bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Lies Behind Successful Regulation? A Qualitative Evaluation of Pilot Implementation of Kenya’s Health Facility Inspection Reforms
Authors: Tama Eric , Khayoni Irene , Goodman Catherine , Ogira Dosila , Chege Timothy , Gitau Njeri , Wafula Francis
Published: September 2021

Background: Health facility regulation in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is generally weak, with potentially serious consequences for safety and quality. Innovative regulatory reforms were piloted in three Kenyan counties including: a Joint Health Inspection Checklist (JHIC) synthesizing requirements across multiple regulatory agencies; increased inspection frequency; allocating facilities to compliance categories which determined warnings, sanctions and/or time to re-inspection; and public display of regulatory results. The reforms substantially increased inspection scores compared with control facilities. We developed lessons for future regulatory policy from this pilot by identifying key factors that facilitated or hindered its implementation. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study to understand views and experiences of actors involved in the one-year pilot. We interviewed 77 purposively selected staff from the national, county and facility levels. Data were analyzed using the framework approach, identifying facilitating/hindering factors at the facility, inspection system, and health system levels. Results: The joint health inspections (JHIs) were generally viewed as fair, objective and transparent, which enhanced their perceived legitimacy. Interactions with inspectors were described as friendly and supportive, in contrast to the punitive culture of previous inspections when bribery had been common. Inspector training and use of an electronic checklist were strongly praised. However, practical challenges with transport, route planning and budgets highlighted the critical nature of strong logistical management. The effectiveness of inspection in improving compliance was hampered by limitations in related systems, particularly facility licensing, enforcement of closures and, in the public sector, control of funds. However, an inclusive reform development process had led to high buy-in across regulatory agencies which was key to the system’s success. Conclusion: Effective facility inspection involves more than "hardware" such as checklists, protocols and training. Cultural, relational and institutional "software" are also crucial for legitimacy, feasibility of implementation and enforceability, and should be carefully integrated into regulatory reforms.
Thinking Politically About UN Political Declarations: A Recipe for Healthier Commitments—Free of Commercial Interests Comment on "Competing Frames in Global Health Governance: An Analysis of Stakeholder Influence on the Political Declaration on Non-communicable Diseases"
Authors: Buse Kent , Mialon Mélissa , Jones Alexandra
Published: September 2021

As evidence mounts that corporate actor engagement in United Nations (UN) policy-making processes leads to weaker and shallower public health commitments, greater attention is being paid to how to minimise undue interference and manage conflicts of interest (CoI). While we welcome efforts to develop normative guidance on managing such conflicts, we argue that there is the need to go further. In particular, we propose that an index be developed that would assess the health impacts of individual corporate actors, and those actors who fail to achieve a set benchmark would not have engagement privileges. We further propose the establishment of an independent panel of experts to advise on corporate actor engagement as well as on ambiguous and potentially health-harming commitments in text under negotiation in the UN. Recognising that the implementation of such measures will be contested, we recommend a number of practical steps to make their implementation more politically palatable.
Prevalence of Human Intestinal Parasites in Tabriz City of Iran During 2018 and the Importance of These Parasites in Public Health
Authors: Garedaghi Yagoob , Hassanzadeh Khanmiri Hamidreza
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infections are among the main problems in developing countries. It is estimated that over 4.5 billion people in the world have been infected with a variety of intestinal parasites. Numerous studies conducted in different parts of Iran showed the spread of intestinal parasite infections in different urban and rural areas. However, the prevalence of these infections significantly reduced in recent years due to improvements in public health. Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted in a hospital in Tabriz city of Iran, 700 stool samples were collected during one year and studied using formalin-ether concentration method and Lugol’s iodine staining. Results: In this study, six types of parasites including Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba coli, Chilomastix mesnili, Blastocystis hominis, and Enterobius vermicularis were detected in 700 fecal samples. A total of 112 (16%) samples were infected, among which 43 (40%) were infected with Giardia lamblia, 35 (32%) with Entamoeba histolytica, 20 (18%) with Enterobius vermicularis, 10 (9%) with Entamoeba coli, 3 (0.026%) with Blastocystis hominis, and 1 (0.008%) with Chilomastix mesnili. Conclusion: In this study, the highest prevalence of infection belonged to Giardia lamblia (40%), which is consistent with the statistics published by the World Health Organization. According to the findings of this study, it can be concluded that despite the increase in the provision of health services in cities and villages, the prevalence of intestinal parasites, especially Giardia lamblia, is one of the major problems in the region. Therefore, there is a need for proper and coherent health planning in the region and accurate and up-to-date epidemiological information.
Association of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with angiographic SYNTAX score in patients with non-ST-Segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS)
Authors: Maleki Mehdi , Tajlil Arezou , Separham Ahmad , Sohrabi Bahram , Pourafkari Leili , Roshanravan Neda , Aslanabadi Naser , Najjarian Farima , Mashayekhi Sina , Ghaffari Samad
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Considering the role of inflammation in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, we aimed to investigate the association of presentation neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with complexity of coronary artery lesions determined by SYNTAX score in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). Methods: From March 2018 to March 2019, we recruited 202 consecutive patients, who were hospitalized for NSTE-ACS and had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention in our hospital. The association of presentation NLR with SYNTAX score was determined in univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis. Results: Higher NLR was significantly associated with higher SYNTAX score (beta= 0.162, P=0.021). In addition, older age, having hypertension, higher TIMI score, and lower ejection fraction on echocardiographic examination were significantly associated with higher SYNTAX score. TIMI score had the largest beta coefficient among the studied variables (TIMI score beta=0.302, P<0.001). In two separate multivariate linear regression models, we assessed the unique contribution of NLR in predicting SYNTAX score in patients with NSTE-ACS. In the first model, NLR was significantly contributed to predicting SYNTAX score after adjustment for age, sex, and hypertension as covariates available on patient presentation (beta=0.142, P=0.040). In the second model, NLR was not an independent predictor of SYNTAX score after adjustment for TIMI score (beta=0.121, P=0.076). Conclusion: In NSTE-ACS, presentation NLR is associated with SYNTAX score. However, NLR does not contribute significantly to the prediction of SYNTAX score after adjustment for TIMI score. TIMI risk score might be a better predictor of the SYNTAX score in comparison to NLR.
Holmium:YAG Laser for the Treatment of Genital and urethral Warts: Multicentre Prospective Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy
Authors: Del Zingaro Michele , Cochetti Giovanni , Zucchi Alessandro , Paladini Alessio , Rossi De Vermandois Jacopo Adolfo , Ciarletti Sara , Felici Graziano , Maiolino Giuseppe , Renzetti Roberto , Gaudio Gianluca , Mearini Ettore
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Genital condylomatosis is a highly contagious disease caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). The aim of this prospective multicentre study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Holmium:YAG (yttrium-aluminium-garnet) laser in the treatment of genital and intra-urethral warts; the secondary aim was to assess the patients’ postoperative satisfaction and cosmetic results. Methods: From December 2016 to March 2019, patients with genital warts were prospectively enrolled in three hospitals. The inclusion criteria were male gender, age over 18 years-old and treatment-naïve. External and urethral genitalia warts were treated by the Holmium YAG laser. The follow-up analysis consisted of physical examination, flexible urethro-cystoscopy in case of meatal lesions, and administration of Dermatology Quality of Life Index (DLQI) and Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) questionnaires at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery and subsequently yearly. Results: Sixty patients were enrolled. The single treatment was effective in 57/60 patients (95%). At a mean follow-up of 26 months, recurrences occurred in 8 patients (13.3%). No peri- or post-operative complication occurred. An improvement in pre-operative condition was highlighted with PGI-I and DLQI questionnaires. Conclusion: Our prospective multicentre study showed that holmium laser surgery seems to be a safe and effective treatment for external genital and urethral warts. Good dermatological outcomes aid to further improve patient satisfaction.
Development of polymeric nanoparticles loaded with STAT3 inhibitory, Stattic, for targeted cancer therapy
Authors: Masoumzadeh Hamed , Hoseinzad Nasrin , Jafari Sevda , Shayanfar Ali , Vaez Haleh , Molavi Ommoleila
Published: September 2021

Background: STAT3 is an oncogenic signaling pathway found constitutively active in many types of human malignancies and plays a key role in cancer progression. Stattic is a small molecule, which selectively inhibits SH2 domain of STAT3. In most of the studies, stattic has been proposed as a promising strategy for inhibition of STAT3 in cancer cells harboring constitutively active STAT3. However, lack of proper formulation due to the poor water solubility and low bioavailability of stattic is a major limitation for its usage in clinic. The aim of this project was to develop poly(ethylene glycole)-block-poly(caprolactone) (PEG-b-PCL)-based polymeric micelles loaded with stattic and evaluate drug encapsulation efficiency and release in the developed formulations. Methods: In this experimental study, to prepare stattic loaded micellar formulations, co-solvent evaporation method was used. Mean diameter and polydispersity index (PDI) of micelles were defined by light scattering method. Encapsulated drug levels were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Data were analyzed using Graph pad prism software through one-way ANOVA analysis of variance. Results: Stattic was loaded in the polymeric micelles with encapsulation efficiency ranging from 40 to 73%. Drug loaded micelles were measured between 90 to 130 nm in size. PDI was obtained 0.3-1 and encapsulation of stattic in Polyethylene glycol-block-poly(α-benzyl carboxylate ε-caprolactone(PEG-b-PBCL) micellar formulation resulted in more than 6-fold increase in the water solubility of stattic (0.36 vs. 0.06 mg/mL). Respecting to high encapsulation efficiency, two micellar formulations were selected for further analysis that both of them released 70-80% of drug within the first hour, indicated burst release of drug. Conclusion: These findings show that PEG-b-PBCL copolymers can be a suitable vehicle for solubilization of stattic.
Expression Profile of LncRNAs in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mousavi Zohreh , Ghorbian Saeid , Rezamand Azim , Roshangar Leyla , Jafari Behboud
Published: September 2021

Background: Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) explains 26% of pediatricmalignancies and is one of the leading causes of disease-related deaths in children. A novelmolecular class of non-coding genes, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) having over 200nucleotides, have been defined as regulators of different cellular processes including pluripotency,oncogenesis, and transcription. It has been demonstrated that lncRNA transcription profilescan distinguish pre B-cell subtype of ALL accurately and act as early diagnostic and prognosticbiomarkers. Hence, the aim of this pilot study was the prior evaluation of expression profileof several lncRNA candidates including RP11-68I18.10, RP11-624C23.1, RP11-446E9, RP11-137H2.4, and RP11-203E8 in patients with ALL. Methods: In this study, 80 blood samples were obtained from patients, definitely diagnosed bypathologists with ALL, and from healthy subjects. Total RNA was extracted from blood samples,and cDNA was synthesized. Real-time PCR was applied to determine the expression of lncRNAs.A P-value of 0.010 was considered statistically significant. Results: Our findings revealed that the expression levels of lncRNAs RP11-624C23.1, RP11-446E9, RP11-137H2.4, RP11-68I18.10, and RP11-203E8 were significantly decreased in ALLsamples compared to those of healthy samples (P<0.0001, P =0.0616, P =0.0292, P<0.0001, andP = 0.0007). Moreover, the relationship between these five lncRNA expression changes and theimmunophenotype in ALL patients was not significant. Conclusion: The dysregulation of lncRNAs in ALL samples could provide a novel and interestingpossibility for early diagnosis and prognosis, as well as mastering the treatment of ALL.
Risk Factors of Supply Chain in Biopharmaceutical Companies in Iran
Authors: Abbasian Hadi , Yousefi-Zenouz Reza , Abdollahiasl Akbar , Toroski Mahdi , Nikfar Shekoufeh , Siahi-Shadbad Mohammadreza , Kebriaeezadeh Abbas
Published: September 2021

Background: Supply chain risk management can help companies detect potential hazards,mitigate potential risks, and thereby increase supply chain efficiency. The biopharmaceuticalindustry in Iran has a generic-based pharmerging market. Therefore, identifying risksassociated with the supply chain of those drugs can significantly boost the possibility of successof biopharmaceutical companies. This study is conducted to determine the supply chain riskfactors of biopharmaceuticals companies in Iran. Methods: The current research work is a qualitative-quantitative study. A systematic review andinterview with experts (n=14) were conducted to identify potential supply chain risks in thebiopharmaceutical industries. To determine the significance of identified risks, Fuzzy screeningmethod was employed to collect the opinions of experts (n=16) in the biopharmaceuticalindustries. Results: By systematic review and interviews with the biopharmaceutical industry experts, 100potential risks in the biopharmaceutical industry supply chain were identified. These risks weredivided into two general categories namely macro and micro risks. Based on experts’ judgment,77 out of 100 identified risks were eliminated and 23 significant risks were determined. Themost important risks are the Ministry of health (as the regulatory body) conflict of interest, USsanctions, lack of domestic suppliers of essential materials, pseudo-productivity, and moneytransfer related to the bank’s sanctions. Conclusion: Due to the multitude of present risks and the impossibility of controlling all ofthem, it is recommended that managers and producers focus more on controlling the identifiedsignificant risks.
The impact of vitamin D supplementation on mortality rate and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nikniaz Leila , Akbarzadeh Mohammad Amin , Hosseinifard Hossein , Hosseini Mohammad-Salar
Published: September 2021

Background: Several studies have suggested the positive impact of vitamin D on patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on clinical outcomes and mortality rate of COVID-19 patients. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted through the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Embase, Ovid, and The Cochrane Library without time and language limitation, until December 16, 2020. The results were screened, and the outcomes of interest were extracted. Using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tools, the remaining results were appraised critically. Statistical analysis was performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software version 2.0. Results: Of the 2311 results, four studies and 259 patients were enrolled, including 139 patients in vitamin D intervention groups. The pooled analysis of three studies, reporting the patients’ survival and mortality rate, showed a significantly lower mortality rate among the intervention groups compared with the control groups (OR=0.264, 95% CI=0.099–0.708, p-value=0.008). Two of the studies reported the clinical outcomes based on the World Health Organization’s Ordinal Scale for Clinical Improvement (OSCI) score for COVID-19, where both of them showed a significant decrease in OSCI score in the vitamin D intervention groups. One study reported a lower rate of intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and one study reported a significant decrease in serum levels of Fibrinogen. Conclusion: Prescribing vitamin D supplementation to patients with COVID-19 infection seems to decrease the mortality rate, the severity of the disease, and serum levels of the inflammatory markers. Further studies are needed to determine the ideal type, dosage, and duration of supplementation.
Potential Sedative and Therapeutic Value of Dexmedetomidine in Critical COVID-19 patients
Authors: Safari Saeid , Jahangirifard Alireza , Zali Alireza , Salimi Alireza , Bastanhagh Ehsan , Aminnejad Reza , Jalili Khoshnood Reza , Ommi Davood
Published: September 2021

The coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) is an ongoing outbreak of respiratory disease, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The virus can invade various tissues and organs, causing multiple organ dysfunctions. Critically ill COVID-19 patients may develop acute respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia, which are the major causes of hypoxemic respiratory failure and death due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, ventilation support (invasive or noninvasive), has become a common practice in respiratory treatment of COVID-19 patients. Patients receiving mechanical ventilation usually require sedation to alleviate anxiety, pain and discomfort. On the other hand, current clinical reports have indicated that a significant number of COVID-19 patients require prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) care and ventilation, which increases the risk of delirium. Thus, selection of appropriate sedative medications during this period is of utmost importance. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a sedative, anxiolytic and analgesic agent that acts through the α2-adrenoceptor. Its sedative property is notable due to the lack of respiratory depression. In addition, its cytoprotective, immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory properties have been well established in preclinical settings. Based on these features, a number of recent studies have proposed DEX as a beneficial sedative agent that simultaneously mitigates the excessive inflammation and protects vital body organs in patients with severe COVID-19. In current brief review, we aimed to discuss the therapeutic benefits of DEX in managing different indications of COVID-19.
Biological activity survey of Pereskia aculeata Mill. and Pereskia grandifolia Haw. (Cactaceae)
Authors: Massocatto Adriana Muniz , Silva Nyéssia Fernanda de Souza , Kazama Caroline Calixto , Pires Michele Dal Bem , Takemura Orlando Seiko , Jacomassi Ezilda , Ruiz Ana Lúcia Tasca Gois , Laverde Junior Antonio
Published: September 2021

Background: Pereskia aculeata and P. grandifolia are non-traditional Brazilian vegetables with high nutritional value used in traditional medicine. The antioxidant, anticholinesterase, molluscicidal, cytotoxic, and antiproliferative properties of hydroethanolic extracts of P. aculeata and P. grandifolia leaves (PAL, PGL) and fruits (PAF, PGF) are investigated in this study. Methods: All extracts were prepared by maceration with ethanol 70%. Their antioxidant properties were assessed through DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and β-carotene bleaching inhibition assays. A TLC bioautography method was employed to evaluate the inhibiting capacity of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme. The molluscicidal activity was tested against the snail Biomphalaria glabrata, which serves as an intermediate host for Schistosoma mansoni. The cytotoxic activity was assessed by a Artemia salina lethality test and the antiproliferative properties against seven human carcinoma cell lines. Results: Compounds with anticholinesterase activity were found in all extracts. Polar compounds present in PAF and PGL extracts were the most active (IC50 < 25 μg of dry mass) and had an adequate inhibition capacity of the AChE. PGF and PGL were classified as moderate (LC50 = 19.2 μg/ml) and modest molluscicidal agents (LC50 = 66.6 μg/ml), respectively. All extracts exhibited selective antiproliferative activity against human chronic myeloid leukemia cell lines (K562). PAL, PGL, and PGF presented potent antiproliferative activity (TGI ≤ 5 μg/ml). Conclusion: Both species exhibited anticholinesterase, cytotoxic and antiproliferative properties. This research supports the potential of these species as sustainable sources of nutraceutical compounds.
Effects of Transcutol P and Precirol ATO-5 on Percutaneous Absorption of Flutamide from Emulgels
Authors: Khalilollah Parandis , Shokri Javad , Ahmadi Seyedehzahra , Monajjemzadeh Farnaz
Published: September 2021

Background: Flutamide is a non-steroidal anti-androgenic agent which is not only used in treating prostate cancer but also can be effective in some disorders such as androgenic alopecia and male pattern baldness. Several serious side effects for systemic administration of flutamide can be overcome by emulgel dosage form. Absorption enhancers can promote permeation of flutamide through skin. Percutaneous absorption of Flutamide emulgels with different concentrations of Transcutol P and Precirol ATO5 was studied. Methods: Various emulgel formulations using different concentration of Transcutol P and Precirol ATO5 with 0.5 to 5 % w/w were prepared. Percutaneous absorption was tested with standard Franz Diffusion Cell equipment using full thickness rat skin. Drug concentrations in the samples were analyzed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) equipped with UV-Vis detector at 305 nm. Results: The percutaneous absorption of flutamide emulgels formulated with enhancers was higher than control formulations. Enhancement ratio increased from 1.218 to 3.670 and 1.346 to3.900 for Precirol ATO5 and Transcutol P, respectively. Area under the Curve (AUC) increased by increase the enhancers’ concentration and a significant upsurge was seen in the concentration 1% for both enhancers. Conclusion: The flutamide emulgel containing 1% Transcutol P showed more appropriate percutaneous absorption through the skin compared to others.
Design and Evaluation of Novel Sustained-Release Floating Microspheres for Oral Delivery of Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride
Authors: Soraya Asa Parisa , Mirzaeei Shahla
Published: September 2021

Background: Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, used to treat various bacterial infections. Administration of conventional oral dosage forms of CIP is associated with multiple challenges such as short residence time of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract which could reduce bioavailability and effectiveness of the drug. This study aimed to design and develop novel floating microspheres for the sustained release of CIP in the stomach over 24 hours after oral administration, besides evaluating the effect of different variables on the characteristics of developed microspheres. Methods: Microspheres were developed by the solvent-evaporation method utilizing cellulose acetate and polyvinyl alcohol, then characterized for physicochemical properties including bulk density, buoyancy, and entrapment efficacy. The drug-excipient compatibility was evaluated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and the Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the morphology of microspheres. The effects of the drug to polymer ratio, polymer concentration, and the pace of stirring through the preparation process, on the size and release rate were also evaluated. Results: Morphology analysis indicated round-shape microspheres with a mean particle size between 66-344 µm. The polydispersity index of prepared formulations was determined to be in the range of 0.129 to 0.230. It was observed that at higher polymer concentrations the drug release rate from microspheres decreased while the mean particle size increased. Increasing the drug to polymer ratio and decreasing the stirring speed increased the mean particle size. All formulations showed more than 70% cumulative drug release in the prolonged period of 24 h while remaining buoyant in the meantime. The formulations followed Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics and release the drug by diffusion mechanism. Conclusions: Based on the results obtained from in vitro release study besides floating properties the prepared microspheres could be considered suitable for enhanced sustained-release of CIP following the oral administration.
A Comparison on Effects of High Dose Rosuvastatin versus High Dose Atorvastatin on Lipid Profile and CRP Level in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Randomized Study
Authors: Darban Mahboubeh , Yusefabadi Elham , MirmohammadKhani Majid , Sohrabi Bahram , Bagheri Bahador
Published: September 2021

Background: Statins are the most common drugs used for reducing low-density lipids (LDL). In addition to their lipid-lowering effects, they have well-documented anti-inflammatory actions. The goal of this study was to compare the effects of high dose atorvastatin and rosuvastatin on lipid profiles and high sensitivity C Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: The study was done between October 2017 and September 2018 in Semnan Kowsar Hospital. In this randomized trial, 69 patients with atherosclerotic coronary artery disease were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive atorvastatin (80 mg daily) or rosuvastatin (40 mg daily) for 4 months. Levels of hs-CRP and lipid profiles including cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipids (LDL), and high-density lipids (HDL) were measured and compared before and after the treatments. Lipid profiles were measured at baseline, 2 months, and 4 months of the treatment. Results: Sixty patients completed the study. The mean age was 61.1 ± 6.6 years with an excess of males. After 4 months, both drugs could significantly reduce LDL levels, however, the between-group differences were not statistically significant. Rosuvastatin significantly increased HDL levels (p < 0.05). In addition, triglyceride levels had a significant reduction in both groups, yet the differences were not significant. Both drugs caused significant reductions in hs-CRP levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, the effects of treatments were seen in drug naïve patients as well as patients who were on statins prior to the trial. Conclusion: Our study indicates that high dose therapies with atorvastatin and rosuvastatin have similar effects on lipid profiles and hs-CRP levels in patients undergoing PCI.
In vivo evaluation of wound healing properties of Platanus orientalis L.
Authors: Niknam Somayeh , Rastegari Arezoo , Bozorgi Mahboubeh , Vahedi-Mazdabadi Yasaman , Saeedi Mina , Akbarzadeh Tahmineh
Published: September 2021

Background: According to the Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) references, Platanus orientalis L. possesses wound healing properties. Herein, we developed different topical formulations based on the ethanolic extract of P. orientalis leaves and evaluated its wound healing effects through an in vivo model. Methods: Hydroalcoholic extract of the leaves was obtained from ethanol 80% and it was evaluated for DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as the presence of tannins. Different topical formulations including ointment (D-O) and polymer film (D-F), were prepared and an in vivo test was run for 14 days in an excision wound model consisting of 5 groups of 6 rats. Results: Our results indicated the higher efficacy of D-O comparing with D-F, as wound surface area remarkably reduced within 14 days post-injury. Also, histological features including epitheliogenesis score, neovascularization, and collagen density indicated the potential wound healing effect of D-O. Conclusion: Wound healing properties of the ethanolic extract of P. orientalis leaves depended on the type of formulation and D-O was found to be much more potent than D-F, from reducing wound surface area, maximum epitheliogenesis score, proper neovascularization pattern, and early type I collagenization points of view.
Microencapsulation of enriched extracts of two Satureja species by spray drying, evaluation of the controlled release mechanism and cytotoxicity
Authors: Fathi Faezeh , Nejad Ebrahimi Samad , Pereira David , Estevinho Berta , Rocha Fernando
Published: September 2021

Background: Phenolic compounds are one of the main groups of secondary metabolites responsible for multiple biological and pharmacological properties that play a vital role in improving human health quality. Encapsulation by spray dryer creates protection toward the phenolic compounds as an efficient way for increasing product performance. Method: The phenolic compounds of Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad (SKH) and S. rechingeri Jamzad (SRH) were enriched based on adsorbent resin column chromatography and the enrichment index was confirmed by HPLC-UV analysis. Gum Arabic, carboxylated chitosan, and pectin with the optimum percentage of 1% w/w used to encapsulate SKH and SRH by the spray drying technique. Result: Encapsulation yield was 38.18 – 59.00 %, particle size ranged 2.278 - 4.689 µm, and release time was between 4.08 - 82.08 min. The gum Arabic-based capsules showed the fastest and pectin-based revealed the slowest release time. The best statistical model explained a release mechanism was Korsmeyer model. Anomalous transport was observed from all formulas except SKH-gum Arabic (case-I transport), SKH-pectin, and SRH-carboxylated-chitosan (super case-II transport). The cytotoxic activity of encapsulate SKH’s revealed reducing the viability of AGS evaluated by the MTT compared with SRH’s. Conclusion: Encapsulation by spray drying has proven to be a promising technique to improve the bioavailability, release time, and mechanism of functional polyphenolic compounds as medicines, food supplements, and food additives.
How online behavior demonstrates psychological conflicts in Emile Durkheim’s collective consciousness of societies highly involved in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Farnam Alireza , Mousavi Bentolhoda , Mohammad Khanli Leyli
Published: September 2021

Background: According to Emile Durkheim’s theory, we can consider societies as having a collective consciousness. To predict the behavior of societies, it is wise to consider the most involved conflicts in their collective consciousness. Methods: We can use online behavior such as Google searches to find an approach to what goes on inside the souls of societies, because when many people search for a term, it means that there is a conflict about that term in the collective consciousness of that society. In this article, during the unprecedented situation that all countries around the globe are confronting due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we sought to track the online behavior of nine countries that were seriously involved. Results:As human conflicts are well categorized in Cloninger’s proposed planes of being, we selected search terms according to this category through conflict tables. Patterns of denial, recalling the Black Death, anxiousness, greed, competition, and tendencies of violence were also seen around the world. In most countries, the major findings/issues at the Spiritual, Intellectual, Emotional, Material and Sexual planes were those concerning "Compassion (Conciliation)", "Lack of Prudence", "Lack of Calmness and the Lack of Benevolence", and "Lack of Charity and Lack of Discretion or Forethought", respectively. Conclusion: Awakening each conflict can result in behaviors that concern both societies and government. Predicting these behaviors can help societies take necessary measures and interventions. This especially lends new insights for educational systems in setting policies.
On randomised trials of surgical timings for cleft palate repair
Authors: Young Selena , Lee Seng Teik , Machin David , Tan Say Beng , Lu Qingshu
Published: September 2021

Background: In this article we review randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing palatal surgery at different ages to examine their design features and quantify their conclusions.
Method: A literature search of RCTs comparing surgical timings for cleft palate and/or lip repair from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2013 was undertaken. This supplements an earlier systematic review of 62 RCTs in cleft lip and palate from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2013 in English using the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE® and EMBASE with key words ‘cleft lip’ or ‘cleft palate’.
Results: Four RCTs were identified, each comparing palate surgery at different lower (six, nine and 12 months) and upper (12, 18 and 36 months) ages with velopharyngeal competence (VPC) also at different ages (three, four, more than four or five years). These surgical and assessment age differences prevent a synthesis using meta-analysis techniques. Nevertheless, three RCTs indicate that VP function is more impaired with later surgery. Two ask questions about the type of surgery; one suggests that VPC is greater with Furlow palatoplasty than von Langenbeck surgery and the other that one technique appears to have better VPC at six months and the other at 12 months.
Conclusion: The role of the timing of palatal surgery with respect to VPC remains unclear. We propose an international strategy that is designed to establish the optimal age for palatal surgery in infants requiring palate and/or lip repair.
Exploding power: a statewide review of lithium battery related burns
Authors: Diab Jason , O’Hara Justine , Fisher Andrea-Issler , La Hei Erik , Gates Robert , Vandervord John , Holland Andrew JA , Maitz Peter
Published: September 2021

Introduction: With the increase of lithium battery devices, including electronic cigarettes and battery power banks, there has been a steady rise in burn injuries secondary to device malfunction. These devices may cause chemical or flame burns. Our aim was to identify and classify epidemiological trends of explosions from lithium battery devices across the state of New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
Methods: A review of the NSW Burn Injury Service (SBIS) database from January 2005–December2019, together with medical records from the burns units at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead (CHW), the Concord Repatriation General Hospital (CRGH) and the Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) was conducted. All patients who suffered a burn secondary from a lithium battery device were included and data was extracted on mechanism of injury, severity of injury and management. This study was approved by the ethics committees of CHW, RNSH and CRGH [2020/PID00179].
Results: Of the 24 patients identified, six were paediatric and 18 were adults. The majority were male (7:1) with a mean age of 29.0 (+/- 16.6 years). The mean total body surface area burnt was 2.5% (+/- 0.9) [range 0.1–21.0%]. The majority occurred after 2014 and involved spontaneous explosions. Their injuries ranged from partial to full thickness burns with flame being the most common type (n=15). Three quarters of the cases (n=18) occurred in a home setting.
Conclusions: Lithium battery device explosions can result in a mix of burn depth injuries from flame, contact and electrical, or chemical burns. Consumers need to be made more aware of the potential risks associated with use of lithium battery powered devices.
Surgeon-driven preoperative psychiatric evaluation of plastic surgery patients
Authors: Van Essen Phillipa , Keillor Natasha , Long Randall , Dean Nicola
Published: September 2021

Objectives: Dissatisfaction with body image is common in patients seeking corrective plastic surgery. However, surgery may not be suitable for every patient. Surgery can enhance quality of life in mentally healthy patients but those with psychopathology such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) tend to have poorer outcomes. For these patients, surgery is not always recommended and psychiatric care can have a useful role. This paper aimed to estimate the rates of psychopathology in a select group of elective plastic surgery candidates and discuss the role of preoperative psychoplastic referral in triaging these candidates.
Method: A retrospective cohort study of patients considering elective surgery at Flinders Medical Centre in South Australia referred by their surgeon for psychoplastic evaluation from 2010 to 2016. Medical records were reviewed to determine compliance with psychiatric referral, the number and types of psychiatric diagnosis and rates of subsequent surgery.
Results: We found 83 per cent (54/65) of surgical candidates assessed by our psychiatrist had a mental illness. Post-traumatic stress disorder (n=19, 34.5%) and major depressive disorder (n=19, 34.5%) were most common. Nine patients (13.6%) were diagnosed with BDD. A total of 57 (87.7%) patients were considered to need some kind of psychiatric care to improve potential surgery outcomes.
Conclusions: In our study, the rate of psychopathology in patients referred for psychiatric evaluation suggests that careful screening is important for clinical decision making. A combined surgical /psychiatric approach is effective in ensuring vulnerable patients are identified and managed appropriately.
Breeding and spread of the apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) new cultivars
Authors:   Institute of Horticulture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine, Boldyzheva L.D.
Published: September 2021

The main task of the apple present day breeding is creation of intensive cultivars. In order to accelerate this process at present is the knowledge which has been accumulated in the genetics of the traits of the necessary crop. It is much simpler to carry out breeding on the traits that are controlled by the major genes. If any trait is conditioned by the dominant allele of the major gene it is possible to expect half of seedlings with this trait in the offspring as a result of the crossing. Such approach enables to plan and valuate objectively a great number of seedlings at the primary stages. The principle of a new сv creation is almost similar both in Ukraine and abroad. But in other countries this process is more modern since new laboratories are at the service of a breeder which can accelerate the appearance of a new variety by some years. That′s why this cultivar is more expensive. However that does not guarantee the creation of “ideal” cultivar which would meet all the requirements of a producer and consumer and in most cases such сv becomes known and spreaded not thanks to its certain unrepeatable signs but due to publicity. The breeding on the obtaining of a new apple variety is long-term labour-consuming and complicated work including many stages – from the hybridization to entering into the State Register of the Plant Cultivars Favourable for the Spread in Ukraine. The presence of the registration and licence for the further reproduction as of сv for the wide manufacturing introduction is a very suitable factor but it does not suffice the promotion at the market. Certainly, as in case of everything new many doubts, misgivings and questions appear in this connection and in order that a demand emerge on a new variety and it become known, beside publicity, it is necessary to show all the advantages and potential as compared to the spreaded cultivars and present complete recommendations concerning the peculiarities of its growing, the substantial robe belonging to a rootstock which influences the tree vigour and fruit early ripening and quality. Therefore the testing оn some most spreaded or new rootstocks should be conducted under different planting plans including the trees pruning, ovary thinning, measuments on the soil management and fertilizing and leaf-feeding dressing into the plants management system in order to ensure the high annual crop.
Productivity and fruit quality of the introduced apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) cultivars under the conditions of Podillia
Authors:   Podillya Research Station of the Institute of Horticulture, NAAS of Ukraine, Tarnavska K.P.
Published: September 2021

The author has presented the results the yield and fruit quality of 21 introduced apple varieties of winter ripening in the conditions of Podillia. By the results of the five-year studying (2016-2020) of the studied varieties their estimation was carried out according to the complex of such qualities as early ripening, productivity, marketability, tast qualities and durability of fruits. The following introduced cultivars are difined to be the best: Graf Ezzo, Siabrina, Selena, Nadzieiny. The most early fruiting variety in the experiment was Siabrina (in the first year of growth in the orchard). At the age of two – ‘Angold’, ‘Ariwa’, ‘Beni Shogun Fuji’, ‘Graf Ezzo’, ‘Goldrush’, ‘Imant’, ‘Cameo’, ‘Nadzieiny’, ‘Rumiany Alpinist’, ‘Selena’, ‘Honeycrisp’ and control varieties Idared and Askolda began to bear fruit. At the latest (in the fourth year after planting in the garden) came into commercial fruiting plants varieties Pink Lady and Red Chief. The yield of five- nine-year old trees of the best varieties reaches 18,2-24,7 t/ha. The fastest growing yields at the age of two or six and fruiting annually trees varieties Siabrina, Selena, Angold, Ligol, Beni Shogun Fuji. The yield of the highest and first grade fruits in the best varieties Graf Ezzo, Siabrina, Selena, Nadzeiiny in 2016-2020 was 26-48 %. The lowest (19-24 %) this indicator was in the varieties Angold, Imant, Ligol, Fuji Kiku. Fruits of the best grades are more than the average sizes (Nadzieiny, Siabrina, Selena) and big (Graf Ezzo), average one-dimensionality, excellent, very harmonious sour-sweet taste (7,8-8,4 points), except for the Nadzeiiny grade (6,7 points). Apples of the best varieties were stored for 4-5 months. The fruits of control varieties Idared, Askolda and varieties Ariwa, Garant, Rubinola, Topaz, Fuji Kiku, Hillwell Braeburn were stored the longest (6-7 months).
Scientific achievements and realities of the sweet cherry (Cerasus avium L.) cultivation intensification at the current stage of the horticultural science development
Authors:   Institute of Horticulture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine, Kishchak O.A. , Kishchak Yu.P. ,   Institute of Horticulture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine
Published: September 2021

The authors present the results of the comprehensive analysis of the influence of the modern horticultural science achievements on the sweet cherry cultivation intensification. Today in the world’s horticulture practice the main direction of increasing this crop plantations productivity is its comprehensive intensification. Its main link is the type of an orchard, and components – cultivar, rootstock, planting plan and the crown formation methods. In this relation, the major elements of the modern sweet cherry industrial cultivation technologies concerning these components were developed the place of the new inland developments being determined. The analysis of the approaches to the modern intense sweet cherry plantations creation has shown that they do not always correspond to this crop biological characteristics and sometimes are usual adoptions from the similar developments for apple. At the same time the development of the basic elements of the sweet cherry rootstocks and cvs growing intensification lag behing the requirements significantly and cannot be used in apple super-dense orchards. The Institute of Horticulture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences (NAAS) of Ukraine for the first time recommended for the Lisosteppe in of Ukraine three new types of orchards on vigorous, medium-sized and semi-dwarf rootstocks with the tree density placement from 417 to 1250 trees/ha in order to ensure the efficient industrial production of sweet cherries in particular, for the export purposes. These orchards are based mainly on using inland high-productive cvs, rootstocks and crown formation methods. The density of the trees placement in such orchards has been optimized by applying the mathematical modeling and tested in long-term field experiments. That enables to utilize effectively these orchards productivity potential. Their advantage as compared to foreign ones is that these plantations construction takes into account both the rootstocks vigour and the variety biological peculiarities. That is the basis for their application in the technologies for growing valuable sweet cherry cultivars which possess the increased consumers demand. The intensification of the sweet cherry growing should be based mostly on the creation of optimally dense plantations that meet the biological peculiarities of a concrete rootstock-cultivar combination
Yield formation of the sweet cherry (Cerasus avium L.) intensive orcards depending on interstem VSL 2 length in the Ukraine’s Southern Steppe
Authors:   National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine, Kondratenko P.V. , Aleksieieva O.M. ,   Dmytro Motorny Tavria State Agrotechnological University, Senin V.V. ,   M.F. Sydorenko Melitopol Research Fruit Growing Station of IH of NAAS of Ukraine, Bondarenko P.G. ,   M.F. Sydorenko Melitopol Research Fruit Growing Station of IH of NAAS of Ukraine
Published: September 2021

The comparative evaluation of the predicted (biological) and actual yields of the sweet cherry Valerii Chkalov and Melitopolska Chorna, grafted on the interstem VSL 2 (the main rootstock is Mahaleb seedlings) was carried out in the intense orchards under the conditions of the Southern Steppe of Ukraine. The trees with the interstem VSL 2 length 30 cm appeared to be characterized by the highest spur density, displaying an increase by 19 and 11 %, as compared to tress with the interstem length 20 cm (control) and 50 cm respectively. Cv Melitopolska Chorna on the 2-4-year-old wood had the 1.3-1.6 times higher spur density than ‘Valerii Chkalov’. The analysis of the total number of spurs per tree showed that for VSL 2 length 20 and 30 cm, this index was, on the average, 1233 and 1252 pcs./tree respectively. Only when the interstem length increased to 50 cm, there was a decrease in the number of spurs per tree by 23 %. That can be explained by the reduction in vigour of the trees in this variant. The studied varieties proved to react to the change of VSL 2 length in different ways: the average yield of the ‘Valerii Chkalov’ – trees in 2014-2018 in the variants with the interstem length 20 cm (control) was equal to that with the length 30 cm – 8.9 and 9.0 t/ha respectively, but than lower with length of 50 cm – 8.6 t/ha. The trees of ‘Melitopolska Chorna’ with the interstem length 30 cm showed the highest yield – 10.1 t/ha. That surpassed the control variant by 26 %. The decrease of the yield in the variant the VSL 2 length 50 cm on the both studied strains can be explained by the lower vigour causing fewer amount of the spurs formed on a tree. In the conditions of the Southern Steppe of Ukraine the intense sweet cherry orchards during the years with the favourable weather conditions, turned out to be able to apply their productivity potential by 69-78 %.