Developmental validation of a fully integrated sample-to-profile rapid human identification system for processing single-source reference buccal samples.

Unlabelled: Short tandem repeat (STR) DNA typing is a global standard for human identification. Current practice involves highly trained forensic analysts, operating in a laboratory setting, using multiple instruments to process samples and analyze the data. Here, we report the developmental validation of a fully integrated and automated DNA profiling system, the RapidHIT® System, capable of producing up to five high quality STR profiles with full controls in approximately 90min using PowerPlex®16 HS RapidHIT chemistry.

Prevalence of diabetes and associated obesity in Pennsylvania adults, 1995-2010.

Introduction: This study examined trends in the prevalence and sociodemographic distributions of diabetes and the associations of diabetes with obesity over time in adult Pennsylvanians from 1995 through 2010.

Methods: We used Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey data collected from 1995 through 2010. Diabetes prevalence was assessed by self-report of physician diagnosis.

A flexible microfluidic processor for molecular biology: application to microarray sample preparation.

We describe a programmable microfluidic system with onboard pumps and valves that has the ability to process reaction volumes in the sub-microlitre to hundred microlitre range. The flexibility of the architecture is demonstrated with a commercial molecular biology protocol for mRNA amplification, implemented without significant modification. The performance of the microchip system is compared to conventional bench processing at each stage of the multistep protocol, and DNA microarrays are used to assess the quality and performance of bench- and microchip-amplified RNA.

Factors associated with difficulty achieving initial control with crotalidae polyvalent immune fab antivenom in snakebite patients.

Background: The prescribing information for Crotalidae Fab antivenom (FabAV) instructs clinicians to administer FabAV until initial control of the envenomation syndrome is achieved. Risk factors for difficulty achieving initial control are not known.

Objectives: The study aim was to identify factors present before administration of antivenom associated with difficulty achieving initial control.

A multicenter comparison of the safety of oral versus intravenous acetylcysteine for treatment of acetaminophen overdose.

Unlabelled: Oral and intravenous (IV) N-acetylcysteine (NAC) are used for the treatment of acetaminophen poisoning. The objective of this multicenter study was to compare the safety of these two routes of administration.

Methods: We conducted a multicenter chart review of all patients treated with NAC for acetaminophen poisoning.

Health and safety issues relating to Maine's fishing industry.

The Maine Agricultural Safety and Health Program performed a needs assessment to determine the health and safety concerns of Maine's fishing community. Information for the assessment was obtained from clinicians, focus groups of wives of fishers, and government agencies. Reports from the United States Coast Guard showed that during 1993-1994, sixty-five people were injured on commercial fishing vessels and eight people died.