bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic use of spontaneous medicinal flora from an extreme environment (dune cordon) in Djelfa region, Algeria
Authors: Yabrir Benalia , Touati Mostefa , Adli Benzian , Bezini Elhadi , Ghafoul Mounir , Khalifa Saoussane , Guit Brahim
Published: February 2024

Context: In some extreme environments such as dune cordon in the region of Djelfa, the ability of species to adapt to extreme conditions, especially climatic stresses, appears to be highly developed. Notwithstanding this importance from an ecophysiological point of view, the plant genetic resources of the Algerian steppe are very little known and especially poorly valued. Aims: To inventorying the spontaneous species in an extreme "dune cordon" environment of the Algerian steppe and to collect information on the ancestral know-how of the local populations in terms of therapeutic use of these species. Methods: Foremost, a herbarium has been made which includes all species inventoried in dune cordon, then an ethnobotanical survey materialized by a direct questionnaire was conducted with different actors involved in the field of medicinal plants. It concerns the traditional use of these species. Results: Seventeen plants (20%) of the listed plant species have been recognized and identified as medicinal species. These plants belong to 13 families of which the Lamiaceae family is the most represented, followed by Asteraceae and Poaceae. Several diseases are treated by these species by local populations, some have a definite therapeutic use while others are used in the treatment of several diseases. The most incriminated pathologies concern rheumatism, diabetes, dental pain, fever and renal function. Leaves are most used with decoction as the most used mode. Conclusions: Results of the study showed that dune cordon contains a wide variety of spontaneous plants, which have a beneficial interest. It also indicated the link between natural resources and humans and the therapeutic use of these species for profit by local population. The rich ethno-pharmacological knowledge of this population must be preserved and valued. A phytochemical screening and biological investigation are needed to test this ancestral know-how.
Therapeutic adherence in patients with chronic diseases hospitalized in an Internal Medicine Service
Authors: Megret Despaigne Rosario , Calles Varona Dorela T.
Published: February 2024

Context: Currently there are many investigations that are carried out around the complex problem of therapeutic adherence due to its negative consequences. Aims: To evaluate the therapeutic adherence in patients with chronic diseases hospitalized in an Internal Medicine Service. Methods: An observational, descriptive and transversal study was carried out in 50 patients characterized according to biosocial and clinical variables. For the determination of therapeutic adherence, the Battle test and the Morisky-Green test were used, defining the patients as adherent and non-adherent. Possible factors associated with adherence were analyzed and educational interventions were carried out. The review of the clinical histories and the interview as a working instrument were used, the statistical significance of the influence of the factors was evaluated through Chi-square. Results: Predominance of the feminine sex, the average age of 65 years and the level of primary schooling, hypertension prevailed in 90% of patients and antihypertensive drugs as the most used drugs. 54% of adherent patients were obtained compared to 46% of non-adherent patients. Factors such as number of chronic diseases, limitation of social activity and accessibility to the pharmaceutical service were associated with therapeutic adherence. The educational interventions carried out were the talk and the advice/information. Conclusions: The results reveal therapeutic adherence in most patients and the need to continue with health education to groups with chronic diseases.
Safety monitoring of cytostatic handling
Authors: Rodríguez Montero Hilda M. , Reyes Reyes Elizabeth , Escalante Leyva Tania M. , Correa Aguila Raidel , Torres Valle Antonio , Cuétara-Lugo Elizabeth B.
Published: February 2024

Context: The Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology (INOR) is the leading institution for the diagnosis, treatment and follow up of cancer in Cuba. Cancer treatment is mainly by three methods: surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Pharmacological treatments involve the use of dangerous substances such as cytostatics, the handling of which threat the health of the occupationally exposed staff. Aims: To evaluate a biomarker of genotoxicity indicative of DNA damage in the biomonitoring of occupational risks associated with the administration of antineoplastic drugs to hospitalized patients. Methods: The determination of the frequency of micronuclei, in cells of the exfoliated oral mucosa was determined (Micronucleus test) in subjects who administer cytostatic drugs at the institute and a control group formed by administrative personal. Results: Present results evidenced that all exposed subjects possess the same DNA damage that non-exposed-ones. Such results are in concordance with the proper use of primary protection barriers and the adhesion to normalized operational procedures. Conclusions: The frequency of micronuclei is a useful biomarker for assessing DNA damage associated with the administration of antineoplastic drugs. The risk perception analysis (RISKPERCEP) in occupationally exposed subjects complements the occupational safety monitoring.
Traditional use of medicinal plants by the population of the municipality of Santa Clara, Cuba
Authors: Bermúdez del Sol Abdel , Bravo Sánchez Luis R. , Abreu Naranjo Reinier , Kanga Engondo Francis
Published: February 2024

Context: Ethnobotanical studies are the basis for the acquisition of knowledge about the use of medicinal plants. Aims: To characterize the traditional use of medicinal plants by the population of the municipality of Santa Clara, Cuba. Methods: A field research in nine districts of Santa Clara municipality, Villa Clara province, Cuba was conducted. A questionnaire to key informants from urban and rural localities of both genders, civil status and educational levels, was applied; the sampling was intentional. The Use Value Index and the Significant Use Level were calculated. Results: Ninety-one species of medicinal plants belonging to 27 families were identified; Lamiaceae (13), Compositae (12) and Vervenaceae (6) were the most represented. The most used parts of the plants were leaves (58%) and roots (10%). The most cited preparation technique was the decoction (56.7%). The most frequently cited mixtures were: leaves with flowers in 4% and leaves with roots in 3%. The most treated diseases by the population were respiratory, including bronchial asthma (25.4%), followed by gastrointestinal (23.6%). 19% of the key informants recognized that there were plants contraindicated due to their toxicity. 29.6% of the total species reported showed a significant level of use higher than 20%, so they can be considered important for scientific evaluation and validation. Conclusions: Ninety-one species belonging to 27 families were identified; Lamiaceae, Compositae and Verbenaceae were the most represented. The most used parts of the plants were leaves and roots. The decoction technique was the most cited. The most treated disorders were respiratory and gastrointestinal. 29.6% of the reported species showed significant levels of use greater than 20%.
Animals and animal products as medicines: A survey of Epie-Atissa and Ogbia people of Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Alade Gideon O. , Frank Arueniobebh , Ajibesin Kola’ K.
Published: February 2024

Context: The importance of traditional medicine cannot be over emphasized as a quarter of prescription drugs globally are natural based. In this type of medicine, plants are mixed together or are sometimes used in combination with other materials such as animals and minerals, as remedy. While a considerable amount of documentation of indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants has been executed, there is paucity of similar studies on animals in Nigeria. Aims: To carry out a survey of ethnozoology among the Epie-Atissa and Ogbia people of Bayelsa State, Nigeria, with a view to documenting species with zoo-therapeutic values. Methods: Using a semi-structured questionnaire, information was gathered through personal interviews with traditional medical practitioners. The data were evaluated using some ethnozoological indices such as use value of the species, family use value, relative frequency of citation, relative number of use, relative importance index, and cultural importance (CI). Results: A total of 43 species of animals belonging to three phyla, Chordata (66.7%), Arthropoda (22.2%) and Mollusca and Pisces (15.9%) were gathered in ten classes with Mammalia being the most mentioned (22.7%) followed by Reptilia (18.2%) and Pisces (15.9%). The most important diseases cited were inflammation/pain/arthritis (20.0%), ear/nose/throat (18.3%), reproductive purpose (16.7%) and convulsion/epilepsy (15.0%) while the most culturally important animals (CI) included Agama agama (0.85), Protopterus dolloi (0.45), Testudo graeca (0.23), Gorilla gorilla (0.17), Hemachatus haemachatus (0.14) and Hemidactylus frenatus (0.14). Conclusions: The survey furnishes the populace including medicinal plant researchers and some other traditional medicine practitioners with a real wellspring of communicable knowledge. These medicinal animal materials could be included in the healthcare delivery system of the country.
Beyond use date of drugs
Authors: Rendón Laura M. , Lopera Sara , Valencia Naira Y.
Published: February 2024

Context: There are standards that allow establishing the microbiological and physicochemical stability of a medicine; however, beyond use date of drugs depends not only on these criteria, but also on individual institutional characteristics. The multiple factors that involve the allocation of the stability of a medication, if not properly articulated, can lead to therapeutic failures and adverse events in patients. Aims: To design an algorithm to determine the stability beyond use date of a drug in a high complexity healthcare institution. Methods: Pharmaceutical form, packaging, and administration route were defined for each drug. Physicochemical and microbiological stability were assigned to each product. An algorithm was built with the collected information. The stability beyond use date was the shortest time registered between microbiological and physicochemical stability, however, the information of the manufacturer was respected. Results: A total of 938 drugs were analyzed, which 606 (64.6%) were considered as single-dose and 332 (35.4%) as multiple-dose. The mean reason to assign a drug as a single-dose with 90.9% was pharmaceutical form unable to storage, tablet, capsule, and ampoule the most frequent. The main cause with 54.4% to assign a drug as multiple-dose was synthetic products with liquid and semisolid pharmaceutical forms whose packaging materials were allowed to storage after its first use. Conclusions: An algorithm was designed, which can assign the stability beyond use date of drugs using an easy and reliable, generating a more safety use inside the institution.
Phytochemical study and antioxidant capacity of three fractions from the stem of Caesalpinia bahamensis Lam.
Authors: Felipe González Alejandro , Hernández Balmaseda Ivones , Gutiérrez Gaitén Yamilet I. , Scull Lizama Ramón , Carmenate García Laura M. , Pieters Luc , Rodeiro Guerra Idania , Delgado Hernández René
Published: February 2024

Context: Caesalpinia bahamensis Lam. is a medicinal plant used by the Cuban population to treat renal and hepatic diseases. However, this species lacks scientific studies that support its biological applications. Aims: To evaluate the chemical composition and the antioxidant capacity of fractions obtained from the stem of Caesalpinia bahamensis Lam. Methods: A continuous extraction of the stem was made by maceration using a battery of solvents of increasing polarity: chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol. All fractions were analyzed by TLC and phytochemical screening. The compounds of the chloroform fraction were identified by GC/MS, while the ethyl acetate and methanol fractions were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by the DPPH and FRAP assays. Results: Ten compounds were identified by GC/MS of the chloroform fraction, associated with fatty acids, terpenoids and phytosterols. The major compounds of this fraction were octacosanol, monopalmitin and palmitic acid. The presence of flavonoids in the ethyl acetate and methanol fractions was demonstrated by phytochemical screening, TLC and UV spectroscopy. The three fractions showed antioxidant capacity in the DPPH assay, with the methanol fraction (IC50=11.1 µg/mL) being the most active. The ethyl acetate fraction (equivalent to 100.7 µmol ascorbic acid) and the methanol fraction (equivalent to 37.3 µmol ascorbic acid) showed antioxidant capacity in the FRAP assay at concentrations of 125 µg/mL and 1000 µg/mL, respectively. Conclusions: The fractions evaluated showed antioxidant capacity in the DPPH and FRAP assays, possibly associated with the presence of phenols and flavonoids.
Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in the treatment of high blood pressure in the region of Tlemcen (Northwestern Algeria)
Authors: Hassaïne Sara , Saïdi Amina , Ali Belhadj Oussama
Published: February 2024

Context: Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in the treatment of high blood pressure in the region of Tlemcen (Northwestern Algeria). Aims: To establish an inventory of medicinal plants recommended by herbalists and used by the local population of Tlemcen against this disease. Methods: The survey was conducted with 242 hypertensive people and 11 herbalists, in 14 municipalities of the Wilaya (Province) of Tlemcen, using a pre-established questionnaire. Results: At the end of this survey, 37 species belonging to 18 families were inventoried. The three most dominant families were Apiaceae (6 species), Lamiaceae and Rosaceae (4 species). The most cited species were Allium sativum L. (48.4%), Citrus limon (L.) Burm (42.7%), Olea europaea var. sativa L. (19.1%), Rosmarinus officinalis L. (9.6%), and Origanum vulgare L. (8.9%). The aerial parts were the most used (23.26%) and most of the remedies were prepared in the form of infusion and decoction (30.5%). Conclusions: The results obtained constitute a highly valuable source of information regarding the traditional treatment of high blood pressure. The selected plants may be the subject of pharmacological studies in order to prove their effectiveness against this disease.
Influence of extraction methods on fatty acid composition, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of Citrus seed oils from the Atacama Desert, Chile
Authors: Garrido Gabino , Chou Wai-Houng , Vega Carolina , Goïty León , Valdés Marisela
Published: February 2024

Context: In the north of Chile, the Atacama Desert and the town of Pica are located, where numerous fruits grow, including citrus ecotypes that generate waste such as the seeds of these fruits. Aims: To evaluate the influence of extraction methods on fatty acid composition, nutritional quality indexes of lipids, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of acid lime (AL) and sweet orange (SO) seed oils from Pica oasis. Methods: Extraction of these oils was performed using Soxhlet (SE) and direct (D-UAE) or indirect (I-UAE) ultrasound-assisted extraction techniques. Results: The highest oil yields were obtained using SE (AL = 31.90%, SO = 33.32%). These oils were found to be a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids. Linoleic (36.69%, SE), palmitic (21.90%, SE), oleic (18.07%, UAE-D), a-linolenic (11.45%, D-UAE), and myristoleic (5.91%, D-UAE) acids were the highest concentrations found in AL, while in SO they were oleic and a-linolenic acids (22.54 and 4.53%, respectively) in SE. Total phenolic contents were found without statistical differences between extraction methods (AL =0.719 – 0.787 mg GAE/g oil and SO = 0.653 – 0.915 mg GAE/g oil), except D-UAE SO (0.653 mg GAE/g oil). These oils had similar radical scavenging capacity and reducing power, except in ORAC method (41.99 vs. 96.39 µmol TE/g oil for AL and SO, respectively both in SE). The indexes of nutritional quality were similar among the different methods for the same species, but some of them presented statistically significant differences between the species. Conclusions: An influence of extraction methods on fatty acid composition, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of AL and SO seed oils with better results achieved using SE followed by I-UAE was demonstrated. This work establishes the potential source of nutritional compounds of these seeds that grow in the Atacama Desert, Chile.
n-Hexane fraction of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest on T47D breast cancer cell line
Authors: Gaffar Shabarni , Apriani Riza , Herlina Tati
Published: February 2024

Context: Moringa plant (Moringa oleifera) is one of the medicinal plants used as traditional medicine for the treatment of the variety of diseases including cancer. Recently, extensive research has been conducted on leaf extracts of M. oleifera to evaluate their potential cytotoxic effects. Several studies have reported anti proliferative activity of water and alcoholic extracts of leaf, bark and seed of M. oleifera on some cancer cell line, including HepG2 liver cancer cell, A549 lung cancer cell, Caco-2 colon cancer cell, MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Aim: To evaluate the cytotoxic effect of n-hexane fraction of M. oleifera (hMO) leaves on T47D breast cancer cells. Methods: The M. oleifera leaves were extracted using ethanol, then fractionated with n-hexane. The cytotoxic activity was determined using MTT assay. Apoptosis and cell cycle arrest were analyzed using flow-cytometry and expression of Bcl-2 and cyclin D1 were analyzed using immunocytochemistry. Results: Based on preliminary MTT assay, T47D treated with hMO demonstrated a medium cytotoxic effect and inhibited cell proliferation with an IC50 value of 235.58 µg/mL. Detection of apoptosis showed that hMO induced apoptosis mediated cell death in slow manner. In addition, hMO was also induce cell cycle arrest on G0-G1 and G2-M phase. Immunocytochemistry assay showed that the hMO decreased expression of anti-apoptosis protein, Bcl-2, and cell cycle regulator protein, cyclin D1, in concentration dependent manner. Conclusions: hMO has properties to induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest on T47D cells. hMO has a potential compound to be explored and developed as a chemo preventive agent for breast cancer. These results provide evidence for anticancer activity of M. oleifera leaves extract since it cause growth inhibition, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.
Drug-drug interactions in an intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital in southern Chile: Evaluating databases agreement
Authors: Ziehl Eduardo A. , Córdova Pia M. , Fernández Pola B. , Morales Felipe E. , Villa Lorenzo A.
Published: February 2024

Context: Patients in intensive care units have a high risk of experiencing a pharmacological interaction due to complex pharmacotherapy, severe disease, and comorbidities; increasing the risk of adverse effects of medications. Electronic databases are useful sources to identify drug-drug interactions (DDI), especially when new therapeutic alternatives are added to conventional treatments. Aim: To identify the frequency and severity of potential drug-drug interactions (pDDIs) in ICU patients using three electronic databases. Methods: Clinical pharmacists collected data on medication dosage and route of administration, sex, age, length of stay, comorbidities, and APACHE II score using patient records. Micromedex, Medscape, and Lexicomp databases were used to identify and categorize pDDIs. Intensivists confirmed if a pDDI was clinically present. kappa concordance test was utilized as a measure of agreement among databases. Results: Of the 93 ICU patients studied, pDDIs were identified in 89. A positive incremental relationship was found between number of medications, length of stay, and number of pDDIs. Patients with respiratory pathologies were most predisposed to presenting DDIs. Agreement among databases was mixed. Intensivists confirmed 5% of pDDIs. Conclusions: Discrepancies among databases and in intensivist judgment highlight a significant information gap in the identification of DDIs.
Cost of healthcare services in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis from the public hospital perspective: a retrospective prevalence-based costing approach
Authors: Vo Trung Quang
Published: February 2024

Context: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a high-incidence health concern and therefore cause a high economic burden. Aim: To evaluate the direct medical cost in CRS treatment. The findings of this research promised as a real evidence on decision-making. Methods: This study was designed as a cost analysis study based on prevalent rate. The electronic database of a public hospital was used to find out the demographic characteristics and costs associated with CRS from healthcare provider (hospital), patient and third-party (health insurance) perspective. Data on 4,894 individuals with CRS treated at the Ear-Nose-Throat Hospital collected from 2015 to 2017 were analyzed. Results: The age of majority was between 33 and 55 years, and the number of patients with insurance increased annually. About 35% of participants came from Ho Chi Minh City, and the median length of stay was 6 days. The direct medical costs per year per episode were 700.13 USD with health insurance and 1066.26 USD without health insurance. Treatment costs were found to be significantly different among years. The factors that directly influenced medical costs were gender, health insurance, and type of CRS. Conclusions: This analysis states for the first time the specific costs for CRS, which would provide public health professionals with estimated the economic burden of CRS. The study provides a baseline treatment cost of CRS that can be used by future studies for comparison.
Antipseudomonal activity of Artemisia quettensis Podlech essential oil and its synergy with imipenem
Authors: Saffari Elham , Khalili Mohammad Ali Nasiri , Mehrabadi Jalil Fallah
Published: February 2024

Context: The problems associated with hospital infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the emergence of new and the re-emergence of old infectious diseases have become increasingly evident. Therefore, medicinal plants take precedence over the development of new antibacterial agents. The combination effects of antibiotics and plant compounds might be an appropriate solution for microbial resistance and useful method for assessment of synergistic interactions for inhibition of bacterial growth. This study is an experimental design for the discovery and finding of natural and harmless compounds for the treatment of infectious diseases. Aim: To determine the antibacterial potency of Artemisia quettensis essential oil, and in combination with imipenem, to inhibit the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: The essential oil was obtained through hydrodistillation from aerial parts of the plant and analysis using GC and GC-MS. To demonstrate the in vitro antibacterial activity of the essential oil against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) disc diffusion assay was used, either alone or in combination with a standard antibiotic. Results: The most dominant components were homoadamantane (9.38%), Camphor (7.91%) and Eugenol (10.46%). The oil and antibiotic showed high antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) 0.5 µL/mL and 16 µg/mL and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) 4 µL/mL and 32 µL/mL, respectively. The synergistic effect of the oil and antibiotic showed MIC 0.2 µL/mL and 4 µg/mL and MBC 2 µL/mL and 8 µL/mL, respectively. This study showed that Artemisia quettensis oil has significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. Conclusions: The essential oil exhibited synergism with imipenem displaying the ability to enhance the activity of this compound and it may be useful in the fight against emerging microbial drug resistance.
Reproductive parameters of male rats treated with Pavetta crassipes K.Schum. aqueous leaf extract
Authors: Bariweni Moses W. , Yibala Oboma I. , Alade Tolulokpe O. , Karibo Doubra F.
Published: February 2024

Context: There is a growing concern about induction of male infertility resulting from medicinal plant use especially in malaria treatment. Carica papaya and Azadirachta indica are plants with documented antimalarial and anti-fertility effects. Pavetta crassipes leaves are reported to have antimalarial effects but there is no information about its reproductive toxicology. Aim: To evaluate the effects of P. crassipes aqueous leaf extract on male reproductive parameters. Methods: Healthy adult male rats were used for this study. The extract was administered orally at 400, 800 and 1600 mg/kg for two and four weeks, respectively while the control group received 10 mL/kg distilled water. Blood samples were collected for serum hormonal assay. The testes and epididymis were excised for histological examination and seminal fluid analysis. Results: Serum testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels reduced significantly in all treated groups compared to control but this effect was reversed after the respective recovery periods except FSH and LH levels in the group treated with 1600 mg/kg for four weeks. The control group had normal testicular histology while varying degrees of reversible histological changes occurred in the treated groups except persistent irregular basal lamina at 800 mg/kg in the two-week treated group while persistent irregular basal lamina and tubular atrophy occurred at 1600 mg/kg in the four-week treated group. Sperm count reduction at 800 and 1600 mg/kg compared to control (86 x 106 mL-1) in the groups treated for four weeks was irreversible. Conclusions: The aqueous leaf extract of Pavetta crassipes has the potential to cause deleterious effects on male reproductive function in Wistar rats.
Dorstenia brasiliensis Lam. (Moraceae): morphoanatomical characterization of a polymorphic species, used for medicinal purposes in Paraguay
Authors: González de García Mirtha G. , González Villalba Yenny P. , Degen de Arrúa Rosa L.
Published: February 2024

Context: In Paraguay, Dorstenia brasiliensis Lam. (Moraceae), "taropé" is a species used for medicinal purposes, some authors consider it a polymorphic species according to the environment in which it is developed. Aim: To determine the morphoanatomy of D. brasiliensis Lam., used for medicinal purposes in Paraguay. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out. The samples were collected from three locations: from Itá Azul, Colonia Independencia; the Market of San Lorenzo and from the Acclimatization Garden of the Facultad de Ciencias Químicas of the Universidad Nacional de Asunción. Results: The following diagnostic characters were determined: rhizome with very marked short internodes, rough leaf to the touch, flowers in bisexual inflorescences, globose and verrucous seeds in the surface. Stomata restricted to the lower epidermis and in both epidermis at different times of collection; glandular hair with unicellular base and bicellular head in petiole, both epidermis of the lamina and in the central rib; short, globose, unicellular eglandular hair in lower epidermis of the lamina; long unicellular eglandular hairs, some erect and others with apex in pronounced curvature, both in lower lamina epidermis, in midrib and petiole. The dried and pulverized drug has dark green color with a marked characteristic aroma of this species. Conclusions: The morphoanatomical characteristics of the D. brasiliensis samples from the three collection sites were determined, coinciding the results between them and constituting elements of diagnosis, for the correct identification and quality control of this plant drug.
Optimization, physical-chemical evaluation and healing activity of chitosan ointment
Authors: Pérez Dania , de la Paz Nilia , Fernández Mirna , Mantilla Niurys , Peña Mariela , Menéndez Addis
Published: February 2024

Context: Chitosan has received attention as a functional, sustainably renewable, nontoxic and biodegradable biopolymer for pharmaceutical applications such as healing agent. Aims: To design a semisolid pharmaceutical form (ointment), employing 1% chitosan as an active pharmaceutical ingredient. Methods: The formulation was carried out through D-optimal mixing design, with a linear model. Variation components evaluated were the concentration of sodium hydroxide, water and anhydrous lanolin. Variables included those of response pH and extensibility. Three batches were produced, and the physical and chemical stability of the ointment was assessed through stress and shelf-life tests for 24 months. Physical-chemical parameters studied included organoleptic characteristics, chitosan content, rheological behavior, apparent viscosity, pH and extensibility. Wound healing activity was also tested for burns damage model in rats. Results: The mixture design showed that the best formulation was the one containing 0.12% sodium hydroxide, 20.0% anhydrous lanolin and 40.0% water, with the mechanical-structural behavior characteristics of a semisolid product. This product had healing effects and showed adequate physical chemical stability during the time under study. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that 1% chitosan ointment design favors scarring in the second-degree burn damage model in rats skin applied for 14 days at the rate of daily administration.
Design, optimization and characterization of glutathione loaded-alginate microspheres for topical antiaging
Authors: Hariyadi Dewi Melani , Rosita Noorma , Rahayu Asti
Published: February 2024

Context: Glutathione in the reduced form (GSH) is the predominant intracellular form, which acts as a strong antioxidant. However, it has low skin permeability due to the high hydrophilicity. Hence, the objective of this study was to prepare GSH by using microspheres delivery system and adding surfactant to overcome the barrier function of the skin. Aims: To investigate the effect of polymer and surfactant on the characteristics and release profile of GSH–alginate microspheres. Methods: GSH-alginate microspheres were prepared using ionotropic gelation method by aerosolisation. A randomized full factorial design was applied to prepare four different formulations of glutathione loaded alginate microspheres. Design was applied for all formulations to study about effect of independent variables of polymer and crosslinker on the entrapment efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), particle size, yield, and in vitro drug release profile. For release study, microspheres formulas were also compared to microspheres, which applied into gel base. Results: The GSH-alginate microspheres had a high EE ranging from 34.74 ± 0.07% to 56.63 ± 0.36%, with small particle sizes ranging from 1.89 ± 0.03 µm to 2.42 ± 0.08 µm, and drug loading ranging from 5.72 ± 0.05% to 6.23 ± 0.02%. The kinetic analysis of all release profiles was found to follow Higuchi’s diffusion model. EE, DL, particle size, and yield variables had a significant effect on the dependent variables (p<0.05), and flux had no significant effect on the dependent variables (p>0.05). Conclusions: All formulas produced high yield and encapsulation efficiency and small size particles. From the 22 randomized full factorial design, there was showed that the combination of the use of surfactant and polymer concentration significantly affected DL and EE.
Hair regenerative activities of flavonoid-rich extract of Equisetum hyemale L. (Equisetaceae) in chemically-induced alopecia in Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: David Penuel P. , Santiago Cecilia D. , Castillo Anges L. , De Guzman Gerard Q.
Published: February 2024

Context: The prevalence of alopecia around the world is high and awareness continuously increased due to social stigma. There are limited commercially-available medications for the management of different forms of baldness, most of which are prohibitively expensive and presents with various adverse effects. Aims: To evaluate the flavonoid-rich ethyl acetate extract of Equisetum hyemale stem for its hair-regenerative properties in chemically-induced alopecia in Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: Various concentrations of the flavonoid-rich extract of E. hyemale were applied in depilated areas in dorsal rat skin after chemical induction of alopecia. Evidence of hair growth was observed for 28 days in a weekly basis. Histopathological analysis of rat skin was performed to demonstrate evidence of follicular hair growth. Results: The abundance of flavonoids in the ethyl acetate extract was established by total flavonoid contents and LC-MS analyses. The 2.5% E. hyemale extract exhibited hair-regenerative properties with high tensile strengths, combined masses and follicular growth, which was comparable to the positive control, 5% minoxidil (p>0.05). The highest rate of hair follicular development was observed in the telogen phase in rat skin after 28 days of treatment. Conclusions: The flavonoid-rich ethyl acetate extract of E. hyemale exhibits in situ hair-regenerative properties in chemically-induced alopecia in rats at 2.5% w/v concentration.
Potentially inappropriate medication in elderly patients in Santiago de Cuba
Authors: Ortega López Irma L. , Reyes Hernández Ivette , Dupotey Varela Niurka M. , Lores Delgado Danneris , Veranes Vera Yoenia , Pupo Benítez Lilisbeth , Guerra Prado Erenis
Published: February 2024

Context: Several studies have reported the high use of inappropriate medication in the elderly, as well as the associated risks; for this reason, it has become a major health problem. Aim: To characterize the use of potentially inappropriate medication in the elderly based on the reality observed in Santiago de Cuba. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out, with a random selection that included elderly patients from the community and institutional care in Santiago de Cuba. The data were obtained by reviewing medical records and interviews with patients/caregivers. The potentially inappropriate medication was identified through the Beer's Criteria and the Screening Tool of Older Person’s Prescriptions/ Screening Tool to Alert doctors to Right; i.e., appropriate indicated treatment. Results: There were detected 895 potentially inappropriate medications in 632 patients, which affected 81.01% of them, for an average of 1.41 problems per patient. The predominantly inappropriate medication was independent of the diagnosis, which represented 61.7% of the total detected. The most commonly used drugs or groups of drugs were oral hypoglycemic agents, β-blockers, platelet antiaggregants, psychotropic drugs, inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme, nifedipine, digoxin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. Conclusions: There is a high use of potentially inappropriate medication in the elderly, in the health context of Santiago de Cuba, which may be an expression of the limited attention to health needs related to the use of medications in these patients.
The mitochondrial uncoupling as a promising pharmacological target against cancer
Authors: Fernández Acosta Roberto , Piñeros Octavio , Pardo Andreu Gilberto L
Published: February 2024

Context: Mitochondria represent a key intracellular signalling hub that is emerging as important determinants of numerous aspects of cancer development and progression. In this sense, the organelle constitutes a promising target for the development of novel anticancer agents. Despite the negative history, mitochondrial uncoupling has recently proposed as a pharmacological target against cancer, but little is known about the mechanisms involved. Aims: To demonstrate the role of mitochondria in tumor formation and to describe how targeting of mitochondria uncoupling can be beneficial in the therapy of these diseases, which affect a large human population. Methods: The data for this systematic review were collected from three popular databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus and included in the search terms the words “mitochondrial uncoupling” and “cancer”. The influence of mitochondrial uncoupling on cells physiology that could lead to cancer cells death, invasion and metastasis was critically appraised from relevant researches. The anticancer effects of small molecules mitochondrial uncouplers and their anticancer mechanisms were also discussed. The present dataset finally included 201 published articles. Results: It was found that the mitochondrial uncoupling-mediated responses possibly involved in the anti-cancer/anti-metastatic effects include Ca2+ homeostasis and bioenergetics disruption, mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation, reactive oxygen species generation, mitochondrial dynamics alteration, and gene expression modulation. Conclusions: Overall, this critical review suggests that mitochondrial uncoupling could be an interesting pharmacological target to be considered in the design and synthesis of novel anti-cancer compounds with optimal physic-chemical and biopharmaceutical properties and improved safety profiles.
In vivo anti-inflammatory and in vitro antioxidant potential of leaf and bark fractions of Holoptelea integrifolia (Roxb.) Planch.
Authors: Sharma Prerna , Nanjaian Mahadevan , Kalra Sanjeev , Chidambaram Kumarappan
Published: February 2024

Context: Holoptelea integrifolia is most widely used as a traditional ethnomedicine in India by the local tribal, especially for the treatment of hyperglycemia and as an anti-inflammatory drug. Aims: To evaluate the acute oral toxicity, in vivo anti-inflammatory and in vitro antioxidant therapeutic potential of chloroform and n-butanol fractions of H. integrifolia barks and leaves using appropriate experimental models. Methods: Acute oral toxicity of chloroform and n-butanol fractions were evaluated by 423-acute toxic class method using OECD guidelines. The anti-inflammatory effect of chloroform and n-butanol fractions of H. integrifolia barks (CHIB) and leaves (CHIL) were evaluated at 400 mg/kg (po) on carrageenan-induced hind paw edema in Wistar rats. The observed anti-inflammatory effect was compared to the reference drug, indomethacin (10 mg/kg). The total reducing power of both fractions was determined in vitro and the results were compared with ascorbic acid. Results: The TLC analysis of the bark and leaf extracts revealed the presence of beta-sitosterol. The results of the evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of CHIB and CHIL fractions showed a time-dependent reduction of carrageenan-induced paw edema in statistical analysis. In addition, chloroform fraction of H. integrifolia was found to show notable antioxidant activity against hydrogen peroxide radicals scavenging. Conclusions: Experimentally studied CHIB and CHIL possessed interesting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential without inducing any apparent acute toxic properties. These pharmacological effects may be attributed, at least in part, to the presence of phenolic compounds/steroidal terpenoids. These results provide scientific support for the traditional use of H. integrifolia in the management of various inflammatory diseases.
Exploration of anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effect of curcumin on co-administration with acetylsalicylic acid
Authors: Mohapatra Tapas Kumar , Nayak Reena Rani , Subudhi Bharat Bhusan
Published: February 2024

Context: Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) has been repositioned against different inflammatory disease conditions. However, on long-term use, ASA is reported to cause hepatotoxicity by compromising the antioxidant status. Curcumin is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. Accordingly, co-use of curcumin can be expected to enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of ASA while minimizing its hepatotoxicity. Aims: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of curcumin when co-administered with ASA. Methods: To evaluate anti-inflammatory activity carrageenan-induced paw edema and cotton pellet induced granuloma models were used. Hepatotoxicity was induced by administration of ASA (100 mg/kg/day) for 28 continuous days. Antioxidant effects were determined by malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione assay of liver tissue. Results: Co-treatment with curcumin and ASA significantly (p<0.001) reduced (57.92%) the paw edema induced by carrageenan. The effect was higher than that of the ASA (45.51%) and curcumin (36.87%). Further, the combination showed higher (57.67%) inhibition of granuloma formation compared to that of ASA (34.22%) and curcumin (28.39%). Co-use of curcumin with ASA lowered the malondialdehyde level while relatively increasing the superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione compared to ASA and curcumin. The histological findings showed protection against ASA induced hepatotoxicity. Conclusions: Curcumin showed additive effects with ASA against inflammatory granuloma formation in rats. It also showed positive interaction against carrageenan-induced inflammation. With relatively higher antioxidant capacity, the co-use of curcumin showed protection against ASA induced hepatotoxicity.
Development and validation of UPLC-UV method for the determination of rubraxanthone in human plasma
Authors: Susanti Meri , Harahap Yahdiana , Itam Afrizal , Dachriyanus Dachriyanus
Published: February 2024

Context: Rubraxanthone has potential health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-bacterial and cytotoxic agent. A sensitive method is required to quantify plasma concentrations to assess its efficacy. Aims: To develop and validate an analytical method for the determination rubraxanthone in human plasma using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC-UV) for pharmacokinetic application. Methods: Chromatographic separation was performed aced using a C18 column (100 mm × 3.0 mm, particle size 1.8 μm) with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile – 0.4% formic acid (75:25, v/v). The isocratic flow rate was 0.3 mL/min with elution time for rubraxanthone was approximately 3 min and UV detection were at 243 nm. Biological sample preparation involved protein precipitation method with acetonitrile. The developed method was validated as EMEA guidelines for its selectivity, linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, recovery and stability. Results: The method was proven to be linear over a plasma rubraxanthone concentration range of 206 to 6180 ng/mL with a mean correlation coefficient of 0.999. The within-run and between-run precision (coefficient of variation) were less than 4.7%. The mean recovery of rubraxanthone from human plasma was found to be greater than 95%. The lower limits of quantitation of the method was determined to be 206 ng/mL. The samples remained stable during the processing and analysis times and also during the three freeze/thaw cycles. Conclusions: The UPLC-UV method was validated for all of the criteria that were necessary for a bioanalytical method and could reliably quantitate rubraxanthone in human plasma for future clinical pharmacokinetic study.
An overview of the most important medicinal plants effective on the strength of memory and mind in Iranian ethnobotany
Authors: Farzan Behrooz , Abbaszadeh Saber , Basati Gholam , Teimouri Hassan
Published: February 2024

Context: Physiologically, memory is created by changes in the synaptic conductivity from one neuron to the next neuron, leading to the emergence of new or facilitating pathways to guide messages in the neuronal circuits of the brain. Throughout the life in today's industrial conditions in which memory impairment is occurring at a faster pace, humans seek to figure out methods that prevent the development of related disorders and improve memory. The role of medicinal plants in learning and memory is one of the areas that have drawn substantial attention. Hence, this study introduces some of the most effective medicinal plants with memory improving properties according to Iranian ethnobotanical documents. Aim: To analyze some of the most effective medicinal plants with memory-enhancing properties according to the Iranian ethnobotanical documents. Methods: The data for this systematic review were collected from six popular databases including Institute for Scientific Information, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scientific Information Database, Magiran, and Scopus and included in the search terms the words “memory enhancement”, “ethnobotany”, “herbal drug”, “Iran”, “medicinal plants”, “extracts”, and “essential oils”. The present dataset finally included 43 published articles. Results: Based on the available evidence of the studies on Iranian ethnobotany, certain medicinal plants such as Achillea wilhelmsii, Avena sativa, Boswellia papyrifera, Erucaria hispanica, Helianthus annuus, Ixiolirion tataricum, Lagochilus acutilobus, Pistacia atlantica, Pistacia khinjuk, Sinapis abyssinica, Spinacia oleracea, and Vicia sativa are among the plants that improve the mind. Conclusions: According to the findings found in this review, there is evidence that the plants that grow in Iranian territory have beneficial effects on the memory enhancement.
Ethanol extract of Epipremnum aureum leaves attenuate intranigral-rotenone induced Parkinson’s disease in rats
Authors: Sood Suraj , Kumar Manish , Bansal Nitin
Published: February 2024

Context: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by motor-symptoms attributed to profound (60 - 70%) neurodegeneration in the striatum and loss of dopamine thereof. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation are major contributors to neurodegenerative pathogenesis of PD. Epipremnum aureum is an ornamental plant found to possess significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Aims: To evaluate the neuroprotective potential of ethanol extract of E. aureum (EEA) leaves against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in rats. Methods: Stereotaxic brain surgery was performed on day 1 and rotenone (ROT) was injected (300 µg/µL) in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) to induce PD in rats. EEA (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered to ROT-treated rats for 28 consecutive days. Rearing behavior, ambulation, catalepsy and paw retraction test were performed on day 28. After behavioral tests, rats were sacrificed, whole-brain removed and TBARS, GSH and catalase activity was determined in brain homogenate. Results: ROT-treated rats showed a conspicuous increase in the catatonic score, paw retraction time and decline in the ambulatory score and rearing score that exhibited induction of PD in rats. The motor-symptoms triggered by rotenone were significantly reversed in EEA (250 and 500 mg/kg) treated animals. EEA treatment significantly attenuated the intranigral ROT induced rise in brain TBARS and a decline in GSH content and catalase activity. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that in the present model of PD, treatment with EEA mitigates the key symptoms (e.g. hypokinesia, rigidity and postural instability) through potent antioxidant activity.