To assess aquatic toxicity of natural wetlands in the Athabasca oil sands region (AOSR) of northern Alberta, fifteen collected water samples were tested for their ability to affect survival and development of fathead minnow embryos. Wetland waters were also assessed for toxicants from natural oil sands bitumen deposits (Na, Cl, metals, naphthenic acids (NAs), naphthenic acid fraction compounds (NAFCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and alkylated PAHs). Water samples from four wetlands caused toxicity to fish embryos.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSUMMARYBlood cultures (BCs) are one of the critical tests used to detect bloodstream infections. BC results are not 100% specific. Interpretation of BC results is often complicated by detecting microbial contamination rather than true infection.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSUMMARYClinical medicine has embraced the use of evidence for patient treatment decisions; however, the evaluation strategy for evidence in laboratory medicine practices has lagged. It was not until the end of the 20th century that the Institute of Medicine (IOM), now the National Academy of Medicine, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Laboratory Systems (CDC DLS), focused on laboratory tests and how testing processes can be designed to benefit patient care. In collaboration with CDC DLS, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) used an evidence review method developed by the CDC DLS to develop a program for creating laboratory testing guidelines and practices.
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