bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of a Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Reduced Graphene Oxide and an Imidazole Derivative for Simultaneous Determination of Biological Species of N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, Uric Acid and Dopamine
Authors: Benvidi Ali , Dalirnasab Sudabeh , Jahanbani Shahriar , Tezerjani Marzieh Dehghan , Ardakani Mohammad Mazloum , Mirjalili Bi‐Bi Fatemeh , Zare Reza 
Published: March 2016

AbstractIn this work, the modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) with an imidazole derivative 2‐(2,3 dihydroxy phenyl) 4‐methyl benzimidazole (DHPMB) and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was used as an electrochemical sensor for electrocatalytic oxidation of N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC). The electrocatalytic oxidation of N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine on the modified electrode surface was then investigated, indicating a reduction in oxidative over voltage and an intensive increase in the current of analyte. The scan rate potential, the percentages of DHPMB and RGO, and the pH solution were optimized. Under the optimum conditions, some parameters such as the electron transfer coefficient (α) between electrode and modifier, and the electron transfer rate constant) ks) in a 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (pH=7.0) were obtained by cyclic voltammetry method. The diffusion coefficient of species (D) 3.96×10−5 cm2 s−1 was calculated by chronoamperometeric technique and the Tafel plot was used to calculate α (0.46) for N‐ acetyl‐L‐cysteine. Also, by using differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) technique, two linear dynamic ranges of 2–18 µM and 18–1000 µM with the detection limit of 61.0 nM for N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) were achieved. In the co‐existence system of N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC), uric acid (UA) and dopamine (DA), the linear response ranges for NAC, UA, and DA are 6.0–400.0 µM, 5.0–50.0 µM and 2.0–20.0 µM, respectively and the detection limits based on (C=3sb/m) are 0.067 µM, 0.246 µM and 0.136 µM, respectively. The obtained results indicated that DHPMB/RGO/CPE is applicable to separate NAC, uric acid (UA) and dopamine (DA) oxidative peaks, simultaneously. For analytic performance, the mentioned modified electrode was used for determination of NAC in the drug samples with acceptable results, and the simultaneous determination of NAC, UA and DA oxidative peaks was investigated in the serum solutions, too.
An Electrochemical Study of the Surface Hybridization Process of Morpholino‐DNA: Thermodynamics and Kinetics
Authors: He Yakai , Zhang Jing , Ruffin Sade , Ji Lina , Wang Kang , Levicky Rastislav , Xia Xinghua 
Published: March 2016

AbstractMorpholino (MO) is a neutral analogue of DNA, which shows promise in the development of DNA biosensors and diagnostic devices. The present study explores the hybridization process of a surface‐attached MO 22‐mer with 10‐mer and 20‐mer DNA targets on a gold electrode. The melting process of the MO‐DNA duplex at the electrode/buffer interface is recorded using cyclic voltammetry. These results show that the length of target DNA, the binding location of the target DNA on the surface‐immobilized MO chain, and electrostatic forces from neighbouring duplexes all modulate the stability and hybridization kinetics of the DNA targets with the MO probes. Melting temperatures for immobilized MO‐DNA duplexes are found to be insensitive to ionic strength, provided the duplexes do not have a linker. Although the melting temperature does not shift appreciably with ionic strength, the maximum hybridization yield does. This somewhat surprising observation is considered to originate from an electrostatic limit on the extent of attainable hybridization. It is also reported that hybridization tends to initiate at the upper half of MO probes.
Towards an Integrated Microneedle Total Analysis Chip for Protein Detection
Authors: Miller Philip , Moorman Matthew , Manginell Ron , Ashlee Carlee , Brener Igal , Wheeler David , Narayan Roger , Polsky Ronen 
Published: March 2016

AbstractReal‐time monitoring of an individual’s physiologic state without constant observation by a healthcare professional necessitates the construction of an autonomous remote diagnostic device that is capable of performing a wide range of diagnostic functions. For many applications, assessing the immediate physiologic state of an individual as he or she is continuously exposed to diverse environments would require complex dynamic chemical processing scenarios that are capable of real time readouts. We seek to answer these problems by combining in vivo microneedle platforms with multifunctional lab‐on‐chip electrode arrays that are capable of detecting a wide variety of relevant biomarkers. The results presented here provide an important proof‐of‐concept demonstration of integration of microneedles with a microchip platform containing fluidic channels and electrode transducers. As shown by immunoassay detection of myoglobin and troponin, such a device may be used to extract interstitial fluid and monitor biologically important molecules.
Motion‐free endoscopic system for brain imaging at variable focal depth using liquid crystal lenses
Authors: Bagramyan Arutyun , Galstian Tigran , Saghatelyan Armen 
Published: March 2016

We present a motion‐free system for microendoscopic imaging of biological tissues at variable focal depths. Fixed gradient index and electrically tunable liquid crystal lenses (TLCL) were used to build the imaging optical probe. The design of the TLCL enables polarization‐independent and relatively low‐voltage operation, significantly improving the energy efficiency of the system. A focal shift of approximately 74 ± 3 µm could be achieved by electrically controlling the TLCL using the driving frequency at a constant voltage. The potential of the system was tested by imaging neurons and spines in thick adult mouse brain sections and in vivo, in the adult mouse brain at different focal planes. Our results indicate that the developed system may enable depth‐variable imaging of morpho‐functional properties of neural circuitries in freely moving animals and can be used to investigate the functioning of these circuitries under normal and pathological conditions.
magnified image
Use of Antipsychotics for the Treatment of Behavioral Symptoms of Dementia
Authors: Greenblatt H. Karl , Greenblatt David J. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractAntipsychotic medications are widely used in the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. While nonpharmacological interventions should be the first‐line treatment for behavioral symptoms of dementia, these are often unfeasible and/or ineffective. Conventional and atypical antipsychotic agents appear to have modest to moderate clinical efficacy in the treatment of these symptoms, though it is unclear which individual agents are most effective. No conclusive evidence exists that any available alternative medications are safer and more effective than antipsychotics. A number of studies have shown an increased risk of mortality associated with antipsychotics in patients with behavioral symptoms of dementia, though the observed risk increase may be partially confounded by illness severity and/or preexisting health determinants. The mechanisms of increased mortality risk are not fully established, but are likely to involve cardiovascular events. It is probable, though not certain, that conventional antipsychotics are associated with a greater number of poor outcomes than atypical antipsychotics. In certain patients with refractory behavioral symptoms, antipsychotics are a viable treatment option. Key considerations for antipsychotic prescribing for this population are published in regulatory guidelines, and include minimization of dosage and duration of treatment, continuous reevaluation of symptoms, and involvement of caregivers.
Loss of skeletal muscle during neoadjuvant chemotherapy is related to decreased survival in ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Rutten Iris J.G. , van Dijk David P.J. , Kruitwagen Roy F.P.M. , Beets‐Tan Regina G.H. , Olde Damink Steven W.M. , van Gorp Toon 
Published: March 2016

AbstractBackgroundMalnutrition, weight loss, and muscle wasting (sarcopenia) are common among women with advanced ovarian cancer and have been associated with adverse clinical outcomes and survival. Our objective is to investigate overall survival (OS) related to changes in skeletal muscle (SM) for patients with advanced ovarian cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and interval debulking.MethodsOvarian cancer patients (n = 123) treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and interval debulking in the area of Maastricht (the Netherlands) between 2000 and 2014 were included retrospectively. Surface areas of SM and adipose tissue were defined on computed tomography at the level of the third lumbar vertebra. Low SM at baseline and SM changes during chemotherapy were compared with Kaplan Meier curves, and Cox‐regression models were applied to test predictors of OS.ResultsMedian OS for patients who lost SM (n = 83) was 916 ± 99 days, which was significantly different from median OS for patients who maintained or gained SM (n = 40), which was 1431 ± 470 days (P = 0.004). Loss of SM was also a significant predictor of OS in multivariable Cox‐regression analysis (hazard ratio 1.773 (95%CI: 1.018–3.088), P = 0.043). Low baseline SM did not influence survival.ConclusionsPatients with ovarian cancer have a worse survival when they lose SM during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Evaluation of low SM at a specific time point is not prognostic for OS. External and prospective validation of these findings is imperative. Nutritional, pharmacological, and/or physical intervention studies are necessary to establish whether SM impairment can be prevented to prolong ovarian cancer survival.
Anaphylactic Shock Following Intravenous Vitamin K1
Authors: Corallo Carmela E , Gillett Mark 
Published: March 2016

Aim: To describe a case of anaphylactic shock following the intravenous administration of vitamin K1Clinical features: A 64‐year‐old male was admitted to intensive care following repair of an aortic abdominal aneurysm. Intravenous amiodarone, ceftriaxone, vancomycin and metronidazole were commenced without incident. During the administration of intravenous vitamin K1 (phytomenadione, Konakion) the patient developed a rash, hypotension and severe bronchospasm.Outcome: The patient recovered following paralysis, manual ventilation, and standard medication for anaphylaxis.Conclusion: Intravenous administration of vitamin K1 and other drugs solubilised with polyoxyl 35 castor oil occasionally causes severe anaphylactic shock. A new colloidal formulation may reduce the hazards of intravenous vitamin K1 administration.Aust J Hosp Pharm 1997; 27: 146–7.
Compatibility and Stability of Drug Adjuvants and Morphine Tartrate in 10 mL Polypropylene Syringes
Authors: Targett Paul L , Keefe Patrick A , Merridew Colin G 
Published: March 2016

Objective:Analgesics and a number of other adjuvant drugs are often given by subcutaneous infusions in palliative care. We studied the physical compatibility and chemical stability of adjuvant drugs with morphine tartrate in solutions stored in 10 mL polypropylene syringes. Two formulations were examined:
A — morphine tartrate 400 mg, droperidol hydrochloride 2 mg, dexamethasone sodium phosphate 8 mg, hyoscine butylbromide 20 mg and midazolam hydrochloride 8 mg, (volume 10 mL); and
B — morphine tartrate 40 mg, droperidol hydrochloride 2 mg, dexamethasone sodium phosphate 8 mg, hyoscine butylbromide 20 mg, midazolam hydrochloride 5 mg and sodium chloride 0.9% for injection to 10 mL.Method: The solutions were stored in the dark, at either 21–23°C or 4–8°C, for two weeks. At intervals of two to three days the concentrations of the drugs were measured in duplicate samples from each of three syringes using a stability‐indicating high performance liquid chromatography assay (HPLC). Physical compatibility was assessed visually.Results: At 4–8°C all drugs in both formulations remained stable throughout the study period. At 21–23°C midazolam retained greater than 90% of its initial concentration for only 12 days (formulation A) and 5 days (formulation B). All other drugs remained stable in both formulations for two weeks. There was no visible change in the appearance of any solution stored at 4–8°C, whereas at 21–23°C, a slight straw colour developed in formulation A over two weeks. At neither storage temperature did the pH of any solution vary by more than 0.2 from initial values.Conclusion: The two formulations tested were stable over the two‐week study period at 4–8°C. When stored at 21–23°C there was significant degradation of midazolam in both formulations. Based on this work, it would appear acceptable practice to supply palliative care patients with prefilled syringes of these formulations with a shelf‐life of up to 14 days with directions for storage at 4–8°C.Aust J Hosp Pharm 1997; 27: 207–12.
Pharmaceutical Calculations Student Evaluation of Computer‐Assisted Learning
Authors: Pappas Arthur , Cesnik Branko , Roller Louis , Sorgetti Len 
Published: March 2016

Objectives:To evaluate a networked computer‐based module consisting of a Tutorial Program covering 14 topics on pharmaceutical calculations and a Test Program with 271 multiple choice questions assessing knowledge of each of the topics. First‐year pharmacy students used the program for 74 days in 1996 and 127 days in 1997.Study Procedure:Forty‐eight students (1996 group) were evaluated by questionnaire two months after program release. Data were collected on module use for both 1996 and 1997 release periods.Results:Highorvery highratings were provided by 72‐83% of respondents for the Tutorial Program objectives and by 72‐76% of respondents for the Test Program objectives. From 70 to 87% of respondents considered the modulebetterormuch betterthan other study methods. About 74% perceived the package to have beenusefulorvery usefulin improving their overall knowledge of the subject and 80% gave the same rating as a final exam preparation. The average class mark for 1996 and 1997 final exams increased significantly but our study cannot directly attribute that result to the module.Conclusions:Students responded to this module very enthusiastically. It was evident from their feedback that they derived significant benefit from this comprehensive resource that also allowed the flexibility of independent revision.
A Quality Assurance Audit for an Aseptic Dispensing Facility
Authors: Richards Catherine V 
Published: March 2016

Aim: To adapt UK quality assurance guidelines for aseptic preparation services for use in an Australian hospital pharmacy.Method: The UK guidelines were compared with current New South Wales and Australian standards and an audit document prepared for local use.Result: An internal audit was performed and highlighted some areas for improvement. External audits are planned.Conclusion: A comprehensive quality assurance audit document has been prepared for aseptic dispensing. When all criteria are met it will be possible to extend the expiry of stable, aseptically prepared products.
A Guide to Pharmacy Technicians on Safe Handling of Cytotoxics
Authors: Oldman Robyn 
Published: March 2016

Aim: To review the safe handling of drugs with mutagenic or cytotoxic properties and create guidelines for pharmacy technicians.Conclusions: It is evident from this review that both pharmacists and technicians involved in the production of mixtures and injectables for oncology patients need a sound knowledge of actions and uses of cytotoxics, necessary training in safe handling, safe storage and response in case of spills. The pharmacy department should have written procedures and educational programs to accomplish these requirements. Occupational Health and Safety issues are an important factor in the handling of cytotoxics. Personnel who are regularly exposed to cytotoxic drugs during sterile production should have periodic blood tests, and those experiencing adverse effects consult a medical officer.
Management of Chronic Pain in Older People
Authors: Workman Barbara S 
Published: March 2016

Chronic pain is common in older people as a result of the accumulation of chronic disease processes with age. However, pain is not a normal consequence of physiological ageing alone. Epidemiological data on chronic pain in older people show increasing prevalence to age 70 years and a high prevalence in some subgroups such as those living in residential care who tend to be frail, with multiple medical problems.Management of chronic pain requires a diagnosis of the source(s) of pain and an understanding of the impact other medical, physical and psychological problems may have on making the diagnosis and implementing treatment. Physiological changes with ageing may also affect the choice of therapy in the elderly.Analgesics and other pharmacological therapies are of prime importance and best used in a regimen to suit individual lifestyles. Combined with physical, functional, and psychological strategies, the aim of pain management is to achieve optimum reduction in pain sensation, improvement in independence and help the older person achieve a good quality of life.
Computer‐Assisted Exam Revision by Pharmacy Students
Authors: Pappas Arthur , Cesnik Branko , Sorgetti Len 
Published: March 2016

Objectives:Various versions of a computer program were developed and evaluated between 1994 and 1997 to assist first year students independently revise for a final examination. With the ongoing upgrade of hardware at the Victorian College of Pharmacy over this period, the software was piloted on stand‐alone machines followed by extensive use in a networked environment (N) and finally on disk (D) to enable home use.Study Procedure:Improved versions of the software were implemented over the four years. Each group of students that was exposed to the software was surveyed by questionnaire between one to two months after release. Data on program use was collected for both 1995 and 1996 networked versions.Results:Students were asked to rate various aspects of the program. High or very high ratings were given for the objectives of each version: N[1995] (68‐92%); N[1996] (66‐94%) and D (79‐98%). The programs were rated better or much better than paper‐based exams: N[1995] (69‐91%); N[1996] (77‐90%) and D (58‐93%). The number of program features were increased with each new version and most students rated them as useful or very useful.Conclusions:Overall, students responded very positively to this program as a mode of independent revision. The limitation of campus computer access (15 computers to serve all students) was greatly reduced when the program was available on floppy disk. We believe that the wide range of program features increased the value and attraction of this mode for selftesting.
Survey of Pharmacy Services and Drug Usage in Victorian Public Hospital HITH Programs
Authors: Ioannides-Demos Lisa L 
Published: March 2016

Objective: To determine the extent of pharmacy services and drug usage for Hospital‐in‐the‐Home (HITH) programs in Victoria.Method: In 1997, 42 Victorian hospital pharmacies with HITH services were surveyed by a questionnaire on services and drug usage over the previous six months.Results: Of the 29 hospital pharmacies which responded, 5 were not providing services, 16 provided 6‐month drug usage data and 15 provided drug expenditure data. Pharmacy staffing varied from a dedicated HITH pharmacist actively involved in patient management to no pharmacy involvement beyond drug dispensing. The range of pharmacy services provided included: preparation of intravenous additives; development of drug and administration protocols; care plans (including allergy and anaphylaxis procedures); supply of information regarding drug stability, storage and appliances, and consumer medicine information; patient counselling; therapeutic drug monitoring; and dosing advice.The data on drug usage and pharmaceutical expenditure was compromised by the inability of some pharmacies to identify HITH patients and inconsistent inclusion of non‐drug items. The range of drugs dispensed to HITH patients was broad, reflecting concurrent medical conditions and individual hospital practices. The most commonly dispensed parenteral drugs were ceftriaxone, cephazolin, dalteparin, flucloxacillin and vancomycin — reflecting the most common indications for HITH.Conclusion: HITH is an emerging alternative to inhospital patient management resulting in more patients being managed in the community. This creates an opportunity for hospital‐based health professional services to go beyond the hospital boundaries. Unlike the US, pharmacy services in HITH in Victoria are still evolving.
A Review of the Prophylaxis and Treatment of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting
Authors: Scott‐Walker Trudie M , Ball Patrick A , Berry Paul R 
Published: March 2016

Aim: To review the literature relating to the treatment and prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).Method: Literature searches were conducted using Medline, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts and Embase. Reference lists were also checked for additional relevant articles.Results: The 5‐HT3 antagonists are popular because they are well tolerated. Droperidol is commonly used but dose has been an important issue given its dose‐dependent adverse effect profile. Metoclopramide is commonly used but with many disappointing results in formal trials. Transdermal hyoscine may have a promising future in the prophylaxis of PONV. Dexamethasone and clonidine are relatively new agents used for PONV but are promising. Midazolam may be useful in the treatment of protracted, resistant PONV.Conclusion: Further study of many of these drugs is required, especially with regard to their use in the treatment of established PONV.
Serotonergic and Dopaminergic Agents Facilitate Rehabilitation Following Hypoxic Brain Injury
Authors: To Thé‐Phung , Tierney Joan T , Hopwood Malcolm J 
Published: March 2016

Introduction: Patients with hypoxic brain injury are susceptible to a variety of neurobehavioural disorders with manifestations that may include apathy, difficulties in initiation and deficits in arousal and attention. In some patients these manifestations are disabling enough to impede rehabilitation and on their own may prevent a return to independent community living.Aim: To illustrate the use of serotonergic and dopaminergic agents to facilitate rehabilitation by treatment of deficits in initiation and arousal following hypoxic brain injury.Method: Retrospective review of two case histories.Clinical Features: Two young men had required long‐term hospitalisation following hypoxic brain injury secondary to failed hanging attempts. One was mute, chair bound, incontinent of urine and faeces, grossly adynamic and with almost vegetative features. The other was grossly adynamic but able to walk with a broad‐based shuffling gait and had limited verbal communication. Standard methods of rehabilitation, including the use of traditional pharmacotherapy such as tricyclic antidepressants and antipsychotics were ineffective.Outcome: Both patients showed substantial improvement in alertness, initiation and attention following treatment with fluoxetine, amantadine and bromocriptine. They became more active, participated in more activities and, most importantly, were able to make use of the rehabilitation program. These previously institutionalised patients have returned to the community with some degree of independence.Conclusion: Clinical observations, experience and anecdotal reports suggest that serotonergic and dopaminergic agents may facilitate rehabilitation following hypoxic brain injury. Controlled studies are required to assess the efficacy of these agents.