An analytical framework for optimizing variant discovery from personal genomes.

The standardization and performance testing of analysis tools is a prerequisite to widespread adoption of genome-wide sequencing, particularly in the clinic. However, performance testing is currently complicated by the paucity of standards and comparison metrics, as well as by the heterogeneity in sequencing platforms, applications and protocols. Here we present the genome comparison and analytic testing (GCAT) platform to facilitate development of performance metrics and comparisons of analysis tools across these metrics.

Improving stable patient flow through the emergency department by utilizing evidence-based practice: one hospital's journey.

Many patients utilize hospital emergency services for non-emergent care. The lack of access to primary care providers, lack of insurance, and lack of information about when to use the emergency department have contributed to the crowding of emergency departments with non-emergent cases. Crowding has created longer wait times and an increased number of people leaving without a medical screening examination.

Choreographing trauma resuscitation in the OR.

Survival rates are enhanced if severely injured trauma patients are admitted directly to the OR for resuscitation and surgical intervention. To increase the survivability and decrease the morbidity of trauma patients with penetrating trauma to the chest or abdomen, a hospital in La Jolla, Calif, developed a "direct to the OR" resuscitation program. This program substantially increased the survival rate of these trauma patients.

Treatment for radiation-induced xerostomia. An innovative remedy.

Xerostomia continues to be a major complaint of patients who have had radiation therapy of the salivary glands and neck. This article describes the advantages and disadvantages of conventional treatment methods and introduces an innovative, yet inexpensive remedy that has produced favorable results for those afflicted with this chronic complication of therapy.