bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Approximation of the Sum of Random Vectors by the Skew Normal Distribution
Authors: Christiansen Marcus C. , Loperfido Nicola
Published: June 2014

We study the properties of the multivariate skew normal distribution as an approximation to the distribution of the sum ofnindependent, identically distributed random vectors. More precisely, we establish conditions ensuring that the uniform distance between the two distribution functions converges to 0 at a rate ofn-2/3. The advantage over the corresponding normal approximation is particularly relevant when the summands are skewed andnis small, as illustrated for the special case of exponentially distributed random variables. Applications to some well-known multivariate distributions are also discussed.
On the Joint Distribution of Stopping Times and Stopped Sums in Multistate Exchangeable Trials
Authors: Boutsikas M. V. , Antzoulakos D. L. , Rakitzis A. C.
Published: June 2014

Let T be a stopping time associated with a sequence of independent and identically distributed or exchangeable random variables taking values in {0, 1, 2, …, m}, and let ST,i be the stopped sum denoting the number of appearances of outcome 'i' in X1, …, XT, 0 ≤ i ≤ m. In this paper we present results revealing that, if the distribution of T is known, then we can also derive the joint distribution of (T, ST,0, ST,1, …, ST,m). Two applications, which have independent interest, are offered to illustrate the applicability and the usefulness of the main results.
Parameter Dependent Optimal Thresholds, Indifference Levels and Inverse Optimal Stopping Problems
Authors: Klimmek Martin
Published: June 2014

Consider the classic infinite-horizon problem of stopping a one-dimensional diffusion to optimise between running and terminal rewards, and suppose that we are given a parametrised family of such problems. We provide a general theory of parameter dependence in infinite-horizon stopping problems for which threshold strategies are optimal. The crux of the approach is a supermodularity condition which guarantees that the family of problems is indexable by a set-valued map which we call the indifference map. This map is a natural generalisation of the allocation (Gittins) index, a classical quantity in the theory of dynamic allocation. Importantly, the notion of indexability leads to a framework for inverse optimal stopping problems.
On a ‘Replicating Character String’ Model
Authors: Bradley Richard C.
Published: June 2014

In Chaudhuri and Dasgupta's 2006 paper a certain stochastic model for ‘replicating character strings’ (such as in DNA sequences) was studied. In their model, a random ‘input’ sequence was subjected to random mutations, insertions, and deletions, resulting in a random ‘output’ sequence. In this paper their model will be set up in a slightly different way, in an effort to facilitate further development of the theory for their model. In their 2006 paper, Chaudhuri and Dasgupta showed that, under certain conditions, strict stationarity of the ‘input’ sequence would be preserved by the ‘output’ sequence, and they proved a similar ‘preservation’ result for the property of strong mixing with exponential mixing rate. In our setup, we will in spirit slightly extend their ‘preservation of stationarity’ result, and also prove a ‘preservation’ result for the property of absolute regularity with summable mixing rate.
A New Two-Urn Model
Authors: Chen May-Ru , Hsiau Shoou-Ren , Yang Ting-Hsin
Published: June 2014

We propose a two-urn model of Pólya type as follows. There are two urns, urn A and urn B. At the beginning, urn A contains rA red and wA white balls and urn B contains rB red and wB white balls. We first draw m balls from urn A and note their colors, say i red and m - i
white balls. The balls are returned to urn A and bi red and b(m - i) white balls are added to urn B. Next, we draw ℓ balls from urn B and note their colors, say j red and ℓ - j white balls. The balls are returned to urn B and aj red and a(ℓ - j) white balls are added to urn A. Repeat the above action n times and let Xn be the fraction of red balls in urn A and Yn the fraction of red balls in urn B. We first show that the expectations of Xn and Yn have the same limit, and then use martingale theory to show that Xn and Yn converge almost surely to the same limit.
Trust, Trustworthiness, and Information Sharing in Supply Chains Bridging China and the United States
Authors: Özer Özalp , Zheng Yanchong , Ren Yufei
Published: June 2014

Whether and how trust and trustworthiness differ between a collectivist society, e.g., China, and an individualistic one, e.g., the United States, generates much ongoing scientific debate and bears significant practical values for managing cross-country transactions. We experimentally investigate how supply chain members' countries of origin—China versus the United States—affect trust, trustworthiness, and strategic information sharing behavior in a cross-country supply chain. We consider a two-tier supply chain in which the upstream supplier solicits demand forecast information from the retailer to plan production; but the retailer has an incentive to manipulate her forecast to ensure abundant supply. The levels of trust and trustworthiness in the supply chain and supplier's capability to determine the optimal production quantity affect the efficacy of forecast sharing and the resulting profits. We develop an experimental design to disentangle these three aspects and to allow for real-time interactions between geographically distant and culturally heterogeneous participants. We observe that, when there is no prospect for long-term interactions, our Chinese participants consistently exhibit lower spontaneous trust and trustworthiness than their U.S. counterparts do. We quantify the differences in trust and trustworthiness between the two countries, and the resulting impact on supply chain efficiency. We also show that Chinese individuals exhibit higher spontaneous trust toward U.S. partners than Chinese ones, primarily because they perceive that individuals from the United States are more trusting and trustworthy in general. This positive perception toward U.S. people is indeed consistent with the U.S. participants' behavior in forecast sharing. In addition, we quantify that a Chinese supply chain enjoys a larger efficiency gain from repeated interactions than a U.S. one does, as the prospect of building a long-term relationship successfully sustains trust and trustworthiness by Chinese partners. We advocate that companies can reinforce the positive perception of westerners held by the Chinese population and commit to long-term relationships to encourage trust by Chinese partners. Finally, we also observe that both populations exhibit similar pull-to-center bias when solving a decision problem under uncertainty (i.e., the newsvendor problem).

Data, as supplemental material, are available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2014.1905 .

This paper was accepted by Yossi Aviv, operations management.
Pulmonary embolism
Authors: Peate Ian , Jones Noleen
Published: June 2014

This article provides the healthcare assistant and assistant practitioner (HCA and AP) with an understanding of pulmonary embolism (PE).

In order to offer care that is safe and effective, the HCA and AP must have an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system and the underlying pathophysiological changes. This article provides an overview of the respiratory system. The signs and symptoms are described, tests and investigations required to make a diagnosis are outlined. The person with a PE will experience respiratory and haemodynamic consequences. Treatment options are discussed. The prognosis for patients with PE depends on the underlying disease state, appropriate diagnosis and treatment. A glossary of terms is included.
Uniforms and their place in preventing infection
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: June 2014

Employers and staff must work together to ensure that uniform is worn correctly, protects staff from injury and helps to prevent patients from developing infections. Employers must have uniform and workwear policies which ensure that clothing worn by staff is clean, fit for purpose and supports good hand hygiene.

Staff must comply with policies and work in partnership with employers to ensure that they deliver the best possible care to patients. This article explains the reasons for different aspects of uniform policy and their importance in preventing infection and presenting a professional image that inspires confidence.
More than just chocolate eggs
Authors: Neville Sarah
Published: June 2014

Children love chocolate, and to a young child this time of year means one thing, Easter eggs. However, this is an important festival that is celebrated in different ways around the world.
Understanding children
Authors: Thomas Beth
Published: June 2014

Examining the principles and ‘truths’ that form and drive the Reggio Emilia approach to early education that will help you to gain new insights into young children's learning.
The world around us: Mountains
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: June 2014

Continuing our series that explores ways of linking practical learning activities to habitats and environments, we take a closer look at the mountains that seem to stretch to the sky.
Environments for every child
Authors: Gascoyne Sue
Published: June 2014

In this extract from Sensory Play by Sue Gascoyne [Practical Pre-School Books] we take a look at the benefi ts of this approach for children with special educational needs.
The world around us: Marshes
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: June 2014

Continuing our series that explores ways of linking fun, practical learning activities to habitats and environments, we take a closer look at the important world of marshes.
Solve the case: Infected flea bites in an older patient
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: June 2014

Age-related changes lead to an increase in skin problems and around 70% of older people have a treatable skin condition ( Jordan, 2002 ). Skin conditions may be caused by the older person having difficulty caring for their ageing skin. Sometimes other conditions, such as flea bites, scabies and bed bugs may be mistakenly diagnosed as eczema. This article, one of a series, uses a case study approach to outline how an 86-year-old lady with infected flea bites benefited from a holistic approach to treatment. It explains how what initially appeared to be treatment failure was a mixture of healthcare beliefs and memory difficulties, and outlines how these were addressed and how her home and pet were treated to eliminate a flea infestation.
Prescribing contraception safely and effectively
Authors: Kipps Sarah
Published: June 2014

It is generally viewed that contraception is safer than undergoing a full term pregnancy. However, health professionals should still exercise caution when prescribing. A comprehensive history should be taken from all clients including medical history, family history, obstetric history, menstrual history and sexual history. This history should be used alongside the UK medical eligibility criteria (UKMEC) guidelines to guide prescribing. The article also includes some guidance on prescribing contraception for women with some common medical conditions. Health professionals should always consider contraception when assessing women's health needs.
How To… Application of a compression bandage
Authors: Edwards Vicki
Published: June 2014

Over 70% of leg ulcers encountered in the United Kingdom are the result of venous hypertension (Morison, 1992). Most patients with venous ulcers are treated in the community and a considerable proportion of the work of community nursing services, both in terms of time and money is taken up in treating them. As stated in the BMJ notes (1988) a cost of £200 million per year to the NHS may be overly conservative.
Acupuncture: Eastern promise, Western practice
Authors: White Adrian
Published: June 2014

Acupuncture is popular with patients, but what evidence is there that it really helps?

Adrian White reviews its current place in Western medicine.
Nurses unite!
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: June 2014

Practice nurse groups could become the nucleus of the nursing voice in PCGs. Sue Richards says unite now and make sure you get your say.
Managing Breast Problems
Authors: Clarke Eleanor
Published: June 2014

Despite the release of breast pain management guidelines specialist units are still swamped with inappropriate referrals. Eleanor Clarke explains why.
Hydrogel Dressings
Authors: Pudner Rosemary
Published: June 2014

This is the last in the series on wound dressing products, and will discuss the use of hydrogel dressings in a variety of wound types. The properties of each dressing will be discussed, followed by the application and removal of the dressings. These dressings are available as amorphous gels or flat sheets.
Introducing Schizophrenia
Authors: Corry Paul
Published: June 2014

Schizophrenia is a serious illness that can last a lifetime. It is treatable, even if not, at this time, curable. Old-fashioned containment in an asylum is, therefore, not only inhumane, but unnecessary, for both the individual and the wider community. Care — at home, in the community and, for periods, in hospital — should place treatment and not containment at the centre of its programme.
Ingrowing Toenails
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Johnson Stephen
Published: June 2014

Ingrowing toenails are a common and disabling condition that benefit enormously from the correct treatment. Wendy and Stephen Johnson outline the treatment choices available.
Readers Respond
Authors: Craig Ann , Simpson Iain G
Published: June 2014

Remember Viagra is not the only answer

What about the PCG drug budgets?
A case of Frank speaking
Authors: Dobson Frank , Cantrill Pat , Blatt Barry
Published: June 2014

Primary care groups were the centre of attention at the 15th Practice Nursing Conference. Frank Dobson and Pat Cantrill were there to explain what practice nurses can do to make their mark on this radical development.
Walk-in Clinic: Head lice
Authors: Fisher Pam , Glenn Kate
Published: June 2014

Practice nurses are often required to give advice about head lice, a problem that could be managed by parents. Prevention of infestation is the best approach, as Pam Fisher and Kate Glenn explain.
Product Focus: Zacin
Authors: Lethbridge Zena
Published: June 2014

The topical analgesic capsaicin has recently been licensed for the treatment of pain associated with osteoarthritis. Zena Lethbridge explores the use of capsaicin for the treatment of patients in pain.
Letters
Authors: Tudor-Hart Julian , Judge Dianne
Published: June 2014

Primary care groups not the answer

Individual MMR vaccines on a named patient basis
Seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: Cross Sue
Published: June 2014

Seasonal allergic rhinitis can have a considerable effect on the quality of life of sufferers, and requires effective management.
Testicular cancer and self examination
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: June 2014

Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in men aged between 15–35 years of age (Rosella, 1994). It is also the most curable of cancers (Rosella, 1994; Bell 1990). However, early detection is important as in advanced stages the disease becomes more difficult to cure (Carey, 1996; Bell, 1990; Rosella, 1994; Jones and Appleyard, 1985).

Regular testicular self examination could help reduce the number of cases of testicular cancer.
Male sexual problems
Authors: Brewer Sarah
Published: June 2014

A number of problems can affect male sex organs and sexual function. The topic of male sexual dysfunction is vast and difficult to cover in a single feature. This article will look at some of the more common problems that practice nurses are likely to come across in the surgery.
Product Focus: Posicor®t (mibefradil)
Authors: Reilly Helen
Published: June 2014

Posicor has recently been licenced for the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris.

Helen Reilly looks at its uses in the front line of treatment.
Urban pollution: what influence on asthma?
Authors: Hole Alice , Cullinan Paul
Published: June 2014

Asthma is a common disease affecting up to 15% of children and at least 6% of adults in the UK. Latest figures from the National Asthma Campaign put the number of affected adults at 1.9 million. It is the most common reason for emergency hospital admission and use of medications (Woolcock and Peat, 1997) and is the cause of approximately 1600 deaths each year in the UK. It also costs the country around £1 billion every year through use of medications and other health services as well as loss of working days (COMEAP, 1995).
Too little or too much?
Authors: Riggall Hazel
Published: June 2014

How often have you encountered an anxious parent who during a routine visit gives you a throwaway line, such as ‘He hardly eats anything’, ‘Can you help me stop her eating too many crisps?’ or ‘I feel sure they are not getting enough x’?.

This article aims to guide you through the basics of first line management, which may suffice, but if it becomes clear that more in-depth assessment and advice is required, it is desirable to refer on or seek advice from a paediatric trained dietitian.
Cervical cytology training
Authors: Oldam Diana
Published: June 2014

Cervical cytology is a core function in the job description of many practice nurses. The NHS Cervical Screening Programme's Guidelines for Cervical Screening (Pritchard, 1996) recommends three-yearly updates to all smear takers.

In the Bradford area in 1997 there were no facilities to enable practice nurses to obtain this update locally, despite efforts by Bradford Health Authority to encourage educational institutions to provide it, because it was considered to be not economically viable.
Walk-in Clinic Sore mouth
Authors: Fisher Pam , Holmes Peter
Published: June 2014

A sore mouth can be the result of a number of both local and systemic illnesses.

Pam Fisher and Peter Holmes outline the diagnosis and treatment options available.
PNs in middle of vaccine chaos
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: June 2014

Practice nurses are stuck between patients and politicians when problems arise, says Sue Richards.
Growing up with eczema
Authors: Hicks Rob
Published: June 2014

Eczema describes a number of skin conditions which are characterized by inflammation, dryness and flaking, and which affect around one in ten of the population (Johson et al, 1984). In childhood, the commonest form is atopic eczema, which is estimated to affect one in five children (McCormeck, 1995). Most develop the condition by the time of their first birthday (Leo Pharmaceuticals, 1998)
Neuropathic pain: the options
Authors: McCleane Gary
Published: June 2014

While the occurrence of pain is universal, the symptoms produced differ. Neuropathic pain has well defined symptoms and responds poorly to conventional analgesics. As with any drug treatment, there is a balance between effect and side-effect of the drugs and this is particularly the case with agents used for neuropathic pain.

Gary McCleane explains how it differs from nociceptive pain and considers established and new drug treatments
Doctors who think they know best
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: June 2014

As nurses come to the fore in primary care, leading new services such as walk-in centres, it is time for old school GPs to relinquish their desperate grip on power, says Sue Richards
Taking responsibility for our future
Authors: Poole Jo
Published: June 2014

In her article Cutting Costs Compromises Care, Sue Richards (1999) raises the profile of the all too evident fact that downgrading and skill mix are a current reality for nurses working in general practice.
Emotional problems 1: the nurses role
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: June 2014

This is the first article in a series of three that looks at the practice nurse's role in dealing with patient's emotional problems. This article provides an overview of the subject, and the second article, also published in this issue, examines the various ways in which these problems can manifest themselves in the surgery. The final article, to be published in the next issue, looks at the ways in which these problems should be managed.
Signed route to good dementia care
Authors: McIntosh Iain
Published: June 2014

In Scotland, the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network (SIGN) has developed national guidelines for management of behavioural and psychological aspects of dementia. Interest in the syndrome has been generated by the arrival of the new memory enhancing drugs. The Lancet has published guidelines and English Royal Colleges and other institutions in Newcastle and Liverpool have been similarly involved.
Drug-resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Bredow Yvonne
Published: June 2014

Yvonne Bredow outlines the causes, treatment and management of drug-resistant TB.
Auditing pneumonia immunization
Authors: Allen Susan
Published: June 2014

Susan Allen describes an award winning immunization audit that focused on people with diabetes.
Walk-in Clinic: Bedwetting
Authors: Borrowman Frances , Tattersfield Helen
Published: June 2014

Frances Borrowman and Helen Tattersfield examine the role of the practice nurse in managing the effects of nocturnal enuresis on the child and family and finding a long term solution.
Assessment of atopy and allergy
Authors: Stearn Ruth
Published: June 2014

Ruth Stearn outlines the triggers for atopy and allergy and how they may be assessed in general practice.
The role of allergen avoidance
Authors: Birch Diana , Roberts Andrea
Published: June 2014

The term ‘allergy’ refers to an abnormal or inappropriate reaction of the body's immune system to a substance that would normally be harmless (an allergen). Atopy refers to the predisposition of an individual to develop allergic disease such as asthma, eczema, seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) and perennial allergic rhinitis.

Diana Birch and Andrea Roberts consider the research, evidence and practicalities of allergen avoidance measures.
Clinical Performance of the BD Onclarity HPV Assay Using an Adjudicated Cohort of BD SurePath Liquid-Based Cytology Specimens
Authors: Wright Thomas C. , Stoler Mark H. , Agreda Patricia M. , Beitman Gerard H. , Gutierrez Erin C. , Harris James M. , Koch Kristopher R. , Kuebler Mindy , LaViers William D. , Legendre Benjamin L. , Leitch Sharon V. , Maus Courtney E. , McMillian Ray A. , Nussbaumer William A. , Palmer Marcus L. R. , Porter Michael J. , Richart Gregory A. , Schwab Ryan J. , Vaughan Laurence M.
Published: June 2014

Objectives:

To compare the performance of the BD Onclarity HPV Assay (BD Diagnostics, Sparks, MD) in BD SurePath liquid-based cytology media with that of Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2, Qiagen, Germantown, MD) samples co-collected in specimen transport medium in an adjudicated patient cohort.

Methods:

The performance of the BD Onclarity HPV Assay using BD SurePath media was compared with that of HC2 samples co-collected in specimen transport medium using 541 archived samples from a multicenter US clinical trial with histologically adjudicated cervical biopsy specimens.

Results:

The sensitivity for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2 positivity (n - 104) was 90.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 83–95) and 93.3% (95% CI, 87–97) and specificity was 76.9% (95% CI, 73–81) and 77.8% (95% CI, 74–82) for the BD assay and HC2, respectively. Nine cases of CIN 2+ had results discordant with the high-risk HPV assay. All were found to have been correctly classified with the BD assay using a novel WAVE denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography double-stranded DNA sequencing method.

Conclusions:

The clinical performance of The BD Onclarity HPV Assay with respect to histology end points was similar to HC2. Moreover, discordant analysis revealed improved performance of the BD assay with respect to ability to provide extended genotyping information and lack of cross-reactivity with low-risk HPV types associated with cellular abnormalities. The relative risks for CIN 3 disease for HPV 31 and HPV 33/58 (combined) were comparable to that of HPV 18 in this population, suggesting that these genotypes may warrant monitoring in future studies.
Basal Insulins Incorrectly withheld; Issues with Insulin Pump; Future Devices for U-500 Insulin; Patients Needed Testing after Pen Misuse; Diastat Acudial Requires Setting and Locking of the Dose
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: June 2014

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers’ names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters’ wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Aspirin for Primary Cardiovascular Prevention: When is it Worth the Risks?
Authors: Howard Patricia A.
Published: June 2014

Low-dose aspirin is widely used by individuals to prevent first myocardial infarction and stroke. Although many health care professionals and patients believe that aspirin is safe and effective, the evidence is far from conclusive. As a result, current practice guidelines are inconsistent and leave practitioners with many unanswered questions. Because aspirin is available without prescription, pharmacists may often be the only health care professional positioned to advise and educate the patient.
Gemcitabine and Vinorelbine (GemVin) Regimen
Authors: Shang Elizabeth Y. , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: June 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.
Flutamide: Hirsutism in Women
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: June 2014

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@ku.edu .
Value of Pharmacist Medication Interviews on Optimizing the Electronic Medication Reconciliation Process
Authors: Lee Audrey , Varma Arjun , Boro Maureen , Korman Nancy
Published: June 2014

Purpose

Few studies have explored the impact of using different methods for obtaining accurate medication histories on medication safety. This study was conducted to compare the accuracy and clinical impact of pharmacist medication histories obtained by electronic medical record review (EMRR) alone with those obtained by direct interviews combined with EMRR.

Method

This 18-week prospective study included patients who were admitted to the Inpatient Medicine Service at the study institution and who had a pharmacist-conducted medication reconciliation EMRR within 48 hours of hospital admission. A chart review was performed to collect data to determine whether differences existed in the number of discrepancies, recommendations, and medication errors between the EMRR alone group compared to the EMRR combined with the patient interview group.

Results

Five hundred thirteen discrepancies were identified with the EMRR group compared to 986 from the combined EMRR and patient interview group ( P < .001). Significantly more recommendations were made in the combination interview group compared to the EMRR alone group (260 vs 97; P < .001). Fewer medication errors were identified for the EMRR alone group compared to the combination interview group (55 vs 134; P < .001). The most common errors were omitted medications followed by extra dose/failure to discontinue therapy and wrong dose/frequency errors.

Conclusion

Pharmacist-conducted admission medication interviews combined with EMRR can potentially identify harmful medication discrepancies and prevent medication errors.
Balanced Scorecards as a Tool for Developing Patient-Centered Pharmacy Services
Authors: Enwere Emmanuel N. , Keating Ellen A. , Weber Robert J.
Published: June 2014

Having accurate data is essential for the pharmacy director to manage the department and develop patient-centered pharmacy services. A balanced scorecard (BSC) of essential department data, which is a broad view of a department's function beyond its financial performance, is an important part of any department's strategic plan. This column describes how the pharmacy director builds and promotes a department's BSC. Specifically, this article reviews how the BSC supports the department's mission and vision, describes the metrics of the BSC and how they are collected, and recommends how the pharmacy director can effectively use the scorecard results in promoting the pharmacy. If designed properly and updated consistently, a BSC can present a broad view of the pharmacy's performance, serve as a guide for strategic decision making, and improve on the quality of its services.
Quick Survey of Smartphone Features and Functions
Authors: Fox Brent I. , Felkey Bill G.
Published: June 2014

What do you do when you leave the house without your smartphone? Do you sleep with it beside your bed? For us, these devices are as much a part of our lives as the belts around our waists. But, how long has it been since you surveyed the market? We provide a topical update on the current features and functions of these immensely important devices.
The Population Dynamic Challenge to Cuban Socialism
Authors: Judith Hernández  , Guillermo Foladori
Published: June 2014

In recent years, Cuba's population dynamics has had a significant change. From 2006 on, and for the first time, the rate of population growth went negative. The aim of this article is to analyse this inflection. In addition to all the economic and social problems that it is already going through, Cuba will face the population issue, and will have to elaborate appropriate policies to reverse the present trend. This article analyses the population dynamics in Cuba through its main indicators and indexes and highlights the key role that international migration plays. In this article, to the forces that put the country in the highest stages of demographic transition, the economic expulsion of the youth is added. The economic perspectives of an ageing country that is scarcely industrialised and without workforce replacement are uncertain.
Commission on the Voluntary Sector & Ageing: a policy review
Authors: Carney Gemma M.
Published: June 2014

This article comments on the English Commission on the Voluntary Sector & Ageing, a voluntary sector-led initiative aimed at making proposals for voluntary sector leaders and charitable organisations on how to approach the ageing population. By examining the work of the commission, the review contributes to debates on the implications of population ageing for the voluntary sector.
The anticoagulants ASIS or APC do not protect against renal ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Loubele Sarah T.B.G. , Spek C. Arnold , Leenders Peter , Matthijsen Robert A. , Buurman Wim A. , Peutz-Kootstra Carine J. , Spronk Henri M.H. , ten Cate Hugo
Published: June 2014

Renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is the main cause of acute renal failure. The severity of injury is determined by endothelial damage as well as inflammatory and apoptotic processes. The anticoagulants active site inhibited factor VIIa (ASIS) and activated protein C (APC) are besides their anticoagulant function also known for their cytoprotective properties. In this study the effect of ASIS and APC was assessed on renal I/R injury and this in relation to inflammation and apoptosis. Our results showed no effect of ASIS or APC on renal injury as determined by histopathological scoring as well as by blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels. Furthermore, no effect on fibrin staining was detected but ASIS did reduce tissue factor activity levels after a 2-hr reperfusion period. Neither ASIS nor APC administration influenced overall inflammation markers, although some inflammatory effects of ASIS on interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were detectable after 2 hr of reperfusion. Finally, neither APC nor ASIS had an influence on cell signaling pathways or on the number of apoptotic cells within the kidneys. From this study we can conclude that the anticoagulants ASIS and APC do not have protective effects in renal I/R injury in the experimental setup as used in this study which is in contrast to the protective effects of these anticoagulants in other models of I/R.
Evaluating Cross-blended Hypsometric Tints: A User Study in the United States, Switzerland, and Germany
Authors: Patterson Tom , Jenny Bernhard
Published: June 2014

Cross-blended hypsometric tints locally adjust colors to match the differing natural environments of world regions. This paper presents the results of a survey comparing cross-blended hypsometric tints with conventional hypsometric tints. Over 200 participants in the US and Switzerland/Germany were asked to identify the meaning of color on both types of hypsometric maps. The survey revealed significant differences between map readers in the US and the two European countries, and a general difficulty to correctly interpret hypsometric colors. Most participants perceived hypsometric tints as representing both topography (elevation and land forms) and environmental phenomena.
Relationships between Methods for Presenting Information on Navigation Tools and Users' Wayfinding Behavior
Authors: Ishikawa Toru , Takahashi Kazunori
Published: June 2014

This study examines the effects of different methods for presenting navigational information on users' wayfinding behavior and spatial memory. In the first experiment, we examined tools that differed in the degree to which they induced the user to engage in deliberate route planning. We found that users of a tool that showed a route to the goal (the route tool) had a poor scene-recognition memory and simply followed the directed route, compared to users of a paper map which did not show a route. A tool that showed the direction toward the goal (the direction tool) was equivalent to the route tool with respect to users’ scene-recognition memory, but allowed users to take routes more varied than the route tool and as varied as the paper map did. The direction tool affected men and women differently, inducing the latter to make more turns. Our second experiment examined the effects of the size of the device screen, and found that the map’s advantage of allowing the user to attend to their surroundings diminished when the map was shown in small size. We discuss implications for designing effective navigational aids in different situations.
Comparison of Chemical, Textural and Organoleptic Properties of Pastry Sheets with Two Different Additives
Authors: Boudová Pečivová Pavlína , Korcová Markéta , Švach Jaroslav , Kubáň Vlastimil , Mlček Jiří
Published: June 2014

The effect of additions of Arabic gum and commercially used additive Frosty, commonly used for the bread production which is intended for freezing, on the quality of pastry sheets was determined. Frosty decreased active acidity and conversely increased titration acidity in the wheat flour dough and in final products. Higher addition of Arabic gum prolonged the freshness (= moisture) more than Frosty. Arabic gum had insignificant effect on the titration acidity or pH of the dough or the titration acidity of the final products. Both additions of Arabic gum (15 g kg−1 and 30 g kg−1) and higher addition of Frosty (30 g kg−1) decreased the firmness of the pastry sheets. Fresh samples of pastry sheets with lower addition of the Frosty were better in taste, crispness, porosity and quality than the samples with higher addition of the Arabic gum. However, pastry sheets with Frosty lost moisture faster and therefore became less fresh quicker, in comparison with samples with Arabic gum added.
Das Zollpersonal an den römischen Alpenstraßen nach Aguntum und Virunum
Authors: Froehlich Susanne
Published: June 2014

Der vorliegende Beitrag zum römischen Zollwesen nimmt eine mikrohistorische Perspektive ein. Untersucht wird die Situation an zwei wichtigen antiken Alpenrouten, den Straßen nach Aguntum und Virunum, die in den Bereich des illyrischen Zollgebiets fallen. Hier läßt sich eine ganze Reihe von Zollposten belegen, was wohl mit der in diesem Gebiet besonders aufwendigen Straßeninstandhaltung in Zusammenhang zu bringen ist. Das Personal der Zollstationen ist durch Inschriften vergleichsweise dicht dokumentiert: Die Zöllner waren gut ausgebildete, hochspezialisierte Sklaven, die über beträchtliche persönliche Geldmittel verfügten und auffallend häufig mit freien oder freigelassenen Frauen verbunden waren. Sie zeichneten sich durch eine hohe Mobilität innerhalb der Region aus und waren untereinander bestens vernetzt. Diese Beobachtungen werfen die Frage auf, welche Bedeutung das Zollpersonal für die Romanisierung des ländlichen Raums hatte.
Paulinus von Nola und die Urbs Roma
Authors: Brandt Hartwin
Published: June 2014

Neueste Forschungen zur spätantiken urbs Roma haben deutlich gemacht, daß zahlreiche pagane und christliche Autoren sich an dem Diskurs um eine Neubestimmung der städtischen Identität Roms in der Spätantike beteiligten. Im vorliegenden Aufsatz wird auf der Basis seiner epistulae und carmina geprüft, ob und inwieweit auch Paulinus von Nola an dieser Diskussion teilgenommen hat.
The structures of strontium xanthates Sr(S2COR)2·xROH (R=Et, Pri, But)
Authors: Ebashi Yoshinobu V. , Eggleston Samuel , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Molloy Kieran C.
Published: June 2014

The first structures of strontium xanthates Sr(S
Sirtuin to the rescue: SIRT2 extends life span of BubR1 mice
Authors: Cosentino Claudia , Mostoslavsky Raul
Published: June 2014

Why and how we age remains a topic that has kept molecular biologists busy for the past few decades. In recent years, several studies pointed to sirtuins as important players in lifespan regulation, yet, in vivo proof for most of the mammalian homologs was missing. In this issue of The EMBO Journal, Sinclair and colleagues provide novel evidence that SIRT2 is indeed a critical modulator of aging in vivo.
A novel genome‐wide in vivo screen for metastatic suppressors in human colon cancer identifies the positive WNT‐TCF pathway modulators TMED3 and SOX12
Authors: Duquet Arnaud , Melotti Alice , Mishra Sonakshi , Malerba Monica , Seth Chandan , Conod Arwen , Ruiz i Altaba Ariel
Published: June 2014

The progression of tumors to the metastatic state involves the loss of metastatic suppressor functions. Finding these, however, is difficult as in vitro assays do not fully predict metastatic behavior, and the majority of studies have used cloned cell lines, which do not reflect primary tumor heterogeneity. Here, we have designed a novel genome‐wide screen to identify metastatic suppressors using primary human tumor cells in mice, which allows saturation screens. Using this unbiased approach, we have tested the hypothesis that endogenous colon cancer metastatic suppressors affect WNT‐TCF signaling. Our screen has identified two novel metastatic suppressors: TMED3 and SOX12, the knockdown of which increases metastatic growth after direct seeding. Moreover, both modify the type of self‐renewing spheroids, but only knockdown of TMED3 also induces spheroid cell spreading and lung metastases from a subcutaneous xenograft. Importantly, whereas TMED3 and SOX12 belong to different families involved in protein secretion and transcriptional regulation, both promote endogenous WNT‐TCF activity. Treatments for advanced or metastatic colon cancer may thus not benefit from WNT blockers, and these may promote a worse outcome.
GEP–NETS UPDATE: A review on surgery of gastro-entero-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Partelli Stefano , Maurizi Angela , Tamburrino Domenico , Baldoni Andrea , Polenta Vanessa , Crippa Stefano , Falconi Massimo
Published: June 2014

The incidence of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) has increased in the last decades. Surgical treatment encompasses a panel of approaches ranging from conservative procedures to extended surgical resection. Tumor size and localization usually represent the main drivers in the choice of the most appropriate surgical resection. In the presence of small (<2 cm) and asymptomatic nonfunctioning NETs, a conservative treatment is usually recommended. For localized NETs measuring above 2 cm, surgical resection represents the cornerstone in the management of these tumors. As they are relatively biologically indolent, an extended resection is often justified also in the presence of advanced NETs. Surgical options for NET liver metastases range from limited resection up to liver transplantation. Surgical choices for metastatic NETs need to consider the extent of disease, the grade of tumor, and the presence of extra-abdominal disease. Any surgical procedures should always be balanced with the benefit of survival or relieving symptoms and patients' comorbidities.
Building information modelling in the highways sector: major projects of the future
Authors: Teall Oliver
Published: June 2014

This paper assesses the current situation and ongoing developments with regards to the use of building information modelling (BIM) tools and processes in major projects by the UK Highways Agency. Using the M25 widening scheme as a case study, it explains the benefits of BIM within the sector as well as the current restrictions to its use. The potential for added benefits through the use of embedded information within BIM models is discussed, as well as the use of BIM tools in the handover process. The A556 improvement project is discussed as a possible demonstration project for these added benefits. Current challenges relating to the link between major project BIM tools and highways asset management are identified, and conclusions made as to what more can be done in this area to improve the whole-life management of highways assets.
Building information modelling – moving Crossrail, UK, forward
Authors: Smith Stephen
Published: June 2014

The data management foundations for the Crossrail railway project in London, UK were established in 2007, a full 4 years before the UK government construction strategy (GCS) paper which required all major UK government construction projects to be fully working in collaborative three-dimensional building information modelling, with all project and asset information, documentation and data being electronic, by 2016. Building on lessons learned from predecessor projects such as High Speed 1, Crossrail's approach to technical information was founded on similar principles to those outlined by the UK government consturction strategy. This project is notable for being the first major European project to use a BS 1192 collaborative working environment with a fully 3D model-based design. This paper provides an overview of the journey taken by Crossrail in setting up its technical information foundation and how this aligns to the subsequent emerging requirements set out by the UK government consturction strategy. Furthermore it outlines how Crossrail has adapted and refined its approach in the light of the strategy and provides lessons learned to date for wider use by the industry.
Porphyromonas gingivalis Lipopolysaccharide Upregulates Insulin Secretion From Pancreatic β Cell Line MIN6
Authors: Bhat Uppoor G. , Ilievski Vladimir , Unterman Terry G. , Watanabe Keiko
Published: June 2014

Background: A close association between periodontitis and diabetes has been demonstrated in human cross‐sectional studies, but an exact relationship between periodontitis and prediabetes has not been established. Previous studies using animal model systems consistently have shown that hyperinsulinemia occurs in animals with periodontitis compared to animals with healthy periodontium (while maintaining normoglycemia). Because bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis, we hypothesized that LPS may stimulate insulin secretion through a direct effect on β cell function. To test this hypothesis, pancreatic β cell line MIN6 cells were used to determine the effect of Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) LPS on insulin secretion. Furthermore, expression of genes altered by Pg LPS in innate immunity and insulin‐signaling pathways was determined.

Methods: MIN6 cells were grown in medium with glucose concentration of normoglycemia (5.5 mM). Pg LPS was added to each well at final concentrations of 50, 200, and 500 ng/mL. Insulin secretion was measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Gene expression levels altered by Pg LPS were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array for mouse innate and adaptive immunity response and mouse insulin‐signaling pathways, and results were confirmed for specific genes of interest by quantitative PCR.

Results: Pg LPS stimulated insulin secretion in the normoglycemic condition by ≈1.5‐ to 3.0‐fold depending on the concentration of LPS. Pg LPS treatment altered the expression of several genes involved in innate and adaptive immune response and insulin‐signaling pathway. Pg LPS upregulated the expression of the immune response–related genes cluster of differentiation 8a (Cd8a), Cd14, and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (Icam1) by about two‐fold. LPS also increased the expression of two insulin signaling–related genes, glucose‐6‐phosphatase catalytic subunit (G6pc) and insulin‐like 3 (Insl3), by three‐ to four‐fold.

Conclusions: We have demonstrated for the first time that Pg LPS stimulates insulin secretion by pancreatic β cell line MIN cells. Pg LPS may have significant implications on the development of β cell compensation and insulin resistance in prediabetes in individuals with periodontitis.
Sources of Racial/Ethnic Differences in Awareness of HIV Vaccine Trials
Authors: Arnold Michael P. , Andrasik Michele , Landers Stewart , Karuna Shelly , Mimiaga Matthew J. , Wakefield Steven , Mayer Kenneth , Buchbinder Susan , Koblin Beryl A.
Published: June 2014

Objectives. We explored the relative effects of 2 awareness components—exposure and attention—on racial/ethnic differences in HIV vaccine trial awareness among men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods. Surveys assessing awareness of and attitudes toward HIV vaccine trials were administered to 1723 MSM in 6 US cities. Proxy measures of exposure included use of HIV resources and other health care services, community involvement, income, and residence. Attention proxy measures included research attitudes, HIV susceptibility, and HIV message fatigue. Using logistic regression models, we assessed the extent to which these proxies accounted for racial/ethnic differences in vaccine trial awareness.

Results. White MSM reported significantly (P < .01) higher rates of HIV vaccine trial awareness (22%) compared with Latino (17%), Black (13%) and “other” (13%) MSM. Venue-based exposure proxies and research-directed attitudinal attention proxies were significantly associated with awareness, but only accounted for the White-Latino disparity in awareness. No proxies accounted for the White-Black or White-“other” differentials in awareness.

Conclusions. Sources of disparities in awareness of HIV vaccine trials remain to be explained. Future trials seeking to promote diverse participation should explore additional exposure and attention mediators.