Academic Editor Research Articles

THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS ON THE DEACETYLATION PROCESS OF CHITOSAN CHARACTERISTICS FROM MUD CRAB (SCYLLA SERRATA) SHELL WASTE

Aim and objective: The aim of this study was to determine the yield value, moisturization, ash, and degree of deacetylation by the variations in deacetylation temperature effect on the quality of chitosan. Methods: In the synthesis process of chitosan, the first step was demineralization, followed by deproteinization. Afterward, the deacetylation process synthesized the material with temperature variations of 80, 100, and 120ºC. Furthermore, it was characterized by moisture, ash content, and degree of deacetylation. The last step was the Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectrophotometer (FT-IR) to determine the complete chitosan synthesis. Results: The results of this study showed that the chitosan yield and water content met the requirements of the quality standards of chitosan. The values obtained were high, which was affected by the temperature. However, the ash content and degree of deacetylation did not meet the requirements of chitosan quality standards. FTIR data showed that the -OH functional group, a -NH group, and no -C=O group from the amide group were found to have characteristics of chitosan formation. Conclusion: Mud crab shell waste is a potent raw material for making chitosan. The study also reported that the production of chitosan from mud crab shell waste is affected by temperature. Peer Review History: Received 19 May 2024; Reviewed 24 July 2024; Accepted 27 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Prof. Dr. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, gorkemdulger@yandex.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Hüsniye Kayalar, Ege University, Turkey, husniyekayalar@gmail.com Prof. Ali Gamal Ahmed Al-kaf, Sana'a university, Yemen, alialkaf21@gmail.com

IN VITRO EFFICACY OF VITEX AGNUS-CASTUS EXTRACTS AGAINST TRICHOMONAS VAGINALIS: A POTENTIAL THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

Aim and objectives: Trichomonas vaginalis is the most prevalent nonviral sexually transmitted infection globally. The current treatment, 5-nitroimidazole derivatives has raised concerns as a result of drug reliance, allergies, and drug resistance, driving efforts to identify alternative therapies. The Vitex species recognized for their pharmacological attributes including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties are promising candidates for further investigation. Methods: In this study, the potential of Vitex agnus-castus extracts against T. vaginalis was explored. The water, ethanol, and 60% aqueous ethanol extracts from both leaves and fruits were examined for their effects on metronidazole (MET)-resistant (TV 50143) and sensitive strains (TV-78). Cytotoxicity was evaluated on L929 mouse fibroblast cells to determine the minimum lethal dose for each extract under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Results: Antitrichomonial activity, cytotoxic activity and Selectivity Index (SI) values revealed distinct efficacy profiles. Leaf water extract displayed a balanced selectivity profile, while leaf 60% ethanol extract showed moderate to high selectivity. The fruit 60% ethanol extract exhibited significantly elevated selectivity with SI values of 2 and 1 under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, respectively, for the MET-sensitive reference strain, and 3 and 5, respectively, for the MET-resistant reference strain. Conclusion: These findings underscore the potential of the fruit 60% ethanol extract as a promising candidate for future drug development. Further investigations into its mechanisms and optimization are warranted to enhance its efficacy against T. vaginalis. Peer Review History: Received 13 May 2024; Reviewed 15 July 2024; Accepted 21 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, amanyalboghdadly@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Prof. Ali Gamal Ahmed Al-kaf, Sana'a university, Yemen, alialkaf21@gmail.com Dr. Marwa A. A. Fayed, University of Sadat City, Egypt, maafayed@gmail.com Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my

THE ANTICOAGULATION STRATEGIES FOR MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTION OF STROKE IN NEUROLOGICAL PRACTICE

Strokes are categorized as either ischemic or hemorrhagic and the specific interventions will be based on the type of stroke. About 13% of stroke is hemorrhagic and 87% is ischemic. Transient Ischemic Attacks require emergency intervention to decrease the threat of stroke, which is thought to be maximum within the first few days after TIA. Anticoagulants play a major role in the primary and secondary prevention of ischemic strokes. The optimal timing of anticoagulants initiation or resumption inpreventing and managing ischemic strokes is very important. This article will explore certain controversies surrounding this issue, while also highlighting the benefits of antithrombotic therapy used in prevention of ischemic strokes in antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS), atrial fibrillation, prosthetic heart valve, cancer, and vascular disorders. Aggressive local and regional efforts to organize stroke care and greater use of evidence-based recommendations may help improve outcomes. Peer Review History: Received 16 May 2024; Reviewed 11 July 2024; Accepted 24 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Essam Mohamed Eissa, Beni-Suef University, Egypt, dressamceutics@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Taha A.I. El Bassossy, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Department, Desert Research Center, Cairo, Egypt, tahachemist2008@gmail.com Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

DETERMINATION OF SOME PHARMACOKINETIC PROPERTIES OF ARTEMETHER-LUMEFANTRINE GRANULES IN ALBINO RATS

Aim and Objectives: Malaria is an infectious disease that is caused by plasmodium parasites which is rampant in Sahara Africa and children under 5 years of age are highly vulnerable to this infection by malaria. So the need for the formulation of dosage form for this population using naturally occurring excipients to replace imported ones being currently used by our local manufacturing industries in-order to formulate novel, readily available, affordable and effective antimalarial medicine for children. Methods: Using the local excipients and its hybrid, the formulated artemether-lumefantrine granules for oral suspension were administered to albino rats, blood samples were collected at predetermined time 0, 1.5, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, and 24 h respectively and drug contents; artemether-lumefantrine were determined within the stipulated period. Results: Some pharmacokinetic parameters determined were; maximum concentration, Cmax, time to reach the maximum concentration, Tmax, half-life, t1/2, area under the curve, AUC, and mean residence time, MRT, which were for artemether-lumefantrine were 3.9, 3.4, μg/L; 3.2, 6.0 h; 12.5, 14 h; 75.8, 168.5 μg/L.h; 24, 24 h respectively, for the marketed artemether-lumefanthrine granules for oral suspension.4.1, 3.2 μg/L; 1.4, 3.0 h; 3.0, undefined h, 67.0, 65.7 μg/L. h; 18, 18 respectively for hybrid formulated artemether-lumefantrine granules for oral suspension and 3.1, 3.8 μg/L; 2.5, 12.5 h; 4.8, 15 h; 20.2, 281.6 μg/L .h; 18, 18 respectively for the extracted pectin formulated granules. Conclusion: Optimized formulated artemether-lumefantrine granules were superior to the marketed product in terms of pharmacokinetic values being closer to those of earlier workers. Peer Review History: Received 13 May 2024; Reviewed 16 July 2024; Accepted 22 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my

ANTILEISHMANIAL EFFICACY OF HERACLEUM PERSICUM DESF. EX. FISCH. EXTRACTS AGAINST LEISHMANIA TROPICA PROMASTIGOTES

Background: Heracleum persicum known as “suhotu” is widely distributed in Adana, Hakkari Van and used in the production of famous Van herb cheese. The antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, antiepileptic, hepatoprotective, and antifungal properties were previously investigated on H. persicum extracts. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to comparatively evaluate the in vitro antiLeishmanial potential of H. persicum extracts prepared by solvents having different polarities. Methods: The extracts of aerial parts of H. persicum were obtained by maceration, and in vitro antiLeishmanial efficacy was assayed on L. tropica promastigotes using CellTiter-Glo® Cell Viability assay. Results: The diethylether extract of H. persicum was found to be the most active extract on L. tropica promastigotes with IC50 value at 151.6 µg/ml. The n-hexane extract with 160.2 µg/ml IC50 value exhibited higher antiLeishmanial activity than methanol, ethylacetate and etanol extracts which had IC50 values at 229, 343.5, and 4708 µg/ml, respectively Conclusions: The n-hexane and the diethylether extracts of H. persicum which showed remarkable in vitro antiLeishmanial activities could constitute a valuable source for leishmanicidal compounds. Peer Review History: Received 24 May 2024; Reviewed 11 July 2024; Accepted 21 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my

COMPARATIVE CURE AND SUPPRESSION EFFICACY OF FORMULATED GRANULES WITH A MARKETED SIMILAR PRODUCT

Aim and Objectives: Malaria, a major global health challenge which makes antimalarial drugs one of the commonly prescribed class of drugs World-wide. The most vulnerable are the children and the women especially the expectant mothers. There is need to develop locally and readily available excipients from natural sources to replace imported ones currently being used by our local manufacturing industries. The purpose of the investigation was to test the formulated granules for oral suspension. Methods: Some weighed albino rats were infected with Plasmodium berghei, then the standard dose of the artemether-lumefantrine oral suspension formulated, a marketed product, and distilled water were administered ; 4/24 mg artemether-lumefantrine per kg body weight per oral to weighed albino rats. Then, other groups were administered standard dose of different formulated granules, a marketed similar product and distilled water respectively. These treated albino rats were then infected with Plasmodium berghei and blood samples were withdrawn from the tail veins, stained with Giemsa stain and the Plasmodium berghei count for the untreated and treated albino rats were determined. Results: The percentage clearance and suppression were calculated for the different formulations; pectin and its hybrid formulations, a marketed product and distilled water as a control which were 83.73, 85.2, 74.9 and 2.62, and 83.74, 85.2, 74.22, and 0% for curative and suppressive efficacies respectively. Conclusions: The investigations revealed that the most effective was the hybrid-formulated granules were closely followed by pectin-formulated granules and the least was the marketed product. Peer Review History: Received 17 May 2024; Reviewed 12 July 2024; Accepted 20 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id Dr. Ahmad Abdelsattar El-Ebiary, Tanta University Hospitals, Tanta, Egypt, a.ebiary@med.tanta.edu.eg

THE IMPACT OF COLLABORATIVE CARE ON COST OF TREATMENT FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF HYPERTENSION- A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Introduction: For evaluation of the long term costs and benefits of physician-pharmacist collaboration associated with physician management for the treatment of essential hypertension. Around the world the major cause of death is hypertension. It is an incurable condition that requires proper therapeutic regimens for its life-long management. Due to this, hypertension therapy can be financially burdensome to the patient, and the rates of non-compliance are increased. Aims and Objectives: To observe the results of collaborative, clinical, and interventive approaches to hypertension management, on the cost-effectiveness of therapy, this study aimed to collect and compare cost information on hypertension management, mortality, and morbidity across different countries and cost groups. Using this information, future healthcare expenses can be better planned; for example, by initial emergency response or by changing the way money is distributed. This will lead to more high-pressure jobs. Therefore, it will be more costly to control blood pressure. Method: A systematic review was conducted using 6 major electronic databases that investigated the influence of collaborative care upon healthcare expenses in hypertensive patients and hypertension therapy costs, before and after the intervention of medical personnel, was observed. Conclusions: It was concluded that interventions provided by the collaboration of medical personnel, in the management of hypertension, made the therapy more cost-effective and hence the rate of patient compliance and adherence to the therapy were increased. Peer Review History: Received 18 May 2024; Reviewed 11 July 2024; Accepted 26 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, tamer_hassan@pharm.suez.edu.eg Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Ogbonna B. Onyebuchi, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, summitpharm@yahoo.com Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

EFFECT OF INTERMAXILLARY FIXATION ON BIOCHEMICAL AND BLOOD MARKERS IN A SAMPLE OF YEMENI ADULTS

Background: Intermaxillary fixation is a technique that is used in the treatment of jaw fractures, orthognathic surgery, temporomandibular joint disorders, and occasionally morbid obesity. However, it disrupts normal nutrition, leading to weakened immunity, impaired healing, and higher complication risks, negatively impacting treatment outcomes and patient recovery. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the physiological changes in a sample of Yemeni patients following four weeks of IMF treatment. Materials and Methods: A study involving ten Yemeni adults underwent intermaxillary fixation for mandibular fractures. Parameters like body weight, lipid profile, liver function tests, kidney function tests, electrolytes, and hemoglobin levels were analyzed before and after treatment at a central blood bank. Results: The majority of patients were male (80.0%) and aged between 25 and 35 years, and the majority had a unilateral mandibular body fracture (50%). Clinical results after 4 weeks of intermaxillary fixation demonstrated significant reductions in body weight (4.2 kg) and BMI (1.0 kg/m2). post-IMF application, lipid profile analysis showed non-significant changes in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein levels, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides (p>0.05), liver function tests exhibited significant decreases in AST (7.7 µ/l, p=0.044), kidney function tests and electrolyte analysis revealed non-significant changes, and there were significant reductions in T.WBC (2.48 x 10⁹/L) and neutrophils (19.5%) after IMF (p=0.007). Conclusions: Intermaxillary fixation in Yemeni adults leads to weight loss and changes in liver and blood parameters, indicating its systemic effects. These findings highlight the importance of nutritional support and close monitoring during IMF treatment to mitigate malnutrition risks and optimize healing outcomes. Peer Review History: Received 21 May 2024; Reviewed 15 July 2024; Accepted 25 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Marwa A. A. Fayed, University of Sadat City, Egypt, maafayed@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Abdulwahab Ismail Al-kholani, Dean of Faculty of Dentistry at 21 September University, Yemen. prof_khholani@yahoo.com Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

TREATMENT OUTCOMES IN PCOS (POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME)-RELATED INFERTILITY

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the underdiagnosed endocrine disorders found to be prevalent among females in the reproductive age group. PCOS effects on an average 8-13% of reproductive aged women, globally. This condition is responsible for causing distress physiologically and psychologically paving the way for a poor quality of life. One of the devastating complications of PCOS is infertility. At present, there is no treatment for PCOS but could be managed by alternate options such as lifestyle modification to in-vitro fertilization. The primary objective of this review article is to analyze the outcomes of certain pharmacological treatment options such as clomiphene citrate which is a selective estrogen receptor modulator, Letrozole an aromatase inhibitor, and gonadotropins for PCOS-related infertility. Clomiphene citrate binds to estrogen receptors indirectly increasing the gonadotropins. Studies confirm a 35-40% successful outcome. Letrozole similarly increases gonadotropins by indirectly decreasing estrogen. A notable increase in the successful outcome was observed with both clomiphene citrate and letrozole, with almost near similar results. The pregnancy outcome was approximately 40% with clomiphene citrate, while letrozole showed 50%. Notably, more side effects were observed in the administration of clomiphene citrate compared to letrozole. Human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHr), that are gonadotropins, were used as they are directly responsible for the maturation of follicles and ovulation itself. The use of gonadotropins increased the pregnancy rate outcome to 20 -30 %, albeit with the risk of multiple births. Furthermore, we have discussed why letrozole and clomiphene citrate are used as the primary therapy compared to gonadotropins. Peer Review History: Received 22 May 2024; Reviewed 14 July 2024; Accepted 23 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Rola Jadallah, Arab American University, Palestine, rola@aauj.edu Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com Dr. Ogbonna B. Onyebuchi, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, summitpharm@yahoo.com

PREVALENCE OF PAROTID TUMORS AMONG YEMENI PATIENTS IN SANA'A CITY, YEMEN

Background and aims: Parotid gland tumors (PGT) are a moderately scarce group of tumors with a broad range of histopathological manifestations and clinical characteristics. To date, most epidemiological studies on salivary gland tumors including PGT are limited in Yemen and this is one of the first studies, so the aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of different tumors affecting the parotid glands and the effect of age and sex on their distribution. Methods: Epidemiological information as well as demographic data, anatomical site, and histological analysis of PGT were analyzed. The data analyzed included age, sex, site, and histological diagnosis. Data were collected from all histopathological centers covering the majority of Sana'a city between 2019 and 2023. Results: A total of 284 cases- 69% benign and 31% malignant tumors were examined. Both benign and malignant tumors showed a little male inclination (52.5%) and a peak occurrence between the third and fifth decade. Malignant tumors make up 31% of patients, while benign tumors make up 69%. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (36.4%) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (11.4%) are two common malignant tumor types. Benign parotid tumors include pleomorphic adenoma (71.4%) and Warthin tumors (11.2%) of benigns. Other malignants and benigns are less frequent. Conclusions: This study presents the first prospective study to date to analyze PGT data from health centers spread across Sana'a city. These results should serve the same as the basis for prospect studies assessing the epidemiological geography of these tumors in Sana'a in particular and Yemen in general. Peer Review History: Received 18 May 2024; Reviewed 12 July 2024; Accepted 23 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Nuray Arı, Ankara University, Turkiye, ari@ankara.edu.tr Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Asmaa Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Khalifa, Pharos University, Alexandria, Egypt, asmaa.khalifa@pua.edu.eg Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

ASSESSMENT OF THE ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE OF CANALIS SINUOSUS IN THE ANTERIOR MAXILLA TO AVOID SURGICAL COMPLICATIONS

Aims: The study's objective was to evaluate the canalis sinuosus (CS) anatomical structure in the front maxilla in order to prevent surgical problems in an adult Yemeni population sample acquired using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out to assess 226 participants' CBCT pictures. 452 sides in total were assessed. There were 140 females (61.9%) and 86 males (38.1%) among the samples. The age distribution was 18–34 years (65%) and over 35 years (35%), with a mean age of 32.13. Version 25 of the Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for all statistical analyses. Result: It was discovered that 160 right (35.4%) and 175 left (38.7%) of the 226 patients and 452 sides had CS. Among these individuals, 117 (51.8%) had unilateral CS and 109 (48.2%) had bilateral CS. The CS was 8.12 mm from the nasal cavity floor (D1), 6.99 mm from the buccal cortical bone ridge (D2), and 13.47 mm from the crest of the alveolar ridge (D3), as the mean distances were measured. Males and females had somewhat higher mean values for the linear measurements D1 and D3, but females had slightly higher mean values for the linear measurement D2. The CS had a mean diameter of 1.11 mm. Left central incisor area was the most commonly observed location of CS, and palataly was the most frequently recorded location of CS. Conclusion: Since the CS is present in 100% of adult Yemenis, it is imperative that general practitioners and maxillofacial surgeons become more knowledgeable about the position and structure of the CS. Peer Review History: Received 19 May 2024; Reviewed 12 July 2024; Accepted 23 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Iman Muhammad Higazy, National Research Center, Egypt, imane.higazy@hotmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, gorkemdulger@yandex.com Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

HEPATITIS C VIRUS AND LEUKEMIA PATIENTS: PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH INFECTION AMONG LEUKEMIA PATIENTS WHO ACHIEVE LONG-TERM REMISSION AFTER CHEMOTHERAPY

Aim and objective: Leukemia patients are at elevated risk of hepatitis C virus infections, with anti-HCV prevalence ranging from 4.3% to 70% post-chemotherapy remission. Long-term leukemia survivors' natural histories are unclear. We measured anti-HCV antibodies to investigate the frequency of HCV infections and the associated odds factors of contracting HCV among leukemia patients who achieved long-term remissions after chemotherapy. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study, comprising leukemia patients at the oncology center at Kuwait Hospital in Sana'a, Yemen. It included people with leukemia of different ages and genders. Data was collected through a standard questionnaire prepared for this study, which includes clinical symptoms, risk factors, demographic data, and the results of diagnostic tests. Antibody tests for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) were done by ELISA. Results: The majority of patients with HCV are male, with a mean age of 12.8 years. The prevalence is 5.5%, with males having a higher prevalence. Most patients receive blood transfusions more than twice, with major blood banks, Al-Kuwait hospitals, and private hospitals being the primary sources. AML and ALL are the two most common leukemias. Male patients have a higher risk, and those over 15 years old have a higher risk. Conclusions: This study is the first in Yemen to investigate the prevalence of HCV infections in patients with leukemia. According to our research, leukemia patients had a greater prevalence of HCV than the general population's national prevalence. However, health care workers (HCWs) and patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients have prevalence's of HCV that are comparable. Peer Review History: Received 14 May 2024; Reviewed 13 July 2024; Accepted 22 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. DANIYAN Oluwatoyin Michael, Obafemi Awolowo University, ILE-IFE, Nigeria, toyinpharm@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, tamer_hassan@pharm.suez.edu.eg Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES ON RHEUMATIC HEART DISEASE AMONG CARDIAC PATIENTS IN AMRAN CITY, YEMEN

Background: All three layers of the heart—the pericardium, myocardium, and endocardium (including the valves)—may sustain irreversible damage as a result of rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Rheumatic heart disease is the result of valvular damage caused by an abnormal immune response to group a streptococcal infection, usually during childhood. The study aims to achieve the assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) on rheumatic heart disease among cardiac patients in Amran city, Yemen. Method: The descriptive analytical method was used. The questionnaire was used as a tool for collecting data the research sample was (121) of those accompanying rheumatic heart patients in clinics and medical centers in the city of Amran, and they were selected in a simple random method. The data was analyzed and processed statistically using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences program (SPSS) and many statistical methods, and after conducting the data analysis process and testing the study hypotheses. Result: The study found that heart patients in Amran have knowledge about rheumatic heart disease causes and symptoms, but lack knowledge about risk factors and disease history. Most suffer from arthritis and do not practice regular exercise. There were no significant differences in opinions about rheumatic heart disease and risk factors among heart patients due to variables like gender, age, education, and living conditions. Rural residents showed statistically significant differences. Conclusions: The study reveals that patients with rheumatic heart disease have the highest knowledge about the causes and symptoms, but also the risk factors associated with the disease. The knowledge of the disease's history is the most common, followed by rheumatic fever. Arthritis is the most common risk factor. The study found no significant differences in opinions among heart patients in Amran, but significant differences were observed in rural residents' opinions due to factors like gender, age, and living conditions. Peer Review History: Received 13 May 2024; Reviewed 14 July 2024; Accepted 22 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Sally A. El-Zahaby, Pharos University in Alexandria, Egypt, sally.elzahaby@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dina Abd Elfattah Eldakhs, Pharos university (PUA), Egypt, dina_eldakhs@yahoo.com Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye

THE IMPACT OF DRUG COST ON MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN NIGERIA: A PERCEPTION AMONG PHARMACISTS

Background: Given Nigeria's huge economic instability, medication expenses may significantly impact medication adherence, creating a barrier to the treatment of various ailments. The study aimed to assess pharmacists' perceptions about the impact of drug costs on medication adherence in Nigeria. Methods: The study was cross-sectional among practicing pharmacists across Nigeria. The 25 items semi-structured questionnaire was administered online using simple random sampling with the snowballing technique to recruit the pharmacists for the study. The collected data was coded into Microsoft Excel 2016 and subsequently analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Descriptive statistics were utilized to summarize the data, providing an overview of the demographic characteristics and key findings. Inferential statistics, specifically Pearson’s Chi-square test, were employed where applicable to determine the relationships between variables. Results: Total 161 pharmacists responded to the survey, giving an 80.5% response rate. The respondent rate was mainly young pharmacists (20–30 years old; 82.6%) and predominantly male (51.6%). Almost all the respondents possess only a bachelor of pharmacy degree (91.9%). Total 90% have practiced for 5 years or less, mostly in community settings (60.9%). Generic substitution has been cited as the most important technique to manage drug costs. Non-adherence due to cost was associated with practice settings, whereas adherence counseling was correlated with gender and setting of practice. All differences were not statistically significant at p<0.05. Conclusions: Most participants believe that the cost of medication is a major barrier to accessing quality healthcare and drives massive non-adherence among those who can barely afford the medicines. Implementing a comprehensive national strategy to enhance the healthcare system, expand the reach of the national health insurance program, and promote cooperation among healthcare practitioners will result in improved clinical outcomes for patients. Peer Review History: Received 22 May 2024; Revised 11 July 2024; Accepted 26 August; Available online 15 September 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

Reflecting on How Previous Academic Editors in Chief of JVIB Began Their Tenures as I Begin Mine

Reflecting on How Previous Academic Editors in Chief of <i>JVIB</i> Began Their Tenures as I Begin Mine

Recommendations on the translation of academic texts in the social sciences and the humanities

These recommendations are addressed not only to translators, but to all users of translation, including authors and readers of academic texts, journal editors and publishers, as well as reviewers. They call attention to the translated nature of many works that are often viewed as originals, and through which English as the academic lingua franca is constantly produced and reproduced in a multilingual space. Rather than approaching translation as a hindrance, they seek to highlight its transformative potential and to call for more constructive approaches to the translation of academic texts. Academic translation, these recommendations maintain, relates to the particularities of the language of the social sciences and the humanities, as distinct from that of scientific and technical texts. Relying on a theory of translation as a procedure that involves specialized techniques for the rewriting of texts, they address the relationship between writing and translating, the collaboration between academic authors and translators, and relevant issues relating to the politics of translation in a highly unequal academic field.

EVALUATION OF THE RELATIVE POSITION OF THE MANDIBULAR FORAMEN IN YEMENI CHILDREN AS A REFERENCE FOR INFERIOR ALVEOLAR NERVE BLOCK USING AN ORTHOPANTAMOGRAPH

Aim and objectives: A crucial component of managing a kid dentistry patient's behavior is pain control. For mandibular teeth, the most used local anesthetic method is inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). So, an effective IANB anesthetic requires knowledge of the mandibular foramen's location. Using digital panoramic radiography pictures, the mandibular foramen's position in relation to the occlusal plane and the deepest point of the anterior border of the ramus was assessed in a sample of Yemeni children aged 4 to 12. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study consisted of 501 orthodontic charts that were analyzed and divided into three groups: Group 1: 4-6 years, Group 2: 7-9 years and Group 3: 10-12 years. The OPGS were traced directly on radiographic films and measurements were taken from the mandibular foramen to the occlusal level and to the deepest point of the anterior border of the ramus, respectively, on the right and left sides of the mandible. Data were analyzed and the mean and SD were determined and compared for different gender, age groups and side (right/left). Results: Male participants showed slightly higher mean distance values for MF-AB-Right compared to females (16.276±2.03 mm VS 15.952±1.82), but the contrast was not statistically significant. The study found significant differences in the mean MF distances of ABR between the 10-12 year age group and the 4-6 year age group (16.518±1.86 mm VS 15.487±1.95 mm), (p=0.0001). The mean OP-MF distances for the 10-12 year age group were also significant, with significant differences observed in the right side and left side. Conclusion: The results were similar for the total children, regardless of gender. The study suggests that the mandibular foramina position may vary among different age groups. For inferior alveolar nerve block, the needle should be inserted slightly below the OP in 4-6 years old girls and at the same level of OP in 7-9 years old girls, and 4-6 years old boys. Peer Review History: Received 23 March 2024; Revised 6 May 2024; Accepted 29 June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Dr. Masoumeh Divar, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran, zhaledivar@gmail.com

THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION WITH ABO AND RHD BLOOD GROUPS

Background: ABO and Rh blood types are associated with a higher risk of disease and are essential for clinical practice and blood transfusion safety. The findings of earlier research on the relationship between blood types and HBV infection are still up for debate. There is no study conducted on the study population to reveal the relationship between ABO and RhD blood groups and infection with hepatitis B virus. Aims: This study aimed to identify the relationship between blood types and hepatitis B virus infection in blood donors at Jiblah University Hospital in Jiblah town, Yemen Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Venous blood samples were drawn from 120 blood donors and tested for hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) using commercial kits (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, United Kingdom). ABO and Rh blood groups were determined by the cell pooling method. The results were analyzed using SPSS v.20. Results: This study reported that the most frequent blood types were O positive and A positive 57 (47.5%) and 28 (23.3%) respectively, followed by B positive 14 (11.67%) and O negative 13 (10.83%). The overall phenotypic frequencies of ABO and RhD blood groups were O+&gt;A+&gt;B+&gt;O-&gt;A-&gt;AB+&gt;B-&gt;AB-. The prevalence of hepatitis B virus was 12 (10%). No statistical association was detected between ABO and RhD blood groups and hepatitis B infection. Conclusions: High prevalence rates of hepatitis B virus infection among blood donors were identified in this study. There was no statistical association between ABO and RhD blood groups and hepatitis B infection. Peer Review History: Received 25 March 2024; Revised 3 May 2024; Accepted 22 June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Prof. Cyprian Ogbonna ONYEJI, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, conyeji@oauife.edu.ng Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Leyla Açık, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey, leylaacik@gmail.com Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye

COMPARATIVE ANTI-TRICHOMONAS VAGINALIS ACTIVITY EVALUATION OF SAMBUCUS NIGRA L. FLOWERS AND FRUITS EXTRACTS

Background: Sambucus nigra or also known as Black elderberry or European elderberry is been used for the teatment and prevention of various diseases. The plant posseses health beneficial effects such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiulcerogenic, antidepressant, antidiabetic, antiviral and antiinflammatory. However, there is limited report on the antitrichomoniasis activity of S. nigra. Objectives: The study aimed to comparatively analyze the in vitro trichomonicidal effects of various extracts prepared from both fruits and flowers of S. nigra. Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and minimum parasiticide (MPC) values of the extracts against metronidazole-resistant Trichomonas vaginalis 50143 strain were determined by the liquid microdilution method using 96-well microplates. Results: After 48 hrs incubation with parasites, the highest activities were observed for 70% hydroethanolic extract, chloroform extract and methanol extract of fruits with IC50 values of 513, 531 and 566 µg/ml, respectively. Fruit extracts exhibited higher activity than flower extracts, and no activity was observed in methanol extract of flowers. Conclusion: This study is the first comparative analysis of the anti-Trichomonas vaginalis activity of elderberry extracts. This study will serve as a reference source in isolating the components of elderberry fruits with antiparasitic activity. Peer Review History: Received 23 March 2024; Revised 6 May 2024; Accepted 27Metronidazole June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, amanyalboghdadly@gmail.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

PHARMA'S NITROSAMINE CHALLENGE: A REVIEW OF A CALL FOR VIGILANCE

Nitrosamines are potential carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) that can form in medications under specific conditions. The British Pharmacopoeia (BP) and the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) both set strict guidelines to minimize their presence. Nitrosamines form when nitrites and amines react in acidic environments, potentially occurring in the stomach or during drug production. They are classified as probable human carcinogens, meaning long-term exposure at high levels may increase cancer risk. Fortunately, nitrosamine levels in most medications are very low and unlikely to pose significant health risks. Both BP and USP have implemented a new general chapter: Nitrosamine Impurities (BP: 5.20 and USP: &lt;1469&gt;).These chapters outline acceptable intake limits for six specific nitrosamines and a four-step risk assessment and control strategy. They also detail testing procedures and analytical methods for detecting and measuring nitrosamines in medications. There are similarities between BP and USP as both set comparable acceptable intake limits for the same six nitrosamines. Also, both employ a similar four-step risk management approach. Moreover, both provide information on testing procedures and analytical methods. Nevertheless, there are few differences between both references. There may be slight variations in the specifics of analytical procedures (e.g., detection limits, chromatographic conditions).Regulatory agencies are actively monitoring and controlling nitrosamine levels in medications, ensuring patient safety. Both BP and USP play crucial roles in setting stringent standards and ensuring their consistent implementation across the pharmaceutical industry. Peer Review History: Received 28 March 2024; Revised 2 May 2024; Accepted 25 June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Nuray Arı, Ankara University, Turkiye, ari@ankara.edu.tr Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Maya Shaaban Eissa Hussein, Egyptian Russian University, Egypt, maya-shaaban@hotmail.com Dr. Michael Otakhor Erhunmwunse, St. Philomena Catholic Hospital, Nigeria,dedoctor4life@yahoo.com