bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pharmaceutical brand substitution in Australia: Identifying factors associated with having multiple brand substitutions
Authors: Kalisch Lisa M , Roughead Elizabeth E , Gilbert Andrew L 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Objective
The aim was to determine the frequency with which people have multiple brand changes for more than one medicine and to identify factors associated with having multiple brand substitutions.

Method
The setting was the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, a national subsidised scheme for medicines supply in Australia. We used a retrospective cohort design using prescription claims data for subsidised medicine dispensings from 1 June 2005 to 31 August 2006. Analysis was limited to patients with the opportunity for brand substitution of two or more medicines. ‘Switches’ were identified for each medicine if different brand or generic products were supplied at consecutive dispensings. Multivariate analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with patients who had multiple switches during follow-up.

Key findings
A total of 84 040 people were included. On average, they received 11 prescription medicines. Forty-nine per cent of people received the same product throughout follow-up for each medicine and 34% had a single brand substitution. Seventeen per cent had multiple switches for one or more medicine; however, only 3% of all patients had multiple switches for more than one medicine. Independent factors associated with having multiple switches were increasing number of hospital admissions, prescription medicines, co-morbidities, prescribers, dispensing pharmacies and living in an aged-care facility or city.

Conclusions
Most patients do not have multiple brand substitutions of their medicine, even when all medicine use is considered. This is the first study to identify factors associated with having multiple brand substitutions. Quality use of medicines interventions targeting individuals with these risk factors could minimise the potential for patient confusion as a result of multiple brand changes.
The impact of the introduction of a ward-based automated medicines vending unit on nursing tasks and time in the Emergency Department
Authors: Ardern-Jones Joanne , Hughes Donald K , Rowe Philip H , Mottram David R , Green Christopher F 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Objectives
This study assessed the impact of the introduction of medicines vending units (MVUs) into an Emergency Department (ED) on nursing time spent on medicines-use processes. The objectives included identification of changes in nursing activities pre- and post-automation and the impact of automation on the time needed for nurses to access medicines and replenish ward stock.

Methods
This study was carried out in a district general hospital ED which is attended by over 65 000 patients each year. Staff were observed using work sampling techniques to compare activity before and after the introduction of MVUs. To assess possible changes in dose acquisition time, staff were timed withdrawing doses of medicines from traditional storage units and then from MVUs. To obtain baseline data about traditional methods of replenishing stock, nursing staff recorded the time at which traditional stock replenishment was carried out and the time required to do it.

Key findings
Nursing staff spent approximately 11% of their time on work activities related to medicines pre-automation and 12% post-automation (P = 0.234). The median time to acquire a dose of medication decreased from 139.5 s pre-automation to 44 s post-automation (P &lt; 0.0001). Following automation, a total of 7.1 h/day could be saved in nursing time. A mean saving of 46.5 min/week was also identified because nursing staff are no longer involved in stock replenishment.

Conclusions
A significant release of nursing time was identified from the observed acquisition of doses of medicines from the MVU. Work sampling techniques suggest this does not appear to have translated into significant savings on nursing time dealing with medicines, although the nature of these activities has changed.
Incidence, type and causes of dispensing errors: a review of the literature
Authors: James K Lynette , Barlow Dave , McArtney Rowena , Hiom Sarah , Roberts Dave , Whittlesea Cate 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Objectives
To identify, review and evaluate the published literature on the incidence, type and causes of dispensing errors in community and hospital pharmacy.

Method
Electronic databases were searched from 1966 to February 2008. This was supplemented by hand-searching the bibliographies of retrieved articles. Analysis of the findings explored the research methods, operational definitions, incidence, type and causes of dispensing errors.

Key findings
Sixty papers were identified investigating dispensing errors in the UK, US, Australia, Spain and Brazil. In general, the incidence of dispensing errors varied depending on the study setting, dispensing system, research method and operational definitions. The most common dispensing errors identified by community and hospital pharmacies were dispensing the wrong drug, strength, form or quantity, or labelling medication with the incorrect directions. Factors subjectively reported as contributing to dispensing errors were look-alike, sound-alike drugs, low staffing and computer software. High workload, interruptions, distractions and inadequate lighting were objectively shown to increase the occurrence of dispensing errors.

Conclusions
Comparison of the reviewed studies was confounded by differences in study setting, research method and operational definitions for dispensing errors, error rate and classification of error types. The World Health Organization is currently developing global patient safety taxonomy. Such a standardized taxonomy for dispensing errors would facilitate consistent data collection and assist the development of error-reduction strategies.
Impact of perceived innovation characteristics on adoption of pharmacy-based in-house immunization services
Authors: Westrick Salisa C , Mount Jeanine K 
Published: October 2010

AbstractObjectivesAn in-house immunization service in which staff pharmacists administer vaccines was conceptualized as an innovation. Prior to making adoption decisions, community pharmacies evaluated characteristics of in-house immunization services. This study examined the impact of three specific characteristics (perceived benefit, perceived compatibility and perceived complexity) of in-house immunization services on community pharmacies' adoption decisions.MethodsA multi-stage mixed-mode survey design was used to collect data from key informants of community pharmacies in Washington State, USA. Key informants included pharmacy managers or pharmacists-on-duty who were able to answer questions related to immunization activities in their pharmacies. Perceived characteristics of in-house immunization services and pharmacy adoption decisions were measured in 2004 and in 2006–2007, respectively.Key findingsEach perceived characteristic individually predicted adoption of in-house immunization services. When all three characteristics were included in logistic regression, perceived benefit was the only significant predictor of in-house immunization service adoption.ConclusionsAppropriate strategies, particularly promoting the benefit of in-house immunization services, should be implemented. The proposed model and findings may be applicable to other pharmacy-based innovative practices or other public health initiatives. We recommend that organizational leaders, researchers and practitioners consider the impact of perceived benefit and incorporate it when they design strategies to foster adoption of innovative practices. Doing this may increase the number of adopters and also increase diffusion rates for innovative services.
Sustaining delivery of the first publicly reimbursed cognitive service in Denmark: a cross-case analysis
Authors: Kaae Susanne , Søndergaard Birthe , Haugbølle Lotte Stig , Traulsen Janine Morgall 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Objectives
The aim was to identify local organisational factors that affect sustained delivery of the first Danish publicly reimbursed cognitive service, the Inhaler Technique Assessment Service (ITAS). The ITAS is a 10-min interactive counselling session during which pharmacy staff assess the inhalation technique of individual asthma patients at the pharmacy counter, and correct any errors. Knowledge of how the organisation of a local pharmacy influences ITAS provision will be used to develop quality indicators as part of a targeted quality-assurance system to support the sustainability of the service in all Danish community pharmacies.

Methods
Qualitative methods included field observations, semi-structured interviews, group interviews and the collecting of documentary material. Data-source and method triangulation were applied. Seven pharmacies were included in the study. A cross-case analysis compared pharmacies with sustained and reduced numbers of services based on three selected themes: administration of the ITAS, leadership interventions and professional values of pharmacy owner and staff.

Key findings
Pharmacies with sustained delivery had introduced systematic evaluations of the local delivery of the ITAS and made ongoing efforts to improve staff competencies. They dealt with individual barriers such as lack of knowledge of rarely distributed inhalation devices and communication techniques. Pharmacy staff in general rarely assessed patients' clinical needs before offering the service and rarely provided follow-up. Thus, pharmacy staff failed to utilise the full clinical potential of the ITAS.

Conclusions
In order to achieve and support further ITAS sustainability, the knowledge, skills and professional values of pharmacy staff must be developed. Human resource leadership techniques would be useful in achieving this aim, as would focusing on the service by providing systematic evaluations.
Cross-cultural validation of the desire for information about prescribed medicines scale
Authors: Droege Marcus , Leonard Sean T , Duggan Catherine A 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Objectives
It is the overall aim of this study to validate an existing scale to measure patients' desire for information about their medicines in the geographically and culturally disparate context of the USA. Specific objectives are to determine the psychometric properties of the previously validated Extent of Information Desired (EID) and Perceived Utility of Medicines (PUM) scales and to describe the complexities inherent to cross-cultural validation.

Methods
The setting was a culturally diverse tri-county (Palm Beach, Broward and Miami Dade counties) area of South Florida. The research design was cross-sectional and descriptive; data were gathered from respondents using a facilitator-administered survey instrument.

Key findings
The overall reliability of the survey was 0.669 using Cronbach's α. When EID and PUM survey statements were analysed alone, internal consistency was 0.692 and 0.545 respectively. The association between scores and select demographic variables were analysed and no correlation was found. The previously validated scale (UK) was not reliable in the complex cultural population of Florida.

Conclusions
Instruments demonstrating reliability in one country are not immediately replicable in other countries, even if the same language is spoken. Caution needs to be taken when interpreting the findings from studies using instruments designed in cultural contexts dissimilar from those in which the have been developed originally.
Direct-to-consumer advertising: Australian pharmacists' experiences with non-prescription medicines
Authors: Chaar Betty , Kwong Kenelm 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Objective
Direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) of over-the-counter or prescribed medicines is a highly controversial issue relating to public health care. Advocates highlight the advantages of DTCA in terms of patient awareness and autonomy. Opponents voice concerns about safety and patients' best interests. The views of physicians and consumers about DTCA have been widely investigated. There has been little research, however, in relation to pharmacists' experiences with DTCA and the impact of DTCA on pharmacy practice. The aim of this study was therefore to explore pharmacists' perceptions of DTCA in Australia and its impact on pharmacy practice.

Methods
A semi-structured in-depth interview was conducted with a purposive convenience sample of retail pharmacists in Sydney, Australia. Interviews were recorded, transcribed ad verbatim and continued until data saturation. Emerging themes were extracted and analysed according to the grounded theory approach.

Key findings
Pharmacists participating in this study reported concern about potential harm to patient health and well-being as a result of the influence of DTCA. DTCA was seen to impede pharmacists in the discharge of their fundamental ethical responsibilities, leading to a strong sense of disempowerment. Pharmacists' gate-keeping role was challenged by DTCA encouraging consumers to self-medicate and inducing a range of drug-seeking behaviours. Although pharmacists acknowledged that DTCA may have a role in promoting patient autonomy, in practice DTCA compromised their role in safeguarding consumers from inappropriate use of medicines.

Conclusions
This study highlighted that the impact of DTCA is not restricted to prescription medicines, but extended also to over-the-counter, pharmacist-only and other pharmacy-related products. Pharmacists perceived that DTCA disempowered them, compromising their role in safeguarding the community from inappropriate medicine use.
Synthesis and Characterization of Artificial Antigens for Nickel
Authors: Guo Ming , Che Xiaoqing , Yang Ping , Shen Jinyu , Yao Jiayun 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
A novel artificial antigen (AA) for Ni2+ was prepared by designed route, which coupled diethylenetriamine-N,N,N′,N′′,N′′-pentaacetic dianhydride (DTPAA) with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA), and then chelated the DTPAA–BSA/HSA with Ni2+. The AA was characterized by bicinchoninic acid (BCA) protein assay, atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, fluorescence spectrum, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid assay (TNBS). The consistent results showed that the synthetic route different from the traditional method was effective, and the AA was synthesized successfully.
Preparation of Reduction-sensitive Nanogels with a Large Swelling Capacity by a Surfactant-free Precipitation Method
Authors: Nishiguchi Akihiro , Yoshida Hiroaki , Matsusaki Michiya , Akashi Mitsuru 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
Reduction-sensitive nanogels with a large swelling capacity were successfully prepared by the crosslinking reaction of biodegradable polymers in water, followed by the insolubilization of the polymers with the gradual addition of ethanol. The obtained nanogels were ca. 200–300 nm in diameter, and had a high water content, over 99%. Moreover, these nanogels were easily decomposed by the cleavage of the disulfide crosslinkages to their thiol groups using a reductant. These biocompatible and biodegradable nanogels prepared without toxic surfactants will be useful as novel carriers for drug delivery systems.
Guest-induced Single-crystal-to-single-crystal Transformation in Copper Complexes of 1,3,5-Benzenetricarboxylic Acid and 4,4′-Bipyridine
Authors: Chen Jinxi , Kitagawa Susumu 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
A 2-dimensional (2D) noninterpenetrated flexible porous coordination polymer, [Cu(HBTC)(4,4′-bpy)]·C6H11OH·H2O (1), has been synthesized and characterized using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The cyclohexanol guest molecules in 1 can be removed upon soaking 1 in ethanol. Complex 1 undergoes a single-crystal transformation to form an ethanol solvate, [Cu(HBTC)(4,4′-bpy)(H2O)]·C2H5OH·2H2O (2), and during the process, the octahedral coordination of the copper cation in 1 converts to square-pyramidal coordination in 2.
Nitrogen-15 NMR Spectroscopy of Sugar Sensor with B–N Interaction as a Key Regulator of Colorimetric Signals
Authors: Egawa Yuya , Tanaka Yoshiyuki , Gotoh Ryota , Niina Satoshi , Kojima Yu , Shimomura Naoki , Nakagawa Hiroko , Seki Toshinobu , Anzai Jun-ichi 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
Nitrogen-15 NMR spectroscopy showed strongly upfield values of the chemical shift for one of the azo nitrogen atoms of a boronic-acid-appended azo dye: this indicated the formation of a boron–nitrogen (B–N) dative bond. The B–N dative bond was cleaved by sugar addition.
Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-grafted Thermosensitive Anodized Aluminum Oxide Membrane
Authors: Jang Joo Hee , In Insik 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
Thermosensitive membrane is prepared by surface-initiated atom-transfer radical polymerization of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) from initiator-attached anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane to formulate smart membrane which can control mass transport through membrane by temperature control. PNIPAM-grafted AAO membrane with partially open pores shows accelerated water transport on heating above lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Pore widening effect might suppress increased hydrophobicity of PNIPAM brush on the pores of AAO membrane above LCST.
A Facile Reprecipitation Method for the Preparation of Polyimide Hollow Spheres with Controllable Morphologies and Permeable Shell
Authors: Liu Junzhi , Yan Yuzhi , Chen Zhihua , Gu Yi , Liu Xikui 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
We present our preliminary work on the fabrication of polyimide hollow sphere by reprecipitation. Through fine-tuning the PAA concentration, many intriguing shapes, including deflated capsules, bowl-shaped and dimple-like hollow spheres can be obtained. Adding salt to the PAA solution helps the formation of PI hollow spheres with complete shells. The morphologies can be fixed through imidization, thus obtaining a controllable and reproducible method to prepare high-performance polyimide hollow spheres with various morphologies.
Ethnic disparities in knowledge of cancer screening programmes in the UK
Authors: Robb Kathryn , Wardle Jane , Stubbings Sarah , Ramirez Amanda , Austoker Joan , Macleod Una , Hiom Sara , Waller Jo 
Published: October 2010

Objective The aim of the study was to examine awareness of the three National Cancer Screening Programmes (breast, cervical, bowel) among white and ethnic minority groups in the UK. Setting Data were from two surveys in which the screening questions were added: (i) the Office of National Statistics (ONS) Opinions Survey, carried out in September and October 2008; and (ii) the EthnibusTM survey of the main ethnic minority groups in England, conducted in October and November 2008. Methods The ONS sample consisted of 2216 adults selected using stratified probability sampling to obtain a population-representative sample. The EthnibusTM sample was obtained by quota sampling and included 1500 adults from the six largest ethnic minority groups in England (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Caribbean, African and Chinese). Participants completed questions on awareness of cancer screening programmes as part of the wider Cancer Awareness Measure (CAM) in home-based, face-to-face interviews. Results Awareness of breast and cervical cancer screening was high in the white ONS participants (89% breast and 84% cervical), lower in the ONS ethnic minority sample (74% for both breast and cervical) and lowest in the EthnibusTM sample (69% breast and 66% cervical). Ethnic disparities persisted after controlling for age, gender and occupational group. In both groups, knowledge of breast and cervical screening was lower among men and more socioeconomically deprived groups. Awareness of the new bowel cancer screening programme was less than 30% in both white and ethnic minority groups. Conclusions Ethnic disparities in knowledge of breast and cervical cancer screening should be addressed. Strategies to engage ethnic minority and socioeconomically deprived groups in bowel cancer screening should be instigated to avoid the emergence of disparities.
Improvements to the newborn bloodspot screening service are required to meet national standards
Authors: Bello S , Ferguson C , Wallis R 
Published: October 2010

Objective The UK Newborn Screening Programme has standards to facilitate the early identification and treatment of five specific diseases to prevent lifelong impairment or death. This audit aimed to assess the newborn bloodspot screening programme in an inner London borough and to make recommendations for service improvement. Methods Data on babies registered with a general practitioner in the borough between April 2008 and March 2009 were obtained from the borough's health database and the laboratory result systems and compared with national screening standards. Interviews were conducted with the leads of each service providing components of newborn screening. Results A total of 292 (8%) out of 3636 babies registered within the audit period had no result on the database (average 1 in 13). Regional reports revealed that over the previous three years the borough, like many others, had consistently failed to achieve the core standards for newborn bloodspot screening. Major areas of concern identified by this audit pertained to the quality of the bloodspot sample, response to requests for repeat samples, timely identification of untested babies and communication of results to parents. Conclusion The audit revealed that for the majority of children registered in the borough, screening was successfully carried out. However, gaps in the service meant that with current practice one affected child could be missed every seven years. Recommendations include staff training, frequent data reviews, and providing a coordinating officer to oversee the programme and follow up missing results.
Effect of temperature changes on the occurrence of congenital hypothyroidism
Authors: Aminzadeh M , Chomeili B , Riahi K , Dehdashtian M , Cheraghian B , Valavi E 
Published: October 2010

Objective To investigate an association between seasonal changes in temperature and the prevalence of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in the Southwest of Iran. Methods A prospective two-year study conducted from March 2007 to March 2009 during the nationwide screening programme for CH in Ahvaz, the biggest city in southwest Iran. Blood samples were taken from almost all newborns by heel-stick and used in a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum thyroxine (T4) and TSH were measured if the ELISA-TSH was >5 mlU/L (suspicious cases). Infants were considered to have CH with T4 <6.0μg/dL and TSH > 10 mlU/L, or with normal T4 values and persistent high TSH values for >2 months (subclinical hypothyroidism). Date of birth and sex were recorded. Detailed temperature data were obtained from the meteorological organization. The relationship between the monthly incidence of CH and the average monthly temperature was investigated. Results From 47,075 (50.92% male) newborns, 1131 were referred (recall rate = 2.4%) and 142 infants (51.4% male) were confirmed to have CH. The seasonal distribution of CH cases was 32.4% in the warm period and 67.6% in the cold period of the year (19%, 13.4%, 32.4% and 35.2% in spring, summer, fall and winter, respectively; P = 0.001). A statistical difference was seen between mid-summer (2.8%, warmest time) and early winter (15.5%, coldest time). The above-mentioned difference was the same for suspicious individuals ( P < 0.001). The odds of being affected were increased by 4% for each fall of 1°C. Conclusion The prealence of CH has a significant negative correlation with the temperature in the tropical area of Iran.