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Lignin (poly-phenylpropane units) was precipitated from waste black liquor produced by paper manufacture from rice straw. The use of this lignin as partial substitution of phenol in phenol formaldehyde resin is investigated. The effect of different variables [e.g., lignin concentration, ratio of formaldehyde to phenol lignin (phenol + lignin), temperature, and polymerization time on the properties of the produced resin is studied]. The effect of the chemical modification of lignin by oxidation, reduction, and hydrolysis on the properties of the produced phenol lignin formaldehyde resin is also studied. Hydrolysis of lignin by hydrochloric acid increases the reactivity between lignin, formaldehyde, and phenol in producing resin with good properties more than untreated lignin. Also, the percent of replaced phenol with lignin in the resin can be increased by hydrolysis of lignin with hydrochloric acid. So, the reactivity of lignin toward resin formation has the following sequence: hydrolyzed lignin > oxidized lignin with dichromate > treated lignin with sodium hydrosulfite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:Psoriasis has been considered as systemic disorder. Lipocalin-2 might be a link between psoriasis and its comorbidities. Aim of the study was to investigate the associations between serum lipocalin-2 levels and the disease activity, markers of inflammation or metabolic disturbances and changes after topical treatment in psoriatic patients. Methods:Thirty-seven individuals with active plaque-type psoriasis and 15 healthy controls were recruited. Blood samples were collected before and after 14 days of therapy. Serum lipocalin-2 concentrations were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results were correlated with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), inflammatory and biochemical markers, lipid profile and with effectiveness of topical treatment. Results:Lipocalin-2 serum levels were significantly increased in psoriatic patients in comparison to the controls (p = 0.023). No significant correlations with indicators of inflammation, nor BMI or PASI were noted. A statistical association between lipocalin-2 and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol was shown. After topical treatment serum lipocalin-2 level did not significantly change (p = 0.9), still remaining higher than in the controls, despite clinical improvement. Conclusions:Lipocalin-2 might be a marker of psoriasis and convey cardiovascular or metabolic risk in psoriatic patients, but may not be a reliable indicator of inflammation, severity of psoriasis nor efficacy of antipsoriatic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Joseph Lister (1827-1912), renowned British surgeon-scientist, introduced to the world the use and appreciation of the antiseptic method for the prevention of wound sepsis. Armed with the ideas of Louis Pasteur (1822-1895) regarding the role of microorganisms in infections or the so-called germ theory of disease, he advanced the surgical field by using antiseptics, such as carbolic acid, in the treatment of contaminated wounds. These developments constituted a real surgical revolution. No breakthrough before Lister's, except perhaps the discovery of anesthesia, had contributed to such an incredible advancement in relationship to the surgical arena. After 1867, the year in which Lister published his remarkable paper in Lancet, it was possible to appropriately treat or prevent wound infections with the use of antiseptics at the site of the operated wound. Lister's method was complicated but produced its desired effect-to diminish wound morbidity and patient mortality. His contribution was secured for future generations and a surgical revolution had begun! [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The best choice of antiseptic agent for skin preparation at cesarean section remains controversial. We performed this meta-analysis to assess whether chlorhexidine (CH)-based skin antisepsis was more effective than povidone iodine (PI)-based antisepsis for the prevention of surgical site infection (SSI) after cesarean section. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched to identify English publications that compared chlorhexidine gluconate (CH) as a skin preparation agent with PI in cesarean section. The primary outcome was SSI rate. Review Manager 5.3 was used to analyze the collected data and trial sequential analysis (TSA) Software 0.9 (Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK) beta was applied to estimate whether the overall pooled outcome was conclusive. Results: Six articles involving 4385 participants were included in this study. The outcomes showed that CH-based skin antisepsis, compared with PI-based antisepsis, was not associated with a decreased overall rate of SSI (risk ratio [RR], 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54-1.02; p = .07). TSA indicated that the current available evidence was inconclusive. There were no differences in adverse skin reactions in the two groups. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that CH-based antisepsis for skin preparation does not show an additional advantage in reducing risk of SSI after cesarean section. However, additional high-quality, randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An in vitro model was developed to assess the effects of topical antimicrobials on taxonomically defined wound biofilms. Biofilms were exposed over seven days to povidone-iodine, silver acetate or polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) at concentrations used in wound dressings. The rank order of tolerance in multi-species biofilms, based on an analysis of the average bacterial counts over time was P. aeruginosa > methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) > B. fragilis > S. pyogenes. The rank order of effectiveness for the antimicrobials in the biofilm model was povidone-iodine > PHMB > silver acetate. None of the test compounds eradicated P. aeruginosa or MRSA from the biofilms although all compounds except silver acetate eliminated S. pyogenes. Antimicrobial effectiveness against bacteria grown in multi-species biofilms did not correlate with planktonic susceptibility. Defined biofilm populations of mixed-species wound pathogens could be maintained in the basal perfusion model, facilitating the efficacy testing of treatments regimens and potential dressings against multi-species biofilms composed of wound isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, three kinds of antiseptics which were 0.05% chlorhexidine, 0.2% polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), or 200 ppm silver nanoparticle was introduced to incorporate in the sericin-based scaffold to produce the antimicrobial dressing for the treatment of infected chronic wound. The effects of antiseptic incorporation on the stability, release of sericin, and short-term and long-term (6 months) antimicrobial activity of the sericin dressing against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria were investigated. We showed that the incorporation of each antiseptic did not have significant effect on the internal morphology (pore size ~ 73–105 μm), elasticity (Young’s modulus ~ 200–500 kPa), and the sericin release behavior of the sericin-based dressing. The release of sericin from the dressing was prolonged over 120 h and thereafter. Comparing among three antiseptics, 0.05% chlorhexidine incorporated in the sericin dressing showed the highest immediate and long-term (6 months) antimicrobial effect (largest inhibition zone) against most bacteria either gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria. Thein vivosafety test following ISO10993 standard (Biological evaluation of medical devices – Part 6: Tests for local effects after implantation) confirmed that the sericin dressing incorporating 0.05% chlorhexidine did not irritate to tissue, comparing with the commercial material used generally in clinic (Allevyn®, Smith & Nephew). We suggested the sericin dressing incorporating 0.05% chlorhexidine for the treatment of infected chronic wound. Chlorhexidine would reduce the risk of infection while the sericin may promote wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: The basic principle of umbilical cord (UC) care is to keep it clean and dry, as this provides the fastest and safest UC healing.Objective: To evaluate Slovenian UC care practice and compare its consistency with current international recommendations.Methods: A questionnaire covering UC care from birth to complete healing of the umbilical wound was sent to all Slovenian primary-, secondary- and tertiary-level pediatric centers. Three different clinical conditions of the newborn's umbilicus were defined: healthy umbilicus (HU), umbilicus at risk (UR) and unhealthy umbilicus (UU).Results: The study revealed a correlation between the clinical condition of the umbilicus, the frequency of UC care and the antiseptic usage in both the outpatient and inpatient UC care groups. HU was treated less frequently than UR and significantly less than UU. In both groups, these two conditions were also indications for UC care with antiseptic. The frequency of antiseptic usage for HU care was significantly lower in the outpatient care group.Conclusions: Slovenian UC care follows the general international recommendations. Based on these and our experience, we formulated recommendations for adjustments to UC care, depending on the clinical condition of the umbilicus, in order to prevent important complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose:Two randomized, intra-individual comparison studies were performed in healthy subjects to evaluate the skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential of a new topical panthenol-containing emollient (NTP-CE) (Study 1), and its effect on skin microflora (Study 2). Methods:In Study 1 (N = 23), two skin areas, one challenged with 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solution and one unchallenged, were treated with NTP-CE for 3 weeks. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae (ICLL) organization were measured at regular intervals during the study. In Study 2 (N = 20), quantitative bacterial cultures were obtained over 6 h from a skin area undergoing wash stress with 10% SDS with subsequent single application of NTP-CE. Results:In Study 1, mean AUC for TEWL reduction from baseline was more pronounced with NTP-CE compared with control (−168.36 vs. −123.38 g/m2/h,p = 0.023). NTP-CE use was also associated with statistically significant improvements in stratum corneum hydration and an increase in mean ICLL length from baseline (day 22: 120.61 vs. 35.85 nm/1000 nm2,p < 0.001). In Study 2, NTP-CE use had no negative impact on bacterial viability. Conclusions:NTP-CE use has favorable and lasting effects on barrier function and repair as well as skin hydration without negatively influencing bacterial viability. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The growing popularity of nanomaterials requires a systematic study of their effects on the human body. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), due to their antiseptic properties, are used in almost every area of life. The purpose of the study was to examine whether the precursor used for the synthesis of nanoparticles affects their bio-influence and modifies their impact on cells of the human immune system. To compare the effects of precursor silver salts (AgNO3, CH3COOAg and AgClO4) and corresponding nanoparticles (TAN TAA and TAC) cytotoxicity study was conducted on two cell lines U-937 and HL-60. For both cell lines, silver salts are more toxic than the corresponding nanoparticles. Cell viability after treatment with the two forms of silver (salt/particle) is dependent on silver dose and degree of cells differentiation. Addition of the silver salt of doses greater than 5 mg/L results in decreased cell viability by over 60%, whereas nanoparticles’ addition reduces cell viability on average by 30%. On the basis of the determined LD50values it can be stated that for the tested cells the most toxic are AgClO4and TAC. Production of nitric oxide, which is a mediator of inflammation, is the greatest after treatment of the cells by TAC. Different interactions of studied nanoparticles with albumin has been found and it was shown that addition of albumin to the cells treated by nanoparticles reduces their toxic effects. Obtained by us highly purified, mono-disperse AgNPs exhibit diverse effects relative to the biological systems, depending on the precursor salt used. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The authors discuss a study on cholestatic hepatitis cases in Russia that was caused by consumption of alcohol in the form of the antiseptic liquid Extracept-1. They say that the consumption of non-beverage alcohols in the country continues to increase because they are cheaper. The authors stress that the study showed that exposure to toxins in non-beverage alcohols could result to mortality and morbidity. They also reveal that Extracept-1 contains diethyl phthalate (DEP), which is associated with mitochondrial abnormalities.

Didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) is a dialkyl-quaternary ammonium compound that is used in numerous products for its bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal properties. There have been clinical reports of immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions in exposed individuals; however, the sensitization potential of DDAC has not been thoroughly investigated. The purpose of these studies was to evaluate the irritancy and sensitization potential of DDAC following dermal exposure in a murine model. DDAC induced significant irritancy (0.5 and 1%), evaluated by ear swelling in female Balb/c mice. Initial evaluation of the sensitization potential was conducted using the local lymph node assay (LLNA) at concentrations ranging from 0.0625–1%. A concentration-dependent increase in lymphocyte proliferation was observed with a calculated EC3 value of 0.17%. Dermal exposure to DDAC did not induce increased production of IgE as evaluated by phenotypic analysis of draining lymph node B-cells (IgE + B220+) and measurement of total serum IgE levels. Additional phenotypic analyses revealed significant and dose-responsive increases in the absolute number of B-cells, CD4 + T-cells, CD8 + T-cells and dendritic cells in the draining lymph nodes, along with significant increases in the percentage of B-cells (0.25% and 1% DDAC) at Day 10 following 4 days of dermal exposure. There was also a significant and dose-responsive increase in the number of activated CD44 + CD4 + and CD8 + T-cells and CD86 + B-cells and dendritic cells following exposure to all concentrations of DDAC. These results demonstrate the potential for development of irritation and hypersensitivity responses to DDAC following dermal exposure and raise concerns about the use of this chemical and other quaternary ammonium compounds that may elicit similar effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofilm recalcitrance is a persistent problem when managing difficult to heal and infected chronic wounds. The wound biofilm is a fundamental factor in the re-occurrence and delayed healing commonly observed in non-healing and infected chronic wounds. However, there is presently no single antimicrobial agent that is completely efficacious against both the planktonic and sessile polymicrobial communities evident in at risk or infected wounds. We will review currently available antimicrobials, with particular emphasis on silver and iodine, employed to help suppress biofilms in wounds. In addition, we will also review the effect of pH on antimicrobial efficacy. Available evidence suggests that it is best to take a multifactorial approach towards controlling biofilm in chronic, “at risk” and infected wounds. This highlights the growing importance of avoiding indiscriminate or inappropriate use of antimicrobials in the treatment of chronic wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article reports on the study of the effectiveness of coated antiseptic tip (CAT) syringes in reducing the growth of bacteria on the connector hubs of catheters, noting that catheter-related infections are one significant type of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs). It describes the CAT syringe developed by the researchers using chlorhexidine and notes that the study compared it to ordinary syringes with both three-way connectors and needleless connectors.

The survival of pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity depends on their successful adhesion to dental surfaces and their ability to develop into biofilms, known as dental plaque. Bacteria from the dental plaque are responsible for the development of dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, stomatitis and peri-implantitis. Certain metal nanoparticles have been suggested for infection control and the management of the oral biofilm. Here, it is shown that application of a silver nano-coating directly on dentine can successfully prevent the biofilm formation on dentine surfaces as well as inhibit bacterial growth in the surrounding media. This silver nano-coating was found to be stable (>98.8%) and to maintain its integrity in biological fluids. Its antibacterial activity was compared to silver nitrate and the widely used clinical antiseptic, chlorhexidine. The bacterial growth and cell viability were quantitatively assessed by measuring the turbidity, proportion of live and dead cells and lactate production. All three bioassays showed that silver nanoparticles and silver nitrate dentine coatings were equally highly bactericidal (>99.5%), while inhibiting bacterial adhesion. However, the latter caused significant dentine discolouration (ΔE* = 50.3). The chlorhexidine coating showed no antibacterial effect. Thus, silver nanoparticles may be a viable alternative to both chlorhexidine and silver nitrate, protecting from dental plaque and secondary caries when applied as a dentine coating, while they may provide the platform for creating anti-biofilm surfaces in medical devices and other biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to determine the mean polyphenol composition of different varieties of virgin olive oil (VOO) habitually consumed in the region of southern Spain and to estimate the dietary exposure to olive oil polyphenols in that population. There were statistically significant differences in total polyphenols among varieties, with the Picual variety containing the largest amount with a mean value of 591.8 mg kg–1. The main phenolic compounds found in the VOOs under study were tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol. The highest amounts of both substances were found in Picual olive oils with concentrations of 2.3–6.6 mg kg−1. The total intake of polyphenols from VOO ranged between 8.2 mg day–1(SD = 4.14) for the under 19 year olds and 21.3 mg day–1(SD = 3) for the over 50 year olds. Some polyphenols, including tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol, were consumed principally as olive oil. The intake of these compounds in the studied population was in the range of 88.5–237.4 μg day–1. This has particular importance as recent studies have demonstrated that hydroxytyrosol helps to improve plasma lipids levels and repair oxidative damage related to cardiovascular disease. There was a greater dietary consumption of polyphenols in olive oil among the participants who more closely followed the Mediterranean diet pattern. A higher consumption of olive oil and therefore a greater exposure to polyphenols was observed in females versus males and in participants of normal weight versus those who were overweight. The total intake of polyphenols from VOO significantly increased with higher age, reflecting the greater intake of this oil by older people, who also show a closer adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The over 50-year-old age group showed the greatest consumption of this olive oil and therefore of phenolic compounds, which are healthy protectors in the human diet that contribute to the acknowledged benefits of the Mediterranean diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-containing nanomaterials have the potential to be used in dentistry for infection control, but little is known about their antibacterial properties. This study investigated the toxicity of silver (Ag), titanium dioxide and silica nanoparticles (NPs) against the oral pathogenic species of Streptococcus mutans, compared to the routine disinfectant, chlorhexidine. The bacteria were assessed using the minimum inhibitory concentration assay for growth, fluorescent staining for live/dead cells, and measurements of lactate. All the assays showed that Ag NPs had the strongest antibacterial activity of the NPs tested, with bacterial growth also being 25-fold lower than that in chlorhexidine. The survival rate of bacteria under the effect of 100 mg l−1 Ag NPs in the media was 2% compared to 60% with chlorhexidine, while the lactate concentration was 0.6 and 4.0 mM, respectively. Silica and titanium dioxide NPs had limited effects. Dialysis experiments showed negligible silver dissolution. Overall, Ag NPs were the best disinfectant and performed better than chlorhexidine. Improvements to the MIC assay are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The essential oil of Eugenia caryophyllata (clove oil; Family: Myrtaceae) is used in dental care as an antiseptic and analgesic. The present study investigates the effect of clove oil on animal models of depression and locomotion. Methods: Clove oil was administered in doses of 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 ml/kg/day, intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 3 weeks. The forced swim test (FST) and the tail suspension test (TST) were used to assess depression. To evaluate locomotor activity, the rota rod test and the photoactometer procedure were performed. Results: In the FST, it was observed that the duration of immobility was significantly decreased (P < 0.01) in animals treated with clove oil (0.05 and 0.1 ml/kg); however, the clove oil dose of 0.025 ml/kg showed an insignificant increase in the immobile period. The TST demonstrated that pretreatment with clove oil decreases (P < 0.01) the immobile period significantly at all the three administered doses. Similarly, the photoactometer procedure showed increased locomotor activity at all the three doses, although significant (P < 0.05) only at 0.1 ml/kg. In addition, the rota rod test showed that animals treated with clove oil (0.1 ml/kg) enhanced muscle coordination as demonstrated by a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the latency to fall from the rota rod as compared to the control. However, the lowest administered dose (0.025 ml/kg, i.p.) decreased the latency to fall from the rota rod significantly (P < 0.05) compared to the control. Clove oil (0.05 ml/kg) also showed a decrease in the latency to fall from the rota rod although the result was not statistically significant. Discussion: Thus, it can be concluded that pretreatment with clove oil decreases depression and enhances locomotor activity similar to that exhibited by psychostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The development of control systems to sustain the level of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is an emerging issue for healthcare management. This is partly due to the perception that HAI became a serious negative impact factor on the performance of healthcare organizations and on related public health dimensions. Throughout the decade of 1990 a significant number of international programmes were developed to understand and to promote effective HAIs prevention and control systems: Patient Safety and the quality improvement of healthcare organizations became common concepts in healthcare management. However, regardless of advances in infection control systems, the rates of incidence of HAIs remained relatively unchanged in the last decades. The purpose of this study is to point out barriers that recent international literature has identified as factors hindering the successful development of control systems to prevent HAIs. The international debate on possible alternatives to strengthen this common healthcare management issue, benefits form one such update. Methods A literature review was conducted in a 3-month period by two investigators. The BioMed Central, Pubmed, Emerald, and B-on databases were searched for articles published between January 2006 and September 2011. A standard form was created for data extraction. Findings A total of 49 articles met inclusion criteria. Within the analysed articles, 26 were developed in Europe, 15 were developed in North America; 6 were developed in Asia, and 2 in Australia. Thirty (30) different barriers to effective HAIs control systems were identified. The barriers were clustered by dimensions and sub-dimensions. The largest number of barriers clustered, are associated with structures and processes and also barriers associated with healthcare management processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of oil, surfactant/co-surfactant mixing ratios and water on the in vitro permeation of ketoconazole (KTZ) applied in O/W microemulsion vehicle through intact rat skin. Lauryl Alcohol (LA) was screened as the oil phase of microemulsions, due to a good solubilizing capacity of the microemulsion system. The pseudo-ternary phase diagrams for microemulsion regions were constructed using LA as the oil, Labrasol (Lab) as the surfactant (S) and ethanol (EtOH) as the cosurfactant (CoS). The formulation which showed a highest permeation rate of 54.65 ±± 1.72 µµg/cm2/h1 and appropriate physico-chemical properties was optimized as containing 2% KTZ, 10% LA, 20% Lab/EtOH (1:1) and 68% double distilled water (w/w). The efficiency of microemulsion formulation in the topical delivery of KTZ was dependent upon the contents of water and LA as well as Lab/EtOH mixing ratio. It was concluded that the percutaneous absorption of KTZ from microemulsions was enhanced with increasing the LA and water contents, and with decreasing the Lab/EtOH ratio in the formulation. Candida albicans was used as a model fungus to evaluate the antifungal activity of the best formula achieved, which showed the widest zone of inhibition as compared to KTZ reference. The studied microemulsion formulation showed a good stability for a period of three months. Histopathological investigation of rat skin revealed the safety of microemulsion formulations for topical use. These results indicate that the studied microemulsion formulation might be a promising vehicle for topical delivery of KTZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Tripleurospermum disciforme (C.A. Mey) Schultz Bip. (Asteraceae) is a widespread biennial species which also has traditional medicinal uses. According to the few recent studies, essential oils of this species exhibit anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiseptic, antifungal, antiulcer, and antioxidant activity. Objective: The chemical compositions of the hydrodistilled oils of T. disciforme of Iranian origin are studied in the stages of prior to flowering, flowering, and post flowering, for the first time. Also, we investigated the antibacterial activities of the oils. Materials and methods: The essential oils of air-dried T. disciforme were obtained by hydrodistillation in three different developmental stages and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antimicrobial activity of the isolated essential oil, in the three stages, was also investigated against four Gram-positive and four Gram-negative bacteria. Results: Twenty-one components were identified in the essential oils of T. disciforme, and the highest amount of oil was extracted at the flowering stage. The main component of the species in the flowering stage was β-farnesene (22.46%) and the other major components were β-sesquiphellandrene (17.85%), p-methoxy-β-cyclopropylstyrene (16.64%), heptadecane (10.6%), p-methoxy-humulene oxide (6.88%) and benzene acetaldehyde (9.3%). The MIC of essential oil was evaluated from 4 µL ml−1 against Staphylococcus subtilis and Bacillus cereus to 22 µL ml−1 against Citrobacter amalonaticus. Discussion and conclusion: This study demonstrates the occurrence of β-farnesene/β -sesquiphellandrene chemotype of T. disciforme in western regions of Iran that are different from previous reports. The findings also showed that the essential oils T. disciforme have excellent antibacterial activities and thus have great potentiality to be used as a resource for natural health products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids are widely distributed in plants fulfilling many functions including producing yellow or red/blue pigmentation in flowers and protection from attack by microbes and insects. Current research shows for these compounds an anti-allergic, and an anti-cancer activity. The objectives of the research are the investigation of other therapeutic effects of flavonoid fraction separated from alcoholic extract of Plantago sp., as following: sedative, analgesic and anti-microbial activities. The physical-chemical properties of the extract were also investigated. The results obtained indicate the presence of D-apigenin, lutelin, scutellarin, baicalein, nepetin, hispidulin, plantagoside, potassium and microelements in the flavonoids extract. The anti-inflammatory effect (study performed on mice with pletismometric method)) was meaningful after 120 minute at a dose of 400 mg/kg body. The sedative effect (study performed on mice using the writhing test) was meaningful after 30 minutes at 400 mg/kg body. The antimicrobial activities (study performed “in vitro” using Kirby Bauer method) reveal the intense bacteriostatic activity against the microorganisms like Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus sp. This research suggests that plantain may be effective in the treatment of inflammatory and microbial disease but further studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The medicated hydrogels were prepared aseptically under moist heat treatment using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), sodium-carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), polyethyleneglycol (PEG), agar, glycerin and/or boric acid (BA) and designated as PVP-CMC and PVP-CMC-BA. The aim of this study was to develop some medicinal values-based hydrogels. BA was used to build up the medicinal values (antiseptic and antimicrobial properties) within the hydrogels. Optical images, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of the hydrogels indicated that boric acid is uniformly dispersed within the cross-linked hydrogel network that may heal and protect the wounds from infections/sepsis. Swelling study in presence of water and physiological saline solution confirmed its reasonable absorption capacity. The rheological properties and mechanical properties demonstrated that the boric acid incorporated hydrogels are quite flexible. Assessment of antimicrobial property study proves that PVP-CMC-BA (3% BA) has strong infection protection capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganciclovir (GCV) is a potent broad-spectrum antiviral with proven efficacy against herpes viruses. As it inhibits viral but not cellular DNA, it is expected to avoid the toxicity associated with trifluridine - the only currently approved treatment for herpes simplex keratitis in the USA. Preclinical studies have demonstrated GCV to be as effective as trifluridine against experimental herpes simplex keratitis. Clinical studies conducted in Europe, Asia, and Africa that compared the efficacy and tolerability of GCV ophthalmic gel with acyclovir (ACV) ophthalmic ointment in patients with herpetic keratitis showed that GCV-treated patients had higher overall healing rates and lower relapse rates than ACV-treated patients. The ganciclovir gel formulation was also much better tolerated than the ACV ointment base. Finally, a controlled, masked, randomized series of 18 patients with adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis compared GCV gel with preservative-free artificial tears. Ganciclovir-treated patients experienced a shorter acute-disease phase and exhibited significantly fewer subepithelial infiltrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare treatment strategies, the success of topical and systemic therapy, and the need for glaucoma surgery in children and adults with secondary uveitic glaucoma. Methods: Retrospective observational case series with 1997 consecutive new uveitis patients. Results: Overall, 176 patients (8.8%) suffered from secondary glaucoma (n = 126) or ocular hypertension (n = 50). All patients received topical therapy, and 107 (62%) patients also received systemic glaucoma therapy. Topical therapy was successful (IOP ≤ 21 mmHg) in 24% of adults and 26% of children. Surgery was required in 59% of children and in 35% of adults (p =.02). The number of surgical interventions differed per patient with 2.6 procedures in children compared to 1.6 procedures in adults (p <.001). Conclusions: Only a limited number of patients with secondary uveitic glaucoma can be sufficiently controlled with topical and systemic antiglaucomatous therapy alone. There is a significantly higher need for glaucoma operations in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve male and female rats per group were given 4-aminophenol (PAP) by gavage at 0, 20, 100, or 500 mg/kg/day. Males were dosed for a total of 49 days, beginning 14 days before mating. Females were dosed for a total of 40-60 days, from 14 days before mating to Day 3 of lactation throughout the mating and gestation periods. Four males and 2 females died at 500 mg/kg/day, and all surviving males and females showed brown urine at 100 mg/kg/day and above. Body-weight gain was lower in males and females at 500 mg/kg/day, and food consumption was decreased in males at 500 mg/kg/day and in females at 100 and 500 mg/kg/day. Absolute and relative weights of the testes and epididymides were decreased at 500 mg/kg/day. Histopathological examinations revealed decreased spermatocyte and spermatid levels in the testis, debris of germ cell in the epididymis lumen, basophilic tubules in the kidney, and deposits of hemosiderin in the red pulp and extramedullary hematopoiesis in the spleen in males at 500 mg/kg/day. Longer gestation period, decreased delivery index, and lower body weight of pups on postnatal day (PND) 0 and increased number of stillborns at 500 mg/kg/day were also observed. At this dose, the viability of pups on PND 4 was decreased markedly. No adverse effects on reproduction or development were detected at 20 and 100 mg/kg/day. These findings indicate that PAP is general and reproductive/developmental toxic, but is unlikely to be teratogenic, in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This project set out to determine the effectiveness of ozone as a disinfectant against highly resistant micro-organisms in wastewaters. An ozone dose of 51.5 mg/L for different lengths of time and at pH 5 and 7 was applied to both synthetic and natural samples of V. cholerae and S. typhi bacteria and the Acanthamoeba protozoa, as well as to biological pollution indicators such as total coliform (TC) and fecal coliform (FC) bacteria. Simultaneous analysis was also made of various physical-chemical parameters that might interfere with the disinfection process. Results showed at 14 minutes, all bacteria and amoeba were completely destroyed. Results also demonstrated a clear reduction in some physical/chemical parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Asia, ingestion of animal bile is believed to improve health, but poisoning cases often occur. The composition of the bile varies with animal species, and is important in the diagnosis of hepatobiliary diseases. Bile acids are major components in terrestrial animal bile, but bile alcohols are major components in several freshwater fish. Both bile acids and alcohols cause liver and renal dysfunctions, and bile alcohols are more toxic than bile acids. Except for the bear bile component ursodeoxycholic acid, the medicinal use of animal bile components needs further study because of their toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As new drugs to control bacterial pathogens are developed, the organisms evolve to survive. Staphylococcus aureus, a common organism, has steadily developed resistance to antibiotics. For more than 40 years, resistant S. aureus presented a formidable problem to hospitalized patients; in the past decade, however, it has begun to appear outside the clinical setting—often in young people without significant medical conditions. Early diagnosis, appropriate control measures, and proper antibiotic choice can limit the spread and severity of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexamidine Diisethionate functions as a biocide in cosmetics at concentrations of 0.03% to 0.1% in 38 cosmetic products. Hexamidine functions as a biocide and preservative in cosmetics, but is not in current use in cosmetics, but it is used in over-the-counter (OTC) drug products. Hexamidine was poorly absorbed by human cadaver skin when in water-oil formulations or in a gel that simulated a cosmetic product formulation. Hexamidine Diisethionate was poorly absorbed by the skin of live rats and was not stored in any tissue type. Hexamidine Diisethionate given to rats intravenously was rapidly metabolized to Hexamidine. Excretion was primarily via the feces, with a small amount excreted in the urine. Acute oral LD50 values of Hexamidine Diisethionate were 0.71 to 2.5 g/kg in mice and 0.75 g/kg in rats. Dermal exposure to 4 g/kg Hexamidine Diisethionate in rats or up to 9.4 ml/kg of a 0.1% Hexamidine Diisethionate solution under occlusion in rabbits produced no mortality or other signs of toxicity. The no-observed-effect level (NOEL) for oral subchronic toxicity of Hexamidine Diisethionate in rats was 50 mg/kg/day. No signs of toxicity were observed with 2% Hexamidine Diisethionate in subchronic studies using rabbits... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the clinical and cytological effects of a new topical gel, (Protefix) with triester glycerol oxide (TGO) on recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). Method: In this study, 50 patients referred to the Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology, Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, were studied. A clinical examination, a complete review of past medical history, and a detailed history of RAS was performed in each patient. Clinical features of apthous ulcers and visual analogue scale values scraped (VAS) were recorded. Cytological examination was performed by collecting smear material scraped off the lesion surface. Triester glycerol oxide (TGO) gel (Protefix®, Queisser Pharma) was applied to lesions three times a day. Results: A significant reduction of the number of erythrocytes and inflammatory cells, and a significant increase of mature epithelial cells were observed. Conclusions: This treatment may be used as an initial strategy for reduction of symptoms related to RAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation deals with the development of buccal tablets containing chlorhexidine (CHX), a bis-bis-guanide with antimicrobial and antiseptic effects in the oral cavity, and able to adhere to the buccal mucosa to give local controlled release of drug. A mucoadhesive formulation was designed to swell and form a gel adhering to the mucosa and controlling the drug release into the oral cavity. Some batches of tablets were developed by direct compression, containing different amounts of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) and carbomer; changing the amount ratio of these excipients in formulations, it is possible easily modulate the mucoadhesive effect and release of drug. The in vitro tests were performed using the USP 26/NF paddle apparatus, a specifically developed apparatus, and a modified Franz diffusion cells apparatus. This last method allows a simultaneous study of drug release rate from the tablets and drug permeation through the buccal mucosa. Similar tests have also been carried out on a commercial product, Corsodyl gel ® , in order to compare the drug release control of gel with respect to that of the mucoadhesive tablet, as a formulation for buccal delivery of CHX. While the commercial formulation does not appear to control the release, the formulation containing 15% w/w methocel behaves the best, ensuring the most rapid and complete release of the drug, together with a negligible absorption of the active agent as required for a local antiseptic action in the oral cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organosilicate nanocomposite hexagonal mesostructure (NHMS) was synthesized from dodecylamine and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). The nanocomposite (NMCM) of numbers 41, 48, and 50 were synthesized from cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTABr) and (TEOS). The rates, affinity, and stability of these synthetic nanocomposite materials to remove and retain chlorinated phenols from aqueous solution were investigated; all materials have the ability for sorption and retention of 2,4-dichlophenol (2,4-DCP). Batch absorption kinetics indicates that NHMS, NMCM-41, NMCM-48, and NMCM-50 are 1st order reactions, with rate constants of 0.412, 0.296, 0.112, and 0.0161 hr−1, respectively. Average percent 2,4-DCP removal for NHMS, NMCM-41, NMCM-48, and NMCM-50 was 92, 98, 90, and 52%, respectively. Isothermic measurements fit Freundlich and Langmuir models. NHMS and NMCM-41 best fit Langmuir model. Stability of the adsorbents in 0.10 M CaCl2 for 56 days was in the order: NMCM-41 > NHMS > NMCM-50 > NMCM-48. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple, reliable and reproducible method, based on capillary electrophoresis with electrochemical detection(CE-ED), for the determination of phenolic compounds of buckwheat(Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) hulls and flour was reported. The mainly phenolic components consist of(−)-epicatechin, rutin, hyperoside, and quercetin. Operated in a wall-jet configuration, a 300 µm diameter carbon disk electrode was used as the working electrode, which exhibits good response at+0.90 V(versus SCE) for all relevant analytes. The potential effects of working electrode, pH and concentration of buffer, separation voltage, and injection time on CE-ED were investigated. Under the optimum conditions, the analytes can be separated in a 50 mmol/L borate buffer(pH = 8.7) within 16 min. The response was linear over three orders of magnitude with detection limit(S/N = 3) ranging from 2 × 10−7 g/mL to 5 × 10−7 g/mL for all analytes. This method has been used for the determination of phenolic compounds in buchwheat(Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) hulls and flour, and the assay result was satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the structure of 14 phenolic compounds and their molluscicidal activity against the molluscan intermediate host of urinary schistosomiasis, Bulinus truncatus , is discussed. It was found that among flavonoids tested, unhydroxylated flavone compound and flavanone hesperidin were the most active (LC 50 = 5.47 and 8.91 ppm, respectively), whereas gallic acid compound with para -methoxy group was the most effective among phenolic acids tested (LC 50 = 3.60 ppm). These results are encouraging and prove other biological application of these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strabismus surgery is generally regarded as a relatively safe procedure, with the greatest risk to the patient often being that associated with anesthesia. However, as with all surgical procedures, postoperative complications do occur in a minority of patients. Both acute and chronic inflammatory reactions are reported, most commonly to topical antibiotics or absorbable suture material. These events cause pain and conjunctival hyperemia but do not often threaten visual function except in the very rare case of necrotizing scleritis. Most cases of inflammation resolve spontaneously or with the use of topical steroid or non-steroidal medication. It is very important to consider the possibility of infection when managing these patients. Postoperative infection is less common but more serious, carrying the threat of permanent visual impairment from endophthalmitis. Although most often associated with intraoperative scleral perforation, other sources of infection have been cited, including localized suture abscess formation. Orbital cellulitis also occurs infrequently, but can progress to cavernous sinus thrombosis and even death in young children. Suspected infection following strabismus surgery should prompt urgent evaluation and aggressive treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To determine the effect of topical treatments on the conjunctiva in dry eye. Methods. N = 134 dry eye subjects were diagnosed using a protocol of McMonnies dry eye symptom survey score > 14, fluorescein break up time (FBUT) < 10s and presence of rose Bengal staining. Differential diagnosis of dry eye subtypes was based on biomicroscopic signs and ocular/medical history. Superficial perilimbal bulbar conjunctival epithelial samples were collected using impression cytology. The nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio (N/C), goblet cell density (GCD) and expression of monoclonal antibodies HLA DR and CD23 were determined. The ocular surface characteristics of untreated subjects, those receiving preserved dry eye treatments and those receiving non-preserved treatments were compared with each other and with controls. Ocular surface characteristics of dry eye subtypes were also examined. Results. An increase in N/C (p = 0.011), reduction in GCD (p = 0.0001) and increase in expression of HLA DR (p = 0.0001) and CD23 (p = 0.0001) were detected in the untreated group compared to controls. No significant differences were found between the group receiving non-preserved dry eye treatments and untreated dry eye group. The group receiving preserved treatments had a reduced GCD (p = 0.0003) and increased expression of HLA DR (p = 0.0003) and CD23 (p = 0.0001) compared to the group receiving nonpreserved treatments. Dry eye subtype specific differences in HLA DR and CD23 expression were noted. Conclusions. The conjunctival inflammation and reduced goblet cell density of dry eye is exacerbated by use of preserved topical agents, and is not significantly improved by use of non-preserved artificial tear supplements alone. Therapeutic strategies for dry eye should aim to increase goblet cell density and control ocular surface inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capillary hemangioma is the most common benign tumor of eyelids and orbit in children. Recently, a topical beta blocker has been reported as an effective treatment for superficial capillary hemangiomas. We present a case report of two children having large capillary hemangiomas who responded well to topical treatment by 0.5% timolol maleate solution. After 12 months of treatment, the lesion has significantly reduced in size, thickness, and color in both cases. Thus, we conclude that long-term use of topical 0.5% timolol maleate solution is safe and effective in treating superficial capillary hemangiomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses the clinical trials which investigate the relevance of wash out periods for topical treatments for patients with psoriasis.