The covariance environment defines cellular niches for spatial inference.

A key challenge of analyzing data from high-resolution spatial profiling technologies is to suitably represent the features of cellular neighborhoods or niches. Here we introduce the covariance environment (COVET), a representation that leverages the gene-gene covariate structure across cells in the niche to capture the multivariate nature of cellular interactions within it. We define a principled optimal transport-based distance metric between COVET niches that scales to millions of cells.

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.

Developmental validation of the GlobalFiler(®) express kit, a 24-marker STR assay, on the RapidHIT(®) System.

Rapid DNA typing provides a transformative solution to help forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies solve and prevent crimes. The RapidHIT(®) System is a fully integrated instrument with a simplified user interface enabling an operator to run the system and obtain a DNA profile from a sample in less than two hours. The integration and developmental validation of the NDIS-approved 24 loci GlobalFiler(®) Express kit expands the capabilities of the RapidHIT System to increase discrimination power, reduce adventitious matches, and improve cross-border data sharing capabilities.

Internal quality control and external quality assurance in testing for antiphospholipid antibodies: Part I--Anticardiolipin and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies.

Over 30 years since it was first described as a discrete clinical entity, the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) remains a challenge for both laboratory workers and clinicians in a wide range of specialties. In addition to the presence of appropriate clinical features, the diagnosis of APS also fundamentally requires the finding of positive antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) test result(s), which comprise clot-based assays for the identification of lupus anticoagulant (LA) and immunologic ("solid-phase") assays such as anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies (aβ2GPI). This article is the first of two that review the process for, and provides recommendations to improve, internal quality control (IQC) and external quality assurance (EQA; or proficiency testing) for aPL assays.

Recommendations for standardized reporting of protein electrophoresis in Australia and New Zealand.

Background: Although protein electrophoresis of serum (SPEP) and urine (UPEP) specimens is a well-established laboratory technique, the reporting of results using this important method varies considerably between laboratories. The Australasian Association of Clinical Biochemists recognized a need to adopt a standardized approach to reporting SPEP and UPEP by clinical laboratories.

Methods: A Working Party considered available data including published literature and clinical studies, together with expert opinion in order to establish optimal reporting practices.