bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully Borylated Methane and Ethane by Ruthenium‐Mediated Cleavage and Coupling of CO
Authors: Batsanov Andrei S. , Cabeza Javier A. , Crestani Marco G. , Fructos Manuel R. , García‐Álvarez Pablo , Gille Marie , Lin Zhenyang , Marder Todd B.
Published: March 2016

Many transition‐metal complexes and some metal‐free compounds are able to bind carbon monoxide, a molecule which has the strongest chemical bond in nature. However, very few of them have been shown to induce the cleavage of its C−O bond and even fewer are those that are able to transform CO into organic reagents with potential in organic synthesis. This work shows that bis(pinacolato)diboron, B2pin2, reacts with ruthenium carbonyl to give metallic complexes containing borylmethylidyne (CBpin) and diborylethyne (pinBC≡CBpin) ligands and also metal‐free perborylated C1 and C2 products, such as C(Bpin)4 and C2(Bpin)6, respectively, which have great potential as building blocks for Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling and other reactions. The use of 13CO‐enriched ruthenium carbonyl has demonstrated that the boron‐bound carbon atoms of all of these reaction products arise from CO ligands.
Molecular Calcium Hydride: Dicalcium Trihydride Cation Stabilized by a Neutral NNNN‐Type Macrocyclic Ligand
Authors: Leich Valeri , Spaniol Thomas P. , Maron Laurent , Okuda Jun
Published: March 2016

Hydrogenolysis of bis(triphenylsilyl)calcium containing the neutral NNNN‐type macrocyclic amine ligand Me4TACD [Ca(Me4TACD)(SiPh3)2] (2), gave the cationic dinuclear calcium hydride [Ca2H3(Me4TACD)2](SiPh3) (3), characterized by NMR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray analysis, and DFT calculations. Compound 3 reacted with deuterium to give the deuteride [D3]‐3.
Gold‐Catalyzed Allylation Reactions
Authors: Quintavalla Arianna , Bandini Marco
Published: March 2016

The allylation reaction is a well‐established and indispensable tool for the development of chemical complexity and diversity in organic synthesis. Over several decades, this unique transformation has undergone several developments to establish a more simple, selective, and sustainable variant. Moving from stoichiometric amounts of metal additives to sub‐stoichiometric amounts, and more recently to catalytic loadings is only one of the chemical revolutions faced by the allylation reaction. In this context, homogeneous gold catalysis has played a pivotal role, resulting in unexpected reaction pathways, concerning unactivated unsaturated hydrocarbons, feasible. Among them, [AuI]‐ and [AuIII]‐assisted allylation reactions deserve particular mention owing to their impact in the synthesis of key organic building blocks and value‐added compounds. An unprecedented survey across the development of allylation methodologies based on this coinage metal is documented in the present Minireview.
NH4I‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Sulfonamides from Arylsufonylhydrazides and Amines
Authors: Yu Hui , Zhang Yonghao
Published: March 2016

A novel and efficient approach to sulfonamides has been developed. Using TBHP as the oxidant and NH4I (20 mol%) as the catalyst, arylsulfonyl hydrazides reacted with amines to provide sulfonamides in moderate to good yields. Possible reaction pathway for the formation of the products was also discussed in this paper.
DNA Nanotechnology Mediated Gold Nanoparticle Conjugates and Their Applications in Biomedicine
Authors: Wang Chenguang , Zhang Huan , Zeng Dongdong , San Lili , Mi Xianqiang
Published: March 2016

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) provide numerous biomedical applications with unique chemical and physical properties. Au NPs can be readily synthesized, and modified with multiple chemical or biological molecules, making them excellent candidates for biosensor, in vitro and in vivo imaging, drug delivery and catalysis. Perfect specific DNA base‐pairing can not only serve as genetic information carriers but also construct novel nanostructures and hybrid conjugates with inorganic nanomaterials such as Au NPs. On one hand, based on the unique DNA characters including unparalleled base pairing, double helix with precise diameter and programmable sequences, various DNA statical nanostructures with well‐defined size, shape and dynamic structures as well as controlled functions have been created through using DNA nanotechnology. On the other hand, rapid developments in nanotechnology and nanoscience have new questions on how DNA and DNA structures interact with inorganic nanomaterials, which should be important for their biological and biomedical applications. In this review, we intend to provide an overview on recent advanced Au NPs‐based DNA conjugates for biomedical applications, mainly including the functionalization of Au NPs (Au NPs‐based DNA conjugates interact with Au‐S bond or Au‐polyA); application of Au NPs‐based conjugates in biomedicine, such as biosensing, drug delivery and therapy, and Au NPs‐DNA conjugates based advanced nanostructures.
State‐of‐the‐Art in Electrophilic Trifluoromethylthiolation Reagents
Authors: Chachignon Hélène , Cahard Dominique
Published: March 2016

This work proposed a label‐free, cost‐effective and fairly sensitive electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) strategy for the specific detection of lysozyme based on the hemin/G‐quadruplex hybrid. Gold nanoparticles were spread onto the chitosan thin‐film as substrate to adsorb thiolated captures: a hairpin‐structured DNA, integrating dual head‐tail connected functional domains: one aptamer sequence for lysozyme and the other for hemin (iron(III) proto‐porphyrin IX). In the presence of the both, the hairpin conformation unfolded and transformed into the hemin/G‐quadruplex motif, which quenched the ECL emission of underlaid quantum dots significantly via the consumption of dissolved oxygen as endogenous coreactant. This construction enabled a wide linear response to lysozyme, ranging from 20 pg·mL−1 to 5 µg·mL−1, with a detection limit as low as 4.95 pg·mL−1 (e.g. 9.4 pmol·L−1), demonstrating the prospective utilization of DNA technologies in bioanalysis.
Orthogonal Sensing of Small Molecules Using a Modular Nanoparticle‐Based Assay
Authors: Neri Simona , Pinalli Roberta , Dalcanale Enrico , Prins Leonard J.
Published: March 2016

Herein, we present a modular indicator‐displacement assay able to selectively recognize small molecules with biological relevance under competitive conditions. The assay relies on the change in affinity of macrocyclic receptors, such as cavitands, cyclodextrins or calixarenes, for monolayer‐protected gold nanoparticles upon complexation of the respective target analyte. This change affects the equilibrium between the nanoparticles and a fluorescent reporter leading to a change in intensity of the fluorescent output signal. The recognition modules can be changed in order to tune the selectivity of the assay without affecting the nature of the output signal. The combined use of recognition modules results in an assay able to detect multiple analytes simultaneously with high selectivity.
Shifts in symbiotic associations in plants capable of forming multiple root symbioses across a long‐term soil chronosequence
Authors: Albornoz Felipe E. , Lambers Hans , Turner Benjamin L. , Teste François P. , Laliberté Etienne
Published: March 2016

Changes in soil nutrient availability during long‐term ecosystem development influence the relative abundances of plant species with different nutrient‐acquisition strategies. These changes in strategies are observed at the community level, but whether they also occur within individual species remains unknown. Plant species forming multiple root symbioses with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi, and nitrogen‐(N) fixing microorganisms provide valuable model systems to examine edaphic controls on symbioses related to nutrient acquisition, while simultaneously controlling for plant host identity. We grew two co‐occurring species, Acacia rostellifera (N2‐fixing and dual AM and ECM symbioses) and Melaleuca systena (AM and ECM dual symbioses), in three soils of contrasting ages (c. 0.1, 1, and 120 ka) collected along a long‐term dune chronosequence in southwestern Australia. The soils differ in the type and strength of nutrient limitation, with primary productivity being limited by N (0.1 ka), co‐limited by N and phosphorus (P) (1 ka), and by P (120 ka). We hypothesized that (i) within‐species root colonization shifts from AM to ECM with increasing soil age, and that (ii) nodulation declines with increasing soil age, reflecting the shift from N to P limitation along the chronosequence. In both species, we observed a shift from AM to ECM root colonization with increasing soil age. In addition, nodulation in A. rostellifera declined with increasing soil age, consistent with a shift from N to P limitation. Shifts from AM to ECM root colonization reflect strengthening P limitation and an increasing proportion of total soil P in organic forms in older soils. This might occur because ECM fungi can access organic P via extracellular phosphatases, while AM fungi do not use organic P. Our results show that plants can shift their resource allocation to different root symbionts depending on nutrient availability during ecosystem development.
A Sensitive Biosensor for Determination of Cu2+ by One‐step Electrodeposition
Authors: Tian Rong , Chen Xiaojun , Liu Dejin , Yao Cheng
Published: March 2016

A simple one‐step electrodeposition method is described to fabricate three dimensional ordered macroporous chitosan−prussian blue−single walled carbon nanotubes (3DOM CS−PB−SWCNTs) film onto the gold electrode surface to fabricate a copper ions (Cu2+)‐specific DNAzyme biosensor. The new sensing strategy for sensitive and selective detection of Cu2+ was based on Au nanorods (AuNRs) as signal amplification labels. The electrochemical signal of glucose increased with the concentration of Cu2+ increasing. The morphologies and electrochemistry of the composites were investigated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electrochemical techniques including cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and so on. Linear correlations of copper ion concentration were obtained in the range from 10−18 M to 10−5 M, achieving with a limit of detection of 10−19 M (S/N=3). Parameters affecting the biosensor response such as temperature, the cleavage time and the time of hybridization were optimized. This biosensor showed a wide range, low detection limit, good reproducibility and high stability. Additionally, these striking properties endow the biosensor with a great promise for analytical applications.
Multi‐chambers Microsystem for Simultaneous and Direct Electrochemical Detection of Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species Released by Cell Populations
Authors: Li Yun , Meunier Anne , Fulcrand Rémy , Sella Catherine , Amatore Christian , Thouin Laurent , Lemaître Frédéric , Guille‐Collignon Manon
Published: March 2016

Electrochemical quantification of four reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (e.g., H2O2, ONOO−, NO and NO2−) emitted from macrophages populations was completed using a four‐chambers microchip. This microchip was fabricated from a glass substrate equipped with four sets of microband electrodes. Each set consisted of a platinum‐black coated working electrode combined to an Ag/AgCl reference and a Pt counter electrodes. A cover made of polydimethylsiloxane was designed with four wells whose open bottoms fitted over each set. Loading, culture and stimulation of cells were conducted within each well. After stimulation of macrophages by a calcium ionophore, amperometric responses were then monitored using a multipotentiostat to detect one species per well simultaneously. The results showed good reproducibility and were quite consistent with averaged amperometric detections obtained from single cell measurements. This methodology allowed drastically diminishing the number of experiments necessary to reach a statistical significance from n=100–160 experiments required for single cell detection compared to n=5 experiments to obtain the mean behavior of the cell population. This work demonstrated that this simple and versatile microchip could be used for quantification of species in oxidative stress investigations on cell populations as well as a complementary tool to compare behaviors between single cell and cell population for investigations involving many experimental variables.
Process Comparison for Biomass Combustion: In Situ Gasification‐Chemical Looping Combustion (iG‐CLC) versus Chemical Looping with Oxygen Uncoupling (CLOU)
Authors: Mendiara T. , Adánez‐Rubio I. , Gayán P. , Abad A. , de Diego L. F. , García‐Labiano F. , Adánez J.
Published: March 2016

Biomass is an interesting renewable fuel to be used in chemical looping combustion (CLC). If the CO2 generated during biomass combustion is captured, the negative‐CO2 emission concept is possible. This work evaluates the differences between biomass combustion under two CLC configurations developed for solid fuels: in situ gasification‐chemical looping combustion (iG‐CLC) and chemical looping with oxygen uncoupling (CLOU). The combustion efficiency, tar emission, and carbon capture efficiency obtained at different fuel reactor temperatures in a continuous 1.5 kWth CLC unit were compared. Higher carbon capture efficiencies were reached under the CLOU mode, with no tar emission. Although in the iG‐CLC mode tars were always present in the fuel reactor outlet gas, high carbon capture was reached by using CO2 as gasifying agent. Moreover, a simulation of the effect of the solid inventory necessary in the fuel reactor to reach certain carbon capture efficiency was performed for both processes. Lower solid inventories are needed in the CLOU configuration, but the cost for the oxygen carrier used in CLOU is higher than in iG‐CLC.
Early Ordovician island‐arc‐type Manite granodiorite pluton from the Buqingshan Tectonic Mélange Belt in the southern margin of the East Kunlun Orogen: constraints on subduction of the Proto‐Tethyan Ocean
Authors: Li Zuochen , Pei Xianzhi , Li Ruibao , Pei Lei , Liu Chengjun , Chen Youxin , Zhang Yongming , Wang Meng , Xu Tong
Published: March 2016

The Buqingshan Tectonic Mélange Belt in the south margin of the East Kunlun Orogen, located in west section of Buqingshan–A'nyemaqen Suture Zone, is one of the key areas to understand continental tectonics and continental dynamics of China. This paper reports zircon U–Pb dating results and geochemistry of the Manite granodiorite (rock mass) in the Buqingshan Tectonic Mélange Belt. Zircons from the granodiorite show oscillatory zoning structures and relatively high Th/U ratios, indicating that they are magmatic zircons. Zircon LA–ICP–MS U–Pb dating for the Manite granodiorite yields ages of 487 ± 11 Ma (MSWD = 2.3) and 479 ± 2 Ma (MSWD = 0.56), implying that the Manite granodiorite were formed in the Late Cambrian to Early Ordovician. Geochemical analyses show that the rocks have high contents of SiO2 (66.06 wt.%–68.60 wt.%) and Al2O3 (14.84 wt.%–16.54 wt.%), and low alkaline (6.17 wt.%–7.43 wt.%), belonging to the middle‐K calc‐alkaline series. The A/CNK (Al2O3/(CaO + Na2O + K2O)) ratios are 1.02–1.15, indicating that the granodiorite is weakly peraluminous. The contents of rare earth elements (REEs) are lower (89.64–130.41 ppm), with weakly negative to weakly positive Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.83–1.12). The primitive mantle‐normalized trace elements are characterized by evidently negative anomalies of Nb, Ta, P, Hf, Ti, etc., and positive anomalies of Th, La, Nd, Zr, Eu, etc. Moreover, the rocks show features of typical I‐type granite. This leads us to conclude that the Manite granodiorites is derived from the partial melting of crust and formed in an island‐arc environment. Combined with previous studies, we believe that the subduction of the Proto‐Tethyan Ocean in the Buqingshan area was ongoing during 487 to 479 Ma and formed island‐arc‐type granites represented by the Late Cambrian to Early Ordovician Manite granodiorite. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crustal thickness anomalies in the Indian Ocean inferred from gravity analysis
Authors: Suo Yanhui , Li Sanzhong , Li Xiyao , Guo Lingli , Wang Yongming
Published: March 2016

Oceanic crustal thickness is a critical parameter for understanding the magmatic, tectonic and hydrothermal processes at mid‐ocean ridges. Gravity anomalies can be mapped across the oceans through satellite altimetry, and these data hold valuable information about the nature and spatial variation of oceanic crust. Residual mantle Bouguer anomaly (RMBA) reflects variations in crustal thickness and crustal and mantle densities. It was simply treated as an upper mantle gravity component and a crustal gravity component in our model of a lithospheric depth. The upper mantle gravity component results from variations in mantle temperature, mantle porosity and mantle depletion due to partial melting initiating at depths of 80–100 km. The crustal gravity component results from variations in crustal thickness. RMBA contributed by mantle temperature variation of 200 K, mantle depletion of 5% and mantle porosity of 5% are 46, 16 and 21 mGal, respectively. Upper mantle gravity variations do not exceed 46 mGal, and variations in oceanic crustal thickness or deeper mantle effects have to be considered for areas with RMBA variations greater than 46 mGal. Assuming a standard RMBA of a reference crust is 0 mGal, we partitioned the RMBA in the Indian Ocean into three categories: ‘negative’ (less than −46 mGal), ‘normal’ (between −46 and 46 mGal) and ‘positive’ (>46 mGal), corresponding to thick, normal and thin oceanic crust, respectively. Thick oceanic crustal anomalies are associated with hotspots or plumes and are distributed along hotspot tracks. Prominent thin oceanic crustal anomalies are observed along fracture zones, around Rodriguez Triple Junction (RTJ) and Australian‐Antarctic Discordance (AAD). Besides the possible effects of fracture zones, oceanic core complex or some other enigmatic deep mantle factors must be responsible for the positive gravity anomalies and crustal thinning. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Insights into plant water uptake from xylem‐water isotope measurements in two tropical catchments with contrasting moisture conditions
Authors: Evaristo Jaivime , McDonnell Jeffrey J. , Scholl Martha A. , Bruijnzeel L. Adrian , Chun Kwok P.
Published: March 2016

Water transpired by trees has long been assumed to be sourced from the same subsurface water stocks that contribute to groundwater recharge and streamflow. However, recent investigations using dual water stable isotopes have shown an apparent ecohydrological separation between tree‐transpired water and stream water. Here we present evidence for such ecohydrological separation in two tropical environments in Puerto Rico where precipitation seasonality is relatively low and where precipitation is positively correlated with primary productivity. We determined the stable isotope signature of xylem water of 30 mahogany (Swietenia spp.) trees sampled during two periods with contrasting moisture status. Our results suggest that the separation between transpiration water and groundwater recharge/streamflow water might be related less to the temporal phasing of hydrologic inputs and primary productivity, and more to the fundamental processes that drive evaporative isotopic enrichment of residual soil water within the soil matrix. The lack of an evaporative signature of both groundwater and streams in the study area suggests that these water balance components have a water source that is transported quickly to deeper subsurface storage compared to waters that trees use. A Bayesian mixing model used to partition source water proportions of xylem water showed that groundwater contribution was greater for valley‐bottom, riparian trees than for ridge‐top trees. Groundwater contribution was also greater at the xeric site than at the mesic–hydric site. These model results (1) underline the utility of a simple linear mixing model, implemented in a Bayesian inference framework, in quantifying source water contributions at sites with contrasting physiographic characteristics, and (2) highlight the informed judgement that should be made in interpreting mixing model results, of import particularly in surveying groundwater use patterns by vegetation from regional to global scales. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Targeting VEGF and Its Receptors for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis and Associated Pain
Authors: Hamilton John L , Nagao Masashi , Levine Brett R , Chen Di , Olsen Bjorn R , Im Hee-Jeong
Published: March 2016

Increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels are associated with osteoarthritis (OA) progression. Indeed, VEGF appears to be involved in OA-specific pathologies including cartilage degeneration, osteophyte formation, subchondral bone cysts and sclerosis, synovitis, and pain. Moreover, a wide range of studies suggest that inhibition of VEGF signaling reduces OA progression. This review highlights both the potential significance of VEGF in OA pathology and pain, as well as potential benefits of inhibition of VEGF and its receptors as an OA treatment. With the emergence of the clinical use of anti-VEGF therapy outside of OA, both as high-dose systemic treatments and low-dose local treatments, these particular therapies are now more widely understood. Currently, there is no established disease-modifying drug available for patients with OA, which warrants continued study of the inhibition of VEGF signaling in OA, as stand-alone or adjuvant therapy. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Characterization of Fatty Acid Composition in Bone Marrow Fluid From Postmenopausal Women: Modification After Hip Fracture
Authors: Miranda Melissa , Pino Ana María , Fuenzalida Karen , Rosen Clifford J. , Seitz Germán , Rodríguez J. Pablo
Published: March 2016

Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) is associated with low bone mass, although the functional consequences for skeletal maintenance of increased BMAT are currently unclear. BMAT might have a role in systemic energy metabolism, and could be an energy source as well as an endocrine organ for neighboring bone cells, releasing cytokines, adipokines and free fatty acids into the bone marrow microenvironment. The aim of the present report was to compare the fatty acid composition in the bone marrow supernatant fluid (BMSF) and blood plasma of postmenopausal women women (65–80 years old). BMSF was obtained after spinning the aspirated bone marrow samples; donors were classified as control, osteopenic or osteoporotic after dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Total lipids from human bone marrow fluid and plasma were extracted, converted to the corresponding methyl esters, and finally analyzed by a gas chromatographer coupled with a mass spectrometer. Results showed that fatty acid composition in BMSF was dynamic and distinct from blood plasma, implying significance in the locally produced lipids. The fatty acid composition in the BMSF was enriched in saturated fatty acid and decreased in unsaturated fatty acids as compared to blood plasma, but this relationship switched in women who suffered a hip fracture. On the other hand, there was no relationship between BMSF and bone mineral density. In conclusion, lipid composition of BMSF is distinct from the circulatory compartment, most likely reflecting the energy needs of the marrow compartment. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2370–2376, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced DR5 binding capacity of nanovectorized TRAIL compared to its cytotoxic version by affinity chromatography and molecular docking studies
Authors: Zakaria Albatoul , Picaud Fabien , Guillaume Yves Claude , Gharbi Tijani , Micheau Olivier , Herlem Guillaume
Published: March 2016

Tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces apoptosis of cancer cells when bound to its cognate receptors, TRAIL‐R1 and TRAIL‐R2 (DR4 and DR5), without being toxic to healthy cells. Nanovectorized TRAIL (abbreviated as NPT) is 10 to 20 times more efficient than one of the most potent soluble TRAIL used in preclinical studies (His‐TRAIL). To determine whether differences in affinity may account for NPT superiority, a thermodynamic study was undertaken to evaluate NPT versus TRAIL binding affinity to DR5. Docking calculations showed that TRAIL in homotrimer configuration was more stable than in heterotrimer, because of the presence of one Zn ion in its structure. Indeed, TRAIL trimers can have head‐to‐tail orientations when Zn is missing. Altogether these data suggest that TRAIL homotrimer structures are predominant in solution and then are grafted on NPT. When docked to DR5, NPT carrying TRAIL homotrimer leads to a more stable complex than TRAIL monomer‐based NPT. To comfort these observations, the extracellular domain of DR5 was immobilized on a chromatographic support using an “in situ” immobilization technique. The determination of the thermodynamic data (enthalpy ∆H° and entropy ∆S°*) of TRAIL and NPT binding to DR5 showed that the binding mechanism was pH dependent. The affinity of NPT to DR5 increased with pH, and the ionized energy was more important for NPT than for soluble TRAIL. Moreover, because of negative values of ∆H° and ∆S°* quantities, we demonstrated that van der Waals and hydrogen bonds governed the strong NPT–DR5 association for pH > 7.4 (as for TRAIL alone). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Study of the Osmolality and pH of Subcutaneous Drug Infusion Solutions
Authors: Schneider Jennifer J , Wilson Kathryn M , Ravenscroft Peter J
Published: March 2016

Continuous subcutaneous infusion is a commonly used route for administration of medication in palliative care patients. It has been suggested that the pH and tonicity of the infusion solution may affect the duration of the infusion site.
Erythropoietin: Use in a Critically Ill Patient Refusing a Blood Transfusion
Authors: Robinson Maxine KF
Published: March 2016

To present a patient with a critically low haemoglobin due to anaemia of chronic disease who was treated with recombinant human erythropoietin (r HuEPO). Anaemia of chronic disease is usually treated with blood transfusion. Studies have shown that erythropoietin can increase production of red blood cells and haemoglobin.
A Study of Aminoglycoside Usage in a Hong Kong Hospital
Authors: Hung Chung Wing , Law Kenneth KM , Li Ronald C , Sze Raymond YH , Raymond Kenneth
Published: March 2016

Aim: To examine therapeutic drug monitoring of aminoglycosides in a Hong Kong hospital and to evaluate whether improvements can be made on the current practice.

Method: Medical records of adult inpatients receiving aminoglycosides in seven randomly selected medical wards were reviewed daily over a six‐week period.

Results: Fifty‐eight patients were identified. The methods of administration of aminoglycosides varied widely amongst the wards. Therapeutic drug monitoring appeared to be inadequate since only 16 patients received some conventional monitoring. Most of the aminoglycoside concentrations (25/35) could not be interpreted due to the absence of documentation of sampling time and/or method of drug administration.

Conclusion: Therapeutic drug monitoring of aminoglycosides in this study was inadequate. Absence of documented sampling time or incorrect sampling time was common. More communication between pharmacists and other healthcare staff as well as implementation of a pharmacokinetic dosing service are possible solutions.

Aust J Hosp Pharm 1997; 27: 235–7.
Management of Ocular Problems in Older People
Authors: Maclean Hector
Published: March 2016

This paper reviews some of the more common eye problems of the elderly, and particularly those most likely to cause blindness. A description of each is followed with an outline of available drug treatment. Interactions between treatment for the eye condition and other systemic medication is noted, as is any variation in treatment useful for elderly patients. Most eye treatment regimens do not require modification in the elderly but caution is needed with antiglaucoma medications. Compliance problems may be considerable: surgery may sometimes help. Visual impairment may prevent some elderly managing adequately any medications whether topical or systemic.

Aust J Hosp Pharm 1997; 27: 239–42.
Effect of Therapeutic Guidelines on Surgical Antibiotic Prophylaxis
Authors: Mottram Margaret C , Pearce Malcolm J , Allen Barbara , Begg Evan J
Published: March 2016

To measure compliance with hospital guidelines for surgical antibiotic prophylaxis and estimate the impact on drug costs.
Documentation of Penicillin Allergy in a Veterans' Hospital
Authors: Wyer Stewart L
Published: March 2016

To retrospectively investigate whether patients of Greenslopes Repatriation Hospital (GRH) had been mislabelled as ‘penicillin‐allergic’ because of poor documentation of their penicillin allergy history.
Refinement of an Australian Pharmacy Casemix Classification for the Acute Healthcare Setting
Authors: Howitt Karen M , Brooks Colleen , Lauchlan Roberta , Martin E Dean
Published: March 2016

PharmGroup was developed as a pharmacy specific, acute care, casemix classification system. This project aimed to refine the first version ofPharmGroup and develop a coding, nomenclature and cost weight structure for the PharmGroup categories. The refinement process also led to the description of critical data elements and high cost and severity indicators specific to pharmacy practice. Selection criteria for the identification and ratification of future indicators was also developed.
Workload Measurement Practice in Australian Hospital Pharmacy Departments
Authors: Ng Kingsley , Goh Sue F , Koller Lorraine J
Published: March 2016

To obtain an overview of the pharmacy workload measurement systems (WMS) operating in Australian hospitals.
Information Quality A Major Consideration in the Development of Medication Liaison Services
Authors: Stowasser Danielle A , McGuire Treasure M , Petrie Gwynneth M , Lauchlan Roberta L , Collins David M
Published: March 2016

To assess the accuracy of medication‐related information as a preliminary phase to the development of a comprehensive medication liaison service.
Use of Alternative Medicines on Sydney's North Shore
Authors: Kristoffersen Sean S , Atkin Philip A , Shenfield Gillian M
Published: March 2016

To determine the prevalence of alternative therapy use among patients attending the emergency department of a Sydney teaching hospital.
Clinical Utility of Digoxin in Elderly Patients in Sinus Rhythm with Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Pellizzer Anne‐Marie , Krum Henry
Published: March 2016

The role of digoxin in therapy of elderly chronic heart failure (CHF) patients who are in sinus rhythm remains controversial. Digoxin is an oral inotrope which also has potentially beneficial autonomic effects in CHF. Physiological changes in the elderly, including haemodynamic, autonomic, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes influence the dosing of digoxin. Digoxin toxicity, a particular problem in the elderly, makes attention to drug levels and drug interactions mandatory. The Digitalis Investigation Group (DIG) trial demonstrated no mortality benefit in CHF patients who remain in sinus rhythm, however evidence from this study and earlier withdrawal studies suggests symptomatic benefit with digoxin in these patients.
Influencing Psychotropic Prescribing and Auditing the Results
Authors: Parke John
Published: March 2016

To use an audit of psychotropic use to highlight prescribing patterns which could be improved and then re‐audit after educational interventions to measure their effect.
Incompatibilities with Trace Elements During TPN Solution Admixture
Authors: Ambados Fotios , Brealey John
Published: March 2016

To demonstrate both physical and chemical incompatibilities noted between Trace Elements Solution (TES) and various injections during total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solution admixture.
Cancer Chemotherapy in the Elderly
Authors: Siderov Jim , Mitchell Paul LR
Published: March 2016

The relative efficacy and toxicity of cytotoxic drugs in those over the age of 65 years is an important but still controversial and under‐researched area. Age‐related physiological changes, particularly changes in renal function, may lead to increased toxicity in the elderly. However, treatment policies chosen to reduce toxicity may compromise therapeutic results, creating the impression that chemotherapy may be less effective in the elderly. An individualised approach to dosing of cytotoxic agents is required in this age group.
EXTRA‐EXtravasation Treatment Record dAtabase: A Database to Record and Review Cytotoxic Drug Extravasation Events
Authors: Bingham Judith M , Dooley Michael J
Published: March 2016

To collect data on extravasation events following the administration of cytotoxic drugs, to review treatment methods currently in use and patient outcomes following an event.
Medication Omission Rates After Inclusion of Patients' Names on Medication Drawers
Authors: Gaetani Luigi
Published: March 2016

Aim: To determine whether medication omission rates differed if medication drawers in a unit‐of‐use trolley were labelled with patients' names as well as bed numbers.

Method: During a two‐month period all doses given or missed were counted in a busy surgical ward. For one month the medication drawers in the unit‐of‐use trolley were labelled only with bed numbers. During the next month drawers were also labelled with the patient's name. Omitted doses were identified by missing signatures on drug administration charts.

Results: In the month when drawers had bed numbers only, 1935 doses were ordered and 146 omitted (7.6%). In the month that drawers had patient names and numbers, 3601 doses were ordered and 204 omitted (5.7%). This difference was significant (z = 2.74, p < 0.01).

Conclusion: These data suggest that dosage omissions can be reduced by adding a patient's name to their medication drawer in a drug trolley.
The Role of Antidepressants in the Elderly
Authors: Bonwick Richard J
Published: March 2016

There has been a revolution in antidepressant medication over the last ten years, beginning with the introduction to Australia offluoxetine in 1987. Subsequently a further seven new agents (citalopram, fluvoxamine, moclobemide, nefazodone, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine) have become available. All these newer agents have fewer side effects than earlier agents. The greatest impact of this revolution has been in the treatment of the elderly, who are particularly sensitive to medication side effects. This review examines all antidepressant agents currently available in Australia, and their role in treating depression and other disorders in the elderly.
Comparison of Paediatric Steroid Mixtures
Authors: Stafford Leanne , Hope Monica E , Janney E Peter , Ailakis John G
Published: March 2016

Objective: Oral steroid mixtures are routinely used in the treatment of acute asthmatic exacerbations and croup in children, but the available hydroalcoholic preparations suffer from poor palatability and tolerability. This prospective, non‐randomised, nonblinded, unmatched study compared the palatability, tolerability and therapeutic outcomes of two hydroalcoholic mixtures (one containing prednisolone and the other dexamethasone) used at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, WA, (PMH) and a new prednisolone mixture, PredMix.

Method: One hundred and thirty‐six children between the ages of 1 and 12 years, were treated at PMH and received one of the three mixtures for asthma or croup. A questionnaire and data collection sheet were used to investigate various subjective and objective parameters.

Results: PredMix was more easily administered than the PMH prednisolone mixture (52% improvement, p = 0.044) but not the PMH dexamethasone mixture (only 9% improvement).PredMix tasted better than both other mixtures but the difference was only significant for the PMH prednisolone mixture. No significant differences were found regarding the incidence of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, or any of the objective parameters tested.

Conclusion: PredMix's advantages over the hydroalcoholic mixtures are unlikely to produce savings because of the higher initial cost. Nevertheless, PredMix is an efficacious, palatable and well tolerated oral steroid preparation and is therefore a viable alternative to the PMH dexamethasone mixture and the now discontinued prednisolone mixture.
Treatment of Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Byrne Gerard JA
Published: March 2016

Alzheimer's disease, the commonest cause of dementia in the developed world, is increasing in prevalence as the population ages. Alzheimer's disease is characterised by both cognitive symptoms such as memory impairment and non‐cognitive symptoms such as behavioural changes. Until recently, available management options for both the cognitive and non‐cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease had been exclusively psychosocial in nature. However, several lines of inquiry have led to important advances in the treatment of the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. In particular, several drugs operating on the central cholinergic system have been marketed or are in the final stages of development. Some of these drugs have considerable toxicity and all appear to have only modest efficacy. Nevertheless, some patients with Alzheimer's disease may benefit from taking them.
A Two‐Day National Consumer Medicines Information Phone‐In
Authors: Ryan Michael J , Allen Karen M , Christopher P Alderma , Seale Robyn
Published: March 2016

We describe the organisation, operation and results of a national two‐day telephone medication information service for consumers. The ‘Phone‐In’ allowed consumers anywhere in Australia to confidentially ask questions about their medicines by calling a freecall number between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on 28 and 29 November 1997. The results are compared with similar services in 1992 and 1996.

The 1997 Phone‐In was staffed by 78 pharmacists, 5 medical practitioners and 2 Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme advisers. There were 3497 enquiries from 3408 callers over the two days, compared with 2245 calls to the one‐day service in 1996. The top two drug enquiry categories were the same in all three years, i.e. cardiac (24–28%) and psychotropic (14–17%). As in 1992 and 1996, the most frequent questions were about side effects (50% of calls in 1997, 46% in 1996, and 45% in 1992).

In a follow‐up survey of 300 callers, over 99% were comfortable with the service and 94% found it helpful or very helpful. Advice was provided to 69% of the sample group of callers and 23% changed the way they took medicines. Forty‐one per cent of callers talked to a doctor or pharmacist as a result of the advice they received and 47% said they had changed the way they talk to their doctor or pharmacist. When surveyed, almost all participants (97%) said they would want to participate in another Phone‐In.

The Medicines Phone‐In again demonstrated that a telephone service is an important and useful mechanism for acquiring information about medicines. Based on the surveys of callers and the pharmacists and doctors answering calls, there was a high level of satisfaction with the Phone‐In from ‘both ends of the telephone line’.
Clinical Pharmacy A New Beginning in India
Authors: Nyfort‐Hansen Karin , May Frank W
Published: March 2016

Clinical pharmacy is non‐existent in nearly all Indian hospitals and pharmacists are under‐utilised in the Indian healthcare system. A recent joint Indo‐Australian program of cooperation established clinical pharmacy practice and education at two South Indian pharmacy colleges and hospitals. These programs will act as model sites for similar programs at other colleges and hospitals in India. This report describes the introduction of clinical pharmacy practice and education at a large private teaching hospital and a smaller government district hospital. Based on this experience the future of clinical pharmacy in India appears promising.
Competency and Mutual Recognition
Authors: Low John
Published: March 2016

In opening the 3rd International Conference on Pharmaceutical Competence Professor The Honourable Peter Baume spoke on the subject of the global health professional and, in his usual entertaining and provocative style, predicted the demise of tertiary education institutions as we presently know them and the rise of interactive learning through Inter‐or intranets. And while he did not discuss in any detail other aspects oflife in the global village he certainly identified the fact that practice for the health professional would undergo far‐reaching and fundamental change.
Optimisation of Drug Delivery 10. Site‐Specific Drug Delivery of Small Molecules
Authors: Prankerd Richard J , Benson Heather AE
Published: March 2016

Site‐specific delivery of small molecule drugs is briefly reviewed. The area is divided into molecular design and formulation approaches to modifying the biodistribution of a drug molecule, such that delivery to one part of the body is favoured over others. Molecular design approaches include use of inherent physicochemical properties, specific biochemical transporters, chemical delivery systems and bioreversible attachment of soluble macromolecules. Formulation approaches use microparticulate carriers, e.g. liposomes, microspheres, nanospheres, reannealed blood cells and combination strategies. Some recent examples of clinically used site‐specific delivery systems are reported.
Interventions of an Antibiotic Management Team
Authors: Jenney Adam , O'Reilly Mary , Meagher Des , Corallo Carmela E
Published: March 2016

Objective: To evaluate interventions made by medical and pharmacy staff in association with an antibiotic approval system at Box Hill Hospital.

Design: Ward pharmacists identified all restricted antibiotics and prescribers then obtained approval numbers from the Infectious Diseases Unit. Details of all antibiotic approvals, including interventions, were recorded by the Unit during a three‐month period. Details of ward pharmacists' antibiotic‐related interventions were extracted from the Pharmacy's computer records.

Results: During the study period, 195 requests for antibiotics requiring approval numbers were made. Approval was given in 93% of cases and there were 41 additional interventions made by the Infectious Diseases Unit at the time of issuing the number. Overall, treatment was altered on 55 occasions (28%). Pharmacists recorded a further 37 major interventions subsequent to the approval of antibiotics.

Conclusion: An approval system for selected antibiotics can limit inappropriate prescribing particularly when a team approach is used.
Unplanned Medication‐Related Admissions to an Acute Care General Teaching Hospital
Authors: Ng David , Cosh David G , Harris Josephine , Whitehead Craig
Published: March 2016

To determine the incidence and preventability of unplanned admissions to a State acute care general teaching hospital caused by adverse medication‐related events (AMREs).
Fundamentals of Population Modelling Opportunities for Hospital Pharmacy Practice
Authors: Charles Bruce G
Published: March 2016

Population modelling facilitates estimation of pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic responses using sparse data from a large population of patients. In contrast, traditional approaches use individual responses derived from multiple blood sampling in very few subjects.
Premedication for Surgery A Survey of Australian Practice
Authors: Riley Richard H , Lim Wilson
Published: March 2016

To survey anaesthetists' premedication practices for adult surgical patients.
SHPA Standards of Practice for Pharmacy Investigational Drugs Services The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Committee of Specialty Practice in Investigational Drugs
Authors:   The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Committee of Specialty Practice in Investigational Drugs, Hynes Kay , Naismith Neil , Matthews Helen , Bingham Judy , Choo Shin , Kopp Helen , Fong Lorraine , Ewart Sue
Published: March 2016

These standards have been developed for pharmacists involved with investigational drugs in their institutions and replace the previously published ‘SHPA Policy Guidelines for Investigational Drugs’.1 This document deals with investigational drugs used in clinical trials and under the Special Access Scheme (SAS).2 Hospitals and other healthcare agencies are the major centres for clinical studies with investigational drugs and pharmacists in these institutions should be involved with policies and procedures for the safe and ethical use of these drugs.
Book Reviews
Authors: Brien Jo‐anne
Published: March 2016

This small, pocket‐sized book is a compilation of articles published in the Australian Prescriber over recent years. These articles claimed to outline ‘in a simple fashion, the basic principles of clinical pharmacokinetics’. In the preface, the author describes the aim of the articles to be ‘understandable to family (medical) practitioners, (to) take an applied approach using clinical examples, contain as few equations as possible, and be succinct’. The book successfully achieves these aims and, as such, it is a very useful quick reference. Pharmacists in practice would find this a valuable and concise ‘pocket reference’ and a useful reminder of basic pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic relationships
Unregistered and Off‐Label Drug Use in Paediatric Inpatients
Authors: Turner Sean
Published: March 2016

To determine the nature and extent of unregistered and off‐label drug use in surgical and medical inpatients in a paediatric teaching hospital.
An Australian PharmD: Doctor of Clinical Pharmacy, The University of Queensland
Authors: Pulver Lisa K , Tett Susan E
Published: March 2016

The School of Pharmacy at The University of Queensland has recently introduced a Doctor of Clinical Pharmacy program. The longer term plan is for this degree to be offered in conjunction with The University of South Australia.
Factors Determining Prescribing Decisions in a Teaching Hospital Setting
Authors: Brown Gregor JE , Dartnell Jonathan GA , Moulds Robert FW
Published: March 2016

To develop a survey tool and use it to assess prescribers' and pharmacists' opinions of the types and relative importance of factors that influence prescribing.
BCOP: a New Regimen for the Oncology Pharmacist
Authors: Siderov Jim
Published: March 2016

The Board ofPharmaceutical Specialties (BPS) was established to recognise and certifY pharmacists in specialised areas of pharmacy practice. In 1998, I was awarded one of four grants made available to Australian hospital pharmacists to seek certification in oncology pharmacy. This review aims to help Australian pharmacists, giving them insight into the trials and tribulations of studying for and ultimately passing the exam.
The Clinical Services Documentation (CSD) System for Documenting Clinical Pharmacists' Services
Authors: Bright Jennifer M , Tenni Peter C
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we describe the Clinical Services Documentation (CSD) system, a system that has been in use (in various modified forms) in some Western Australian hospitals for over 10 years.
Management of Stroke in Older People; A Pharmacological Perspective
Authors: Srikanth Velandai K , Donnan Geoffrey A
Published: March 2016

Stroke is primarily a disorder of older people, with stroke incidence rising exponentially with age. It is a major cause of death and disability in the industrialised world. This raises potentially huge public health issues in the setting of a rapidly ageing population. Older people may also suffer from other co‐morbid illnesses leading to increasing disability and needs. Management of acute stroke in older patients should be an important focus in order to reduce incidence and minimise the effects of the disease in this vulnerable population. Long‐term consequences such as post‐stroke depression are common in older people and may often require treatment. This article discusses the prevention and treatment of stroke and related disorders in older people, with an emphasis on pharmacological management.