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Ultrasound alone is capable of killing bacteria when sufficient power is applied but ultrasound at low powers can also be used to improve the effectiveness biocides. In this paper, we explore the effect of the timing of the ultrasonic treatment at 20 and 850 kHz on the biocidal efficiency of sodium hypochlorite solution towards Escherchia coli suspensions. A remarkable frequency effect has been noted. At the lower frequency of 20 kHz the improvement in biocidal activity is greatest when the ultrasound is applied at the same time as the hypochlorite. At the higher frequency of 850 kHz the improvement is best when ultrasound is used as a pre-treatment immediately followed by hypochlorite addition under normal (silent) conditions. The kill rate achieved for pre-treatment using 850 kHz and simultaneous treatment using 20 kHz are very similar. However the former involves less acoustic energy and so is considered to be the more efficient. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The features of the synthesis of SiO2 mesoporous container particles (MCPs) using a hybrid template represented by miramistin micelles with curcumin solubilized in them have been studied. Miramistin is an antiseptic, whereas curcumin is a hydrophobic biologically active compound of a broad range of action. The effects of reaction system pH on the structure and morphology of MCPs and on the content of the biologically active compounds in them have been investigated. It has, in particular, been found that spherical and rodlike MCPs are formed in neutral and alkaline media, respectively. Quantitative data have been obtained on the kinetics of releasing the encapsulated compounds from the container particles into an ambient medium with a given pH value. It has been determined that the rate of this process can additionally be controlled by forming a shell a biocompatible polymer, polydopamine, on the MCP surface. Using MCPs synthesized in an alkaline medium as an example, it has been shown that such containers are highly efficient antiseptics with respect to both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of polyphenols from grape seeds was studied. It has been found that they contain four catechins and two proanthocyanidins. The probable structure of the proanthocyanidins was proposed on the basis of physicochemical investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Over the last decades, the problem of formation and circulation of micro-organisms with resistance to antimicrobials has been steadily increasing. Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) are one of the most pressing problems in medicine, urgency of which is associated with high rates of morbidity, mortality, and significant socio-economic losses. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to investigate antimicrobial activity of commercial disinfectants on typical and clinical isolates of bacteria of genus Staphylococcus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Clinical base for isolation of bacteria was the University Dental Clinic of Uzhhorod National University, and evaluation of antimicrobial activity of disinfectants was conducted in microbiological laboratory of the Department of Genetics, Plant Physiology and Microbiology of Uzhhorod National University, Ukraine. Sensitivity of micro-organisms to disinfectants was determined using standard method of diffusion into agar (well diameter, 8 mm). RESULTS: Previous studies have shown that in vitro experiments, the highest anti-staphylococcal effect was observed using Ecobriz antiseptic, AHD 2000, and Lysoformin 3000. It should be noted that sensitivity of coagulasenegative staphylococci was statistically significantly higher than that of coagulase-positive. Thus, the growth retardation zone under the action of AHD 2000 on clinical strain of Staphylococcus aureus was 19.0 ± 0.30 mm and on S. haemolyticus it was 23.9 ± 1.0 mm. This trend was characteristic for other antiseptics. The lowest antimicrobial activity was detected by using Chlorhexidine. Antimicrobial action of ethanol at applied dose was not observed. The highest activity among staphylococci was detected using antiseptics on S. hominis isolates. CONCLUSIONS: Experiments established antimicrobial activity of all antiseptics except Dezoderm and Etasept. The highest level of activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria, and microscopic fungi was found in Bacylol. High levels of antimicrobial activity were detected using AHD 2000, Lysoformin 3000, Ecobriz antiseptic, and Famidez, with higher activity of antiseptics against bacteria of genus Staphylococcus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To survey the details of skin care practices in a sample of level I, II, and III nurseries in the United States. DESIGN: A survey conducted by written questionnaire, personal inspection, and phone contact. PARTICIPANTS: Information was obtained from staff physicians and nurses about routine neonatal skin care practices, including bathing, cord care, emollient use, diapering, use of antimicrobial skin preparations, management of intravenous infiltration, approach to diaper rash, and methods used to minimize transcutaneous water loss. SETTING: Fifteen nurseries from twelve hospitals in four states were surveyed. RESULTS: Among the nurseries surveyed, we found no uniform approach to skin care. Only two individual maneuvers were consistently performed in all the nurseries: criteria for bathing and skin antisepsis with povidone–iodine. Other than these, a wide range of practices and products were used, some with a high ratio of risk and/or cost to benefit. CONCLUSION: A better understanding of the principles of infant skin care and a more uniform approach to skin care in the neonatal nursery can minimize risks and costs to this special population of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cetrimide has been largely used as a disinfectant in hospitals for preoperative skin preparation and treatment of operative wounds and inoperable ulcerated tumors for many years. Two cases of allergic contact dermatitis to cetrimide are described. They were disinfected with cetrimide in the operating theatre. Allergic contact dermatitis to quaternary compounds are seldom described. Usually the commonest sensitizer is benzalkonium chloride used in ophthalmic solutions and as a disinfectant for leg ulcer treatment.

Purpose: One of the key approaches to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission would be to reduce the titres of SARS-CoV-2 in the saliva of infected COVID-19 patients. This is particularly important in high-risk procedures like dental treatment. The present randomized control trial evaluated the efficacy of three commercial mouth-rinse viz. povidone–iodine (PI), chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), in reducing the salivary SARS-CoV-2 viral load in COVID-19 patients compared with water. Methods: A total of 36 SARS-CoV-2-positive patients were recruited, of which 16 patients were randomly assigned to four groups—PI group (n = 4), CHX group (n = 6), CPC group (n = 4) and water as control group (n = 2). Saliva samples were collected from all patients at baseline and at 5 min, 3 h and 6 h post-application of mouth-rinses/water. The samples were subjected to SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR analysis. Results: Comparison of salivary Ct values of patients within each group of PI, CHX, CPC and water at 5 min, 3 h and 6 h time points did not show any significant differences. However, when the Ct value fold change of each of the mouth-rinse group patients were compared with the fold change of water group patients at the respective time points, a significant increase was observed in the CPC group patients at 5 min and 6 h and in the PI group patients at 6 h. Conclusion: The effect of decreasing salivary load with CPC and PI mouth-rinsing was observed to be sustained at 6 h time point. Within the limitation of the current study, as number of the samples analyzed, the use of CPC and PI formulated that commercial mouth-rinses may be useful as a pre-procedural rinse to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19. ISRCTN (ISRCTN95933274), 09/09/20, retrospectively registered [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of three hand antiseptics administered using a spray dispenser (Nebucid 840) was studied together with that of conventional hand disinfection. The tests were carried out by a group of 20 dental students. To obtain baseline samples, the subjects washed their bands with unmedicated Sterisol liquid soap under running water for 30 s and dried them on sterile-packed paper towels. Microbiologic samples were taken from fingerprints pressed gently onto blood agar plates, which were then incubated aerobically and analyzed. The hand disinfection efficacy of 3 ml Isosept solution rubbed onto the hands for 30 s, followed by air drying for 60 s, was studied as a conventional control method. Dermocol, HD 410, and Hibisol antiseptics were sprayed onto the subjects' hands for 3 s using the automatic dispenser, after which the hands were gently rubbed for 30 s and air-dried for 60 s, before fingerprint contact sampling. All the tests were performed three times, with a minimum of 3 days between the series. The results showed Hibisol applied with the spray dispenser to be significantly more effective in reducing bacterial growth than the other methods. No growth was observed on 51 plates out of 60, while bacterial growth was observed in 29 cases out of 60 in the Isosept series. In most cases the spray-dispensed antiseptics proved to be more efficient than the conventional hand antiseptic. All the antiseptics were significantly more effective than the liquid soap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decubitus ulcers are slow healing; in many cases they stagnate and fail to heal. Examination of the literature concerning decubitus ulcers reveals that there is a large body of treatments which have been suggested to stimulate the healing wound. This study examines the clinical effectiveness of the various treatments, and the scientific basis behind them. The treatments currently available are compared with those discussed in the literature over the last century, and common threads emerge which have a bearing on how literally one should accept the advice offered in current textbooks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dictamnus dasycarps Turcz. which belongs to Dictamnus Linn, of Rutaceae, whose velamen can be used as medicine, is a kind of traditional Chinese medicine. It can be used for clearing away heat and drying dampness, dispelling the wind and detoxicating. It is usually used for antisepsis and anti-inflammation. The main medicinal components are alkaloids, limonin and lactones. Accompany with the deep study, the use of Dictamnus dasycarps Turcz. shows a good prospect and its application is gradually developed. This paper summarized the medicinal value of Dictamnus dasycarps Turcz. with the research results at home and abroad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe early onset (less than 34 weeks gestation) intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) affects 0.1% of pregnant women in Australia and is associated with a 3-fold increased risk of stillbirth, fetal hypoxia and compromise, spontaneous preterm birth, as well as increased frequencies of pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. ICP is often familial and overlaps with other cholestatic disorders. Treatment options for ICP are not well established, although there are limited data to support the use of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) to relieve pruritus, the main symptom. Rifampicin, a widely used antibiotic including in pregnant women, is effective in reducing pruritus in non-pregnancy cholestasis and has been used as a supplement to UDCA in severe ICP. Many women with ICP are electively delivered preterm, although there are no randomised data to support this approach.Methods: We have initiated an international multicentre randomised clinical trial to compare the clinical efficacy of rifampicin tablets (300 mg bd) with that of UDCA tablets (up to 2000 mg daily) in reducing pruritus in women with ICP, using visual pruritus scores as a measuring tool.Discussion: Our study will be the first to examine the outcomes of treatment specifically in the severe early onset form of ICP, comparing "standard" UDCA therapy with rifampicin, and so be able to provide for the first-time high-quality evidence for use of rifampicin in severe ICP. It will also allow an assessment of feasibility of a future trial to test whether elective early delivery in severe ICP is beneficial.Trial Identifiers: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registration Number (ANZCTR): 12618000332224p (29/08/2018). HREC No: HREC/18/WCHN/36. EudraCT number: 2018-004011-44. IRAS: 272398. NHMRC registration: APP1152418 and APP117853. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Iraqi Journal of Science is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The adherence of medical laboratory technicians (MLT) to infection control guidelines is essential for reducing the risk of exposure to infectious agents. This study explored the adherence of MLT towards infection control practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: The study population consisted of MLT (n = 444) who worked in private and government health sectors in Jordan. A self-reported survey was used to collect data from participants. Findings: More than 87% of the participants reported adherence to hand-washing guidelines and using personal protective equipment (PPE) when interacting with patients (74.5%), and handling clinical samples (70.0%). Besides, 88.1%, 48.2%, and 7.7% reported wearing of lab coats, face masks, and goggles, at all times, respectively. The majority reported increased adherence to infection control practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes increased PPE use at the workplace (94.2%), increased frequency of disinfection of laboratory surfaces (92.4%) and laboratory equipment (86.7%), and increased frequency of handwashing/use of antiseptics (94.6%). Having a graduate degree was significantly associated with increased adherence of participants to the daily use of goggles/eye protection (p = 0.002), and the use of PPE while handling clinical samples (p = 0.011). Having work experience of >10 years was associated with increased adherence to the use of PPE while handling clinical samples (p = 0.001). Conclusion: MLT reported very good adherence with most assessed infection control practices. In addition, they reported increased conformity with infection control guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aleksandr Urakov1,2 1Department of General and Clinical Pharmacology, Izhevsk State Medical Academy, Izhevsk City, Udmurt Republic, Russian Federation; 2Department of Modeling and Synthesis of Technological Processes, Institute of Applied Mechanics, Udmurt Federal Research Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Izhevsk City, Udmurt Republic, Russian FederationCorrespondence: Aleksandr UrakovIzhevsk State Medical Academy, Kommunarov Str., 281, Izhevsk, Udmurt Republic, 426034, Russian FederationTel +79127600939Email urakoval@live.ru View the original paper by Dr He and colleagues

The transmission control of the newly emerged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is the most effective strategy by the absence of its specified vaccine or drug. Although the aerosol mediated transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 has been confirmed, the physicochemical treatment of the biotic and abiotic objects is still the most promising approach in its infection control. The front line of the most effective disinfecting compounds on SARS‐CoV‐2 implies to be sodium hypochlorite, ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds, and phenolic compounds, respectively. However, widely used compounds of alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (benzalkonium chloride) biguanides (chlorhexidine) have not shown the multitude load reduction in less than 10 minutes. The susceptibility of SARS‐CoV‐2 to physical treatment follows the pattern of heat, acidity, and UV radiation. Rather all of the mentioned physical or chemical treatments, target the envelope proteins of the coronavirus mainly by impairing its entry to host cells. The anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 activity of combinatorial physicochemical treatments or evaluation of new chemical entities or physical treatments such as microwave irradiation still needs to be explored. Therefore, the development of a reliable decontamination protocol for SARS‐CoV‐2 demands revealing its stability pattern study vs a spectrum of single and combinatorial physicochemical parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Forum Zakażeń is the property of Evereth Publishing Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Key challenges in antisepsis include wound healing and skin tolerability • Antimicrobial resistance is also an increasing challenge in antisepsis • Povidone-iodine has the broadest spectrum of activity versus other antiseptics • Povidone-iodine has acceptable tolerability and no reports of resistance • Povidone-iodine promotes wound healing and is effective against bacterial biofilms Objectives: Using antiseptics in wound care can promote healing by preventing and treating infection. However, using antiseptics can present many challenges, including issues with tolerability, inactivation by organic matter and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance/cross-resistance. This review discussed the key challenges in antisepsis, focusing on povidone-iodine (PVP-I) antiseptic. Methods: Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, in January 2019, with a filter for the previous 5 years. Searches were based on the antimicrobial efficacy, antiseptic resistance, wound healing properties, and skin tolerability for the commonly used antiseptics PVP-I, chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG), polyhexanide (PHMB), and octenidine (OCT). Additional papers were identified based on author expertise. Results: When compared with CHG, PHMB and OCT, PVP-I had a broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, actinobacteria, bacterial spores, fungi and viruses, and a similar and broad spectrum of activity against Gram-positive bacteria. PVP-I was also highly effective at eradicating bacterial biofilms, which is a vitally important consideration for wound care and infection control. Despite a long history of extensive use, no resistance or cross-resistance to PVP-I has been recorded, which is in contrast with other antiseptics. Despite previous misconceptions, it has been shown that PVP-I has low allergenic properties, low cytotoxicity and can promote wound healing through increased expression of transforming growth factor beta. Conclusion: With increased understanding of the importance of tackling antimicrobial resistance and bacterial biofilms in acute and chronic wound care, alongside improved understanding of the challenges of antiseptic use, PVP-I remains a promising agent for the management of antisepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of Alcohol-based antiseptics is efficient and approved, however it has some limitations. This paper examined the possibility of using hypochlorite water as a chlorine-based antiseptic for handwashing in public buildings and healthcare facilities. The electrolysis method was used, which produces Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) from mixing drinking water with small amounts of sodium hydroxide. Hypochlorous acid is usually produced by blood cells to surround pathogens when the skin is cut and exposed to pathogens. The methods used were based on hydrolysing drinking water at a different salt concentration (from 0 up to saline water 0.9% NaCl) under the different power supply. The results showed that 0.005–0.01% hydrochloride water can be a perfect antiseptic that can kill most bacteria and pathogenies within 12 s. In one prototype set up one litter of the prepared solution needed the only 2 g of NaCl, 12 V and 3 amps' power. However, the pH value should be maintained to be around 5–6. The results also showed that the most efficient way was to produce the solution on-site. However, if stored properly it can be used for 7–10 days after production. Unlabelled Image • Electrolysis was used to produce hypochlorite water from saline water. • Alcohol-based antiseptics are effective against pathogens, but it has limitations. • HOCl is produced by leucocytes when skin is cut and exposed to pathogens. • Care should be taken in producing chlorine-based antiseptics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents information on the qualitative composition and quantitative content of phenolic compounds present in B-6, which constitute the dominating fraction of biologically active substances in the given herbal mix and probably account for the specific pharmacological activity of this preparation. The choice of this herbal mix composition was based on the results of a complex pharmacological investigation, which showed that the therapeutic effect of this complex preparation exceeds that of the individual plant components, and on the previous experience gained in developing multicomponent phytopreparations widely used for the treatment of urinogenital system disorders.

Astley Paston Cooper (1768-1841) was presumably the most prominent English surgeon and anatomist of the early decades of the 19th century who promoted the experimental surgery on animals, the significance of cadaveric dissection in surgery and the value of the observation and physiological knowledge for every surgeon. Becoming very early at the age of 23 lecturer on anatomy and surgery at St. Thomas's Hospital, Cooper was devoted to surgery in an era where no anesthesia and antisepsis existed, as well to anatomy and experimental surgery. First of all, he performed ligation of common carotid artery and abdominal aorta for aneurysms, resection of the contracture of the palmar aponeurosis prior to Dupuytren, whereas he contributed to advance of the hernias' and breast surgery. He was among the first surgeon in Europe that incorporated surgery to medicine, whilst his brilliant surgical teaching inspired generations of surgeons in Europe at the early 19th century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of adjunctive therapies in reducing gingivitis and plaque by means of a systematic review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Material and Methods: A search protocol was designed to identify 6‐month RCTs that investigated the efficacy of adjuncts to mechanical plaque control on gingivitis and plaque. Following screening, relevant information was extracted, and quality and potential risk of bias were estimated. Mean treatment differences were calculated to obtain standardized mean differences and weighted mean differences (SMD and WMD) as appropriate. Results: Meta‐analyses included 70 studies of adjunctive antiseptics. Compared with mechanical plaque control alone, adjuncts yielded statistically significant reductions in gingival index (n = 72; SMD = −1.268; 95% CI [−1.489; −1.047]; p <.001; I2 = 96.2%), bleeding (%) (n = 26, WMD=−14.62%; 95% CI [−18.01%; −11.23%]; p <.001; I2 = 95.1%), plaque index (n = 93, SMD = −1.017; 95% CI [−1.194; −0.840]; p <.001; I2 = 95.3%) and plaque (%) (n = 23; WMD = −18.20%; 95% CI [−24.00%; −12.50%]; p <.001; I2 = 96.9%). Mouthrinses resulted in greater reductions in per cent plaque compared with dentifrices (meta‐regression, coefficient = 13.80%; 95% CI [2.40%; 25.10%]; p =.020). The antiseptic agents were similarly effective in reducing gingivitis and plaque in patients with dental plaque‐induced gingivitis (intact periodontium) or previously treated periodontitis with gingival inflammation. Conclusion: Adjunctive antiseptics in mouthrinses and dentifrices provide statistically significant reductions in gingival, bleeding and plaque indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reducing or preventing bloodstream infection caused by invasive intravenous catheterization, emphasizes the use of an effective topical antiseptics agent; however, because of the flaw in the evidence available regarding the choice of safe antiseptic to use on infants' skin under 2 months this issue remains controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the types of antiseptics commonly used in neonatal intensive care units, consumption criteria and side effects of consumption and the effects of using antiseptics in premature infants. Methods: In this review, the total number of articles in PubMed, Scopus and ScienceDirect databases since 2010 were searched; titles and abstracts to identify relevant articles have been identified and 14 of the 48 searched articles were finally reviewed. Results: The review articles showed that different antiseptic-including chlorhexidine (CHG) 2% with alcohol base, pure CHG (in different density - 0.05%–2%), povidone-iodine 10%, isopropyl alcohol, 70% alcohol are used when inserting intravenous catheters in premature infants. Cutaneous side effect, systemic absorption and transient hyperthyroidism were reported as common side effects. Weight or age was criteria reported for antiseptic use. Various studies have been conducted to compare the effects of antiseptic with each other and different results have been reported. Conclusion: There is a paucity of evidence-based consensus guidelines for the use of appropriate antiseptic for preparing the skin before placing the intravenous catheter in preterm babies. Further research and publications are required, which will help reduce the risk of line related hospital-acquired infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing incidence of non-healing wounds constitutes a pivotal socio-economic burden. 60–80% of chronic wounds are colonized by pathogenic microorganisms within a protective extracellular polymeric substance, bearing a great challenge in wound management. Human plasma was used to prepare the biofilm model (hpBIOM), adding pathogens to the plasma and forming Coagula-like discs with integrated pathogens were produced. The antiseptics Octenisept and Lavasorb were tested regarding their antibacterial properties on clinically relevant biofilm-growing bacteria (MRSA, P. aeruginosa) in the hpBIOM. Biofilm-typical glycocalyx-formation was confirmed using immunohistochemical staining. Treatment of a 12 h-maturated biofilm with Octenisept resulted in complete eradication of P. aeruginosa and MRSA after 48 h. Lavasorb proved less effective than Octenisept in this setting. In more mature biofilms (24 h), both antiseptics showed a delayed, partially decreased efficacy. Summarized, the hpBIOM provides essential factors for a translational research approach to be used for detailed human biofilm analyses and evaluation of antimicrobial/-biofilm properties of established and novel therapeutic strategies and products. Octenisept and Lavasorb showed an attenuated efficacy in the hpBIOM compared to planktonic conditions and previously published biofilm-studies, prompting the question for the necessity of introducing new international standards and pre-admission requirements on a translational base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review summarizes the data on the main chemical and physiological properties of iodine and its capability of complexation with natural and synthetic polymers. Iodine is the best known antiseptic used to prevent and treat microbial infections. Its unique capability of complexation with certain polymers opens wide opportunities for targeted and prolonged delivery to target organs. Polymeric complexes with iodine have another color, other morphology, a higher electrical conductivity, and higher biological activity as compared with initial polymers. The formation of and ions is associated with iodine–polymer complexation. Iodine-containing biocompatible adhesive controlled-release formulations are designed as part of research into iodine–polymer complexes. The field is promising in terms of treating certain diseases because tolerance to iodine compounds does not usually develop in microbial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the discoveries of Joseph Lister in the field of medicine in March 1867. It mentions the paper published by Lister in the periodical "The Lancet," which focuses on antiseptic system for healing wounds. It cites the applicability of the antiseptics discovered by Lister in modern medicine in surgical procedures.

Novel gemini (tail‐head‐spacer‐head‐tail) bis‐quaternary ammonium compounds (bis‐QACs) with a biphenyl spacer between two pyridinium heads were synthesized and compared with commonly used antiseptics such as benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and chlorhexidine digluconate (CHG). The series of compounds showed high inhibitory activity against five bacterial strains and two fungi. The compounds, which contain C8H17‐C10H21 aliphatic tails best within the series. A counterion change does not affect MIC in general. Cytotoxicity on human embryonic kidney cells and haemolysis were also investigated. For bis‐QACs cytotoxic effect was lower than for 3,3′‐[1,4‐phenylenebis(oxy)]bis(1‐dodecylpyridinium) dibromide (3PHBO‐12), that is their closest structural analogue, and for BAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral colonisation by pathogens contributes to contracting ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The aim of this review was to determine whether the use of the antiseptic chlorhexidine in the intra-oral cavity reduced its incidence in the critically ill, mechanically ventilated adult. The findings from this review led to the conclusion that chlorhexidine reduced the occurrence of VAP. Although a recommendation to implement the use of intra-oral chlorhexidine for mechanically-ventilated patients within critical care can be made, further exploration into required frequency and method of administration would be beneficial to reduce unnecessary exposure and hinder pathogenic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this randomized split‐mouth clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of ozone therapy on clinical and biochemical parameters of moderate to severe generalized periodontitis patients after non‐surgical periodontal therapy. Methods: A total of 36 moderate to severe generalized periodontitis patients were included in the study. The patients were systemically healthy and 18 to 64 years of age. Periodontal parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), percentage of bleeding on probing, percentage of pockets deeper than 5 mm and clinical attachment level (CAL), and percentage of ≥3 mm CAL, were evaluated at baseline and 3 months following periodontal therapy. All participants were treated non‐surgically. Topical gaseous ozone was applied into periodontal pockets twice a week for 2 weeks during active periodontal therapy. Gingival crevicular fluid pentraxin‐3 (PTX‐3), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (Hs‐CRP) were evaluated. All statistical data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Total of 36 participants completed the study (18 males, 18 females). PI, GI, PD, percentage of bleeding on probing, percentage of pockets deeper than 5 mm and CAL, and percentage of ≥3 mm CAL were improved, and there were no significant differences between the two sides. All inflammatory parameters, PTX‐3, Hs‐CRP, and IL‐1, were reduced at 3‐month follow‐up. Only the decrease in PTX‐3 levels between baseline and 3‐month follow‐up was statistically significant. Conclusions: Ozone therapy did not have any additional effect on periodontal parameters. All cytokines were reduced after periodontal therapy. Only PTX‐3 levels were significantly lower at ozone sites compared to those at the control sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in females and the third in males worldwide. Conventional therapy of CRC is limited by severe side effects and by the development of resistance. Therefore, additional therapies are needed in order to combat the problem of selectivity and drug resistance in CRC patients. Inula viscosa (IV) is a well-known medicinal perennial herb in traditional medicine. It is used for different therapeutic purposes, such as; topical anti-inflammatic, diuretic, hemostatic, antiseptic, antiphlogistic, and in the treatment of diabetes. Several studies attempted to reveal the anti-cancer activity of different extracts prepared by different organic solvents from different parts of the IV plant. The aim of the present study is to examine the potential beneficial effects of IV leaf aqueous extract on the growth of colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The results indicated that exposure of colorectal cancer cells to IV extract, significantly reduced cell viability in a dose and time dependent manner. Moreover, treatment of cells with 300 μg/ml of IV extract induced apoptosis, as it was detected by Annexin V/FITC/PI, TUNEL assay, and the activation of caspases. In vivo studies revealed that treatment with 150 or 300 mg/kg IV extract inhibited tumor growth in mice transplanted with MC38 cells. Tumors' weight and volume were significantly (P < 0.001) reduced when compared to untreated-control group. Staining of the paraffin section of tumors revealed that IV treatment inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. Additionally, no side effects such as; weight loss, behavior changes, ruffled fur or changes in kidney, and liver functions were observed. These results may indicate that active doses of IV extract are not toxic. Further studies are needed in order to identify the structure of the active compounds. Results from this study may contribute to the development of new and efficient strategies for treatment of human colon cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of oral antiseptics on the corrosion of nickel–titanium (NiTi) alloys with various coating was investigated. Uncoated, titanium nitride-coated and rhodium-coated NiTi archwires (0.020 × 0.020″) were tested in interaction with artificial saliva pH 4.8 and oral antiseptics based on hyaluronic acid (Gengigel), chlorhexidine (Curasept) and essential oils in alcohol base (Listerine). The dynamics of nickel and titanium ions release were recorded during 28 days. Springback ratio and modulus of resilience were assessed by three-point bending test. The results showed that corrosion of NiTi is related to type of antiseptic mouth rinse and coating formulations. Exposure to an artificial saliva and antiseptics tend to reduce flexibility and resilience of NiTi archwires. The influence of the media is more significant than the influence of the type of the alloys coating. The largest release of nickel ions is in the first 3 days. Antiseptics do not cause further deterioration of the elastic properties in uncoated NiTi compared to saliva. As a result of exposure of nitrified NiTi wires in Listerine, there is bigger release of nickel ions, decrease in elastic properties and lower force delivery in unload. Listerine tends to reduce elastic properties of rhodium-coated wires also. In conclusion, except for Listerine, changes of mechanical characteristics induced by antiseptics are small and would not have a clinically important impact. Generally, Curasept would be the most suitable option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Povidone iodine (PVI) is a widely used antiseptic solution among surgeons. A meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to establish whether application of PVI before wound closure could reduce surgical site infection (SSI) rates.Methods: Systematic review of MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases from inception to September 2017, with no language restrictions. Only RCTs were retrieved. The primary outcome was the SSI rate. Meta-analysis was complemented with trial sequential analysis (TSA).Results: A total of 7601 patients collected from 16 RCTs were analyzed. A reduction in overall SSI rate was found (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.48-0.85, P = 0.002, I2 = 65%), which was attributed to patients undergoing elective operations (n = 2358) and mixed elective/urgent operations (n = 2019). When RCTs of uncertain quality (n = 9) were excluded, the use of PVI before wound closure (n = 4322 patients) was not associated with a significant reduction of SSI (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.55-1.20, P = 0.29, I2 = 51%) and was only significant in clean wounds (RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.09-0.70, P = 0.008, I2 = 0%). For the primary outcome, the TSA calculation using a relative risk reduction of 19% and an 11% proportion of control event rate (CER) with 51% of I2, the accrued information size (n = 4322) was 32.8% of the estimated optimal information size (n = 13,148).Conclusions: There is no conclusive evidence for a strong recommendation of topical PVI before wound closure to prevent SSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Plums are much appreciated by consumers as fresh fruit but have a limited storage life. Since reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with fruit ripening, an increase in ROS scavenging antioxidant systems could lead to a delay in postharvest plum ripening and in maintaining fruit quality after long cold storage. RESULTS: Results showed that crop yield (kg per tree) and fruit weight were enhanced by preharvest oxalic acid (OA) treatment of plum cultivars ('Black Splendor' and 'Royal Rosa'), although the on‐tree ripening process was delayed. In addition, the ripening process during cold storage was delayed in plums from OA‐treated tress, manifested by lower firmness and acidity losses and reduced ethylene production, as compared with fruits from control trees. Antioxidant compounds (phenolics, anthocyanins and carotenoids) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes were higher in plums from OA‐treated trees than in controls, at harvest and during 50 days of cold storage. CONCLUSION: OA preharvest treatment could be a useful tool to maintain plum quality properties during long‐term storage, by delaying the postharvest ripening process through a delay in ethylene production, with an additional effect on increasing bioactive compounds with health beneficial effects. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of topical antimicrobials is beneficial for infection control in wound care because wound infection is the major cause of delayed healing. The advantages of topical over systemic antimicrobials include a higher concentration at the target site, fewer systemic adverse effects, and a lower incidence of antimicrobial resistance. Nowadays, topical antimicrobials are divided into three groups: disinfectants, antiseptics, and antibiotics. Only antiseptics and antibiotics can be applied to living skin; therefore, this review will focus only on these groups. The advantages of each topical antimicrobial are well established; however, their disadvantages remain prominent. It is widely known that antiseptics show higher cytotoxicity and a broader spectrum of activity than antibiotics, whereas antibiotics show a higher probability of bacterial resistance development. However, there are still many adverse effects, resulting from each topical antimicrobial. This review aims to summarize the possible adverse effects of commonly used antiseptics (biguanide, silver, iodine, chlorine compounds, and other antiseptics), antibiotics (bacitracin, mafenide, mupirocin, neomycin, and silver sulfadiazine), and natural antimicrobials (curcumin and honey). Moreover, the antimicrobials that should be avoided in particular populations are also summarized in this review in order to increase awareness for antimicrobial selection in those populations. [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]

Antimicrobial resistance is an ever‐increasing global concern, with the era of untreatable infection becoming a reality. Wound care is no exception, with increasing issues of antibiotic‐resistant infections across different wound types and care settings. Antibiotic resistance and stewardship have been the priority for most strategic interventions so far; however, in wound care, alternative or supplementary strategies using antiseptics should be considered. Antiseptics such as silver can provide effective cidal activity across a broad range of wound pathogens, assuming they are used at the correct level for an appropriate duration. Evidence summarised in this manuscript suggests that effective antiseptics, such as nanocrystalline silver, have an increasing body of evidence in support of their use to minimise transmission of antibiotic‐resistant organisms as part of institutional infection control procedures and, in addition, through appropriate early use and stewardship on local wound infections, in conjunction with local procedures, to minimise the need for systemic antibiotic therapy. Engagement, alignment, and collaboration between wound care professionals and wider related teams and governments on antimicrobial stewardship, and the potential role of antiseptics within this, will help to generate further evidence for such interventions in the fight against antimicrobial‐resistant infections in wound care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxybenzoates are an important class of phenols that are widely used as preservatives and antiseptics in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this report, a facile preparation of 2,6- and 2,3-disubstituted 4/5-hydroxybenzoates by iridium-catalyzed borylation of respective disubstituted benzoate esters followed by oxidation is described. This synthetic route allows for the incorporation of halogens in the final hydroxybenzoates with substitution patterns not readily accessible by the traditional routes of aromatic functionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of chlorhexidine irrigation on the periodontal status of patients with HA-coated dental implants as measured by clinical, microbiological, and immunological measures. Thirty non-adjacent implants were randomly assigned to receive a one-time irrigation with either 0.12% chlorhexidine or sterile saline, or no irrigation. All parameters were measured at baseline, 2, 5, and 8 weeks. Results showed no significant differences between any treatment modalities at any time interval. A statistically significant decrease in probing depth (P < .05) occurred within the chlorhexidine and no treatment groups at all time intervals compared to baseline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]