Education and training of clinical and translational study investigators and research coordinators: A competency-based approach.

Introduction: Training for the clinical research workforce does not sufficiently prepare workers for today's scientific complexity; deficiencies may be ameliorated with training. The Enhancing Clinical Research Professionals' Training and Qualifications developed competency standards for principal investigators and clinical research coordinators.

Methods: Clinical and Translational Science Awards representatives refined competency statements.

Enhancing Clinical Research Professionals' Training and Qualifications (ECRPTQ): Recommendations for Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training for investigators and study coordinators.

Introduction: The translation of discoveries to drugs, devices, and behavioral interventions requires well-prepared study teams. Execution of clinical trials remains suboptimal due to varied quality in design, execution, analysis, and reporting. A critical impediment is inconsistent, or even absent, competency-based training for clinical trial personnel.

Effects of fluid load on human urine characteristics related to workplace drug testing.

During workplace drug testing, urine is tested for dilution, substitution and adulteration. Donors argue that these findings are due to medical, health or working conditions or diet and genetic differences. There is a paucity of data correlating changes in urine characteristics after a fluid load to various body parameters.

Pressure ulcers and endothelial dysfunction: is there a link?

Pressure ulcers were first described in the medical literature in the mid-16th century. Today, in the 21st century, pressure ulcers continue to cause pain and suffering to patients and increase the cost of medical care. Researchers and clinicians have used significant time and money to develop prevention and treatment strategies for pressure ulcers.

Obesity in the elderly: survival of the fit or fat.

Obesity is an important health problem for the growing elderly segment of the population. Age-related changes in body composition should be taken into account when considering morbidity. Today, sarcopenic obesity, which is defined as excess fat with loss of lean body mass, is a highly prevalent problem.