Pharmacy Institutions Research Articles

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.

A call to uncover the availability, structure, and effects of parental leave policies at academic pharmacy institutions

Parental leave is often an initial barrier to achieving family-career integration, and thus discussing this issue within the broader academic pharmacy community may have important implications for policy development and change. This commentary aims to reveal the implications of inadequate parental leave policies on faculty while highlighting the benefits well-developed policies can have for both parents and their children. Additionally, we put forth a call to action for additional research into the availability and structure of parental leave policies at pharmacy institutions and the effects such policies have on faculty wellbeing, retention, and job satisfaction.

DETECTION OF BIOFILM PRODUCTION FOR ORAL BACTERIAL ISOLATES AND IT’S IMPACT ON DENTAL CARIES OCCURANCE

Background and aims: Microorganisms are known to be involved in the formation of biofilms. These biofilms are often seen in the oral cavity, tooth surfaces, prosthesis surfaces, attached oral mucosa, dental implants, etc. These are capable of causing dental caries or gingivitis, and most of them are also known to possess a higher ability to cause dental caries than non-biofilm-producing bacteria. This study was conducted to detect the biofilm formation in bacterial isolates from the oral cavity of patients attaining dental clinics in the Faculty of Dentistry, Sana’a University. In addition, the study examined the association between DMFT, decay, missing teeth due to caries, and filled teeth in the permanent teeth and the degree of bacteria ability to produce biofilm. Materials and Methods: Biofilm production was performed on 294 oral bacteria isolates from 100 patients who visited dental clinics run by Sana'a University's Faculty of Dentistry and private dental clinics. Biofilm-forming oral bacteria were detected by the tissue culture plate (TCA) method. The impact of biofilm production was correlated with the DMFT index of the tested patients. Results: Out of 294 isolates, biofilm formation was seen in 285 isolates (96.9%) by the TCP method. 21.4% of the iosolates showed a weak ability to produce biofilms, 72.4% showed moderate positivity, and only 3.1% showed strong positivity for biofilm production. Most S. aureus strains showed moderate and strong biofilm production (93.8% and 4.2%, respectively); S. mutans had 86.6% of strains with moderate biofilm production and 1.2% with strong biofilm production, while other streptococci had less biofilm production capacity. The DMFT index for the Yemeni patients included in the study was 5.9±2.4; there was a higher mean±SD (6.2±1.9) of DMFT for weak biofilm-producing bacteria with a difference equal to 3.5, 95% CI=1.4-4.2 (p=0.0001); for moderate biofilm-producing bacteria (6.9±2.5, difference=3.5, 95% CI=1.8-5.2, p=0.0001); and for strong-producing biofilms (mean±SD=6.2±2.9, p=0.03). Conclusion: In conclusion, a higher DMFT was observed in biofilm producers than in non-biofilm producers. The prime biofilm producers were S. aureus, S. mutans, and E. coli. Peer Review History: Received 6 December 2023; Revised 30 January 2024; Accepted 26 February; Available online 15 March 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. Mohsen Ali Al-Hamzi, Thamar University, Factuality of Dentistry, Yemen. mohsenalhamzi@gmail.com

Opportunities for Interdisciplinary Research on School Catering

AbstractIn Hungary, about half of the 3–18 age group has regularly used school food service. This paper focuses on the operation and social embeddedness of school canteens and the at-home eating habits of the families involved. My conclusions are based on the findings of my interdisciplinary research group. Ethnographers from the RCH Institute of Ethnology and dietitians from the National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition have been studying school food from 2018 to 2023. We selected a few model settlements: in addition to the capital, Budapest, three smaller towns, and two villages. Through questionnaires, interviews, and fieldwork observations, we investigated cooking, serving, meal courses, meal time, eating habits, preferences, as well as the nutritional knowledge of students, teachers, kitchen staff, and parents. Our goal, among other things, is to collect best practices and facilitate communication between participants. Some examples from our research highlight the special role of the centrally regulated school food in local food culture, and difficulties with social and historical roots can occasionally hamper school lunches in becoming a socially accepted model of a healthy diet. The school canteen works best at sites where cooking takes place within the school premises. There is a strong connection between the kitchen staff and the teachers, and they work together in the interest of the children. The value of food and its appreciation is demonstrated by how it is treated and how it is talked about. Communication about food in the canteen should be based on food preparation at home, where parents and children work together. The operation of canteens has become particularly problematic following the measures introduced during the coronavirus pandemic. A sustainable, enjoyable canteen can only be realized through the regular communication of schools and school kitchens, as well as children and their parents. Our findings are presented to our respondents, along with providing them with a comparison of different examples.

COMPARATIVE CHROMATOGRAPHIC AND SPECTRAL STUDY OF THE ALKALOID COMPOSITION OF THE BIOMASS OF TISSUE CULTURE AND THE HERB OF GLAUCIUM FLAVUM

Introduction. The culture of plant cells and tissues is an effective technology for obtaining various secondary metabolites, including for use in the pharmaceutical industry. Compounds synthesized in callus and suspension cultures may be identical to plant ones, and the yield of secondary metabolites, in some cases, exceeds plant sources. In this regard, yellow hornpoppy (Glaucium flavum Crantz.) is of great interest, containing glaucin, which has a unique antitussive effect and is a source of a number of medications. The purpose of this study is a comparative phytochemical study of the alkaloid composition of the tissue culture and the herb of Glaucium flavum. Material and methods. Callus tissue cultures of yellow hornpoppy yellow hornpoppy (Glaucium flavum Crantz.) were obtained in the laboratory of the Institute of Pharmacy of Kazan State Medical University. The herb of the Glaucium flavum cultivated on the territory of the Botanical Garden of Samara University was collected during the flowering period of plants in 2021. A comparative study of the alkaloid composition of the callus culture and the herb of Glaucium flavum was carried out by methods of luminescent microscopy on an Altami LUM-2 microscope (Russia), thin-layer chromatography (TLC) on Sorbfil-PTSH-AF-A-UV plates, as well as spectrophotometry. A mixture of solvents n-butanol-acetic acid-water 4:1:2 was used as a solvent system. The detection of separated substances was carried out by scanning chromatographic plates in UV light at a wavelength of 366 and 254 nm, followed by the manifestation of Dragendorf reagent. The identification of the isolated glaucin hydrochloride was carried out on the basis of UV, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR spectroscopy data. 1H NMR spectra were obtained on the "JNM-ECX 400" device (399.78MHz), 13C NMR spectra were obtained on the "JNM–ECX 400" device (100.52 MHz). The spectra were recorded using a Specord 40 spectrophotometer (Analytik Jena AG, Germany) in the wavelength range of 190-500 nm. Results. During the luminescent analysis of the tissue culture of the Glaucium flavum Crantz., as well as intact plants, the type of luminescence characteristic of isoquinoline alkaloids was noted. Using TLC analysis, isoquinoline alkaloids, including glaucin, were found in samples of callus cultures and the aerial parts of Glaucium flavum, however, a lower glaucin content was noted in the sample of the callus culture compared to that of the intact plant. The spectrophometric analysis of the studied samples showed that the nature of the absorption curve in intact plants and crops of the so-called Glaucium flavum has both common and distinctive features. The UV spectrum of water-alcohol extraction from a sample of Glaucium flavum tissue culture has a similar spectrophotometric profile, however, it contains only one absorption maximum (288 nm), coinciding with that of the UV spectrum of water-alcohol extraction from the herb of this plant. Conclusions. Therefore, the final conclusion regarding the content of glaucin in the studied samples can be made only during the preparative isolation of substances from the biomass of Glaucium flavum using column chromatography

ПРАКТИЧЕСКИЙ ОПЫТ ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ ИНТЕРАКТИВНЫХ ЗАНЯТИЙ В МАГИСТРАТУРЕ «ПРОМЫШЛЕННАЯ ФАРМАЦИЯ»

Education of Master's degree students at the Institute of Pharmacy is carried out under the educational program "Industrial Pharmacy". Training is oriented to practical activity and forms professional competencies. The purpose of training in the Master's program is to learn to control the requirements for the production of medicines in pharmaceutical production, to implement the rules of the pharmaceutical quality system of production and quality control of medicines, to improve the pharmaceutical quality system of production of medicines. The set goals in training are achievable with the introduction of interactive methods in the classroom. Master's degree teacher is obliged not only to be competent in the issues of the discipline he teaches, but also must improve the learning process according to the modern requirement of the time. Interactive learning is characterized by joint activity of students and teacher. One of the interactive teaching methods is a round table. At the round table class the student consolidates the previously acquired knowledge, expands it by supplementing the missing information, learns to solve problems in the course of discussion. For this purpose, the teacher creates comfortable conditions when all students are involved in the learning process, they understand the material of the topic, know it and think about solving the problem posed by the teacher in the class. The study analyzed the experience of conducting an interactive lesson in the form of a round table in the discipline of pharmaceutical chemistry and drug analysis. The authors conducted a questionnaire survey of master's degree students. According to the results of the survey it was found out that the use of interactive methods in the educational process increased the effectiveness of learning for the majority of students. Almost all master's students participated in the discussion at the class, even those who previously behaved passively in learning. The majority of students noted that their uncertainty in front of the audience disappeared, communication with the teacher and other students during the round table facilitated rapid and productive assimilation of the material. The results of the study can be used in the professional activities of university teachers.

Pharmaceutical examination of prescriptions from pharmacy chains of the Republic of Crimea from 2020 to 2021

Introduction. Along with the correct diagnosis of the disease, the stage of choosing the means of pharmacological correction is important, 
 as well as the correct registration of the application to the pharmacy and ensuring the patient’s access to the necessary medication. 
 The purpose of the study is the pharmacological examination of prescription forms received by pharmacy institutions of the Republic of Crimea for the period 2020–2021.
 Materials and methods. The object of the study was a random sample of three hundred thirty two scanned copies of prescription forms 
 No. 148-1/u-04 (L), No. 107-1/u. Additionally, we conducted a survey of pharmacy staff (n = 46). The questionnaire included questions on the analyzed error groups, and also assumed a subjective assessment of the impact of the fact of incorrect prescriptions on the work process. 
 Over the course of the study, methods of analysis, descriptive statistics, comparison, and survey were used.
 Results. The main violations identified in the analyzed prescription forms were incorrect indications of the dosage forms (DF) of the prescribed drugs, as well as inaccuracies in their single and/or daily dosages. In 74 of the received recipes, errors were made when specifying the DF. The study of the frequency of prescribing medication of the certain pharmacological groups allowed determining the largest number of prescriptions to be written for drugs of the anxiolytic group, nootropic drugs, antidepressants. The result of a survey of employees of pharmacy chains revealed to be faced with incorrectly issued prescription forms on a daily basis.
 Limitations. During the pharmaceutical examination of copies of prescription forms received from pharmacy chains of the Republic of Crimea, 322 prescription forms were analyzed, which is a sufficient reference sample.
 Conclusion. When studying individual prescription forms, a sufficient number of various errors were revealed, which may entail a decrease in the quality of medical care for patients on the one hand, and on the other hand, suggests the occurrence of certain difficulties in the work of pharmaceutical workers.

A cross-sectional survey of viral hepatitis education within pharmacy curricula in the United States.

The Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan emphasizes the importance of a collaborative provider workforce trained in hepatitis prevention and treatment to eliminate viral hepatitis in the United States by 2030. Although pharmacists play a key role in hepatitis management, literature lacks documentation of the amount ofviralhepatitis education provided to pharmacy students. Our study goal was to describe viral hepatitis education provided at United States pharmacy schools. In this cross-sectional survey study, investigators developed a 19-item Qualtrics questionnaire, sent questionnaire links to curricula content experts at 140 accredited pharmacy colleges/schools in May-June 2022, and allotted 28days for completion. Questions assessed the viral hepatitis instruction provided to students and hepatitis instructors' training/experience. We used descriptive statistics for analysis. Forty-eight pharmacy institutions across 29 states/territories responded; 44% had 50-99 students/class, and 58% used lecture and discussion to provide required hepatitis education. Students received more lecture (average = 3.4h, range 0.8-1.6h/hepatitis topic) than discussion (average = 1.7h, range 0.6-0.9h/hepatitis topic), with the most time spent on hepatitis C, followed by hepatitis B virus. Respondents reported 93% of their instructors had post-graduate training/certifications and 67% worked in clinical settings with hepatitis patients. Survey results demonstrate variability in hepatitis education across United States pharmacy curricula. Data offer stakeholders in hepatitis elimination efforts knowledge about the viral hepatitis education provided to Doctor of Pharmacy students. Future directions include consideration of implementation of minimum hepatitis education standards to further support work toward national hepatitis elimination.

ACUTE TOXICITY AND HEPATO-RENAL PROTECTION OF LIME JUICE, HONEY AND THEIR FLAVONOID-RICH FRACTIONS IN HIGH FAT-DIET INDUCED OBESE RAT MODEL

Introduction: A major consideration for the use of alternative herbal medicine from natural compounds is the concern of safety due to possible toxicity. This study evaluated the safety and hepato-renal protection of fresh lime juice (FLJ), raw honey (RH) and their flavonoid-rich fractions in obese rat induced high fat-diet (HFD). Methods: Oral acute toxicity (LD50) study involved 24 female Wistar rats, divided into 8 groups of 3 rats, administered 300 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg of FLJ, RH, methanol flavonoid rich fraction of lime juice (MFLJ) and ethyl acetate flavonoid rich fraction of honey (EAFH) respectively, for 14 days. Simultaneously, for the anti-obesity study, 24 neonate Wistar rats of 21-days old, divided into 2 groups of 12 rats (for obesity induction phase-1, for two weeks), and regrouped into 4 groups of 4 rats (14 days treatment phase-2), were used. Results: Result of LD50 on FLJ, RH, MFLJ, and EAFH showed no toxicity, no motility, and body weight of rats was not adversely affected evenup to 2000 mg/kg.The increased body weight of the HFD-obese rats was significantly (p<0.05)reduced compared to control. There was significant (p<0.05) decrease in activities of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase after MIX, MFLJ and EAFH administration, compared with control. Also, total protein and bilirubin concentrations was not significantly (p<0.05) different compared to control. Administration of EAFH significantly (p<0.05) reduced the concentrations of creatinine, urea, potassium, and chloride; while MIX and EAFH significantly (p<0.05) increased their concentrations compared to control. Conclusion: It may be concluded that FLJ, RH, MFLJ, and EAFH are safe for consumption and also possess liver and renal protection. Peer Review History: Received: 27 October 2023; Revised: 19 November; Accepted: 28 December, Available online: 15 January 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 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 Dr. Gehan Fawzy Abdel Raoof Kandeel, Pharmacognosy Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt, gehankandeel9@yahoo.com

Virtual site visits - an emerging option for experiential quality assurance

Background and purposeSite visits are a valuable tool for experiential quality assurance. There is sparse literature regarding the use of a virtual modality for completion of site visits. This manuscript describes the experience of using of onsite and virtual site visits, including benefits and limitations of each approach, by two pharmacy experiential programs. Educational activity and settingEach experiential program utilizes both virtual and onsite visits to assess site quality, provide preceptor development, and connect with sites and preceptors. Information gathered and documentation processes are similar for both institutions for both visit modalities. The two pharmacy institutions differ in size, geographical location, number of experiential sites, and experiential department structure. FindingsBased on site evaluator feedback from the two institutions, both visit modalities achieved the goals of evaluating sites for quality, fostering relationships with preceptors, and affording opportunities to provide preceptor development. Positive features of virtual site visits were increased flexibility with scheduling, expanded participation and engagement, increased efficiency, and decreased cost. Drawbacks noted with virtual site visits were challenges touring the site, decreased ability to observe group dynamics and culture, and participant multi-tasking. SummaryA virtual approach to completing experiential site visits achieved programmatic goals. Utilizing a combination of virtual and onsite visits may facilitate a customized approach to navigating the advantages and disadvantages of each modality.

ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY OF BACTERIAL BLOODSTREAM INFECTIONS IN THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT PATIENTS OF UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS IN SANA'A CITY, YEMEN

Aim: High rates of morbidity and mortality are associated to bacterial bloodstream infections (B-BSI) in many hospitals, especially in the intensive care unit. This study investigated the prevalence of antibiotic- and multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from blood samples of patients in intensive care units of university hospitals in the city of Sana'a, Yemen. Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on sepsis patients admitted to intensive care units in four hospitals in Sana'a, Yemen, between January 1 and April 30, 2022. The blood cultures of patients suspected of suffering from sepsis were performed. The potential bacterial pathogens were isolated and identified using standard laboratory methods, and microbial susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion technique. Results: For all identified bacteria, the average resistance rate to a broad spectrum of antibiotics tested ranged from 22.5% to 98.1%, with cefazoline (98.1%) having the greatest resistance rates, followed by amoxicillin (87.2%) and cefixime (83%). Vancomycin had a resistance rate of 4.8% whereas erythromycin had a resistance rate of 75% for Gram-positive bacteria. For Gram-negative bacteria, the resistance rates to narrow spectrum antibiotics ranged from 2.3% for colistin sulphate to 84.8% for aztreonam. Our isolates' MDR rates for resistance to at least three classes of antibiotics were 52.2% and 8.7%, respectively, for resistance to 10 different classes of broad-spectrum antibiotics and their subclasses. Conclusion: Gram positive bacteria are highly resistant to erythromycin and penicillin, while gram negative organisms are highly resistant to amoxcillin+clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin, and all generations of cephalosporins. This study highlights the significance of prompt clinical and bacteriological monitoring among patients in critical care conditions, such as ICU patients, and also illustrates the establishment and rates of Multi Drug Resistance (MDR) pathogens. Peer Review History: Received: 27 August 2023; Revised: 13 September; Accepted: 29 October, Available online: 15 November 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, tamer_hassan@pharm.suez.edu.eg Dr. Wadhah Hassan Ali Edrees, Hajja University, Yemen, edress2020@gmail.com

Appropriation of Information Systems for Keeping Records of the Implementation Process in Retail Trade

Relevance. The modern economy requires a constant increase in the competitiveness of economic entities by reducing uncertainty and minimizing possible risks. As a result, the trading business should be a well-coordinated mechanism aimed at effective management. One of the criteria for effective management is the implementation of competent sales accounting, for the automation of which there are a number of information systems. The purpose of the study is to identify promising aspects of the implementation of information systems aimed at automating the accounting of the sales (sales) process in retail trade. Objectives: a brief overview of information systems as separate specialized programs used to manage sales in retail; development of recommendations for the implementation of software products in non-automated outlets; presentation of the results of automation of business processes through the introduction of information systems. Methodology. In this study, methods of comparative analysis, synthesis, generalization, economic and statistical, as well as graphical methods of information processing were used. Results. The study made it possible to identify promising aspects of the implementation of information systems to automate the accounting of the sales (sales) process in retail trade. The list of relevant information systems of the studied notional area is demonstrated. Recommendations were developed for the implementation of information systems that implement the accounting of retail sales to non-automated outlets. Also, in the course of the work, prospects for the implementation of information ERP systems, in particular, individually configured, taking into account the specifics and features of the company's business processes, were identified. The calculation of the economic efficiency of a pharmacy institution that implements retail trade through the introduction of an information system is presented, as a result of which the importance of automating the accounting of the sales (sales) process is emphasized. Conclusions. Outdated technologies in enterprises significantly complicate the digital transformation of business, despite the variety of ready-made information systems in the subject area under study. The introduction of such systems requires a significant restructuring of organizational changes, business processes, including the adaptation of the accounting system.

Efficacy of high dose systemic versus combined (systemic and intratympanic) corticosteroid therapy in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A prospective randomized trial and risk factor analysis

The pathophysiology and the proper treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) are an ongoing subject of debate. Locally or systemic administered corticosteroids are the most accepted drugs of treatment in reference to ISSNHL (idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss), however, no strong evidence nor guidelines regarding their effectiveness yet exists.In our prospective, randomized, controlled trial 78 participants were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned based on the day of admission to two groups according to treatment: group SS (n = 43) received intravenous systemic methylprednisolone alone, and group CT (n = 35) received intratympanic dexamethasone + systemic methylprednisolone. The primary outcome was to compare the hearing outcomes between the treatment groups based on different, widely accepted categories (Siegel, Kanzaki, modified Siegel and PTA4 gain). In consideration of the secondary outcome, we examined the effect of the various risk factors on the hearing improvement.No differences were detected regarding hearing improvement between the two groups, based on any criteria [Siegel's criteria (p = 0.604); Kanzaki's criteria (p = 0.720); modified Siegel's criteria (p = 0.524) and PTA 4 gain (p = 0.569)]. However, several clinical factors such as vertigo (p = 0.039), or cardiovascular comorbidity (p = 0.02) and the severity of initial hearing loss (p = 0.033) were found to bear a significant impact upon the hearing outcome.To the best of our knowledge, this is the first randomized controlled trial comparing high dose systemic and combination corticosteroid therapy in ISSNHL patients. Our findings suggest coexisting cardiovascular comorbidity, vertigo and severity of the initial hearing loss may bear a significantly higher impact upon hearing improvement, than the additional intratympanic steroid administration.The presented trial was registered in the European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database (name: Combinated systemic and intratympanic steroid therapy in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss, No.: 2017–000658-20) and with the ethical approval of The National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition (OGYÉI) (protocol No.: 7621, on 2017.02.16.)

The study of the state of awareness of pharmaceutical workers regarding coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Aim. To analyze and summarize the results of a questionnaire on the state of awareness of pharmaceutical workers in the Western regions of Ukraine about the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Materials and methods. The results of a survey of pharmacy managers, pharmacists and interns working in pharmacies in 8 regions of the Western area of Ukraine were used. The survey of respondents lasted 12 months: December 2021 – December 2022. A special questionnaire was developed to determine the level of knowledge about the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Results and discussion. With the beginning of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation, COVID-19 practically disappeared from the information space and ceased to be an urgent issue for Ukrainians. However, in recent weeks, the Ministry of Health has recorded an increase in the number of hospitalizations due to the coronavirus disease. During the period of martial law and the coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19), the pharmacy is the most accessible healthcare institution for the population and ranks first in terms of the number of citizens’ requests for symptoms, methods of treatment and prevention of SARS-CoV-2, therefore, the awareness of pharmacists – practitioners about COVID-19 is very important to provide complete and high-quality pharmaceutical care to patients. A review of the specialized scientific literature over the past 5 years confirmed the lack of studies on the level of awareness of pharmaceutical workers about the symptoms, methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the main diseases that are widespread in the Western regions of Ukraine. With the help of a questionnaire, we conducted an expert assessment of the level of knowledge of pharmacy managers, pharmacists and interns working in pharmacy institutions in 8 regions of the Western area of Ukraine regarding the main symptoms, methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of uncomplicated forms of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). After analyzing the answers of the respondents, it can be assumed that pharmaceutical workers know the main manifestations of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and are oriented towards the threatening indicators of the patient’s condition. It causes concern that some respondents incorrectly determine the reasons for prescribing antibacterial therapy to a patient, which can lead to incorrect recommendations and advice during the implementation of pharmaceutical care, however, the introduction of electronic prescriptions for dispensing antimicrobial drugs and information and educational work with pharmaceutical workers should correct the situation. Conclusions. In our opinion, it is promising to conduct further research to improve the level of knowledge and competencies of pharmaceutical workers during their specialization courses and thematic improvement in the system of continuous professional development

Virtual Reality Technologies in Teaching Students in the Specialty "Pharmacy"

In 2022, on the basis of the Scientific and Educational Research Center "Pharma-Premium" of Sechenov University, the "Pharmaceutical production" software module was developed for the "AR|VR-University" training platform (state registration certificate 2022618639 dated 05/13/2022). The introduction of VR technology into the educational process of the A. P. Nelyubin Institute of Pharmacy in 2022 for 200 fifth-year students enrolled in the specialty "Pharmacy" made it possible to increase students' interest in the disciplines taught, as well as to gain skills that are impossible to practice in an educational environment.

ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE INHIBITION, NOOTROPIC AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECT OF EXTRACTS FROM AGAVE SPECIES

Background: The systemic administration of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a pharmacological model to evaluate different processes associated with neurodegeneration; it is capable of causing an increase in the oxidative state in the brain and increasing the activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (ACh-E), involved in the degradation of acetylcholine (ACh). This cholinergic transmission system participates in memory processes, a crucial symptom in neurodegenerative disorders, and its modulation with scopolamine turns out to be an essential tool in the evaluation of plants. Species of the genus Agave are considered a natural resource of economic and cultural importance in Mexico. They possess compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-neuroinflammatory activities. Methods: Extracts of A. tequilana (At-A), A. angustifolia (Aan-A), A. americana (Aam-A) at 125 mg/kg were administered to male ICR mice with LPS to evaluate the ACh-E inhibition, the concentration of the antioxidant enzyme Gluthatione Reductase (GR) and the prooxidant enzyme NADPH Oxidase (NOX). Also, the nootropic effect of these extracts on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment was evaluated. Results: The three Agave species studied decreased the ACh-E enzyme activity, Vmax value, and KM. These products increased the GR concentration from 0.173±0.003 (vehicle) to 0.642±0.002 µMol/mg in At-A, which was the highest one. Regarding NOX, only the A. tequilana extract decreased it (0.513±0.002µMol/mg)compared with Vehicle (0.621±0.008µMol/mg). A. tequilana and A. americana species significantly improved the retention latency parameter (260 seconds) during the passive avoidance test. Conclusion: Agave species showed promising results in developing novel drugs for neurodegenerative disease therapy. Peer Review History: Received: 17 June 2023; Revised: 22 July; Accepted: 27 August, Available online: 15 September 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Sangeetha Arullappan, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, sangeetha@utar.edu.my Prof. Ali Gamal Ahmed Al-kaf, Sana'a university, Yemen, alialkaf21@gmail.com

AN ANALYSIS OF PHARMACOGNOSTICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF KANDA TWAKA CHURNA AND PATRA CHURNA OF SHIGRU (MORINGA OLEIFERA LAM.)

Moringa oleifera Lam. belongs to the Moringaceae family, popularly known as Sahijana, Shigru, Shobhanjana, Krishnagandha etc. The importance of Shigru in treatment has been mentioned in various classical texts for ages. Different parts of the drug, i.e., stem bark, leaves, seed, pods, root, etc., contain many chemical constituents that are significant in pharmacology. Pharmacognostical and phytochemical analyses are essential for proper identification and authentication of the drug. Materials and method: Shigru kanda twaka churna and Shigru patra churna were evaluated separately for pharmacognostical, physicochemical, and phytochemical studies. It also included a qualitative test for detecting protein, carbohydrate, ascorbic acid, sterols, and terpenes as per the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India (A.P.I.). Results: The correct identity and authenticity of the drug sample were confirmed by its organoleptic study, powder microscopy, and phytochemical study, comparing them with features mentioned in A.P.I., and then certified by subject experts in Govt. Drug testing laboratory, Dist. Gwalior M.P. and Institute of Pharmacy, Vikram University Ujjain M.P. Conclusion: Based on the present study, we can conclude that both the sample drugs were authentic, pure and followed standard parameters of A.P.I.