bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reassessment of External Insulin Infusion Pumps
Authors: Hotta S. Steven , Adams Diane 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To discuss the potential role of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Data Sources: Published studies describing intensive insulin therapy are reviewed and evaluated. Data Synthesis: CSII delivers insulin at a preset basal rate and at bolus doses, when needed, throughout the day. Although this technology allows for greater lifestyle flexibility, the risks of hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis are also increased if the pump malfunctions. Studies have shown that CSII therapy may offer some advantages over conventional insulin therapy; however, the full impact of these benefits has yet to be determined. The National Institutes of Health has recommended seven commercially available insulin pumps for patient use. Cost ranges between $2000 and $3500; the average lifespan is about five years. Conclusions: CSII may be a viable alternative to multiple daily injections for maintaining glycemic control in patients with IDDM who require intensive insulin therapy.
A Primer of Drug Safety Surveillance: An Industry Perspective
Authors: Allan Marjorie C. 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To place the fundamentals of clinical drug safety surveillance in a conceptual framework that will facilitate understanding and application of adverse drug event data to protect the health of the public and support a market for pharmaceutical manufacturers' products. Part III of this series describes management of adverse-event data. This process involves an interplay of regulations, labeling, and product knowledge. Types of databases are defined and the scope of paper files and computerized files is discussed. Database management is discussed in terms of four processes: Receipt, retention, retrieval, and review of adverse-event reports. A summary of the application of the fundamentals to the incident described in the scenario shows that knowledge of the fundamentals may be sufficient to make a substantial contribution to the health of patients and the commercial well-being of manufacturers. Data Sources: This review uses primary sources from the federal laws (regulations), commentaries, and summaries. Very complex topics are briefly summarized in the text and additional readings are listed in the appendix. Secondary sources, ranging from newspaper articles to judicial summaries, illustrate the interpretation of adverse drug events and opportunities for drug safety surveillance intervention. Study Selection: The reference materials used were articles theoretically or practically applicable in the day-to-day practice of drug safety surveillance. Data Synthesis: The role of clinical drug safety surveillance in product monitoring and drug development is described. The process of drug safety surveillance is defined by the Food and Drug Administration regulations, product labeling, product knowledge, and database management. Emphasis is placed on the dynamic interaction of the components of the process. Suggestions are offered to facilitate communication of a review of adverse-event data for various audiences. Conclusions: Careful drug safety surveillance is beneficial to the health of the public and the commercial well-being of manufacturers. Attention to the basic principles is essential and, as illustrated, may be sufficient to resolve some problems.
Nebulized Morphine for the Treatment of Dyspnea in Cancer Patients
Authors: Neudeck Brien L , Smith Kelly M 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To review the literature concerning the use of nebulized opioids to treat dyspnea in terminally ill cancer patients. Data Sources: English-language journal articles were obtained by a MEDLINE search (1966-August 1997). Study Selection: All clinical trials and case reports involving nebulized opioids. Representative studies discussing neurogenic inflammation and pulmonary opioid receptors were also reviewed. Data Extraction: Studies were selected for review on the basis of study design and use of nebulized opioids. Case reports were selected from the palliative care literature. Data Synthesis: High-density, low-affinity opioid receptors have been identified in lung tissue and may play a role in the alleviation of dyspnea in some patients. The activation of these receptors in the lung may attenuate the release of inflammatory mediators and neuropeptides such as substance P. However, because nebulized opioids are absorbed buccally or through the airway mucosa, the relief observed may be due to a central rather than peripheral effect. Conclusions: Several case reports in the palliative care literature have described favorable results when nebulized opioids are used to treat dyspnea. However, data from controlled trials in populations other than patients with cancer do not substantiate the use of nebulized opioids. Unfortunately, controlled clinical trials have not been conducted in cancer patients; thus, extrapolation is difficult. Well-designed clinical trials in patients with cancer are necessary to determine the efficacy of nebulized morphine in treating dyspnea.
Necrotizing Fasciitis Associated with Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug Use
Authors: Rivey Michael P , Allington Douglas R , Dunham Amanda L Henry 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To describe a case of necrotizing fasciitis (NF) that occurred following minor clean surgery in a seemingly otherwise healthy man who was taking over-the-counter (OTC) ibuprofen 200 mg and aspirin 325 mg before surgery. Case Summary: A 71-year-old white man underwent an uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy. His only medical disorder prior to surgery was osteoarthritis, for which he took OTC-strength ibuprofen; his only other regular medication was one aspirin 325-mg tablet daily for prevention of cardiac disease. Within 48 hours of the surgery, the onset of NF was apparent, and extensive tissue excision and debridement was required 1 week after the operation. All nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were withheld. The patient survived a complicated clinical course over the next month. Discussion: A review of proposed risk factors for the development of NF in the patient indicated surgery and NSAID use. Analysis of the probability of NSAID use as a causative factor for the adverse reaction of NF suggests a possible role. This case suggests that NSAID use in lower OTC dosages may contribute to the onset or course of NF. The case report adds to existing literature suggesting an association between NSAID use and the development or course of NF. Conclusions: NSAIDs are widely used drugs, and any association as a causative or provocative factor for NF is a rare finding. However, practitioners should be aware of the proposed association.
Safety and Efficacy of Cefoperazone Plus Sulbactam versus Ceftazidime in the Empiric Treatment of Febrile Neutropenia
Authors: Chandrasekar Pranatharthi H 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of cefoperazone plus sulbactam (CPZ + SB) (3 g [2:1] every 8 h) and ceftazidime (CTZ) (2 g every 8 h) as monotherapy in the empiric treatment of febrile neutropenia in patients with cancer. Patients: One hundred eighteen cancer patients with chemotherapy-associated neutropenia and fever. Most patients (82) received norfloxacin and fluconazole as prophylaxis. Results: Fifty-nine patients were enrolled in the CPZ + SB group, and 59 were enrolled in the CTZ group. The mean duration of antibiotic therapy was less than 10 days in both groups. Forty-three patients (19 in the CPZ + SB group and 24 in the CTZ group) were bacteremic, and 7 others had cellulitis. Of the 56 microorganisms producing bacteremia, 51 were gram-positive bacteria, mostly staphylococci (28 isolates) and streptococci (22 isolates). Gram-positive cocci were more frequently resistant to CTZ than to CPZ + SB (77% vs. 40%, respectively; p < 0.002). However, the clinical response rate at 72 hours of therapy was 53% in the CPZ + SB group and 52% in the CTZ group (p = 1.0). At the end of therapy, clinical responses were similar in the two groups (p = 0.19). Clinical success with antibiotic modification was seen in 42% of the CPZ + SB recipients and in 58% of CTZ recipients (p = 0.10). Bacteriologic eradication among bacteremic patients appeared to be slightly better in the CPZ + SB group (79% vs. 54%; p = 0.09). Except for rashes in 3 patients (1 in the CPZ + SB group and 2 in the CTZ group), both drugs were well tolerated. Adverse events included superinfections, transient elevation of serum transaminase concentrations, diarrhea, and chills. Conclusions: CPZ + SB was superior to CTZ in its in vitro activity against aerobic gram-positive cocci encountered in the study; however, the clinical efficacy and safety of the two drug treatments were similar in the empiric therapy for febrile neutropenia.
Trazodone-Associated Syncope in a Patient with Congenital Cardiac Anomalies
Authors: Bhatara Vinod S , Awadallah Sami 
Published: January 2017

Objective: To report a case of trazodone-associated syncope in a 19-year-old woman with congenital cardiac anomalies and to review risk factors and mechanisms involved in this case. Case Summary: A 19-year-old woman diagnosed with Noonan syndrome with congenital cardiac anomalies tolerated sertraline, but had a syncopal episode when trazodone was used. There was no recurrence of syncope after the trazodone was discontinued. Discussion: The syncopal episode could have resulted from either trazodone or congenital heart disease, but it most likely resulted from a trazodone–congenital heart disease interaction. Trazodone is not cardiotoxic in most patients; our patient was probably vulnerable to the cardiotoxic effects of trazodone due to congenital cardiac defects. Conclusions: Trazodone can precipitate arrhythmias or syncope in susceptible patients with heart disease and should be prescribed cautiously in patients with congenital heart disease. In such cases, it may be safer to use a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor.
A review of filled and pristine polycarbonate blends and their applications
Authors: Kausar Ayesha 
Published: January 2017

Polycarbonate is an important thermoplastic polymer. Due to its high performance, polycarbonate has a range of engineering applications in construction, automotive, aircraft, data storage, electrical, and telecommunication hardware. However, polycarbonate’s use is limited in advanced applications due to limitations, such as strong hydrophobicity, relatively limited chemical functionality, high melt viscosity, notch sensitivity of mechanical properties, and relative softness. Blending with other thermoplastic polymers improves its physical characteristics. The present review outlines up-to-date developments concerning the design and application of polycarbonate blends. A particular emphasis has been given to establish polycarbonate blends such as: • polycarbonate/polyethylene • polycarbonate/poly(methyl methacrylate) • polycarbonate/poly(vinylchloride) • polycarbonate/ polystyrene • polycarbonate/polyurethane • polycarbonate/polyester • polycarbonate/poly(ɛ-caprolactone). To improve the polycarbonate blend properties, fillers including organic and inorganic reinforcement materials (carbon nanotube, montmorillonite nanoclay, and metal nanoparticle) have also been employed. Polycarbonate blend applications in biomedical, flame retardant, and membrane materials have also been reviewed. To fully exploit the future potential for polycarbonate-based engineering materials, the structure–property relationship and compatibilization mechanisms need to be further explored.
The amyloidogenic light chain is a stressor that sensitizes plasma cells to proteasome inhibitor toxicity
Authors: Oliva Laura , Orfanelli Ugo , Resnati Massimo , Raimondi Andrea , Orsi Andrea , Milan Enrico , Palladini Giovanni , Milani Paolo , Cerruti Fulvia , Cascio Paolo , Casarini Simona , Rognoni Paola , Touvier Thierry , Marcatti Magda , Ciceri Fabio , Mangiacavalli Silvia , Corso Alessandro , Merlini Giampaolo , Cenci Simone 
Published: January 2017

Key PointsAmyloidogenic PCs show unique PI susceptibility and altered organelle homeostasis, consistent with defective autophagy. Amyloidogenic LC production is an intrinsic cellular stressor that sensitizes to PI toxicity.
Three-dimensional morphological changes of the temporomandibular joint and functional effects after mandibulotomy
Authors: Al-Saleh Mohammed A. Q. , Punithakumar Kumaradevan , Lagravere Manuel , Boulanger Pierre , Jaremko Jacob L. , Wolfaardt John , Major Paul W. , Seikaly Hadi 
Published: January 2017

Background The midline and paramedian mandibulotomy are surgical procedures that divide the mandibular bone into two halves and disconnects the condylar heads of the TMJ from each other. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functional and morphological changes after mandibulotomy using a reconstructed 3D models of the TMJ. Methods Sixteen adult patients diagnosed with oral and oropharyngeal tumors with planned surgical mandibulotomy (test group, 9 patients) or transoral (control group, seven patients) treatments were included in the study. MRI and CBCT images were obtained immediately preceeding surgery and 6–8 weeks after surgery. Using the MRI-CBCT registered images, TMJ tissues were segmented at the two occasions by the same operator and 3D models were reconstructed for morphological assessment. Changes across time were measured using the volume overlap and Hausdorff distance of the disc and condyle 3D models. Disc-condyle relationship was measured using point-based and color map analysis. To assess the early functional changes, the Jaw function limitation scale ( JFLS) and the maximum mouth opening were measured. Two-sample Hotelling T2 t-test was performed to determine the significance of the morphological and clinical outcomes’ differences between the two groups. Results The two-sample Hotelling T2 t-test showed significant differences (T2 (df1,df2) = 0.97 (5,26), p <0.01) between the mean values of all outcomes among the 2 groups. The change in disc displacement was significantly different between the two groups ( p <0.05). However, the condylar displacement was not significantly different between the two groups ( p =0.3). The average of the JFLS score was five times larger after mandibulotomy, and was 2 times larger after transoral surgery ( p < 0.01). Patients showed decrease in the average of the maximum interincisal mouth opening by 11 mm after mandibulotomy, and by 5.4 mm after transoral surgery. Conclusion The quantitative assessment of the TMJ showed minimal changes of the condylar position and variable degrees of articular disc displacement associated with the paramedian split mandibulotomy. As well, limited jaw functions and vertical mouth opening were noticed more in the mandibultomy group compared to the transoral group in 6- weeks after surgery.
Irrigation groundwater quality based on hydrochemical analysis of Nandgaon block, Nashik district in Maharashtra
Authors: Aher Kailash , Gaikwad Sharad 
Published: January 2017

To identify the sources and quality of groundwater, the water samples were collected from 52 dug wells irrigation water in an area of 1089.82km2 and were analyses for pH, Conductivity, total dissolved solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, potassium, total hardness, Alkalinity (CO32âˆ’, HCO3âˆ’), sulphate, chloride, nitrate and fluoride to understand the (irrigation water quality index ) IWQI, The Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â secondary parameters of irrigation groundwater quality indices such as Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), Residual sodium carbonate (RSC), Kelleyâ€™s ratio (KR), Sodium soluble percent (SSP), Permeability index (PI),Magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR),and CRIÂ Â Â Â Â Â (Corrosively ratio index) were calculated from the primary parameter for irrigation water quality index (IWQI). The IWQI was classified into excellent to unfit condition of groundwater quality based on their Water Quality Index (WQI). The IWQI (88%+12%) indicate that slightly unsustainable to good quality of ground water. But due to this quality deterioration of shallow aquifer, an immediate attestation requires for sustainable development.
Theory of “Critical Points at Infinity” and a Resonant Singular Liouville-Type Equation
Authors: Ahmedou Mohameden , Ben Ayed Mohamed 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
We consider the following Liouville-type equation on domains of

ℝ
2

${\mathbb{R}^{2}}$

under Dirichlet boundary conditions:

{

-

Δ
⁢
u

=

ϱ
⁢

K
⁢

e
u

∫
Ω

K
⁢

e
u

in
⁢
Ω

,

u

=
0

on
⁢

∂
⁡
Ω

,

$\left\{\begin{aligned} \displaystyle-\Delta u&\displaystyle=\varrho\frac{Ke^{u% }}{\int_{\Omega}Ke^{u}}&&\displaystyle\text{in }\Omega,\\ \displaystyle u&\displaystyle=0&&\displaystyle\text{on }\partial\Omega,\end{% aligned}\right.$

where

ϱ
∈
ℝ

${\varrho\in\mathbb{R}}$

and K is a smooth nonnegative function having N zeros

q
1

,
…
,

q
N

${q_{1},\ldots,q_{N}}$

, which takes in a neighborhood of a zero

q
j

${q_{j}}$

the following form:

K
⁢

(
x
)

=

K
j

⁢

(
x
)

⁢

|

x
-

q
j

|

2
⁢

γ
j

with
⁢

K
j

⁢

(
x
)

>

0
⁢
and
⁢

γ
i

∈

ℝ
⁢
such that
⁢
0

<

γ
j

:=

γ
j

⁢

(

q
j

)

∉
ℕ

.

$K(x)=K_{j}(x)\lvert x-q_{j}\rvert^{2\gamma_{j}}\quad\text{with }K_{j}(x)>0% \text{ and }\gamma_{i}\in\mathbb{R}\text{ such that }0<\gamma_{j}:=\gamma_{j}(% q_{j})\notin\mathbb{N}.$

Using some dynamical and topological tools from the “critical point theory at infinity” of Bahri, we study the critical points at infinity of the related variational problem. Then we derive from our analysis some existence results in the so-called resonant case, that is, when the parameter ϱ is of the form

∑

i
=
1

σ

8
⁢
π
⁢

(

1
+

γ
i

)

+

∑

i
=

σ
+
1

m

8
⁢
π

${\sum_{i=1}^{\sigma}8\pi(1+\gamma_{i})+\sum_{i=\sigma+1}^{m}8\pi}$

for a subset

(

q

i
1

,
…
,

q

i
σ

)

${(q_{i_{1}},\ldots,q_{i_{\sigma}})}$

of

Σ
:=

{

q
1

,
…
,

q
N

}

${\Sigma:=\{q_{1},\ldots,q_{N}\}}$

. In particular, we provide an Euler–Poincaré-type criterium for existence of solutions.
Immunoassay screening in urine for synthetic cannabinoids – an evaluation of the diagnostic efficiency
Authors: Franz Florian , Angerer Verena , Jechle Hanna , Pegoro Melanie , Ertl Harald , Weinfurtner Georg , Janele David , Schlögl Christian , Friedl Matthias , Gerl Stefan , Mielke Reinhard , Zehnle Ralf , Wagner Matthias , Moosmann Bjoern , Auwärter Volker 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackground:The abuse of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) as presumed legal alternative to cannabis poses a great risk to public health. For economic reasons many laboratories use immunoassays (IAs) to screen for these substances in urine. However, the structural diversity and high potency of these designer drugs places high demands on IAs regarding cross-reactivity of the antibodies used and detection limits.Methods:Two retrospective studies were carried out in order to evaluate the capability of two homogenous enzyme IAs for the detection of currently prevalent SCs in authentic urine samples. Urine samples were analyzed utilizing a ‘JWH-018’ kit and a ‘UR-144’ kit. The IA results were confirmed by an up-to-date liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) screening method covering metabolites of 45 SCs.Results:The first study (n=549) showed an 8% prevalence of SCs use (LC-MS/MS analysis) among inpatients of forensic-psychiatric clinics, whereas all samples were tested negative by the IAs. In a second study (n=200) the combined application of both IAs led to a sensitivity of 2% and a diagnostic accuracy of 51% when applying the recommended IA cut-offs. Overall, 10 different currently prevalent SCs were detected in this population. The results can be explained by an insufficient cross-reactivity of the antibodies towards current SCs in combination with relatively high detection limits of the IAs.Conclusions:In light of the presented study data it is strongly recommended not to rely on the evaluated IA tests for SCs in clinical or forensic settings. For IA kits of other providers similar results can be expected.
Minimal potential results for Schrödinger equations with Neumann boundary conditions
Authors: Edward Julian , Hudson Steve , Leckband Mark 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
We consider the boundary value
problem

-

Δ
p

⁢
u

=

V
⁢

|
u
|

p
-
2

⁢
u

-
C

{-\Delta_{p}u=V|u|^{p-2}u-C}

, where

u
∈

W

1
,
p

⁢

(
D
)

{u\in W^{1,p}(D)}

is assumed to satisfy Neumann boundary conditions, and D is a bounded domain in

ℝ
n

{{\mathbb{R}^{n}}}

.
We derive necessary conditions for the existence of nontrivial solutions.
These conditions usually involve a lower bound for the product of a sharp Sobolev constant and an

L
p

{L^{p}}

norm of V.
When

p
=
n

{p=n}

, Orlicz norms are used.
In many cases, these inequalities are best possible.
Applications to linear and non-linear eigenvalue problems are also discussed.
Optimization of Total Monomeric Anthocyanin (TMA) and Total Phenolic Content (TPC) Extractions from Red Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra): Response Surface Methodology versus Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Oroian Mircea , Leahu Ana , Dutuc Anamaria , Dabija Adriana 
Published: January 2017

Abstract:
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of solvent type, ultrasonic frequency, extraction time and temperature on the total phenolic content (TPC) and total monomeric anthocyanin (TMA) extraction from red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra) using the response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network. The red cabbage has been used as TPC and TMA sources due to its low cost and highly availability during all the year. The experimental data for the extraction of TPC and TMA were fitted to second-order polynomial models with higher regression coefficients than 0.902. The optimal conditions (in dry matter) for highest TPC extraction (7,049.5 mg gallic acid equivalent/kg) are: methanol as solvent, 3.60 kHz ultrasonic frequency at 67.6 °C for 59.6 min, while for TMA optimal extraction (0.3 mg/g) 2-propanol was used as solvent, 45 kHz ultrasonic frequency at 69.2 °C for 20.80 min. The artificial neural network (ANN) is better than RSM to predict the TPC and TMA extraction from red cabbage.
Structural and Optical Properties of Nanophotonic LiNbO3 under Stirrer Time Effect
Authors: Fakhri Makram A. , Al-Douri Y. , Bouhemadou A. , Ameri M. 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Lithium niobate (LiNbO3) nanostructures are synthesized on n-silicon substrate by spin coating technique with stirrer times; 8 h, 24 h and 48 h. LiNbO3 is characterized and analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-visible and Photoluminescence (PL). The measurements show that as stirrer time increases, the structures start to crystallize to become more regular distribution, which helps to apply in optical waveguides. In addition, the calculated refractive index and optical dielectric constant are in agreement with experimental data.