Pre-analytical variation in alanine aminotransferase.

To determine the effect of pre-analytical variation of alanine aminotransferase in blood specimens with normal activity concentrations of this enzyme, we stored serum and whole blood samples at 4 and 22 degrees C and assayed aliquots of each specimen at intervals up to 72 h. Analysis of variance revealed no statistically significant increase or decrease in activity of the enzyme for up to 72 h in either specimen type, whether stored at room temperature or refrigerated.

Comparison of the Cathra Repliscan II, the AutoMicrobic system Gram-Negative General Susceptibility-Plus Card, and the Micro-Media System Fox Panel for dilution susceptibility testing of gram-negative bacilli.

A comparative evaluation was done to test the accuracy of the Cathra Repliscan II agar dilution system (Diagnostic Equipment, Inc., St. Paul, Minn.