Pharmacy Institutions Research Articles

Describing the current landscape of pass/fail grading schemes within skills-based pharmacy curricula

IntroductionOptimal methods for grading students in skills-based courses within pharmacy education have not been fully explored. This research aimed to assess the current landscape of pass/fail grading schemes within pharmacy skills-based courses and explore faculty perceptions of pass/fail grading schemes. MethodsA 29-item, cross-sectional survey was electronically distributed to the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Laboratory Special Interest Group. The survey collected demographics, course grading schemes, faculty perceptions of student performance, and impact of implementing pass/fail grading schemes. Survey respondents were also invited to participate in semi-structured interviews, which were summarized due to limited participation. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis of survey data. ResultsFifty-five participants responded to the survey, representing 23 pharmacy institutions. Most respondents (82 %) used a traditional grading system for final course grades in skills-based courses. Some respondents (40 %) used specification grading for skills assessment, and 64 % of respondents used pass/fail grading to assess specific skills. Most respondents perceived that the change to pass/fail grading either improved or made no difference in faculty workload, wellbeing, general faculty creativity, quality of feedback, timeliness of grading, grade grievances, and faculty preparation time. The main concern was decreased student motivation and engagement. Semi-structured interviews identified a need for specific, validated rubrics, importance of faculty buy-in, and lack of impact on faculty workload as a result of the change. Concerns about residency placement and student motivation were also identified. ConclusionThere is variability in grading schemes used within skills-based pharmacy curricula. Faculty perceptions of pass/fail grading schemes are positive overall. Considering the limited number of institutions utilizing this grading scheme, additional research is needed.

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

Evaluating Digital Competency among Pharmacy Students: A Study of Selected Pharmacy Institutes in India

This study investigated digital competence among pharmacy students. A survey of 1430 pharmacy students across 25 institutes in India revealed broad agreement on the importance of digital literacy, but with challenges varying on student demographics. The study’s reliability (Cronback’s alpha=0.838) ensures consistent data. Interestingly, challenges positively impact the perceived importance of digital literacy (beta=0.364), suggesting that students who engage with digital resources value it more. Finally, the model fit (RMSEA=0.061, CFI=0.950) indicates that the model accurately reflects the data. The main challenges identified were Lack of awareness and technical assistance, with a moderate positive correlation between perceived importance and faced difficulties. By encouraging digital literacy through targeted interventions and effective time management practices, pharmacy education cannot only prepare students for success in a digitalized healthcare landscape but also pave the way for a more digitally competent future generation of pharmacists.

Self-analysis in Pharmacy and Health Science practices: A case study of pharmacy institutions

Self-assessment (SA) is essential for a healthcare professional's ongoing growth and development, starting from their time as a student pharmacist and continuing throughout their professional career. The study examines the existing body of research on SA among students and practitioners and investigates the potential for enhancing this capacity in Pharmacy and Health Science. Despite the potential for improvement, learners and professionals still need help accurately assessing themselves. Until SA procedures improve, experts' evaluation of learners continues to be the primary method of testing abilities and knowledge. Although SA is crucial for lifelong learning, external evaluation is as critical for practitioners' ongoing professional growth.

Perceptions of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Among Pharmacy Faculty by Racial and Ethnic Identity

ObjectiveTo compare perceptions of underrepresented minorities (URM), non-URM people of color (POC), and nonminoritized pharmacy faculty in academia in relation to workplace diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism (DEIA) landscape in the United States. MethodsThis study utilized the DEIA Faculty Perceptions of College Climate (FPCC) scale, which was developed and validated by the authors. The FPCC scale was used to investigate perceptions of pharmacy faculty from the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy membership directory regarding DEIA within their respective academic pharmacy institutions. Demographic differences were examined using a Pearson chi-square test, while response disparities in FPCC questions were analyzed with a one-way ANOVA. ResultsA total of 846 respondents met the inclusion criteria for the study and were included in the analysis. Results indicate disparities in perceptions within all 4 DEIA domains of the FPCC survey among the 3 demographic groups. ConclusionThis study uncovers significant differences in how pharmacy faculty perceive DEIA within pharmacy education, with nonminoritized faculty expressing more positive views compared to their URM and non-URM counterparts. These results emphasize the need for focused interventions and institutional support to bridge DEIA disparities, emphasizing the importance of fostering an inclusive academic environment to enhance faculty well-being and empower the pharmacy profession to meet diverse needs more effectively.

First person – Angéline Geiser

ABSTRACT First Person is a series of interviews with the first authors of a selection of papers published in Journal of Cell Science, helping researchers promote themselves alongside their papers. Angéline Geiser is first author on ‘ A novel 3D imaging approach for quantification of GLUT4 levels across the intact myocardium’, published in JCS. Angéline is a PhD student in the lab of Prof. Gwyn W. Gould at Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK, where her research focuses on the molecular study of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases, with a newly spurred interest in super-resolution microscopy techniques.

A phase III, multicentre, randomised, investigator-masked, cross-over, comparative, non-inferiority trial evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of generic preservative-free Latanoprost (Polpharma S.A.) compared to Xalatan® (Pfizer) in patients with ocular hypertension or primary open-angle glaucoma

BackgroundPrimary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), can lead to permanent damage of the optic nerve, concomitant visual field loss, and blindness. Latanoprost, a prostaglandin F2α analogue, reduces IOP and is used to treat glaucoma. In this clinical trial, we evaluated the efficacy of Latanoprost Polpharma, a generic preservative-free latanoprost 0.05 mg/ml eye drops solution, in lowering IOP when compared to the originator Xalatan® (latanoprost 0.005% ophthalmic solution, Pfizer).MethodsThis was a Phase III, multicentre, randomized, investigator-masked, cross-over, comparative, non-inferiority trial carried out in 5 sites in Hungary and Russia. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the non-inferiority of the test product when compared to the reference product with respect to the differences in the mean diurnal IOP on Day 1 (baseline) and Day 29. The secondary endpoints included efficacy, ocular tolerance, safety, and usability. We recruited adult patients (18–75 years) with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.ResultsForty-nine patients were randomised and received at least one dose of the test or reference product. A virtually identical reduction of the mean diurnal IOP of 7.04 ± 2.14 mmHg or 7.17 ± 2.11 mmHg was found after treatment with test or reference product, respectively (N = 44). In the intention to treat analysis, the reduction was 7.29 ± 2.53 mmHg (95% CI: 6.55–8.04) or 7.43 ± 2.78 mm Hg (95%CI: 6.61–8.24) after treatment with test or reference product, respectively (N = 47). There were no serious adverse events.ConclusionsLatanoprost Polpharma was shown to be non-inferior to Xalatan®. Both investigational products were equally well tolerated and safe. The data show a trend in favour of the test product with regards to the severity of hyperaemia and to the velocity of remission of ocular discomfort. Latanoprost Polpharma, being preservative-free, also avoids the cytotoxicity of benzalkonium chloride, the side effects of which may affect patient compliance and lower the quality of life.Trial registrationThe study had the ethical and regulatory approval from the National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition (OGYEI, OGYEI/41,779- 11/2018) and the Ethics Committee for Clinical Pharmacology (KFEB) of Hungary and from the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation (MOH of Russia) prior to the beginning of the study (642/25.12.2018) (clinical trial identification number: 848,300,144/0103/1 - POP03; IND number/EudraCT number: 2018-001727-39).

The study of modern professional competences for pharmaceutical positions that determine the effective activities based on the analysis of opinions of pharmacy professionals

Aim. To study modern professional competencies – hard skills (including knowledge, abilities, skills) and soft skills (personal skills) that determine the effective activity of pharmacy professionals (PP) in certain pharmaceutical positions (pharmacy manager, pharmacist, pharmacist’s assistant) and determine the most important of them for pharmacy retail in today’s conditions. Materials and methods. To collect and process data, such scientific methods as the analysis of literary sources, the method of questionnaire survey, the method of comparison, comparison, and generalization, were used. The results of the analysis were processed using licensed software products of Microsoft Office Excel. The methods of descriptive statistics and statistical analysis, such as the Epitools service (Ausvet Ltd., Australia), a STATISTICA 13 statistical package (TIBCO Software Inc., USA) were used to process the questionnaire data. Results. As part of our study, a survey, in which 200 PP took part, was conducted. The questionnaire contained open-ended questions, in which it was necessary to specify 3-5 hard skills (professional skills) or soft skills (personal skills) that are necessary for the effective performance of the professional duties of PP in the relevant position, as well as select one of the most important ones from this list. At the same time, three positions were differentiated: pharmacist, pharmacist’s assistant, and pharmacy manager. According to the survey results, hard skills and soft skills, which, according to the majority of PP, were the most necessary for each position. were identified. Conclusions. Based on the results of the study conducted, it has been found that the actualization of professional competences and soft skills is an important step for effective work by position in pharmacy institutions in today’s conditions. It has been determined that such soft skills as sociability, responsibility, stress resistance, honesty, intelligence, purposefulness, hard work, love for the profession, experience, energy and reliability are equally important for the positions of a pharmacist, pharmacist’s assistant and pharmacy manager. At the same time, specific hard and soft skills are distinguished for each of the positions: empathy and attentiveness are more important for pharmacists and pharmacist’s assistants, while organizational skills, managerial qualities, desire for professional development and knowledge of legislation are important for pharmacy managers. Responsibility is a key quality for pharmacy managers, professionalism and knowledge – for pharmacists, and attentiveness – for pharmacist’s assistants. Differences in the perception of the importance of these hard and soft skills are also related to the age, qualification and type of pharmacy institutions where respondents work.

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

PERIPHERAL BLOOD COUNT RECOVERY TIME COURSE DURING INDUCTION TREATMENT FOR ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKEMIA IN CHILDREN

Background: In recent years, the survival rate of pediatric ALL patients has increased to almost 90%, particularly for individuals with favorable prognoses. This success is mostly attributable to the use of risk-adapted medication, enhanced supportive care, and adjustments to therapy based on each patient's unique pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenomics. This research investigates ALL patients' response to induction chemotherapy, focusing on changes in peripheral blood cell counts and hematological markers, to predict therapeutic outcomes and provide a practical prognostic parameter. Methods: This study involved 100 under 15-year-old patients with newly diagnosed ALL treated in pediatric leukemia units at Kuwait Hospital, Sana'a. Blood markers were collected and analyzed using Epi Info statistical program version 6. The study followed the French, American, and British classifications of pediatric leukemia. Participants were informed of the study's goals and advantages, and their participation was optional. Results: The majority of patients were aged 5-9 years, with a mean age of 6.9 years. Hemoglobin levels were measured before and after treatment, with the mean level being 8.8 mg/dL before and 10.8 mg/dL after treatment. Severe anemia was reported in 10% of patients before treatment and decreased to 2% after treatment. PCV levels were also measured before and after treatment, with the mean PCV level being below normal in 66% of patients before induction chemotherapy but improving to 20% after treatment. The mean RBC count before treatment was 2.9 cells × 106/μl, but improved to 3.8 cells × 106/μl after induction chemotherapy. The study found that over 50% of patients had iron deficiency anemia before and after induction chemotherapy, with a mean neutrophil percentage of 18.2%, lymphocyte percentage of 73.7%, monocyte percentage of 3.8%, and eosinophil percentage of 0.85%. Conclusions: The study reveals that blood cell parameters replenish at different rates during induction chemotherapy, resulting in rapid platelet and slow neutrophil recovery. Changes in blood markers during induction may be prognostic. Peer Review History: Received 6 April 2024; Revised 10 May 2024; Accepted 25 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: 6.5/10 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. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

Pharmacy faculty expectations of and experiences with parental leave: A cross-sectional exploratory study

IntroductionParental leave policies have the potential to adversely impact faculty well-being and retention if not designed and deployed in a beneficial manner. This exploratory study aims to determine the perceptions of and experiences with parental leave for faculty at pharmacy institutions. MethodsAn exploratory, cross-sectional survey was sent to pharmacy school deans to distribute to faculty. The survey obtained demographic information and asked questions pertaining to parental leave experiences and expectations, including workload coverage and the perceived impact on performance evaluations. Comments regarding ideal parental leave were qualitatively summarized. ResultsFifty-five respondents who had taken parental leave completed the survey, and 51 free text responses were received. A large effect size for the association between academic rank and planned timing of leave and a larger than medium effect size for the association with gender identity was identified. ConclusionThe availability, duration, and requirements of parental leave at pharmacy institutions have the potential to negatively impact faculty well-being and retention. This exploratory study provides initial insight into pharmacy faculty's experiences with and expectations of parental leave. Further research is needed to examine this issue on a broader scale and corroborate these findings.

ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS USAGE BY UNIVERSITY STUDENTS OF MEDICAL GROUP IN BASRA, IRAQ

Background: Psychological disease is strongly prevalent among college and university students worldwide with negative impacts on students’ life. Specifically, medical group students have long time of study with suffer from competitive ambience and sleep privation, that lead to out of the way from perfect learning environment. When medical students are abused psychotropic drugs that lead to defect on performance, health, life style and interpose with their concentration. Aim: to investigate the prevalence rate of depression and anxiety in university students of medical group in Basra, and estimate the rate and type of psychotropic drugs consumption by them. Method: The study data was collected from 376 students of medical group at College of Medicine, College of Dentistry and College of Pharmacy of Basra University by questionnaire forma. Results: The prevalence rate of mental disorders was low about and many factors that affected on psychiatric state of them like gender, age, Family and friends Relation, missing one of parents etc. Among medical group students that used sedatives and hypnotics about (46%) than other psychotropic drugs like serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRIs) (42.9%) tricyclic antidepressants (21.4%), and atypical antipsychotic (7.1%). Conclusions: Medical group students are more likely to consumption antipsychotic drugs by physician prescription or self-medications. Therefore, there are required more interesting and pursuits for college students especially medical college students for amelioration their college and social lives. Peer Review History: Received 6 February 2024; Revised 15 March 2024; Accepted 26 April; Available online 15 May 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye

Digital literacy within Master of Pharmacy curricula in the United Kingdom: a mixed-method study

Abstract Introduction As digital health technologies (DHTs) like electronic health records (EHRs), computerised clinical decision support (CCDS), and telehealth become integral to healthcare delivery, there is an increasing demand for digitally literate healthcare professionals, including pharmacists. The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has emphasised digital competencies in the United Kingdom’s (UK’s) Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) curriculum. The Health Education England (HEE) and the Topol review further emphasises this point, indicating the pressing need for a digitally ready healthcare workforce.[1,2] However, despite these efforts, evidence suggests that digital literacy remains underrepresented in undergraduate pharmacy training. Aim To explore the current and planned inclusion of digital literacy education in the MPharm curricula of UK pharmacy schools. Methods A two-phase study was conducted. Phase 1: we undertook a content analysis of curricula from all GPhC-accredited UK pharmacy schools (n=30) in April 2022. Curriculum materials were procured either directly from schools’ websites or via formal correspondence. The analytical approach was based on a preceding systematic scoping review and further refined through an inductive open coding methodology. Phase 2: a structured 14-item quantitative survey, informed by the HEE Digital Capabilities Framework for the Pharmacy Workforce, was emailed to academic representatives across all UK pharmacy institutions, soliciting data on digital literacy, pedagogical methodologies, and envisaged curriculum trajectories. Results Documents for the content analysis were obtained from 46.7% (14/30) of the UK pharmacy schools. Of these, 71.4% (10/14) included components of digital literacy education or training. We identified themes relating to digital literacy education including: the theoretical understanding of health informatics, applied informatics, information technology skills and the newly emerging field of DHTs including artificial intelligence, pharmacogenomics, and personalised therapies. A total of 53.3% (16/30) schools responded to the survey. Most schools who participated in the survey stated that they had integrated digital literacy into their curricula, with only one exception; alignment with the HEE framework varied. Digital literacy was typically integrated within other teaching sessions, taught through self-learning using online resources (66.7%; 12/18). EHRs and remote counselling were primary focus areas (94.4%; 17/18). Challenges in digital literacy education include expertise shortage (68.4%; 13/19), insufficient support from pharmacy organisations (68.4%; 13/19), and limited time (52.6%; 10/19). Conclusion Although the review of the MPharm curricula revealed evidence of UK pharmacy schools incorporating digital literacy, we identified gaps in training and education relating to the variability in topics across schools, misalignment with the HEE framework, and educators’ concerns about the adequacy of current digital literacy provisions. It is important to acknowledge that our study’s low response rate might introduce sample bias, including schools more proactive in teaching digital literacy, and may not be representative of the broader educational context. The observed gaps underscore the need for collaboration with professional bodies and industry experts to enhance training with the aim of ensuring that future pharmacists are prepared and competent to practice in the digital age.

Organization of storage of various groups of medicines in pharmacy organizations

In the lecture, the significance of organizing the proper storage of various groups of pharmaceutical products in pharmacy institutions is discussed. The key principles and requirements for storing pharmaceutical products are illuminated, including maintaining the necessary temperature conditions, controlling humidity, tracking expiration dates, drug identification, as well as the peculiarities of storing light-sensitive and flammable medications. Special attention is given to the strict adherence to all established standards and procedures to ensure a high level of quality and safety in storing pharmaceutical products, in accordance with legislative requirements. Additionally, the lecture explores practical recommendations and current approaches to organizing the medication storage process to optimize the functioning of pharmacy organizations and to create conditions for safe and high-quality patient service.

Academia-pharmaceutical industry linkage: An academic perspective.

The pharmaceutical sector in Pakistan has grown over a period, however, there are several barriers in the framework governing the growth of the country's pharmaceuticals. The lack of academia-industry linkage (AIL) is among the critical barriers; hence the focus of the study is to find out the reasons for the lack in the above collaboration. Understanding barriers may help their redressal. This qualitative phenomenology-based study has been conducted in the most prominent pharmacy institutes, located in Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Sargodha, and Quetta. Academic participants, with a minimum experience of 10 years and designation of assistant professor or above were recruited with a two-stage selection process, purposive sampling and snowball sampling. The data were collected using semi-structured interviews with academic experts. Thematic content analysis was employed to conclude the data. Analysis of data yielded 8 themes with 18 codes. The main reasons for neglected AIL were explained by a partial or complete lack of industrial research and development activities. Other key factors for the scarcity of AILs were the lack of positive attitude from both industry and academia, applied research in academics, and the research and development of the new molecules in the pharmaceutical industry. Support by the government and the drug regulatory authority of Pakistan in terms of regulatory and academic policies was also perceived to be absent. New horizons in research and development could be opened by providing applied research to industry, including but not limited to new molecule development. Academia-industry linkage could be boosted with government-backed funded projects and policies. Academia should focus on the industrial-demanded applied research.

The work of pharmacy institutions in the USSR in the first period of the Great Patriotic War

This article presents an analysis of the state of the pharmacy business in the USSR during the Great Patriotic War in the peri­od 1941–1942, characterized by difficulties in supplying the army and the civilian population with medicines, the loss of a huge number of pharmacy institutions and warehouses at the beginning of the war. As a result, the supply of a number of medicines for the front and rear was completely stopped. The features of the work of pharmacists in military hospitals, civilian institutions in the country and in Len­ingrad are considered separately. The wide use of medicinal plants to fill the shortage of raw materials in the manufacture of medicines is shown. The measures taken made it possible to minimize the shortcomings in the provision of medicines and dressings and made it pos­sible for the pharmacy network to withstand the war.

Features of pharmaceutical consulting by specialists of pharmacy institutions for the problem of hair loss in pharmacy visitors

Introduction. The problem of hair loss affects different segments of the population, regardless of gender or age, and may be a consequence of diseases of various etiologies. Most patients with hair loss problems go directly to pharmacies, bypassing the doc­tor's office. A pharmaceutical worker becomes a key figure in the process of advising and informing patients on the appropriate choice and use of medicines, dietary supplements and cosmetic products in case of a problem. The aim of the work was to study the information and educational needs of specialists of pharmacy institutions of the Republic of Crimea, as well as their awareness of pharmaceutical counseling for pharmacy visitors suffering from hair loss (alopecia). Materials and methods. The assessment of the competence of pharmacy employees in dealing with hair loss problems through compe­tent pharmaceutical counseling and providing information to patients was carried out using a questionnaire. The frequency of the re­spondents' choices of the response options was reflected through the compilation of distribution series for each question. Results. According to pharmaceutical workers, people aged 31 to 45 years old (45%) most often resort to help in a pharmacy. The most in demand are cosmetic products for topical use (47%), as well as dietary supplements and drugs for systemic use (38%). The analysis of the assortment of pharmacies revealed the predominance in the pharmaceutical market of cosmetics for scalp care and hair restoration (39.8%), dietary supplements (31.5%), as well as over-the-counter medicines (25.9%). The main causes of hair loss were stress conditions (18.1%), diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (14.6%), hormonal imbalance (17.7%), insufficient blood supply to hair follicles (15.4%). The majority of respondents answered in the affirmative to the question about their desire to improve their knowledge on the problem of al­opecia, as they came to the conclusion that there was a lack of knowledge to fully advise pharmacy visitors in order to solve the problem of hair loss. Conclusion. The results of the analysis indicate the need for educational courses aimed at improving the skills of specialists of pharmacy institutions in competent pharmaceutical counseling of visitors with the problem of hair loss.

ОСОБЕННОСТИ ПРЕПОДАВАНИЯ ДИСЦИПЛИНЫ ТОКСИКОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ ХИМИЯ СТУДЕНТАМ, ОБУЧАЮЩИМСЯ ПО СПЕЦИАЛЬНОСТИ 32.05.01 МЕДИКО-ПРОФИЛАКТИЧЕСКОЕ ДЕЛО

The question of organizing the learning process for students of the medical and preventive faculty at the Institute of Pharmacy is significant for the teacher. Compared to students of the Faculty of Pharmacy, they do not have sufficient knowledge in chemistry, so it is necessary to search for additional teaching methods. After the transition to training according to the Bologna system, classroom lessons were reduced and student independent work was increased. The classroom load of students is 36 hours a week, leaving almost no time for independent work. Because students are poorly prepared in chemistry, instructors typically upgrade their knowledge to proficiency levels by providing preparatory materials in toxicological chemistry. According to the curriculum in toxicological chemistry, 42 contact-hours of work are allocated (10 hours of lectures + 32 hours of seminars and practical classes). How can a teacher at the Institute of Pharmacy motivate a medical student to study a medical discipline? One of the possible ways to increase interest in this way is through research work in a medical laboratory and, as an option, involving students in joint scientific work at university departments. The training was organized on the basis of lectures, seminars (round table) and practical exercises. The lectures covered only problematic and review material intended to test theoretical knowledge about compliance with remote disciplinary measures. At the Institute of Pharmacy of Kazakh State Medical University, the round table method was used when conducting seminars. Students go into the topic in advance. When preparing for employment, use scientific and professional information from a variety of sources. In practical classes, students acquired sample preparation skills for identifying toxic substances, developed skills in isolating toxic substances, and used chemical and instrumental methods of analysis. Students mastered modern physicochemical and chromatographic methods of analysis used in the system of general and private screening of chemical substances. During the last lesson, educational and research work is carried out. Based on the results of mastering the discipline, students of the Faculty of Preventive Medicine acquired a colossal amount of knowledge, which they will later use in practical work.