We describe a general solution to the problem of determining diagnostic accuracy without the use of a perfect reference standard and in the presence of interpreter variability. The accuracy of a diagnostic test is typically determined by comparing its outcomes with those of an established reference standard. But the accuracy of the standard itself and those of the interpreters strongly influenc...

New diagnostic tests are needed to facilitate the diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in the returned traveler. We performed a blinded evaluation of a nonisotopic colorimetric PCR-based assay (Digene SHARP Signal System) and compared the results with those obtained by microscopy and nested PCR for the detection of P. falciparum malaria in 150 febrile travelers. By using nested PCR as the...

A lyophilized serum chemistry reference standard containing constituents in the “abnormal” range has been evaluated for use as a proficiency standard. The findings indicate that it is a satisfactory material for such use and as a reference standard, provided that it is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions. Interferences contributing to inaccurate results in the analysis of bili...

In ancient days, Physicians having the comprehensive knowledge of Bhaishajya Kalpana, used to prepare the drugs themselves to treat their patients. So there was no doubt in obtaining genuine drug with desired therapeutic effect. But in recent years, the growing population and their life style, industrialization etc have forced physicians to depend on market preparations. As such we find the nec...

Within the context of screening tests, it is important to avoid misconceptions about sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. In this article, therefore, foundations are first established concerning these metrics along with the first of several aspects of pliability that should be recognized in relation to those metrics. Clarification is then provided about the definitions of sensitivit...

Fire and Gas (F&G) detection is an essential part of the mitigation system in facilities handling and storing flammable and toxic materials. While detector reliability might be very high, safety performance of a F&G system strongly depends on layout and coverage. Current reference standards for on-shore applications do not define the plant areas to be mapped, the coverage targets, and the refer...

BACKGROUND Currently over 50% of drugs prescribed to children have not been evaluated properly for use in their age group. One key reason why children have been excluded from clinical trials is that they are not considered able to exercise meaningful autonomy over the decision to participate. Dutch law states that competence to consent can be presumed present at the age of 12 and above; however...

Producing robust, certified, traceable reference material for autoantibody testing is a vital element in maintaining the validity of results that are generated in the daily clinical laboratory routine. This is a huge challenge because of the high number of variables involved in the detection and measurement of the autoantibodies. The production of such materials is time consuming and needs rigo...

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