DNAxs/DNAStatistX: Development and validation of a software suite for the data management and probabilistic interpretation of DNA profiles.

The data management, interpretation and comparison of sets of DNA profiles can be complex, time-consuming and error-prone when performed manually. This, combined with the growing numbers of genetic markers in forensic identification systems calls for expert systems that can automatically compare genotyping results within (large) sets of DNA profiles and assist in profile interpretation. To that aim, we developed a user-friendly software program or DNA eXpert System that is denoted DNAxs.

Knowledge on DNA Success Rates to Optimize the DNA Analysis Process: From Crime Scene to Laboratory.

DNA analysis has become an essential intelligence tool in the criminal justice system for the identification of possible offenders. However, it appears that about half of the processed DNA samples contains too little DNA for analysis. This study looks at DNA success rates within 28 different categories of trace exhibits and relates the DNA concentration to the characteristics of the DNA profile.

Acquired von Willebrand syndrome: diagnostic problems and therapeutic options.

We present a case of acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) due to a monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. Initially this case was diagnosed as congenital von Willebrand disease (VWD); however, re-examination of the medical history rendered a congenital bleeding disorder unlikely. A normal plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) propeptide level and a very short half-life of VWF after a test infusion with factor VIII/VWF concentrate confirmed the diagnosis AVWS.