidelines in Laboratory Medicine.
Click here to read the
IFCC Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines
Best Practice Recommendations, Position Papers & Guidelines in Laboratory Medicine
Terms of Reference & Program Roadmap
The IFCC invites all IFCC Committees, Taskforces & Working Groups to propose topics related
to their field of expertise, as per instructions outlined in the above linked document.
News from the website

34

The economic edition of the clinical chemistry text
Approach to Clinical Chemistry
By Lorenzo Prencipe

now available!
On this book have written:“The particular value of this book is that its structure and approach help professionals meet therequirements set by the new challenges, basic concepts to work in a laboratory analysis, use statistics,
reference values, sources of variability and get help to meet the requirements of ISO 15189. All thesein a simple, understandable way. The book cannot be absent from any laboratory and it may be themost commonly used manual for laboratory staff and assist physicians in interpreting laboratory
results.”
Rozália.Czikkely MD
Past member in Accreditation WG of EC4
and of Hungarian National Accreditation
You can find it on Amazon with the following link:
https://amzn.eu/d/46AbxTm

35

Cardiometabolic Health Symposium Explores Innovations
in a Technological Era
By Saarah Davids (on behalf of the organising committee), SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic HealthResearch Unit, Dept of Biomedical Science, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South
AfricaIn a bid to delve into the intricate intersection of health and technology, the SAMRC/CPUT
Cardiometabolic Health Research Unit organised a symposium on 9th November 2023. Nestled in thevibrant setting of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Hotel School in Cape Town,
South Africa, the event highlighted the theme, “Cardiometabolic Disease in the Technological Era.”
Distinguished guests and scholars convened to explore the symposium’s focal point. The keynote
address was delivered by Professor Faadiel Essop, Director of the Centre for Cardiometabolic
Research in Africa (CARMA) at the Biomedical Research Institute (BMRI), based at the Faculty of
Medicine and Health Science, University of Stellenbosch. Professor Essop’s talk, entitled “Enhancing
Cardiometabolic Research Care: Innovations for a Healthier Tomorrow,” set the tone for an
intellectually stimulating day.
The symposium unfolded through four distinct sessions, each delving into critical facets of the field,
namely: artificial intelligence, point of care and medical devices, e-health, and personalized medicine.
Distinguished national experts and academics, among them Dr. Ashlin Rampul, a representative of
the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) young scientist
task team; Prof Annalise Zemlin, Head of Division: Chemical Pathology at Stellenbosch University;
Prof Kotsedi Monyeki from the Department of Physiology and Environmental Health at the Universityof Limpopo; and James Ross, Co-Founder and CEO of BixBio, a biotech company that is disrupting
global healthcare by unlocking the power of African genomes for drug development, generously
shared ground-breaking scientific advancements and practical experiences. Their collective
insights not only expanded the horizons of knowledge but also fostered a deeper understanding ofcardiometabolic health within the dynamic landscape of rapid technological evolution.
What set this symposium apart was the active participation of young emerging researchers inpivotal organizational roles. The organizing committee, consisting of Dr. Saarah Davids, Dr. Shanel
Raghubeer, Dr. Cecil Weale, Dr. Dipuo Motshwari, and Dr. Don Matshazi played a central role in theevent. All members of the organizing committee are affiliated with the South African Association
for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine (SAACB), falling under the auspices of the African
Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC) and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry andLaboratory Medicine (IFCC). Esteemed figures in the field, namely Prof. Tandi Matsha, Prof. Glenda
Davison, and Prof. Rajiv Erasmus are guiding this dynamic team of emerging researchers. Theseseasoned scientists have provided mentorship, fostering an environment conducive to innovative
research in the realm of non-communicable diseases.
This dynamic blend of established expertise and emerging talent underscored the commitment toadvancing cardiometabolic research and heralded a promising trajectory for the future of healthcare
in the technological age.

Article continued on the next page36

Cardiometabolic HealthSymposium Explores Innovations

Prof Faadiel Essop, Director of the Centre for Cardiometabolic

Three young emerging scientist who were part of the

Research in Africa at BMRI, Faculty of Medicine and Healthsymposium organising committee, from left: Dr Dipuo

Science, University of Stellenbosch, giving the keynote

Motshwari, Dr Shanel Raghubeer and Dr Saarah Davids.

address at the SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic HealthResearch Unit 2023 symposium

Young scientist attending the SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Health Research Unit 2023 symposium at the CPUT Hotel School,
Cape Town South Africa

37

Society of Medical Biochemists of Serbia
Professor Ivan Berkeš Scientific Fund
By Nada Majkić-Singh, The Fund President

Appreciating the work of its teacher and eminent expert, the Society of Medical Biochemists of
Yugoslavia, (today the Society of Medical Biochemists of Serbia) after the death of Prof. Dr. Ivan
Berkeš in 1997, formed in his honor, the Scientific Fund “Professor Ivan Berkeš” and the “Annual
Scientific Conference” dedicated to the life and work of Professor Ivan Berkeš at the suggestion andorganization of Prof. Dr. Nada Majkić-Singh was established.
Annual awards (diplomas and cash prizes) are awarded from the Fund to Pharmacy students for thetwenty-sixth time this year.
The patrons of the “Professor Ivan Berkeš” Science Fund are:•Society of Medical Biochemists of Serbia•
Institute of Medical Biochemistry of yhe Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Belgrade•
Institute of Medical Biochemistry of the Military Medical Academy
Professor Dr. Ivan BERKEŠ, an important figure in the field of pharmacy and medicine, is the founderof medical biochemistry and clinical enzymology in the healthcare of Serbia and Yugoslavia.
Under his leadership, numerous generations of medical biochemists were educated at the Faculty of
Pharmacy in Belgrade. In Serbia for a long time there was not a single laboratory, without a Professor
Ivan Berkeš’ student working in it.
On November 16, 2010, the Thirteenth Annual Scientific Conference dedicated to the 100th
anniversary of the birth of Professor Ivan Berkeš was held in Belgrade, in which experts from
Belgrade (N. Majkić-Singh), Zagreb (S. Margetić) and Skopje (S. Efremeova-Aaron) where Professor
Ivan Berkeš lived and worked, held their lectures. Diplomas and monetary awards were also
traditionally awarded from the Scientific Fund “Professor Ivan Berkeš” to the best students of theFaculty of Pharmacy in Belgrade, namely: Zori Ćetković and Jeleni Joksić.
In 2020, the Society of Medical Biochemists of Serbia marked the 110th anniversary of the birth ofProfessor Ivan Berkeš, on which occasion the Monograph: “Life and Work of Professor Ivan Berkešand Fund Laureates: Where are They and What are They Doing Today?” was presented.
So far, the Fund has 56 laureates and their biographies are described in the Monograph.
The First Annual Scientific Conference “Professor Ivan Berkeš” was held on November 25, 1998.
in Belgrade in the Inter-Continental Belgrade hotel with the Second Congress of Pharmacists of
Yugoslavia.
The first laureates of the Fund were:•
Vesna Vuković (graduate pharmacist-medical biochemist)•
Nebojša Cekić (pharmacist graduate)
The Twenty Third Annual Scientific Conference “Professor Ivan Berkeš” were co-organized andhosted by the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade on 15. December 2022
(see www.dmbj.org.rs).

Article continued on the next page38

Society of Medical
Biochemists of Serbia

Laureates of the Scientific Fund “Professor Ivan Berkeš” in 2022 were:•Đorđe Stanivuk (Master of Pharmacy - Medical Biochemist) and•
Jovana Živanović (Master of Pharmacy)
They received Diplomas and monetary awards.
This year, diplomas and monetary awards were presented on November 4th at the opening of the IV
TMB Congress “Cardiovascular risk factors - diagnostic challenges and importance”.
The laureates of the Scientific Fund “Professor Ivan Berkeš” in 2023 are:•Minja Derikonjić (Master of Pharmacy – Medical Biochemist) and•Nastasija Anđelković (Master of Pharmacy)
Minja Derikonjić was born on 23.03.1999. in Pancevo, where she finished elementary school as a
student of the generation, after which she entered the “Uroš Predić” Gymnasium-natural sciences
and mathematics. She graduated from high school in 2018 with a “Vuk Karad`ić” diploma. In the same
year, she entered the Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Belgrade, majoring in pharmacymedical biochemistry, from which she graduated in September 2023 with an average grade of 9.72.
Graduate thesis entitled “Examining the predictive and diagnostic potential of insulin-like growth
factor 1 in patients with colorectal cancer”, under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Aleksandra Zeljković,
was defended at the Department of Medical Biochemistry. She received award “Professor Ivan
Berkeš” from the Scientific Fund as the best graduated student of the Faculty of Pharmacy majoringin pharmacy-medical biochemistry in the 2022/2023 year. During her studies, she got three times
the Annual Award of the Faculty of Pharmacy for the best students. She is a scholarship recipientof the Fund for Young Talents of the Republic of Serbia-Dositeja for the year 2022/2023, and for four
years she was also a scholarship holder of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological
Development of the Republic of Serbia. During her studies, she engaged in scientific research at the
departments of medical biochemistry and toxicology. The student scientific research paper on the
topic “Examination of biochemical indicators of cardiometabolic risk in patients with hypothyroidism”,
carried out at the Department of Medical Biochemistry under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Aleksandra
Zeljković, was presented at the XV Mini-Congress of students of the Faculty of Pharmacy and the61st Congress of Biomedical Sciences Students of Serbia on Kopaonik in 2022. The following year,
she participated in the XVI Mini-Congress of the students of the Faculty of Pharmacy, where her
student scientific research paper entitled “Exposure assessment of inhabitants of Pancevo tobenzene”, carried out at the Department of Toxicology under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Marijana
Ćur~ić, was declared the best in the field of toxicology. She enrolled in doctoral academic studies in
the 2023/2024 school year at the Department of Medical Biochemistry of the Faculty of Pharmacy inBelgrade. From October 2023, she is doing an internship at the Clinical Hospital Center “Dr. Dragiša
Mišović-Dedinje”, at the Laboratory Diagnostics Service.
Nastasija Anđelković was born on 27th February 1999 in Kraljevo. She completed Medical highSchool-Kraljevo as the best student of generation. In 2018 she enrolled in the Faculty of Pharmacy
in Belgrade (Master of Pharmacy) and graduated in July 2023. During her studies she was themember of the Student Scientific-Research Center (CNIRS) in Faculty of Pharmacy in Belgrade andSocial media-team coordinator. She was engaged in scientific research work at the Department ofPharmaceutical Chemistry where she did three research papers under mentorship of Prof. Branka
Ivković and at the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology under mentorship of Prof. Sne`ana
Savić and Ass. Ines Nikolić. One of the papers named “How do we actually see the invisible: analysisof the impact of measuring conditions and sample preparation procedure on the size estimation of
nanoparticles/nanodroplets through dynamic light scattering” was awarded as the best work in thefield of pharmaceutical technology on the XV Mini-Congress of Students of the Faculty of Pharmacy
and on the 61st Congress of Biomedical Sciences Students of Serbia in Kopaonik mountain in 2022.
and the paper named “Characterization of propiophenone derivatives as potential antiseptics/
disinfectants” was awarded the best work in the field of pharmaceutical chemistry on the 62th

Article continued on the next page39

Society of Medical
Biochemists of Serbia

Congress of Biomedical Sciences Students of Serbia in Kopaonik mountain in 2023. She is co-authorof one research paper which is published in the Journal of the Serbian Chemical Society – JSCS,
named: “Application of liquid chromatography in defining the interaction of newly synthesizedchalcones and related compounds with human serum albumin”. She defended her graduate thesis
entitled “Characterization of propiophenone derivatives as potential antiseptics/disinfectants” at
the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry under mentorship of Prof. Branka Ivković. During her
studies, she was awarded for her success by the Faculty of Pharmacy for several years. She received
award for the best graduated student (Pharmacy programme) during 2022/2023 at the University ofBelgrade – Faculty of Pharmacy from the Scientific Foundation “Professor Ivan Berkeš”. During her
studies, she was a scholar of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development,
Republic of Serbia. She is a scholarship holder of the Fund for Young Talents of the Republic of
Serbia – Dositeja, and holder of “Talent program in the public sector”.

Professor Dr. Ivan Berkeš (1910–1997)

The monograph(L-R) Nada Majkić-Singh with Minja Derikonjić Scientific Fund

(L-R) Nada Majkić-Singh with Nastasija Anđelković, Scientific“Professor Ivan Berkeš” laureate in 2023, and Snežana

Fund “Professor Ivan Berkeš” laureate in 2023, and Snežana

Jovičić.

JovičićArticle continued on the next page40

Society of Medical
Biochemists of Serbia(L-R) Nada Majkić-Singh with Anđelija Jocić, TMB Coordinator,

The 23rd Ivan Berkeš Annual conference

and Snežana Jovičić

41

News from the IFCC Website

IFCC Free Webinar
Improved implementation of medical tests - a new quality improvement project for thelaboratory
The recording is now available to view On Demand by clicking on the link below
https://www.workcast.com/ControlUsher.aspx?cpak=9179978162378123&pak=4525890531675221

The IFCC webinar: “Improved implementation of medical tests – a new quality improvement
project for the laboratory” was held on November 08, 2023.
The purpose of the Committee for the Value Proposition in Laboratory Medicine (C-VPLM) is todemonstrate ways to identify the value of medical tests, particularly using measures that have afinancial or economic dimension. This includes applying the concept of a value proposition to tests
based on the unmet clinical need being met through use of the test in a defined clinical pathway.
Delivering the value proposition of a test includes two separate processes called adoption andimplementation. The webinar will highlight the differences between these two processes, including
the different types of evidence that are required in adoption and implementation. The focus of theCommittee’s work is on the latter because the importance of implementation is poorly appreciatedand when performed badly contributes to the poor value of testing including variation in utilisationand the incorrect use of test results. The webinar will highlight a process of implementation thatwill address these problems including the identification of stakeholders in the clinical pathway, themeasurement of the benefits and disbenefits to the different stakeholders and the measurementsthat are necessary to monitor the implementation process. All of these aspects will be illustrated
through reference to specific tests with the aim that improved test implementation – namely the way

Article continued on the next page42

News from the web

tests are introduced by any laboratory or pathology provider – should be viewed as an exercise inquality improvement of the care pathway.
This webinar comprises of three following presentations of 20 min each followed by 20 min of panel
discussion at the end.
Chair: Dr. Robert Christenson
Talk 1- “The value of effective test implementation” - Dr. Andrew St John
Talk 2- “Key concepts associated with test implementation” - Prof. Chris Price
Talk 3- “How to conduct a quality improvement project for test implementation?”- Dr. Maurice O’Kane

IFCC Free Webinar
Principles and practice of indirect methods for reference interval establishment
The recording is now available to view On Demand by clicking on the link below
https://www.workcast.com/ControlUsher.aspx?cpak=3554304581962925&pak=4689975730538442

The IFCC webinar: Principles and practice of indirect methods for reference interval establishment”
was held on November 21, 2023.
In this webinar, members of the IFCC TF-GRID will give presentations on the principles of indirect
methods for reference interval establishment (Jakob Zierk), their application using huge real-world
data sets (Mary Kathryn Bohn), and on guidelines to support their implementation into laboratory
practice (Ken Sikaris).

Article continued on the next page43

News from the web

This webinar comprises of three following presentations of 20 min each followed by 20 min of panel
discussion at the end.
Chair: Dr. Jakob Zierk
Talk 1- “Algorithms to calculate reference intervals from patient data in children and adults” - Dr.
Jakob Zierk
Talk 2- “Application of indirect algorithms to reference interval harmonization in Canada” - Dr. Mary
Kathryn Bohn
Talk 3- “Developing guidelines to support the quality of indirect reference intervals” - Prof. Ken Sikaris

IFCC Free Webinar“Outcome studies to advance excellence inlaboratory medicine”
The recording is now available to view On Demand by clicking on the link below
https://www.workcast.com/?cpak=7804118799755196&pak=7005830539274063

The IFCC webinar: “Outcome studies to advance excellence in laboratory medicine” was held on
December 6, 2023.
Laboratory professionals are now more than ever required to perform studies that provide evidence

Article continued on the next page44

News from the webof the impact of testing on patient outcomes since the growth of laboratory medicine is reliant
on its “value add” in the health-care landscape. In order to demonstrate the value for testing, weneed to understand whether the test is worth of investment and to identify the impact of testingon management, care pathways and outcomes. However, in reality, to link the clinical laboratory
information to value is challenging. Most laboratory tests are used for multiple purposes and incombination with other laboratory or medical tests in a complex care pathway. Impact of laboratory
testing on patient outcomes is partial and variable since measured outcomes may be many steps
beyond the performance of the test and affected by many other variables. So when the outcome
information is missing, quantifying the value of the lab tests is difficult.
The IFCC Task Force on Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine (TF-OSLM) was established in 2022.
In this webinar, three members from the IFCC TF-OSLM will share the taskforce’s mandates andexperience in identify existing peer reviewed, high quality publications that demonstrate the valueof laboratory medicine in healthcare and developing a funded research program for investigators
in hospitals located around the world to conduct new retrospective and prospective research withoutcomes that assess the value of laboratory medicine in healthcare overall.
This webinar comprises of three following presentations of 20 min each followed by 20 min of panel
discussion at the end.
Chair: Dr. Verena Gounden
Talk 1- “Quantifying the Advantage of Laboratory Medicine: Evidence from Clinical Outcomes” - Prof.
Zhen Zhao
Talk 2- “Timely cardiovascular marker results for getting clinical outcomes” - Dr. Claudio Suárez
Talk 3- “C-reactive protein and procalcitonin – Outcome studies for biomarker guided antibiotic
therapy” - Dr. Erik Koldberg Amundsen

45

IFCC’s Calendar of Congresses,
Conferences & Events
IFCC and Regional Federation
Events
Date

Title

Place

March,
2024

AFCC CONGRESS 2024

Cairo,EG

May 25,2024

XVII ICPLM - INTERNATIONALCONGRESS OF PEDIATRICLABORATORY MEDICINE

Dubai,UAE

May 26 - Jun 30,
2024

XXVI IFCC WORLDLAB Dubai 2024

Dubai,UAE

May 26, - Jun 30
2024

AFCB Congress in conjunction
with the XXVI IFCC WorldLab
Dubai 2024 Congress

Dubai,UAE

Oct 3 - 6,
2024

XXVI COLABIOCLI 2024

Cartagena,
CO

October 31 Nov 3, 2024

APFCB 2024 Sydney

Sidney,AU

May 18 - 22,
2025

XXVI IFCC-EFLM
EUROMEDLAB 2025

Brussels,
BE

Article continued on the next page46

Corporate Member Events with
IFCC Auspices
Date

Title

Place

Dec 15,2023

International Symposium on
Laboratory Medicine

Snibe,
Kathmandu,NP

Dec 21,
2023

Vietnam Chemical Pathology
Course XIV 2023 (webinar)

Roche, online
event, VN

Other events with
IFCC auspices
Click here

47

48

Published ten times a year:

Advertise in
IFCC eNews!
Showcase your products and initiatives
to more than 49.000 laboratory medicine
specialists throughout Europe, North
America, Asia- Pacific, Middle East, Africa
and Latin America: laboratory directors,
clinical chemists, and other clinicallaboratory specialists and technologists,
leading manufacturers, distributors anddealers in the field.
• Ten issues per year
• Free-of-charge to readers• Interactive digital edition

No 1/2
No3
No 4
No5
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No9
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January/February
March
April
May
June
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OctoberNovember
December

For prices, formats and any further information
on how your company can gain unique access\tointernational markets through advertsingwith IFCC, please email us at enews@ifcc.org.
IFCC Corporate Members receive a 25%
discount on current prices.

49

IFCC Executive Board 2021 - 2023

Khosrow
ADELI
President

TomrisOZBEN
President-electDavid
KINNIBURGH
SecretaryAlexander
HALIASSOS
Treasurer

JosephPASSARELLI
Corporate
Representative

E. HOYARANDA
Asia-Pacific Fed
for Clin Biochem
and Lab Med(APFCB)

A. M. ŠIMUNDIĆ
European Fed ofClin Chem andLab Medicine(EFLM)

A.M. LENA
Latin-American
Confederationof Clin
Biochemistry(COLABIOCLI)T. PILLAY (ZA)
Communications
andPublications
Division Chair

S. BERNARDINI (IT)
Emerging
Technologies
Division Chair

P. LAITINEN (FI)Congresses andConferences
Committee Chair

Regional Representatives

AB OKESINA
AfricanFederation ofClinical Chemistry(AFCC)

A. HEDHILI
Arab
Federation ofClinical Biology(AFCB)

E. DUNN
North American
Fed of Clin
Chem and Lab
Med(NAFCC)IFCC Divisions and C-CC Chairs

C. COBBAERT (NL)
Scientific
Division Chair

N. RIFAI (US)
Education andManagement
Division Chair

IFCC Office Staff(L-R) Elisa Fossati, Paola Bramati, Silvia Colli Lanzi,
Silvia Cardinale, Smeralda Skenderaj, Sofia Giardina

50

IFCC Membership
Full members

Albania (AL)
Algeria (DZ)
Argentina (AR)Armenia (AM)Australasia and New
Zealand (AU/NZ)
Austria (AT)Azerbaijan (AZ)
Belgium (BE)Bolivia (BO)
Bosnia Herzegovina (BA)
Brazil (BR)
Bulgaria (BG)
Canada (CA)Chile (CL)
China Beijing (CN)China Taipei (TW)
Colombia (CO)Croatia (HR)Cuba (CU)
Cyprus (CY)
Czech Republic (CZ)
Denmark (DK)
Dominican Rep (DO)
Ecuador (EC)Egypt (EG)Estonia (EE)
Ethiopia (ET)Finland (FI)France (FR)Georgia (GE)Germany (DE)Greece (GR)
Guatemala (GT)Hong Kong (HK)
Hungary (HU)
Iceland (IS)India (IN)Indonesia (ID)
Iran (IR)Iraq (IQ)
Ireland (IE)
Israel (IL)
Italy (IT)Japan (JP)Jordan (JO)
Kazakhstan (KZ)
Kenya (KE)
Korea (KR)Kosovo (XK)Corporate members

Latvia (LV)
Lebanon (LB)
Libya (LY)
Lithuania (LT)
Luxembourg (LU)
Malawi (MW)Malaysia (MY)Mexico (MX)Montenegro (ME)
Morocco (MA)
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Nepal (NP)
Netherlands (NL)
Nigeria (NG)North Macedonia (MK)Norway (NO)Pakistan (PK)Palestine (PS)Panama (PA)Paraguay (PY)
Peru (PE)Philippines (PH)Poland (PL)Portugal (PT)
Romania RO)
Russia (RU)
Saudi Arabia (SA)Serbia (SRB)
Singapore (SG)Slovak Republic (SK)Slovenia (SI)South Africa (ZA)
Spain (ES)Sri Lanka (LK)
Sudan (SD)
Sweden (SW)Switzerland (CH)
Syrian Arab Republic (SY)
Thailand (TH)Tunisia (TN)Türkiye (TR)Ukraine (UA)United Arab Emirates (UAE)
United Kingdom (UK)
United States (US)Uruguay (UY)
Vietnam (VN)
Zambia (ZM)
Zimbabwe (ZW)

Regional Federations

Arab Federation of Clinical Biology (AFCB)
African Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC)
Asia-Pacific Federation for Clinical Biochemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (APFCB)
European Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM)
Latin America Confederationof Clinical Biochemistry (COLABIOCLI)North American Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (NAFCC)

Abbott Laboratories
Agappe Diagnostics Ltd
Arkray Inc.
Asahi Kasei Pharma Corp.
Autobio Diagnostics Co. Ltd.
Bd Diagnostics-Preanalytical
Systems
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Bio Rad Laboratories
Biomasterclin Laboratorios
Venezuela
Brooks Automation Italy Srl
Controllab
C.P.M. Compagnia Per La
Medicina® Srl
Dia Sys Diagnostic Systems
Gmbh
Diagnostica Stago
Diasorin Spa
Et Healthcare Inc.
Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical
Corporation
Fujirebio-Europe
Gentian As
Helena Biosciencies Europe
Hemas Hospital Pvt
Hytest Ltd.
Immunodiagnostic Systems
Instrumentation Laboratory
I-Sens, Inc.
Jiangsu Bioperfectus
Technologies Co. Ltd.
Labor Team W Ag
Lumiradx Uk Ltd.
Maccura Biotechnology Co.,Ltd.
Medicalsystem Biotechnology
Co., Ltd.
Medix Biochemica
Menarini Diagnostics
Mindray
Nittobo Medical Co. Ltd.
Oneworld Accuracy
Quidelortho
Perkinelmer
Phc Europe B.V.
Quality Academics
Radiometer Medical Aps
Randox Laboratories Ltd.
Roche Diagnostics Gmbh
Sansure Biotech Inc
Sebia S.A.
Sentinel Ch Spa
Shanghai KehuaBioengineering Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen Yhlo Biotech
Siemens Healthcare
Diagnostics
Snibe Co., Ltd
Synlab International Gmbh
Sysmex Europe Gmbh
Technogenetics
The Binding Site Group Ltd.
Thermo Fisher ScientificTosoh Corporation
United Robotics Group Gmbh
Wisplinghoff
Laboratoriumsmedizin Koeln
Wuhan Life Origin Biotech Joint
Stock Co., Ltd. - Sybio

Affiliate Members

Botswana: Institute of Clinical Laboratory Professionals
Brazil: Sociedade Brasileira de Patologia Clínica / Medicina
Laboratorial (SBPC/ML)
China: Lab Medicine Committee, China Association of Medical
Equipment (LMC)
Egypt: Egyptian Association of Healthcare Quality and Patient
SafetyFrance: French National Network of Accredited Laboratories ofMedical Biology (LABAC)
India: Association of Medical Biochemists of India (AMBI)
Iran: Iranian Association of Clinical Laboratory Doctors (IACLD)
Jordan: Society for Medical Technology & Laboratories (SMTL)
Kazakhstan: Public Association - Federation of Laboratory
Medicine (FLM)
Mexico: Federación Nacional de Químicos Clínicos (CONAQUIC
A.C.)
Mexico: Colegio Nacional de Químicos Clínicos en Medicina deLaboratorio (CONQUILAB)
Mexico: Federación Nacional de Colegios Profesionales de laQuímica Clínica, A.C. (FENACQC)
Nepal: Nepalese Association for Clinical Chemistry (NACC)
Philippines: Philippine Council for Quality Assurance in ClinicalLaboratories (PCQACL)
Romania: Order of the Biochemists, Biologists, Chemists in
Romanian Health System (OBBCSSR) Serbia: Serbian Society for
Clinical Laboratory Medicine and Science (SCLM)
Spain: Andalusian Society for Clinical Analysis and Laboratory
Medicine (SANAC)
Spain: Asociación Española de Biopatología Médica - Medicinade Laboratorio (AEBM-ML)
Spain: Asociación Española de Farmacéuticos Analistas (AEFA)
Sri Lanka: College of Chemical Pathologists of Sri Lanka (CCPSL)
Türkiye: Society of Clinical Biochemistry Specialists (KBUD)
Ukraine: Association for Quality Assurance of Laboratory
Medicine (AQALM)
United Arab Emirates: Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA)

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enewsPublisher
Communications and Publications Division(CPD) of the IFCCThe Communications and Publications
Division publishes ten editions of the e-Newsper year, including two double issues.
EditorKatherina Psarra, MSc, PhD
Department of Immunology Histocompatibility Evangelismos Hospital,
Athens, Greece
E-mail: enews@ifcc.org
The eNews is distributed to all IFCC
members registered on-line to receive it andto all IFCC sponsors.
Deadlines for submissions to the eNews
N° 1/2 – January/February: by mid January
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N° 11 – November: by mid October
N° 12 – December: by mid November
If you want to submit an article oradvertisement to be published in the eNews,
send it to: Katherina Psarra, Editor, IFCC
eNews
E-mail: enews@ifcc.org

Copyright © 2023 IFCC. All rights reserved.
Contents may not be reproduced without
the prior permission of the Communications
and Publications Division (CPD) of the IFCC.

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