bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrative model of recruitment source processes and effects
Authors: Horvath Michael
Published: October 2014

Recruitment sources, the means through which job seekers learn about organizations and job openings, are related to many organizational and job seeker outcomes. However, although many mechanisms have been proposed to explain recruitment source effects, each mechanism appears to address only one part of a larger process. Our theoretical understanding of this phenomenon is limited by the lack of a comprehensive model integrating these perspectives, and such an integration is possible by differentiating among the ways that job seekers use recruitment sources. In this article, I outline three distinct functions of recruitment source use. I then propose a model that integrates these functions with the proposed mechanisms and show how the model can be used as a springboard for increasing our theoretical understanding of the phenomenon and advancing future empirical research on the topic.
Comparison of the effects of intra-articular sole ropivacaine and combined ketorolac and ropivacaine for pain control after knee arthroscopy surgery
Authors: Rokhtabnak Faranak , Ale Bouyeh Mahmood Reza , Seyed Siamdust Alireza , Masoomshahi Mehdi , Aghajani Marjan
Published: October 2014

Introduction:

Effective pain relief is important after arthroscopic knee surgery to permit initiation of daily activities of life. This study is performed in order to investigate the effect of multi-model therapy for pain control after surgery. This clinical, randomized and double-blind trial is conducted on patients who get knee arthroscopy surgery.

Methods:

Of these patients, 40 were divided into two groups by Block Randomization method: 1 − sole ropivacaine group (150 mg); 2 − combined ketorolac (30 mg); and ropivacain (150 mg) group. These drugs were injected intra-articularly at the end of knee arthroscopic surgery. The first consequence including measurement of pain severity after entrance to recovery room and 2, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 hours after surgery were evaluated according to the visual analogue pain score. The second consequence, including nausea, vomiting and sedation, was assessed by expert nurses in the recovery room and surgery part according to nausea and vomiting scale and Ramsay sedation scale, respectively.

Results:

All groups had excellent analgesia at 0 and 4 hours, postoperatively. Group-combined ketorolac and ropivacaine had significantly lower visual analogue pain score as well as higher sedative scale at 8, 12, 18 and 24 hours after surgery at rest and during movement compared with the other group (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was no statistical difference between groups in regard of nausea and vomiting.

Conclusion:

Addition of ketolorac to ropivacaine intra-articularly in arthroscopic knee surgery enhances analgesic efficacy of local anaesthetics and cause more sedation after surgery.
Assessment of Proper Medication Inhaler Technique in Adult Patients
Authors: Steinberg Michael , Pervanas Helen
Published: October 2014

Background: Many medications used to manage pulmonary disease are delivered via unique inhalation devices. Proper technique in using these devices is required for effective medication delivery. Objective: To assess the degree of proper inhaler technique among adult patients. Methods: Patients using inhalers were identified and then interviewed by pharmacy personnel regarding inhaler use. Checklists were used to document the adherence to manufacturers’ directions for each respective inhaler, and data were then tabulated and assessed for the number and types of inhalers used, incorrectly performed steps in using the inhalers, as well as demographic information of patients. Results: Of the 129 patients that were interviewed, a total of 212 inhalers were used. Twenty-five percent of inhalers (/212) were used incorrectly, with the 3 most common errors being improper priming or lack of test sprays, lack of proper exhalation prior to inhaling the medication, and absence or improper cleaning of inhalers. Furthermore, less than 4% of patients reported being instructed by a pharmacist on proper inhaler use. Conclusion: Inhaler technique among adult patients is substandard and is a key area for pharmacists to become more proactive in educating patients.
A Comparison of Nationally Ranked High Schools and Their Music Curricula
Authors: Kelly Steven N. , Heath Julia D.
Published: October 2014

This study compared selected musical, educational, and social characteristics of high schools ranked highest in Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report. Questions addressed were (a) How are the top-ranked schools similar or different in educational, musical, and social characteristics? (b) What music courses are offered at each high school? (c) What types of performances do the music classes present each year? (d) What (if any) are the qualifications for students to be enrolled in music classes at each school? (e) How many students are enrolled in each school and in the corresponding music classes? (f) How do the music programs reflect each school in general? Results of questionnaires indicated music programs were a viable curricular component of each school, including the International Baccalaureate and science, technology, engineering, and math campuses. Most schools and their music programs were educationally and culturally diverse. Music curricula were varied and considered important to the total school environment.
Music Educator Vacancies in Faith-Based K–12 Schools in the United States
Authors: Hash Phillip M.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to analyze and summarize characteristics of music educator vacancies in faith-based K–12 schools in the United States for the 2013–2014 academic year. Data extracted from placement notices and supplemental sources included demographic information, job responsibilities, and employment requirements for 153 listings in 41 states and the District of Columbia. The majority of openings sought music teachers capable of articulating a personal faith and working with multiple grade levels (elementary, middle school, high school) and content areas (general, choral, instrumental). Additional findings related to full-time equivalent status, nonmusic duties, and required/preferred applicant certification, experience, and faith/denominational membership. This research will help specify requirements and expectations for music teachers in faith-based schools to (a) identify qualified candidates, (b) aid potential applicants in the job search process, and (c) inform music teacher educators how best to advise and prepare students for these educational settings.
Bench-test comparison of 26 emergency and transport ventilators
Authors: L'Her Erwan , Roy Annie , Marjanovic Nicolas
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Numerous emergency and transport ventilators are commercialized and new generations arise constantly. The aim of this study was to evaluate a large panel of ventilators to allow clinicians to choose a device, taking into account their specificities of use.

Methods

This experimental bench-test took into account general characteristics and technical performances. Performances were assessed under different levels of FIO2 (100%, 50% or Air-Mix), respiratory mechanics (compliance 30,70,120 mL/cmH2O; resistance 5,10,20 cmH2O/mL/s), and levels of leaks (3.5 to 12.5 L/min), using a test lung.

Results

In total 26 emergency and transport ventilators were analyzed and classified into four categories (ICU-like, n = 5; Sophisticated, n = 10; Simple, n = 9; Mass-casualty and military, n = 2). Oxygen consumption (7.1 to 15.8 L/min at FIO2 100%) and the Air-Mix mode (FIO2 45 to 86%) differed from one device to the other. Triggering performance was heterogeneous, but several sophisticated ventilators depicted triggering capabilities as efficient as ICU-like ventilators. Pressurization was not adequate for all devices. At baseline, all the ventilators were able to synchronize, but with variations among respiratory conditions. Leak compensation in most ICU-like and 4/10 sophisticated devices was able to correct at least partially for system leaks, but with variations among ventilators.

Conclusion

Major differences were observed between devices and categories, either in terms of general characteristics or technical reliability, across the spectrum of operation. Huge variability of tidal volume delivery with some devices in response to modifications in respiratory mechanics and FIO2 should make clinicians question their use in the clinical setting.
A 'spicy' encephalopathy: synthetic cannabinoids as cause of encephalopathy and seizure
Authors: Louh Irene K , Freeman William D
Published: October 2014

No abstract
Anatomical localization of progenitor cells in human breast tissue reveals enrichment of uncommitted cells within immature lobules
Authors: Arendt Lisa M , Keller Patricia J , Skibinski Adam , Goncalves Kevin , Naber Stephen P , Buchsbaum Rachel J , Gilmore Hannah , Come Steven E , Kuperwasser Charlotte
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Lineage tracing studies in mice have revealed the localization and existence of lineage-restricted mammary epithelial progenitor cells that functionally contribute to expansive growth during puberty and differentiation during pregnancy. However, extensive anatomical differences between mouse and human mammary tissues preclude the direct translation of rodent findings to the human breast. Therefore, here we characterize the mammary progenitor cell hierarchy and identify the anatomic location of progenitor cells within human breast tissues.

Methods

Mammary epithelial cells (MECs) were isolated from disease-free reduction mammoplasty tissues and assayed for stem/progenitor activity in vitro and in vivo. MECs were sorted and evaluated for growth on collagen and expression of lineages markers. Breast lobules were microdissected and individually characterized based on lineage markers and steroid receptor expression to identify the anatomic location of progenitor cells. Spanning-tree progression analysis of density-normalized events (SPADE) was used to identify the cellular hierarchy of MECs within lobules from high-dimensional cytometry data.

Results

Integrating multiple assays for progenitor activity, we identified the presence of luminal alveolar and basal ductal progenitors. Further, we show that Type I lobules of the human breast were the least mature, demonstrating an unrestricted pattern of expression of luminal and basal lineage markers. Consistent with this, SPADE analysis revealed that immature lobules were enriched for basal progenitor cells, while mature lobules consisted of increased hierarchal complexity of cells within the luminal lineages.

Conclusions

These results reveal underlying differences in the human breast epithelial hierarchy and suggest that with increasing glandular maturity, the epithelial hierarchy also becomes more complex.
Curcumin inhibits breast cancer stem cell migration by amplifying the E-cadherin/β-catenin negative feedback loop
Authors: Mukherjee Shravanti , Mazumdar Minakshi , Chakraborty Samik , Manna Argha , Saha Shilpi , Khan Poulami , Bhattacharjee Pushpak , Guha Deblina , Adhikary Arghya , Mukhjerjee Sanhita , Das Tanya
Published: October 2014

Introduction

The existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has been associated with tumor initiation, therapy resistance, tumor relapse, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Curcumin, a plant ployphenol, has several anti-tumor effects and has been shown to target CSCs. Here, we aimed at evaluating (i) the mechanisms underlying the aggravated migration potential of breast CSCs (bCSCs) and (ii) the effects of curcumin in modulating the same.

Methods

The migratory behavior of MCF-7 bCSCs was assessed by using cell adhesion, spreading, transwell migration, and three-dimensional invasion assays. Stem cell characteristics were studied by using flow cytometry. The effects of curcumin on bCSCs were deciphered by cell viability assay, Western blotting, confocal microscopy, and small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated gene silencing. Evaluations of samples of patients with breast cancer were performed by using immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry.

Results

Here, we report that bCSCs are endowed with aggravated migration property due to the inherent suppression of the tumor suppressor, E-cadherin, which is restored by curcumin. A search for the underlying mechanism revealed that, in bCSCs, higher nuclear translocation of beta-catenin (i) decreases E-cadherin/beta-catenin complex formation and membrane retention of beta-catenin, (ii) upregulates the expression of its epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-promoting target genes (including Slug), and thereby (iii) downregulates E-cadherin transcription to subsequently promote EMT and migration of these bCSCs. In contrast, curcumin inhibits beta-catenin nuclear translocation, thus impeding trans-activation of Slug. As a consequence, E-cadherin expression is restored, thereby increasing E-cadherin/beta-catenin complex formation and cytosolic retention of more beta-catenin to finally suppress EMT and migration of bCSCs.

Conclusions

Cumulatively, our findings disclose that curcumin inhibits bCSC migration by amplifying E-cadherin/beta-catenin negative feedback loop.
Dose-Intensive Response-Based Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy for Children and Adolescents With Newly Diagnosed Intermediate-Risk Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group Study AHOD0031
Authors: Friedman Debra L. , Chen Lu , Wolden Suzanne , Buxton Allen , McCarten Kathleen , FitzGerald Thomas J. , Kessel Sandra , De Alarcon Pedro A. , Chen Allen R. , Kobrinsky Nathan , Ehrlich Peter , Hutchison Robert E. , Constine Louis S. , Schwartz Cindy L.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

The Children's Oncology Group study AHOD0031, a randomized phase III study, was designed to evaluate the role of early chemotherapy response in tailoring subsequent therapy in pediatric intermediate-risk Hodgkin lymphoma. To avoid treatment-associated risks that compromise long-term health and to maintain high cure rates, dose-intensive chemotherapy with limited cumulative doses was used.

Patients and Methods

Patients received two cycles of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vincristine, etoposide, cyclophosphamide, and prednisone (ABVE-PC) followed by response evaluation. Rapid early responders (RERs) received two additional ABVE-PC cycles, followed by complete response (CR) evaluation. RERs with CR were randomly assigned to involved-field radiotherapy (IFRT) or no additional therapy; RERs with less than CR were nonrandomly assigned to IFRT. Slow early responders (SERs) were randomly assigned to receive two additional ABVE-PC cycles with or without two cycles of dexamethasone, etoposide, cisplatin, and cytarabine (DECA). All SERs were assigned to receive IFRT.

Results

Among 1,712 eligible patients, 4-year event-free survival (EFS) was 85.0%: 86.9% for RERs and 77.4% for SERs (P < .001). Four-year overall survival was 97.8%: 98.5% for RERs and 95.3% for SERs (P < .001). Four-year EFS was 87.9% versus 84.3% (P = .11) for RERs with CR who were randomly assigned to IFRT versus no IFRT, and 86.7% versus 87.3% (P = .87) for RERs with positron emission tomography (PET) –negative results at response assessment. Four-year EFS was 79.3% versus 75.2% (P = .11) for SERs who were randomly assigned to DECA versus no DECA, and 70.7% versus 54.6% (P = .05) for SERs with PET-positive results at response assessment.

Conclusion

This trial demonstrated that early response assessment supported therapeutic titration (omitting radiotherapy in RERs with CR; augmenting chemotherapy in SERs with PET-positive disease). Strategies directed toward improved response assessment and risk stratification may enhance tailoring of treatment to patient characteristics and response.
Effect of Radiotherapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery for Ductal Carcinoma in Situ: 20 Years Follow-Up in the Randomized SweDCIS Trial
Authors: Wärnberg Fredrik , Garmo Hans , Emdin Stefan , Hedberg Veronica , Adwall Linda , Sandelin Kerstin , Ringberg Anita , Karlsson Per , Arnesson Lars-Gunnar , Anderson Harald , Jirström Karin , Holmberg Lars
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Four randomized studies show that adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) lowers the risk of subsequent ipsilateral breast events (IBEs) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) by approximately 50% after 10 to 15 years. We present 20 years of follow-up data for the SweDCIS trial.

Patients and Methods

Between 1987 and 1999 1,046 women were randomly assigned to RT or not after BCS for primary DCIS. Results up to 2005 have been published, and we now add another 7 years of follow-up. All breast cancer events and causes of death were registered.

Results

There were 129 in situ and 129 invasive IBEs. Absolute risk reduction in the RT arm was 12.0% at 20 years (95% CI, 6.5 to 17.7), with a relative risk reduction of 37.5%. Absolute reduction was 10.0% (95% CI, 6.0 to 14.0) for in situ and 2.0% (95% CI, −3.0 to 7.0) for invasive IBEs. There was a nonstatistically significantly increased number of contralateral events in the RT arm (67 v 48 events; hazard ratio, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.95 to 2.00). Breast cancer–specific death and overall survival were not influenced. Younger women experienced a relatively higher risk of invasive IBE and lower effect of RT. The hazard over time looked different for in situ and invasive IBEs.

Conclusion

Use of adjuvant RT is supported by 20-year follow-up. Modest protection against invasive recurrences and a possible increase in contralateral cancers still call for a need to find groups of patients for whom RT could be avoided or mastectomy with breast reconstruction is indicated.
Molecular Testing for Selection of Patients With Lung Cancer for Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: American Society of Clinical Oncology Endorsement of the College of American Pathologists/International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer/Association for Molecular Pathology Guideline
Authors: Leighl Natasha B. , Rekhtman Natasha , Biermann William A. , Huang James , Mino-Kenudson Mari , Ramalingam Suresh S. , West Howard , Whitlock Sara , Somerfield Mark R.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

The College of American Pathologists (CAP), the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), and the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) guideline on molecular testing for the selection of patients with lung cancer for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) tyrosine kinase inhibitors was considered for endorsement.

Methods

American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) staff reviewed the CAP/IASLC/AMP guideline for developmental rigor; an ASCO ad hoc review panel of experts reviewed the guideline content.

Results

The ASCO panel concurred that the recommendations are clear, thorough, and based on the most relevant scientific evidence in this content area and present options that will be acceptable to patients. The CAP/IASLC/AMP guideline comprises 37 recommendations (evidence grade A or B), expert consensus opinions, or suggestions that address the following five principal questions: (1) When should molecular testing be performed? (2) How should EGFR testing be performed? (3) How should ALK testing be performed? (4) Should other genes be routinely tested in lung adenocarcinoma? (5) How should molecular testing be implemented and operationalized?

Conclusion

The ASCO review panel endorses the CAP/IASLC/AMP guideline. This guideline represents an important advance toward standardization of EGFR and ALK testing practices and is of major clinical relevance in advancing the care of patients with lung cancer. In the Discussion section, the ASCO review panel highlights three evolving areas: advances in ALK testing methodology, considerations for selecting appropriate populations for molecular testing, and emergence of other targetable molecular alterations.
Removal of Plasma Mature and Furin-Cleaved Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 9 by Low-Density Lipoprotein-Apheresis in Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Development and Application of a New Assay for PCSK9
Authors: Hori Mika , Ishihara Mitsuaki , Yuasa Yumiko , Makino Hisashi , Yanagi Koji , Tamanaha Tamiko , Kishimoto Ichiro , Kujiraoka Takeshi , Hattori Hiroaki , Harada-Shiba Mariko
Published: October 2014

Context:

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is known to be a good target to decrease LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and two forms of PCSK9, mature and furin-cleaved PCSK9, circulate in blood. However, it has not been clarified whether and how the levels of each PCSK9 are affected by LDL-apheresis (LDL-A) treatment, a standard therapy in patients with severe forms of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH).

Objective:

Our objective was to investigate the differences in LDL-A-induced reduction of mature and furin-cleaved PCSK9 between homozygous and heterozygous FH, and between dextran sulfate (DS) cellulose adsorption and double membrane (DM) columns and to clarify the mechanism of their removal.

Design:

A sandwich ELISA to measure two forms of PCSK9s using monoclonal antibodies was developed. Using the ELISA, PCSK9 levels were quantified before and after LDL-A with DS columns in 7 homozygous and 11 heterozygous FH patients. A crossover study between the two column types was performed. The profiles of PCSK9s were analyzed after fractionation by gel filtration chromatography. Immunoprecipitation of apolipoprotein B (apoB) in FH plasma was performed.

Results:

Both mature and furin-cleaved PCSK9s were significantly decreased by 55–56% in FH homozygotes after a single LDL-A treatment with DS columns, and by 46–48% or 48–56% in FH heterozygotes after treatment with DS or DM columns. The reduction ratios of LDL-C were strongly correlated with that of PCSK9 in both FH homozygotes and heterozygotes. In addition, more than 80% of plasma PCSK9s were in the apoB-deficient fraction and a significant portion of mature PCSK9 was bound to apoB, as shown by immunoprecipitation.

Conclusions:

Both mature and furin-cleaved PCSK9s were removed by LDL-A in homozygous and heterozygous FH either by binding to apoB or by other mechanisms. The ELISA method to measure both forms of plasma PCSK9 would be useful for investigating physiological or pathological roles of PCSK9.
Syntheses of Geometrical Isomers for Comparison of Properties Caused by Steric and Electronic Effects in Carbonylruthenium(II) Complexes
Authors: Oyama Dai , Yuzuriya Kazumi , Naoi Ryutaro , Hamada Takashi , Takase Tsugiko
Published: October 2014

Both stereoisomers of the novel ruthenium complex [Ru(tpy)(pynp)(CO)]2+ containing 2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine (tpy), a terminal carbonyl, and the unsymmetrical bidentate naphthyridine ligand 2-(2-pyridyl)-1,8-naphthyridine (pynp) were selectively synthesized. In addition, two more ruthenium complexes [Ru(ptpy)(pynp)(CO)]2+ containing 4′-phenyl-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine (ptpy) instead of tpy were also prepared. These complexes were fully characterized and their molecular structures were determined by X-ray crystallography. Some obvious differences between the isomers were revealed by the structural, computational, and spectroscopic results. Furthermore, redox properties and carbonyl ligand-based reactions of these four complexes were examined to evaluate the steric and electronic effects of the other ligands on the carbonyl reactivity. Both effects, based on the structural differences, exerted a large influence on the reactivity.
Nab-Paclitaxel and Carboplatin (Nab-PC) Regimen for Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Mancheril Benjamin G. , Waddell J. Aubrey , Solimando Dominic A.
Published: October 2014

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Formulary Selection Criteria for Biosimilars: Considerations for US Health-System Pharmacists
Authors: Griffith Niesha , McBride Ali , Stevenson James G. , Green Larry
Published: October 2014

Pharmacists will play a key role in evaluating biosimilars for formulary inclusion in the United States. As defined by US law, a biosimilar is a biologic that is highly similar to its reference product, notwithstanding minor differences in clinically inactive components, and should not have clinically meaningful differences from its reference product in safety, purity, and potency. We review biosimilars and the current European Union and US regulatory pathways for biosimilars. Furthermore, we propose a checklist of considerations to ensure that US pharmacists thoroughly evaluate future biosimilars for formulary inclusion. Included in the checklist are considerations related to the availability of preapproval and postapproval safety and efficacy data; differences in product characteristics and immunogenicity between the biosimilar and reference product; manufacturer-related parameters that can affect a reliable supply of quality products; health-system and patient perspectives on product packaging, labeling, storage, and administration; costs and insurance coverage; patient education; interchangeability and differences in the range of indications; and evaluation of institutions' information technology systems.
A Quantitative Evaluation of Medication Histories and Reconciliation by Discipline
Authors: Kramer Joan S. , Stewart Michael R. , Fogg Sarah M. , Schminke Brandon C. , Zackula Rosalee E. , Nester Tina M. , Eidem Leslie A. , Rosendale James C. , Ragan Robert H. , Bond Jack A. , Goertzen Kreg W.
Published: October 2014

Background/Objective

Medication reconciliation at transitions of care decreases medication errors, hospitalizations, and adverse drug events. We compared inpatient medication histories and reconciliation across disciplines and evaluated the nature of discrepancies.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study of patients admitted from the emergency department at our 760-bed hospital. Eligible patients had their medication histories conducted and reconciled in order by the admitting nurse (RN), certified pharmacy technician (CPhT), and pharmacist (RPh). Discharge medication reconciliation was not altered. Admission and discharge discrepancies were categorized by discipline, error type, and drug class and were assigned a criticality index score. A discrepancy rating system systematically measured discrepancies.

Results

Of 175 consented patients, 153 were evaluated. Total admission and discharge discrepancies were 1,461 and 369, respectively. The average number of medications per participant at admission was 8.59 (1,314) with 9.41 (1,374) at discharge. Most discrepancies were committed by RNs: 53.2% (777) at admission and 56.1% (207) at discharge. The majority were omitted or incorrect. RNs had significantly higher admission discrepancy rates per medication (0.59) compared with CPhTs (0.36) and RPhs (0.16) ( P < .001). RPhs corrected significantly more discrepancies per participant than RNs (6.39 vs 0.48; P < .001); average criticality index reduction was 79.0%. Estimated prevented adverse drug events (pADEs) cost savings were $589,744.

Conclusions

RPhs committed the fewest discrepancies compared with RNs and CPhTs, resulting in more accurate medication histories and reconciliation. RPh involvement also prevented the greatest number of medication errors, contributing to considerable pADE-related cost savings.
Interstitial Pneumonitis from Treatment with Gemcitabine
Authors: Poole Brolin B. , Hamilton Leslie A. , Brockman Megan M. , Byrd Debbie C.
Published: October 2014

Introduction

The use of gemcitabine may lead to numerous adverse effects ranging from mild to very severe, such as interstitial pneumonitis. The diagnosis of this complication is based on multiple laboratory findings, radiographic evidence, and high clinical suspicion. Presented is a case report of a patient who met these criteria and had onset consistent with drug-induced interstitial pneumonitis.

Case Presentation

A 76-year-old White female was treated with gemcitabine for pancreatic cancer. Two months after the initiation of therapy, she was admitted to the hospital for worsening dyspnea and cough. High clinical suspicion, bilateral interstitial opacities on chest x-ray, worsening pulmonary status, and onset 2 months after initiation of therapy led to the diagnosis of gemcitabine-induced interstitial pneumonitis. Steroid therapy with prednisone was initiated, and the patient's clinical symptoms and radiographic findings improved.

Discussion

Gemcitabine-induced interstitial pneumonitis is well described in the literature. It is a rare but serious complication associated with gemcitabine therapy in which patients present with worsening dyspnea. Most patients only require supportive care and discontinuation of the drug for treatment, but in severe cases supplemental oxygen and steroid therapy must be used before resolution of symptoms. It is important to obtain an accurate medication history to evaluate for other potentially pulmonary toxic medications. Radiographic findings such as bilateral infiltrates should be completely resolved after therapy.

Conclusion

Radiographic findings, clinical symptoms, and clinical suspicion can lead to early recognition of interstitial pneumonitis from gemcitabine. Physician awareness of this adverse effect and early recognition are keys to providing prompt treatment in resolving symptoms and decreasing mortality.
Dalbavancin
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Ingram Kyle , Baker Danial E.
Published: October 2014

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available on-line. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. A drug class review is now published monthly with The Formulary Monograph Service. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The October 2014 monograph topics are ortitavancin diphosphate, insulin human inhalation powder, empaglifozin, efinaconazole topical solution, 10%, and tavaborole topical solution, 5%. The DUE/MUE is on oritavancin diphosphate.
Approvals, Submission, and Important Labeling Changes for US Marketed Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: October 2014

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications, dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, if there are any questions, please let me know at danial.baker@wsu.edu .
Should Health System Pharmacists Keep up with the Meaningful Use Staging Process?
Authors: Felkey Bill G. , Fox Brent I.
Published: October 2014

Are the efforts of the nation's hospitals to implement electronic health records (EHRs) relevant to pharmacists? We believe they are. As we write another installment on the topic, we suggest that pharmacists have an important role in their institutions' efforts toward meaningful use of EHRs.
Chemical composition, antibacterial and antifungal activities of the Cedrus atlantica (Endl.) Manettiex CarriÃ¨re seeds essential oil
Authors: Rhafouri Rachid , Strani Badr , Zair Touria , Ghanmi Mohamed , Aafi Abderrahman , El Omari Mohamed , Bentayeb Amar
Published: October 2014

The Atlas cedar is an endemic species of the African North Mountains. The goal for which this work was conducted is to determine the chemical composition and to study the antibacterial and the antifungal activity of the hydrodistilized essential oil from both the winged and wingless seeds of the High Atlas Cedrus atlantica (Morocco). The essential oil is analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The essential oil yields of winged as well as wingless seeds were respectively 2.6% and 3.6%.The main constituents of the cedar wingless seeds are the Î±-pinene, the manool, and the bornyl acetate; whereas, the major constituents of the cedar winged seeds are the manool and the Î±-pinene. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of the essential oils were tested on four bacteria, three molds and four fungi of wood rot. The fungal strains tested were revealed more sensitive to the essential oil studied than the bacterial strains.
Snapshot Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Descour M.R. , Volin C.E. , Ford B.K. , Dereniak E.L. , Maker P.D. , Wilson D.W.
Published: October 2014

Hyperspectral imaging associates a densely sampled spectral signature with each pixel in an imager’s field of view. The collected image data are in the form of a three-dimensional data set, i.e., an image cube. The image cube is also referred to as a hypercube or an object cube.
Wavefront Coding Optical System Design
Authors: Prischepa Inga A. , Dowski Edward R.
Published: October 2014

In this paper a new technique for a new optical/digital system design is discussed. Wavefront Coding method is used to incorporate commercial optical/design software and custom-built software package to optimize digital imaging.
Wavefront coding extends the depth of field in high numerical aperture brightfield, phase and interference contrast microscopy
Authors: Cogswell Carol J.
Published: October 2014

Microscope modes that traditionally modify the back aperture of the imaging objective (such as phase contrast) can now be modified with a custom wavefront coding element to increase the depth of field of the system.
Spatial tomography and coherence microscopy
Authors: Brady David J. , Potuluri Prasant
Published: October 2014

We describe a methodology for integrated computational imaging system design based on source specification, cross-spectral transformations and tomography. We consider design examples based on local and nonlocal measures of incoherent primary sources.
Extreme Physical Information and Superresolution
Authors: Frieden B.Roy , Celaya José
Published: October 2014

The principle of Extreme Physical Information (EPI) permits the derivation of physical probability density functions (PDF’s). Consider the flow of Fisher information J→I from object to data space that takes place during a measurement. This obeys the dual effect I–J = extrem., I–κJ = 0, κ = const., whose variational solution is the PDF. An optical object profile o(x) may be regarded as a PDF whose ”derivation” is its restoration. We show how EPI may be applied to numerically restore optical objects in this way.
Statistical solution to the two-point resolution problem
Authors: Barbastathis George
Published: October 2014

We compute the mutual information between object and image in a two-point imaging system with exponential intensity statistics. We show that the achievable resolution is better than that predicted by Rayleigh resolution theory and Gaussian statistics.
Current Status and Future Potential of CMOS Image Sensors
Authors: Fossum Eric R.
Published: October 2014

This presentation will discuss the current status of CMOS image sensors, including consumer products, high speed video capture, machine vision, medical (such as the low- power, swallowable pill-camera), and biometric applications. The second portion of the presentation will address the future potential of these sensors in other systems. A brief tutorial on how these sensors work and differ from their CCD ancestors will also be presented.
Overview of active, multi-dimensional sensing
Authors: Watson Edward A. , McManamon Paul F.
Published: October 2014

“Active” sensors (systems that employ lasers as an illumination source) have several advantages. In particular, multiple phenomenologies can be measured. This paper describes the types of measurements possible and the required source and receiver components.
Image Processing in Radio Astronomy
Authors: Cornwell T.J.
Published: October 2014

Image Processing has enabled large improvements in the performance of radio telescopes. Non-linear deconvolution and adaptive (self-) calibration techniques were developed in radio astronomy in the seventies and eighties. These processing techniques are now part of the standard tool kit used by any radio astronomer. In addition, these techniques have influenced the design of new telescopes. In the last decade, computing technology has enabled the development of similar but substantially more powerful image processing techniques. Moore’s Law has enabled larger problems to be solved, and object-oriented software techniques have enabled more physically realistic descriptions of radio telescopes to be used as a basis for image processing. I describe how these changes are being exploited to allow new processing methods on an unprecedented scale.
Entertainment venues, spatial relations and the rise of cinema in early twentieth-century Madrid
Authors: Guadano Luis
Published: October 2014

By the turn of the twentieth century, the geography of public entertainment in Madrid allowed and promoted the flow of audiences from high-class theatres and cafes to lower-class venues. As a result, theatres and movie theatres started copying and including successful elements and acts from competing shows to attract the audience. This article will focus on two elements which set the conditions for the rise of Spanish film as hegemonic spectacle: the spatial proximity of different entertainment options in downtown Madrid and the creation of a homogeneous audience through the erasure of differences between venues and shows due to the competition for spectators. Within this context and through the adaptation and incorporation of elements from other popular and successful genres, Spanish film will establish itself as an independent spectacle, with its own strategies of representation and venues, in the early 1930s.
Book Reviews
Authors: Shaw Lisa , Pérez Jorge , Lázaro-Reboll Antonio , Thornton Dr Niamh
Published: October 2014

New Argentine and Brazilian Cinema: Reality Effects, Jens Andermann and Álvaro Fernández Bravo (eds) (2013) New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 228 pp., ISBN 978-1-137-30482-7 (hbk), £57.50

Spanish Queer Cinema, Chris Perriam (2013) Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 192 pp., ISBN 978-07486-6586-0 (hbk), £65

Spanish Practices: Literature, Cinema, Television, Paul Julian Smith (2012) Oxford: Legenda, x + 166 pp., ISBN 978-1-907975-04-2 (hbk), £45

Screening the Americas/Proyectando las Américas: Narration of Nation in Documentary Film/Narración de la nación en el cine documental, Josef Raab, Sebastian Thies and Daniela Noll-Opitz (eds) (2011) Trier, Germany and Tempe, Arizona: Wissenschaftlicher Verlag Trier and Bilingual Press/Editorial Bilingue, 460 pp., ISBN 978-3868213317, EUR 29.50 (pbk)
I-FABP and L-FABP are early markers for abdominal injury with limited prognostic value for secondary organ failures in the post-traumatic course
Authors: Voth Maika , Holzberger Sebastian , Auner Birgit , Henrich Dirk , Marzi Ingo , Relja Borna
Published: October 2014

Trauma patients sustaining abdominal trauma exhibit high risk of organ failure and/or sepsis aggravating morbidity and mortality during the post-traumatic course. The present study re-evaluates L- and I-FABPs (small fatty acid binding proteins) as early biomarkers for abdominal injury (AI) in a large cohort of patients and analyzes their potential as indicators of specific organ failure and their association with sepsis and/or mortality in the post-traumatic course.

This prospective study included 134 multiply traumatized patients (ISS≥16). Fifty-nine had AI (abbreviated AI Scale, AIS

Median L- and I-FABP in the AI-group [258 (IQR=71–500) ng/mL and 328 (IQR=148–640) pg/mL, respectively] were higher compared to noAI-group [30 (IQR=18–50) ng/mL and 60 (IQR=40–202) pg/mL, p>0.05] on d0. Sensitivity and specificity to detect AI were 80% and 75% for L-FABP, 78% and 62% for I-FABP. Both FABPs decline with the post-traumatic course to control levels. On d0 and d1, FABPs correlate with the Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score of the following day (d0:

Our results confirm the potential of L- and I-FABP to indicate abdominal injuries initially after trauma. Except L-FABP as indicator of acute kidney failure both FABPs have to be further evaluated as predictors for other organ failures, sepsis and/or mortality.
Growth and L
δ-approximation of solutions of the Helmholtz equation in a finite disk
Authors: Kumar Devendra , Basu Anindita
Published: October 2014

In this paper we study the growth and L
δ-approximation, 1 ≤ δ ≤ ∞, of solutions (not necessarily entire) of Helmholtz-type equations. Moreover, we obtain the characterization of order and type of H ∈ HR
, 0 < R < ∞, in terms of decay of approximation errors En
(H,R
0) and

E

n
,
δ

i

(
H
,

R
0

)

$E^{i}_{n,\delta } (H,R_0)$

, i = 1,2. Our results extend and improve the results obtained by McCoy [J. Approx. Theory 25 (1979), 153–168].
Targeted Learning of the Mean Outcome under an Optimal Dynamic Treatment Rule
Authors: van der Laan Mark J. , Luedtke Alexander R.
Published: October 2014

We consider estimation of and inference for the mean outcome under the optimal dynamic two time-point treatment rule defined as the rule that maximizes the mean outcome under the dynamic treatment, where the candidate rules are restricted to depend only on a user-supplied subset of the baseline and intermediate covariates. This estimation problem is addressed in a statistical model for the data distribution that is nonparametric beyond possible knowledge about the treatment and censoring mechanism. This contrasts from the current literature that relies on parametric assumptions. We establish that the mean of the counterfactual outcome under the optimal dynamic treatment is a pathwise differentiable parameter under conditions, and develop a targeted minimum loss-based estimator (TMLE) of this target parameter. We establish asymptotic linearity and statistical inference for this estimator under specified conditions. In a sequentially randomized trial the statistical inference relies upon a second-order difference between the estimator of the optimal dynamic treatment and the optimal dynamic treatment to be asymptotically negligible, which may be a problematic condition when the rule is based on multivariate time-dependent covariates. To avoid this condition, we also develop TMLEs and statistical inference for data adaptive target parameters that are defined in terms of the mean outcome under the estimate of the optimal dynamic treatment. In particular, we develop a novel cross-validated TMLE approach that provides asymptotic inference under minimal conditions, avoiding the need for any empirical process conditions. We offer simulation results to support our theoretical findings.
Synthesis, characterization and time dependent phase transformation of Li0.4WO3 bronze
Authors: Rahman Md. Shahidur , Murshed M. Mangir , Gesing Thorsten M.
Published: October 2014

Lithium tungsten bronzes with a nominal composition of Li0.4WO3 were synthesized by solid state reactions in silica tubes at 973 K and various low pressures. Samples were characterized using X-ray single crystal and powder diffraction, and neutron powder diffraction. The air pressure inside the sealed quartz tubes played roles for the formation of Li0.4WO3 phases with different symmetries. Whereas using a pressure of 10–7 MPa a pure body centered cubic (Im

3
¯

$\bar 3$

) tungsten bronze was formed, at higher pressures (>10–7 MPa) a mixture of Im

3
¯

$\bar 3$

and primitive cubic (Pm

3
¯

$\bar 3$

m) perovskite tungsten bronzes were observed with pressure dependent phase fractions. While keeping the synthesized samples under open atmospheric conditions the Im

3
¯

$\bar 3$

phase gradually transformed into a tetragonal perovskite (P4/nmm) tungsten bronze. The slow cubic into tetragonal phase transformation has been explained in terms of the mobility of lithium within two different crystallographic sites.
Recent Developments in High-Strength Stainless Steels for Corrosion Mitigation in Prestressed Concrete
Authors: Moser Robert D. , Singh Preet M. , Kahn Lawrence F. , Kurtis Kimberly E.
Published: October 2014

The utilization of stainless steels for corrosion mitigation in prestressed concrete is a topic that has received little attention in the literature. Previous work conducted on high-strength stainless steels has shown that austenitic SAE 316 provides adequate resistance to pitting corrosion and environmentally assisted cracking (EAC). Austenitic SAE 304 was found to be susceptible to pitting corrosion and EAC. Duplex type 2205 has shown exceptional mechanical properties with high resistance to pitting corrosion and EAC. Recent research on these and other alloys including transitioning to the field portends their potential application as corrosion-resistant prestressing reinforcements in concrete structures.
Reinforcement Efficiency of Modified Carbon Nanofiber in High-Performance Concrete Nanocomposite
Authors: Peyvandi Amirpasha , Soroushian Parviz , Balachandra Anagi M.
Published: October 2014

Graphite nanomaterials offer distinct features for effective reinforcement of cementitious matrices in the pre-crack and post-crack ranges of behavior. In the work reported herein, carbon nanofiber was chosen for use in high-performance concrete. Synergistic actions of carbon nanofibers and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers in high-performance concrete were also investigated. Carbon nanofiber surfaces were modified by introduction of hydrophilic groups in order to improve their dispersion and interfacial interactions in cementitious matrices. An experimental program was conducted in order to assess the contributions of modified carbon nanofiber to diverse engineering properties of high-performance concrete. A statistical optimization program was implemented in order to identify optimum dosage of nano- and micro-scale reinforcement systems in high-performance concrete. The experimental results verified that optimum reinforcement systems comprised both carbon nanofiber and (micro-scale) PVA fiber. The gains in concrete engineering properties realized with optimum (nano- and micro-scale) reinforcement could not be matched by those provided by nano- or micro-scale reinforcement used alone. This finding supports the hypothesis that nano- and micro-scale reinforcement play complementary/synergistic roles in concrete by providing reinforcing effects at different scales and are also due to the benefits rendered by nanomaterials towards interfacial stress transfer and pullout behavior of fibers.
Ultrasonic Testing Transformation Model of High Performance Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composite
Authors: Xiangguo Wu , Yongchao Zou , Qun Yu
Published: October 2014

According to the homogeneous assumption of a material dispersed medium, a model named as an equivalent sandwich layer model was proposed in this paper for high performance fiber reinforced cementitious composite (HPFRCC). The velocity of ultrasonic waves in HPFRCC was transformed into the equivalent wave velocity value in normal mortar. The ultrasonic testing technique for HPFRCC was then constituted based on modern ultrasonic testing code. From the comparisons of strength between the model predictions and tests, it was shown that the ultrasonic testing method based on the sandwich layer model is feasible for HPFRCC. The model proposed in this paper may be a basis for the establishment of nondestructive testing technology for HPFRCC structures.