Research Roundup

Associations between Mindset and Psychological Wellbeing in Pharmacy Students at Two U.S. Schools of Pharmacy

Researcher: Dr. Paul Gavaza

Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning

Summary: This paper highlights the meaningful relationship between mindset and psychological well-being among pharmacy students and reflects our continued commitment to advancing evidence-informed approaches to student support and professional development.

Reconsidering Venetoclax Dosing With Azole Antifungals: The Case for 50 mg

Researchers: Dr. Lisa Hong, our alumnus Dr. Grant Drew, LLUMC colleagues Dr. Kiwon Park and Dr. Dani Ran Castillo

Journal of Hematology Oncology Pharmacy

Summary: This manuscript addresses an important clinical challenge: managing the significant drug interaction between venetoclax and azole antifungals, particularly in patients with CLL, SLL, or AML who may require antifungal prophylaxis. The authors thoughtfully review the limitations and inconsistencies in prior studies, highlight concerns raised by clinicians, and make the case that venetoclax 50 mg with posaconazole may be a reasonable, safe, practical, and cost-effective approach while further investigation continues.

Medication Therapy Problems in Hospitalized Patients with Decreased Kidney Function Across the Spectrum of Kidney Disease: A Scoping Review

Researchers: Dr. Tomona Iso, Dr. Lisa Hong, and our students Danielle Antwan, Melanie Galima, Monarc Manlongat, Safer Marogy, and Redi Ndrekaj

Journal of Clinical Medicine

Summary: This important scoping review highlights the burden of medication therapy problems in hospitalized adults with decreased kidney function and shows that dosage-related issues were the most frequently identified problems. The manuscript also draws attention to key gaps in the literature, including inconsistent definitions of MTPs, limited data in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and acute kidney disease (AKD), and minimal reporting on pharmacists’ roles—underscoring valuable opportunities for future research and clinical pharmacy practice.

Impact of a Multidisciplinary Care Model with Clinical Pharmacist Involvement on DOAC Dosing Appropriateness in Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation

Researchers: Drs. Winnie Tran, Farnoosh Zough, Khaled Bahjri, along with former resident Dr. Mikael Habtezion and former student Dr. Kenneth Nguyen

EC Pharmacology and Toxicology

Summary: In this retrospective cohort study, the authors evaluated whether a multidisciplinary ambulatory cardiology care model that included a clinical pharmacist improved DOAC dosing appropriateness in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Over a median follow-up of about one year, inappropriate DOAC dosing occurred far less often in the pharmacist-involved group than in the non-pharmacist group (2% vs 24%). These findings highlight the important role of clinical pharmacists in optimizing anticoagulation therapy and advancing safe, high-quality patient care.

Outpatient Use of Intravenous Furosemide in Patients with Heart Failure

Researchers: Drs. Winnie Tran, Tomona Iso, and Khaled Bahjri—together with our former resident Dr. Mary Elkomos and our student coauthors Ryan Lobsien, Desiree Malingkas, and Isabelle Namikawa

Annals of Clinical Hypertension

Summary: In this single-center, retrospective pre/post clinic-level evaluation, the team examined whether implementing an outpatient IV furosemide protocol (for HF clinic patients on loop diuretics who presented with signs of fluid overload) was associated with changes in ADHF-related hospitalizations and mortality. The study included 402 patients (200 pre-implementation vs 202 post-implementation), with 7% of post-implementation patients receiving outpatient IV furosemide. ADHF-related hospitalizations and 30-day mortality were not significantly different between periods; the authors note that findings likely reflect real-world implementation factors (including low protocol uptake), rather than definitive evidence against outpatient IV diuresis.

Seco-duocarmycin SA augments the impact of proton radiation on human glioblastoma cells

Researchers: Dr. Kristopher Boyle and collaborators

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Summary: This publication represents an important contribution to the growing body of research exploring novel therapeutic strategies for glioblastoma. Notably, this marks Dr. Boyle’s seventh publication in this research area, continuing a line of impactful scientific work that began during his post‑doctoral training at Scripps.

Akkermansia muciniphila in Cardiometabolic Medicine—Mechanisms, Clinical Studies, and Therapeutic Outlook

Researchers: Dr. FakhriRavari and colleagues

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Summary: A. muciniphila reinforces the mucus barrier, reduces metabolic endotoxemia, and modulates host signaling—even when pasteurized (postbiotic effects). Human data: A 3-month RCT in insulin-resistant adults showed improved insulin sensitivity, lower fasting insulin, and reduced total cholesterol with pasteurized Akkermansia. T2D signal: In a separate RCT, participants with low baseline Akkermansia who achieved colonization saw reductions in weight, fat mass, and HbA1c—highlighting the importance of baseline stratification. Safety & regulation: Short-term safety is favorable; the EU has Novel Food authorization for pasteurized Akkermansia. What’s next: Personalization looks promising; larger, longer trials are needed to confirm important outcomes (weight trajectories, HbA1c durability, liver fibrosis, CV events).

Current Practices in Estimating Kidney Function: Insights From a Cross-Sectional Survey

Researcher: Dr. Lisa Hong

Journal of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy

Summary: The authors surveyed pharmacists (275 respondents) about how kidney function is estimated for drug dosing. They found wide practice variation: ~72% reported an institutional kidney-dose policy (most of which rely on Cockcroft-Gault), many clinicians still round serum creatinine for elderly (≈32% — about half of those to 1.0 mg/dL), and there’s inconsistent use of actual, adjusted, or ideal body weight and BSA adjustments for eGFR. The paper highlights the need for education and broader adoption of non–race-based CKD-EPI equations to standardize dosing and improve patient care.

Methodological rigor and reporting quality of clinical practice guidelines for adults hospitalized with bacterial pneumonia: a scoping review

Researcher: Dr. Olayemi Adeoye

JBI Evidence Synthesis

Summary: This study reviewed 15 clinical practice guidelines from 13 countries and found considerable variability in their methodological rigor and reporting quality. While some were rated high quality, others lacked transparency in evidence use, stakeholder involvement, and conflict of interest reporting. The authors emphasize the importance of using standardized appraisal tools to strengthen guideline development and enhance trust.

Safety and Efficacy of Inhaled Technosphere® Insulin in the Postprandial Period With Modified Initial Dose Conversion

Researcher: Dr. CJ Jacobson

Diabetes Therapy

Summary: In a post hoc analysis of an in-clinic standardized meal challenge in adults with type 1 diabetes, a higher modified Technosphere® Insulin dose conversion led to faster and lower postprandial glucose peaks and earlier peak timing (~30 minutes sooner) versus automated insulin delivery control—with no serious adverse events and only one Level 1 hypoglycemia event noted in-clinic.

Combination Lorcaserin and Betahistine Treatment Improves Cognitive Dysfunction and Dopaminergic Neuron Activity in a Rat Model of Diet-Induced Obesity

Researchers: Dr. Ike de la Peña and Dr. Shi 

Brain Sciences

Summary: This study demonstrates that a 30-day treatment combining lorcaserin (a serotonin 5-HT2C agonist) and betahistine (a dual histamine H1 agonist/H3 antagonist) significantly improved cognitive dysfunction in obese rats. The findings provide proof-of-concept evidence that dual targeting of serotonin and histamine receptors can ameliorate obesity-induced cognitive deficits, likely through enhancement of mesocortical dopamine signaling.

Parent Satisfaction and Organizational Factors Associated with Curbside School Meal Distribution in Southern California during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Researchers: Dr. Khaled Bahjri and collaborators from the LLU School of Public Health

Journal of Nutrition & Food Security

Summary: This work highlights how thoughtful program design and agile operations can expand access to nutritious meals during crises—offering practical lessons for future public health responses.

Antibiotic Effect on Clinical Response and Remission in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Researchers: Former PGY1 resident, Dr. Caeley Dye, who completed her PGY2 Medication Safety and Use Policy residency, Dr. Huy Le, Dr. Caroline Sierra, and Dr. Khaled Bahjri

Pediatric Reports

Summary: The study explored the role of antibiotics in pediatric patients experiencing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flares. Their findings suggest that using combination antibiotics along with standard therapy may lead to faster clinical response and remission compared to standard-of-care therapy alone, although differences weren't statistically significant. This important work highlights the need for further research into antibiotics' potential benefits in pediatric IBD treatment.

Low Absolute Lymphocyte Count Associated With Anti-Thymocyte Globulin Induction May Be a Predictor of Early Cytomegalovirus Infection in Pediatric Heart Transplantation

Researchers: Dr. Allyson Chan, Dr. Winnie Tran

Pediatric Transplantation

Summary: A simple early ALC threshold could help clinicians identify higher-risk patients and refine CMV prevention strategies for pediatric heart recipients.

Prescribing Responsibly: Navigating the Tides of Deprescribing in Proton Pump Inhibitor Stewardship

Researchers: Dr. Peyton-Navarrette ('22), Dr. Nguyen, and Dr. FakhriRavari

Pharmacoepidemiology

Summary: This study reviews appropriate PPI prescribing practices, examines evidence-based risks (e.g., nutrient deficiencies, infections, renal and cardiovascular complications), proposes a stewardship-based deprescribing framework grounded in implementation science and highlights practical, patient-centered strategies to reduce inappropriate long-term use.

Assessment of the association between mixed-oil lipid injectable emulsion use and 30-day mortality or infection persistence from fungal catheter-related bloodstream infections in pediatric patients following receipt of parenteral nutrition

Researchers: Dr. Caroline Sierra and co-authors

Pharmacotherapy

Summary: Choice of lipid emulsion alone may not drive outcomes in pediatric fungal CRBSI—timely catheter removal and judicious prophylaxis remain critical.

To Stay or To Go? Debate Regarding US News and World Report Pharmacy Program Rankings

Researcher: Dr. Caroline Sierra

American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education

Summary: This timely and thought-provoking article stems from the Academic Leadership Fellows Program and explores the ongoing debate over pharmacy schools' participation in the US News and World Report ranking system. The paper summarizes evidence from both peer-reviewed and lay sources, identifies key benefits and limitations of the current ranking process, and offers concrete recommendations for future reforms.

Evaluating faculty time investment in a residency preparation elective and impacts on match rates

Researchers: Drs. Caroline Sierra and Lisa Hong

Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning

Summary: Their study highlights the positive impact of a residency preparation elective on pharmacy students' residency match success and preparedness for the residency/job application process. It also emphasizes the significant faculty time commitment involved and encourages further exploration into optimizing student residency/job preparation methods.

Insights from a survey on professional identity formation activities in pharmacy skills laboratory courses

Researcher: Dr. Lisa Hong

Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning

Summary: This insightful study explores how Professional Identity Formation (PIF)—the internalization of pharmacy profession's values and standards—is integrated into pharmacy skills labs. The manuscript highlights current teaching practices such as role-playing, patient counseling, and interprofessional activities, while also emphasizing the importance of distinguishing PIF from professionalism.

The Cost of Antivenom: A Cost Minimization Study using the North American Snakebite Registry

Researchers: Dr. Gavaza and colleagues

Journal of Medical Toxicology

Summary: Envenomation is a global health issue, with over 9,000 encounters managed in the United States yearly. The introduction of immunoglobulin fragment antivenom has reduced the risk of hypersensitivity. This study compares treatment costs of crotaline envenomation using the Fab and F(ab’)2 antivenoms as reported to the North American Snakebite Registry (NASBR), a nationwide surveillance tool.

Seco-Duocarmycin SA in Aggressive Glioblastoma Cell Lines

Researchers: Dr. Kris Boyle and co-investigators

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Summary: The study explores the effects of Seco-Duocarmycin SA, a potent DNA-alkylating agent, on aggressive glioblastoma cell lines. Their findings demonstrate promising anti-cancer activity and highlight the compound's potential as a therapeutic candidate for hard-to-treat brain tumors.

Framework and recommendations to support bidirectional information sharing between community pharmacies and other health care settings

Researchers: Dr. Randal P. McDonough and members of the 2024 ACCP Clinical Practice Affairs Committee 

Journal of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy

Summary: Community pharmacies are one of the most accessible locations for patients to seek health care. Services have advanced beyond prescription dispensing. Community pharmacists' access to patient health information in electronic health records (EHRs) is necessary to ensure safe and effective use of medications. The current limitation in access may result in patient safety issues, negatively affect the optimal provision of patient care, and hinder the expansion of services.  ACCP's continued focus on meaningful connectivity for information sharing and resource allocation to address existing barriers identified through the pursuit of these recommendations has the potential to shape the future of pharmacy practice.

Are All Pharmacokinetic Equations Created Equal? A Comparative Analysis of Trapezoidal and Non-Trapezoidal Methods for Estimating Day 1 AUC in Adult Hospitalized Patients with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

Researchers: Drs. Abdulwhab Shremo Msdi (our former ID fellow), Alireza FakhriRavari, Jacinda C. Abdul-Mutakabbir, and Karen K. Tan

Infectious Diseases and Therapy

Summary: The findings from this study highlight key differences between trapezoidal and non-trapezoidal methods, with implications for optimizing vancomycin dosing and therapeutic drug monitoring.

Incorporating Pediatrics in Clinical Education: A Call to Action in Inpatient Pharmacy Practice

Researcher: Dr. Caroline Sierra

The Journal of Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Summary: This important work, co-authored with several pediatric pharmacy faculty members, highlights the need for enhanced pediatric exposure in clinical pharmacy education. The authors discuss strategies to integrate pediatric pharmacotherapy training into inpatient practice to better prepare future pharmacists in managing pediatric patients.

Pharmacists' perception of artificial intelligence: A national survey

Researcher: Dr. Paul Gavaza

American Pharmacists Association

Summary: The purpose of this study is to describe the perceptions and awareness of artificial intelligence technologies in a population of practicing pharmacists across the United States. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing and evolving field impacting pharmacy research, education, and professional practice. The development and adaptation of AI technologies have the potential to radically shape the future of the pharmacy profession. However, it remains unclear how aware pharmacists are of these technologies or their perceptions regarding current and future utilization.

Comparison of Direct Oral Anticoagulants for Treatment of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis – A Retrospective Cohort Study

Researchers: Dr. Lisa Hong, in collaboration with former resident, Dr. Paul Phan

Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis

Summary: This small retrospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) (apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran) for treating cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). The findings suggest no significant differences in outcomes such as recanalization rates, recurrent VTE, or bleeding events among the DOACs, highlighting their potential as effective treatment options for CVT.

Evaluation of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors on Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Patients Admitted to an Academic Medical Center

Researchers: Drs. Winnie Tran, Farnoosh Zough, Khaled Bahjri, Christopher Hauschild, Mikael Habtezion, and our talented LLUSP Class of 2025 students Asya Bookal, Ahmed Bahjri, and Darren Kang

EC Pharmacology and Toxicology

Summary: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 1,604 patients admitted to LLUH Medical Center and prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors. While no cases of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (euDKA) were identified, the study highlights a significant gap in diagnostic protocols, emphasizing the need for hospital-wide strategies to improve detection and outcomes.

Current state of APPE-readiness assessments in schools or colleges of pharmacy

Researcher: Dr. Lisa Hong

Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning

Summary: This study surveyed U.S. PharmD programs to explore the components of Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE)-readiness plans. It highlights the widespread use of skills and knowledge assessments such as communication, patient history collection, medication reconciliation, and more. The majority of assessments were incorporated into skills laboratory courses and were remediable. The findings underscore the importance of structured readiness plans and provide valuable insights for enhancing pharmacy education.

Comparison of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate and sodium polystyrene sulfonate in the treatment of acute hyperkalemia

Researchers: Dr. Tomona Iso and Dr. Lisa Hong, along with Dr. Christopher Hauschild (LLU Medical Center) and Dr. Tommy Thai (former PGY-1 Pharmacy Resident; current LLUMC pharmacist)

European Journal of Hospital Pharmacy

Summary: This retrospective cohort study of 46 patients evaluated the efficacy of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) and sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) in treating acute hyperkalemia (serum potassium ≥5.5 mmol/L) among hospitalized adults. Results showed high rates of potassium normalization in both groups (94% for SZC and 93% for SPS). While no statistically significant difference in efficacy was observed, SZC's quicker onset may offer a meaningful clinical advantage in the acute setting.

Acetazolamide Versus Thiazides with Loop Diuretics in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Researchers: Dr. Winnie Tran (DPP) and Dr. Allyson Chan (PGY-2 Cardiology Resident), in collaboration with Dr. Khaled Bahjri (DPAS) and Dr. Chris Hauschild (Medical Center)

EC Pharmacology and Toxicology

Summary: Compared three diuretic strategies in ADHF (N=340): acetazolamide + loop, thiazide + loop, and all three combined. No significant differences found in net daily urine output, length of stay, or mortality across groups after adjustments. Calls for further research into the optimal timing and doses of diuretics for ADHF

Evaluation of Long-term Antithrombotic Management for Atrial Fibrillation Patients with a History of Coronary Stent Implantation

Researchers: Dr. Winnie Tran, Dr. Paul Gavaza, and our incredible alumni Drs. Kirsten Vyhmeister, Murphy Nguyen, and Grace Kang

Annals of Clinical Hypertension

Summary: This groundbreaking research delves into real-world practices, revealing that 67% (44 of 66) of patients with atrial fibrillation on anticoagulants continued antiplatelet therapy beyond 12 months post-PCI, often despite increased bleeding risks. Key predictors for antiplatelet discontinuation included bare metal stents and lower HASBLED scores. The study calls for enhanced teamwork and greater adherence to guidelines to improve patient care.

Evaluation of Monotherapy Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate Versus Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate for Acute Hyperkalemia: A Cohort Study

Researchers: Dr. Lisa Hong, along with two of our distinguished former students, Drs. Divine Grewal and Laurensia Urip

Hospital Pharmacy

Summary: This retrospective cohort study compared the effectiveness of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) and sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) for acute potassium lowering in hospitalized patients with hyperkalemia. The study found that SZC may lower serum potassium more quickly and to a greater degree than SPS, particularly at 8 hours post-treatment, highlighting its potential advantages in managing mild hyperkalemia.

Impact of a Revised Teaching Certificate Program on Pharmacy Resident Precepting Skills

Researchers: Dr. Lisa Hong, Dr. Caroline Sierra

Pharmacy Practice

Summary: This study found that after revising the TCP to balance experiential and didactic education, more residents felt that the program significantly contributed to their growth as preceptors. The most notable improvement was in the timely and actionable feedback residents provided to students, which increased considerably.

Meta-analysis on safety of standard vs prolonged infusion of beta-lactams

Researchers: Dr. Lisa Hong, Dr. Alireza FakhriRavari

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents

Summary: This meta-analysis explored the safety profiles of standard (30-60 mins) versus prolonged (≥3 hours) infusion protocols for beta-lactams, focusing on adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The study analyzed data from 12 studies, encompassing 4,163 patients, and found no significant difference in nephrotoxicity or diarrhea rates between the two infusion strategies. The findings highlight the need for future research with standardized definitions of ADRs, particularly in neurotoxicity and cytopenias.

A Randomized Comparison of Postprandial Glucose Excursion Using Inhaled Insulin Versus Rapid-Acting Analog Insulin in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes Using Multiple Daily Injections of Insulin or Automated Insulin Delivery

Researcher: Dr. Christopher Jacobson

Diabetes Care

Summary: The study aimed to compare postprandial glucose excursions following a bolus with inhaled technosphere insulin (TI) versus subcutaneous rapid-acting analog (RAA) insulin in adults with type 1 diabetes. A meal challenge was completed by 122 participants, and the results showed that TI resulted in a smaller glucose excursion, lower peak glucose, and a shorter time to peak glucose compared to RAA insulin. The findings highlight the potential of TI to provide better post-meal glucose control.

Multicenter Retrospective Review of Ketamine Use in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (Ketamine-PICU Study)

Researcher: Dr. Justin Kinney

Critical Care Research and Practice

Summary: This study examined continuous infusion (CI) ketamine practices in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) and its impact on pain/sedation scores, analgesic/sedative exposure, and adverse effects. The research involved 24 patients across 4 PICUs and found significant improvements in time spent within goal pain score range and a notable reduction in morphine milligram equivalents (MME) during the first 24 hours. However, this reduction was not sustained beyond 48 hours. Common adverse effects included tachycardia, hypotension, increased secretions/suctioning, and emergence reactions. The study highlights the need for larger prospective studies in this population.

Analyzing Potential Interactions Between Complementary and Alternative Therapies, Over-the-Counter, and Prescription Medications in the Older Population

Researchers: Dr. Jody Gonzalez and Dr. Khaled Bahjri, along with contributions from our alumni Drs. Shasta Erickson, Clarissa Garcia, and Montinee Santhavachart, alongside colleagues from LLUSM's Family Medicine Department and LLU's School of Allied Health Professions.

The Permanente Journal

Summary: The study focused on evaluating clinically significant interactions between complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and prescription drugs in a geriatric clinic. Over a 2-year period, 420 participants aged 65 and older were enrolled. The findings revealed a 15.6% rate of potential drug interactions, with common contributors including supplements like Gingko biloba, garlic, and calcium, as well as OTC medications like ibuprofen. This research highlights the importance of awareness and investigation of CAM use among healthcare professionals to enhance patient safety.

Inhaled Technosphere Insulin for Individualized Diabetes Management: 3 Case Reports of CGM Outcomes

Researcher: Dr. Christopher Jacobson 

Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists in Practice

Summary: This insightful article explores the use of inhaled Technosphere insulin, a fast-acting insulin administered via inhalation, in managing diabetes. Through three compelling case studies, Dr. Jacobson and his co-authors illustrate how this innovative approach can significantly improve glycemic control, reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, and enhance the quality of life for people with diabetes. The study highlights the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics, such as Time in Range (TIR) and Time above Range (TAR), in providing a comprehensive understanding of glucose management beyond the traditional A1C levels.

Integrating learners into research and quality improvement projects: A joint opinion of the Adult Medicine and Education and Training Practice Research Networks of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy

Researcher: Dr. Lisa Hong

Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists in Practice

Summary: This manuscript dives into overcoming barriers and shares strategies for success, emphasizing communication, planning, and mentorship. An invaluable guide for anyone involved in research projects.

Updates in the treatment of asthma in pediatrics: A review for pharmacists

Researcher: Dr. Caroline Sierra, in collaboration with pediatric experts

AJHP

Summary: This review offers a deep dive into current asthma guidelines, focusing on personalized treatments, including corticosteroids and biologic agents. It navigates through the nuances of pediatric asthma care, highlighting new strategies for difficult-to-treat cases. Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of asthma in pediatric patients have recently been updated by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Both the NAEPP and GINA guidelines provide a stepwise approach for treatment of pediatric asthma, although there are notable differences between the 2 reports. Newer treatment strategies such as single maintenance and reliever therapy, long-acting muscarinic antagonists, and biologics are covered within both guidelines, but recommendations for younger age groups are lacking.

Urinary Tract Infections in Patients Younger than 60 Days Old

Researchers: Dr. Caroline Sierra, our alumnus and former PGY-1 resident Dr. Shawn Idnani, and Dr. Timothy Lee, a physician at LLUMC and LLUCH

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal

Summary: This collaborative effort investigates the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in infants under 60 days of age. It focuses on the transition from intravenous to oral antibiotics, aiming to reduce hospitalization while ensuring effective care. Patients shifting to oral treatment had a shorter mean hospital stay, with no major difference in UTI symptoms within 30 days. 

Nationwide evaluation of the clinical impact of acute care adult medicine pharmacists

Researcher: Dr. Lisa Hong

Journal of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy

Summary: This manuscript provides groundbreaking insights into the critical role of inpatient adult medicine (AMED) clinical pharmacists. The research, a multicenter, prospective, observational study, involved a 65-item survey distributed to AMED pharmacists. These professionals spend over 50% of their time in acute care settings.

Impact of Intravenous Fat Emulsion Choice on Candida Biofilm, Hyphal Growth, and Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric Patients

Researcher: Dr. Caroline Sierra, in collaboration with researchers at the University of Tennessee HSC

The Journal of Infectious Diseases

Summary: This manuscript offers groundbreaking findings. The study investigates how different intravenous fat emulsions (IFEs) impact Candida albicans' biofilm formation and the rate of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSIs) in pediatric patients.