Capsicum annuum Oleoresin Nanoemulgel - Design Characterization and In vitro Investigation of Anticancer and Antimicrobial Activities

BACKGROUND

The use of naturally occurring bioactive materials is getting great attention owing to their safety and environmental properties. Oily compounds, known as oleoresins, are expected to provide an important source for the natural products industry aiming to develop novel treatments for skin conditions. In this work, Capsicum annuum oleoresin nanoemulgel formulations have been prepared and investigated for their antibacterial and anticancer properties.

METHODOLOGY

Several C. annuum oleoresin nanoemulgel formulations were prepared by incorporating a Carbopol 940 gel in a self-nanoemulsifying nanoemulsion consisting of C. annuum, tween 80, and span 80. The systems were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and rheology. The in vitro antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of the optimum formulation were evaluated.

RESULTS

The selected formulation is composed of 40% tween, 10% span 80, and 40% C. annuum oleoresin. This formulation produced a stable nanoemulsion with a narrow PDI value of 0.179 ± 0.08 and a droplet size of 104.0 ± 2.6 nm. Results of the in vitro antimicrobial studies indicated high potency of the systems against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (zone of inhibition of 29 ± 1.9 mm), E. coli (33 ± 0.9 mm), K. pneumonia (30 ± 1.4 mm), and C. albicans (21 ± 1.5 mm), as compared to the reference antibiotic, ampicillin (18 ± 1.4 mm against K. pneumonia), and antifungal agent, fluconazole (12 ± 0.1 mm against C. albicans). Furthermore, cytotoxicity results, expressed as IC50 values, revealed that the oleoresin and its nanoemulgel had the best effects against the HepG2 cell line (IC50 value of 79.43 μg/mL for the nanoemulgel) and MCF7 (IC50 value of 57.54 μg/mL), and the most potent effect was found against 3T3 (IC50 value of 45.7 μg/m- L). On the other side, the system did not substantially exhibit activity against By-61 and Hela.

CONCLUSION

C. annuum oleoresin and its nanoemulgel can be considered valuable sources for the discovery of new antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer compounds in the pharmaceutical industry, especially due to their potent activity against various cancer cell lines as well as bacterial and fungal strains.

Assessment of anticancer, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-obesity and antioxidant activity of Ocimum Basilicum seeds essential oil from Palestine

BACKGROUND

Many modern pharmaceutical researchers continue to focus on the discovery and evaluation of natural compounds for possible therapies for obesity, diabetes, infections, cancer, and oxidative stress. Extraction of Ocimum basilicum seed essential oil and evaluation of its antioxidant, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities were the goals of the current study.

METHOD

O. basilicum seed essential oil was extracted and evaluated for its anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic properties utilizing standard biomedical assays.

RESULTS

O. basilicum seed essential oil showed good anticancer activity against Hep3B (IC₅₀ 56.23 ± 1.32 µg/ml) and MCF-7 (80.35 ± 1.17 µg/ml) when compared with the positive control, Doxorubicin. In addition, the essential oil showed potent antibacterial (against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and antifungal (against Candida albicans) activities. Moreover, as for the anti-amylase test, IC₅₀ was 74.13 ± 1.1 µg/ml, a potent effect compared with the IC₅₀ of acarbose, which was 28.10 ± 0.7 µg/ml. On the other hand, for the anti-lipase test, the IC₅₀ was 112.20 ± 0.7 µg/ml a moderate effect compared with the IC₅₀ of orlistat, which was 12.30 ± 0.8 µg/ml. Finally, the oil had a potent antioxidant effect with an IC₅₀ of 23.44 ± 0.9 µg/ml compared with trolox (IC₅₀ was 2.7 ± 0.5 µg/ml).

CONCLUSION

This study has provided initial data that supports the importance of O. basilcum essential oil in traditional medicine. The extracted oil not only exhibited significant anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties but also antidiabetic and anti-obesity effects, which provided a foundation for future research.

Development of Miconazole Nitrate Nanoparticles Loaded in Nanoemulgel to Improve its Antifungal Activity

Miconazole is a synthetic derivative of imidazole, a medication with a broad-spectrum antifungal agent that is used to treat localized vaginal, skin, and nail infections. The aim of the study was to develop an innovative technique to improve the permeability and efficacy of topical miconazole nitrate. A nanoemulgel of miconazole nitrate was formulated by the incorporation of a nanoemulsion and a hydrogel. The nanoemulsion was first optimized using a self-emulsifying technique, and the drug was then loaded into the optimum formulation and evaluated prior to mixing with the hydrogel. Miconazole nitrate nanoemulgel formulations were evaluated for their physical characteristics and antifungal activity. Based on the results, the formulation with 0.4 % Carbopol showed the highest release profile (41.8 mg/ml after 2 h); thus, it was chosen as the optimum formulation. A cell diffusion test was performed to examine the ability of the Miconazole nitrate nanoemulgel to penetrate the skin and reach the bloodstream. Percentage cumulative drug releases of 29.67 % and 23.79 % after 6 h were achieved for the MNZ nanoemulgel and the commercial cream, Daktazol, respectively. The antifungal activity of the novel MNZ nanoemulgel formulation was tested against Candida albicans and compared to Daktazol cream and almond oil; the results were: 40.9 ± 2.3 mm, 25.4 ± 2.7 mm and 18 ± 1.9 mm, respectively. In conclusion, a novel MNZ nanoemulgel showing superior antifungal activity compared to that of the commercial product has been developed. This nanotechnology technique is a step toward making pharmaceutical dosage forms that has a lot of promise.

Comparing and contrasting different herbal products intended for the management of obesity approved in the Palestinian markets

BACKGROUND

The use of conventional medical therapies has proven to have many setbacks and safety concerns that need further improvement. However, herbal medicine has been used for over 2000 years, and many studies have proven the use of herbs to be effective and safe. This article discussed the efficacy of different herbal products used in the management of obesity. To evaluate the efficacy of seven herbal-based weight loss products currently available on the Palestinian market, using in vitro assays to screen for antioxidants, anti-amylase, and anti-lipase effects for each product.

METHOD

Pancreatic lipase and salivary amylase inhibitory activities, as well as antioxidant analysis, were tested in vitro on a variety of herbal products. Then the IC₅₀ was measured for each test.

RESULTS

The anti-lipase assay results, IC₅₀ values in (μg/mL) of each of the seven products (Product A, product B, product C, product D, product E, product F, and product G) were 114.78, 532.1, 60.18, 53.33, 244.9, 38.9, and 48.97, respectively. The IC₅₀ value for orlistat (Reference) was 12.3 μg/ml. On the other hand, the IC₅₀ value for alpha amylase inhibition of the seven products (Product A, product B, product C, product D, product E, product F, and product F) were 345.93, 13,803.84 (Inactive), 73.79, 130.91, 165.95, 28.18, and 33.11 μg/ml respectively, while acarbose (Reference) was 23.38 μg/ml. The antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ values) for the seven products (Product A, product B, product C, product D, product E, product F, and product F) were 1258.92, 707.94, 79.43, 186.20, 164.81, 17.53, and 10.47 μg/ml respectively. While the IC₅₀ value for Trolox was 2.70 μg/ml.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that the seven products showed varied anti-lipase, anti-amylase, and antioxidant effects. However, products F and G showed superiority in all categories.

Knowledge, Perceptions and Attitudes among Sharia Practitioners in Palestine Regarding Halal Pharmaceuticals: An Exploratory Study

The purpose of this questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was to investigate the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding halal pharmaceuticals among sharia practitioners in Palestine. A total of 420 sharia practitioners with different educational levels were included. This was a cross-sectional study conducted between March and July 2021 with the use of a standardized, self-administered questionnaire. Volunteers were selected throughout Palestine using a systematic random selection approach. The data were summarized using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage, median, and interquartile range). The Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to examine the relationship between demographic factors and the knowledge, attitude, and perception scores, respectively. The results revealed that sharia practitioners have relatively good and positive knowledge toward halal pharmaceuticals. The main knowledge of most halal pharmaceuticals was about 50.2%, yet there is still significant latitude in their knowledge of a few issues. The main attitude and perception score was about 96.4%. The results showed a positive and fair correlation between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.153, P < 0.001) and also between knowledge and perception (r = 0.341, P < 0.001). In addition, there is a good correlation between attitude and perception (r = 0.681, P < 0.001). The study concluded that better knowledge of halal pharmaceuticals is associated with positive perceptions and behaviors. The government, pharmaceutical manufacturers, religious scholars, and health care professionals should collaborate to achieve the goal of using halal medications.

Synthesis of novel isoxazole-carboxamide derivatives as promising agents for melanoma and targeted nano-emulgel conjugate for improved cellular permeability

BACKGROUND

Cancer is one of the most dangerous and widespread diseases in the world today and it has risen to the position of the leading cause of death around the globe in the last few decades. Due to the inherent resistance of many types of cancer to conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy, it is vital to develop innovative anticancer medications. Recently, a strategy based on nanotechnology has been used to improve the effectiveness of both old and new cancer drugs.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to design and synthesize a series of phenyl-isoxazole-Carboxamide derivatives, evaluate their anticancer properties, and improve the permeability of potent compounds into cancer cells by using a nano-emulgel strategy.

METHODS

The coupling reaction of aniline derivatives and isoxazole-Carboxylic acid was used to synthesize a series of isoxazole-Carboxamide derivatives. IR, HRMS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectroscopy techniques, characterized all the synthesized compounds. The in-vitro cytotoxic evaluation was performed by using the MTS assay against seven cancer cell lines, including hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep3B and HepG2), cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa), breast carcinoma (MCF-7), melanoma (B16F1), colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2), and colon adenocarcinoma (Colo205), as well as human hepatic stellate (LX-2) in addition to the normal cell line (Hek293T). A nano-emulgel was developed for the most potent compound, using a self-emulsifying technique.

RESULTS

All synthesized compounds were found to have potent to moderate activities against B16F1, Colo205, and HepG2 cancer cell lines. The results revealed that the 2a compound has broad spectrum activity against B16F1, Colo205, HepG2, and HeLa cancer cell lines with an IC₅₀ range of 7.55-40.85 µM. Moreover, compound 2e was the most active compound against B16F1 with an IC₅₀ of 0.079 µM compared with Dox (IC₅₀ = 0.056 µM). Nanoemulgel was used to increase the potency of the 2e molecule against this cancer cell line, and the IC₅₀ was reduced to 0.039 µM. The antifibrotic activities were investigated against the LX-2 cell line, and it was found that our synthesized molecules showed better antifibrotic activities at 1 µM than 5-FU, and the cell viability values were 67 and 95%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that a 2e nano-formalized compound is a potential and promising anti-melanoma agent.

Isolation, identification, and antimycotic activity of plumbagin from Plumbago europaea L. roots, leaves and stems

Plumbago europaea L. is a plant utilized in Palestinian ethnomedicine for the treatment of various dermatological diseases. The current investigation was designed to isolate plumbagin from P. europaea leaves, roots and for the first time from the stems. Moreover, it aimed to evaluate the antimycotic activity against three human fungal pathogens causing dermatophytosis, also against an animal fungal pathogen. The qualitative analysis of plumbagin from the leaves, stems, and roots was conducted using HPLC and spectrophotometer techniques, while the structure of plumbagin was established utilizing Proton and Carbon-13 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Infrared (IR) techniques. The entire plant constituents were determined by GC-MS. Moreover, the antimycotic activity against Ascosphaera apis, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton rubrum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes was assessed utilizing the poison food technique method. The percentage of plumbagin recorded in the leaves, stems, and roots was found to be 0.51±0.001%, 0.16±0.001%, and 1.65±0.015%, respectively. The GC-MS examination declared the presence of 59 molecules in the plant extract. The plant extract and pure plumbagin exhibited complete inhibition against all tested dermatophytes at 6.0mg/mL for the extracts and 0.2mg/mL for plumbagin. P. europaea root is the best source of plumbagin and the plant extract could represent a potential drug candidate for the treatment of dermatophytosis infections. Further studies required to design suitable dosage forms from the natural P. europaea root extracts or plumbagin alone, to be utilized for the treatment of dermatological and veterinary ailments.

Molecular docking, chemo-informatic properties, alpha-amylase, and lipase inhibition studies of benzodioxol derivatives

Currently, available therapies for diabetes could not achieve normal sugar values in a high percentage of treated patients. In this research project, a series of 17 benzodioxole derivatives were evaluated as antidiabetic agents; that belong to three different groups were evaluated against lipase and alpha-amylase (α-amylase) enzymes. The results showed that 14 compounds have potent inhibitory activities against α-amylase with IC₅₀ values below 10 µg/ml. Among these compounds, 4f was the most potent compound with an IC₅₀ value of 1.11 µg/ml compared to the anti-glycemic agent acarbose (IC₅₀ 6.47 µg/ml). On the contrary, these compounds showed weak or negligible activities against lipase enzyme. However, compound 6a showed the best inhibitory anti-lipase activity with IC₅₀ 44.1 µg/ml. Moreover, all the synthesized compounds were undergone Molinspiration calculation, and the result showed that all compounds obeyed Lipinski's rule of five. Molecular docking studies were performed to illustrate the binding interactions between the benzodioxole derivatives and α-amylase enzyme pocket. Related to the obtained results it was clear that the carboxylic acid, benzodioxole ring, halogen or methoxy substituted aryl are important for the anti-amylase activities. The potent inhibitory results of some of the synthesized compounds suggest that these molecules should go further in vivo evaluation. It also suggests the benzodioxole derivatives as lead compounds for developing new drug candidates.

Biological evaluation of Safrole oil and Safrole oil Nanoemulgel as antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer

Background

Safrole is a natural compound extracted from various plants, and has shown various biological activities. The current study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anticancer activity of safrole oil and to study the influence of safrole nanoemulgel on these activities.

Methods

The antioxidant and antidiabetic in-vitro assays were conducted using standard biomedical methods. The safrole oil nanoemulgel was developed using a self-emulsifying technique. Then the antimicrobial activity of the safrole oil and safrole nanoemulgel were performed on different microbial species, and cytotoxicity was determined against Hep3B cancer cell lines using the MTS assay.

Results

Safrole oil showed moderate antioxidant activity compared with standard Trolox, with IC₅₀ value 50.28 ± 0.44 and 1.55 ± 0.32 μg/ml, respectively. Moreover, it had potent α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ 11.36 ± 0.67 μg/ml) compared with Acarbose (IC₅₀ value 5.88 ± 0.63). The safrole nanoemulgel had pseudo-plastic behaviour, droplet sizes below 200 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) below 0.3, and a zeta potential of less than − 30 mV. Safrole oil has potential antimicrobial and anticancer activities, and these activities were improved with safrole nanoemulgel.

Conclusion

The safrole oil may be applied for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress, diabetes, different microbial species and cancer, and these activities could be improved by nano-carriers.

Formulation and In Vitro and In Vivo Assessment of Natural Emulgel Containing Lemongrass Essential Oil

This study aimed to develop a topical emulgel formulation from olive oil and lemongrass (LG) extracts and to evaluate its in vitro and in vivo (sensorial) properties in addition to its sun protection factor (SPF) value. The primary emulsion and the gel were prepared separately, and then they were levigated together to formulate the emulgel. The produced emulgel was evaluated for its physical appearance, pH, spreadability, and stability. The SPF value of emulgel was evaluated by applying the Mansur equation. Moreover, an in vivo sensorial assessment was conducted on the emulgel through a crossover study by including 20 volunteers. The results confirm good stability for emulgel formulations because there was no significant change in the pH value, no micelle inversion, or phase separation detected. The emulgel recorded a moderate SPF value (5.5) which can be useful for daily use, especially in tanned skin subjects. Moreover, the sensorial assessment of LG and blank emulgels showed a significant change in the cooling effect, odor, and smoothness and add some kind of moisture. In fact, there was a significant difference in overall properties between the two formulations where the p-value was less than 0.05. It is concluded the emulgel formulation containing LG and olive oil could be beneficial in terms of applicability and stability and can be easily formulated in pharmaceutical facilities. Besides, it would be useful for daily use because of the overall suitable properties, especially odor, feel, and SPF value.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Benzodioxole Derivatives as Potential Anticancer and Antioxidant agents

a series of benzodioxole compounds were synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against cervical (Hela), colorectal (Caco-2), and liver (Hep3B) cancer cell lines. Compounds 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a and 7b showed very weak or negligible anticancer activity with IC50 3.94-9.12 mM. On the contrary, carboxamide containing compounds 2a and 2b showed anticancer activity. Both 2a and 2b reduced Hep3B secretions of α-fetoprotein (α-FP) to 1625.8 ng/ml and 2340 ng/ml, respectively, compared to 2519.17 ng/ml in untreated cells. The results also showed that compound 2a has potent anticancer activity against Hep3B cancer cell line. Furthermore, in cell cycle analysis, compound 2a induced arrest in the G2-M phase in value of 8.07% that was very close to the activity of doxorubicin (7.4%). These results indicate that compound 2a has a potent and promising antitumor activity. However, benzodiazepine derivatives (7a and 7b) showed moderate antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 39.85 and 79.95 μM, respectively compared with the potent antioxidant agent Trolox (IC50 = 7.72 μM).

Public Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Herbal Remedies Used During Pregnancy and Lactation in West Bank Palestine

The use of herbal products by pregnant and lactating mothers without awareness of their harmful effects may expose both mother and fetus or infant to great dangers, such as abortion, premature delivery, uterine bleeding, and physical and mental retardation of the fetus. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which herbal product treatment is used and the reason for which such products are used and to ensure that these reasons are correct. An ethnopharmacological survey (cross-sectional observational design study) using a pre-piloted questionnaire was undertaken on herbal products used by pregnant and lactating women in the West Bank area of Palestine. A questionnaire was distributed to 350 pregnant and lactating women. The informed consent forms, ethics, and aims of the present study were reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at An-Najah National University. To identify the most important species used, the use value (UV) index was employed, while the SPSS program was used to analyze the data. Collected data revealed that 13 medicinal plants are utilized, while 12 plants are not used during pregnancy. Moreover, 15 plants are utilized and 9 plants are not used during lactation for treating and dealing with various problems. The most commonly used plants belonged to 14 families, including Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, Leguminosae, and Rubiaceae. The plants most used during pregnancy were sage (Salvia fruticosa), anise (Pimpinella anisum), and peppermint (Mentha × piperita). Castor (Ricinus communis) oil, ginger (Zingiber officinale), saffron (Crocus sativus), and senna (Senna alexandrina) mostly were not used by pregnant women. Moreover, cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), anise (P. anisum), peppermint (M. piperita), and sage (S. fruticosa) were mostly used during lactation. Castor (R. communis) oil, ginger (Z. officinale), garlic (Allium sativum), and aloe (Aloe vera) mostly were not used during lactation. This study is of great importance in order to decrease the possibility of endangering the lives of fetuses and infants. A combined effort among researchers, scientists, lactating women, and pregnant women may help in changing wrong uses and thoughts about medicinal plants and help to improve the overall health of both mother and fetus.

Development and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Eruca Sativa Oil Nanoemulgel with Determination of the Oil Antioxidant, Sun Protection Factor and Elastase Inhibition

OBJECTIVES

This project aims to develop a bio-natural nano-product with Cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

METHODS

E. sativa oil was evaluated for its anti-oxidant, sun protection factor and elastase inhibition. Then, nanoemulgel formulations were prepared for E. sativa oil through the combination of nanoemulsion with hydrogel. E. sativa nanoemulsion formulations were prepared by the help of a selfemulsification technique. After this, the optimum formulation was mixed with Carbopol to produce the nanoemulgel. Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities were evaluated.

RESULTS

Nanoemulsion occurred when the size of the droplets was 195.29 nm with the lowest polydispersibility index 0.207. The results of antioxidant, anti-elastase and SPF activities for E. sativa oil were 2.10 µg/ml, 25.1 µg/ml and an SPF value of 5.57, respectively. In addition, in the anti-bacterial test for Staphylococcus aureus, it was found that nanoemulgel has an inhibition zone of 2.1 cm in diameter. According to the MRSA, the inhibition zone was 1.5 cm.

CONCLUSION

E. Sativa oil could be a promising candidate in cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical preparations.

Antibacterial Activity of Fusidic Acid and Sodium Fusidate Nanoparticles Incorporated in Pine Oil Nanoemulgel

Purpose

Fusidic acid (FA) and sodium fusidate (SF) have problems in their skin penetration and stability resulting in a reduction in their potency; therefore, the objective of this study was to develop FA and SF nanoemulgels to improve the antibacterial activity of the drugs.

Methods

FA and SF nanoemulgel formulations were prepared by the incorporation of FA and SF nanoemulsions with Carbopol hydrogel. First, the drugs were screened for their solubility in different oils and surfactants to choose the suitable oil and surfactants for the drugs, and then the drug nanoemulsion formulations were prepared by a self-nanoemulsifying technique using Tween 80, Span 20 and pine oil. The drug nanoemulgels were evaluated for their particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), rheological behaviour, drug release and anti-microbial activity.

Results

Based on the solubility test, pine oil was the best solubilising oil for both drugs, Tween 80 and Span 20 showed the highest solubilising ability for both the drugs among the surfactants; therefore, they were chosen as surfactant and co-surfactant, respectively. The optimum self-nanoemulsifying formulations showed a particle size for fusidic acid and Sodium fusidate of 140.58 nm and 151.86 nm respectively, and both showed a low PDI below 0.3. After incorporating both drug SNEDDS formulations with Carbopol at different concentrations, the results of the drugs particle size and PDI showed no significant difference. The zeta potential results for both drugs nanoemulgels showed a negative potential with more than 30 mV. All nanoemulgel formulations showed pseudo-plastic behaviour with the highest release pattern at 0.4% Carbopol. The antibacterial activity of both drug nanoemulgel formulations showed superiority over the market product.

Conclusion

Nanoemulgel is a promising delivery system for FA and SF that helps in improving the stability and antibacterial activities of the drugs.

Anti-Microbial and Free Radical Scavenging Activities of Nigella Sativa Colloidal-Emulgel

Background:

Nigella sativa L. (N. sativa) has been reported to have biological activities such as anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-fungal activities.

Objective:

This study aims to develop N. Sativa colloidal-emulgel with the evaluation of its antibacterial, anti-oxidant and in-vivo irritation and sensation testing.

Method:

Colloidal-emulgel formulations were prepared for N. sativa using different surfactants (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (S.L.S) and sucrose ester). N. sativa emulsion formulations were prepared using heat inversion technique. After that, the optimum formulation was mixed with Carbopol to produce the colloidal-emulgel. The droplet size, size distribution, and rheological behavior were measured for emulgel formulations. Anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant activities were also reported in the in vivo studies for sensitivity, irritancy and spreadability.

Results:

It was found that the sucrose ester was able to produce the optimum emulsion formulation with droplets size of less than 1 μm. In the anti-bacterial test for Staphylococcus aureus, it was found that emulgel has an inhibition zone of 2.5 cm in diameter, but the oil alone being 1.3 cm. According to MRSA, the inhibition zone for emulgel was 1.1 cm, but for oil, it was 0.5 cm in diameter. Emulgel does not show any irritation or sensitivity. Also it has a homogeneous appearance with a smooth texture. In addition, it shows fair mechanical properties, and easy spreadability with acceptable bio-adhesion.

Conclusion:

It is concluded that N. sativa emulgel has been prepared with dermatological and cosmeceutical benefits.

Training Parents in Saudi Arabia to Implement Discrete Trial Teaching with their Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The present study evaluates the effects of a behavioral skill training package on parent implementation of discrete trial teaching with their children with autism spectrum disorder. Three mothers of children with autism participated in the study. The training package improved implementation for all three of the mothers. Moreover, these improvements generalized to skills that were not taught during training, maintained during follow-up probes, and resulted in improvements in child behavior.

The preparation and evaluation of self-nanoemulsifying systems containing Swietenia oil and an examination of its anti-inflammatory effects

There is an increasing trend among pharmaceutical industries to use natural bioactive materials as medicinal agents and to use new technologies such as self-nanoemulsifying systems. The solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs can be enhanced by self-nanoemulsifying systems. Swietenia oil is frequently used because of its antimicrobial, antimutagenic, and anticancer bioactive medical properties. This study was conducted to develop self-nanoemulsifying systems for Swietenia oil that will enhance the anti-inflammatory activity of the oil. The self-emulsifying systems developed for Swietenia oil in this study were constructed using ternary phase diagrams and contained the nonionic surfactants Labrasol^®, Tween 20, Capmul^®, and Labrafil^®. The effect of these surfactants on the formulation was examined. The mean droplet size of Swietenia oil as well as their distribution, appearance, viscosity, and spreading times were studied to find the optimum formula, which contained droplets that were less than 200 nm. The next step was to test the anti-inflammatory properties of the optimum formula using a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema test. The results from this test were compared to the oil solution. Different oil/surfactants mixtures had various emulsification properties that were related to the size of their droplets. Tween 20 is a good surfactant to use in self-emulsifying systems because it produces droplets of nano-size. Mixtures of Capmul/Labrasol at a ratio of 2:1 and Labrafil/Tween 20 at a ratio of 1:2 were able to produce self-nanoemulsifying formulations containing Swietenia oil concentrations that ranged from 20%–50%. Nanoemulsion occurred when the size of the droplets fell below 200 nm with low size distribution (<0.3) after being gently mixed with water. It was found that the hydrophilic/lipophilic balance value affected the ternary phase diagram behavior of Swietenia oil and surfactants. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties of Swietenia oil were greater in the self-nanoemulsifying systems than in the oil solution.

Macrophage recruitment and activation: a model for comparing resistance to Salmonella enteritidis in different broiler breeds

A model for comparing resistance to Salmonella Enteritidis was evaluated in different broiler breeds. The recruitment and phagocytic activity of peritoneal macrophages were assessed in three different broiler breeds (A, B and C) which are farmed world-wide. Assessment was performed after three days of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of 3% Sephadex G-200 (10 ml), initiated at twenty-one days of age, followed by contact with i.p. live S. Enteritidis (10 ml, 1.2 x 10(8) colony forming units/ml) for 45 min. Assessment included determination of the number of i.p. macrophages recruited, the number of i.p. phagocytized S. Enteritidis cells per macrophage, the levels of degranulated i.p. beta-glucuronidase and beta-galactosidase, and the count of surviving S. Enteritidis cells. Confirmation of the significance of the model was obtained by comparing resistance to field infection by S. Enteritidis in the three broiler breeds. The recruitment of i.p. macrophages in response to challenge with Sephadex and S. Enteritidis was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in birds of breed A (mean cumulative i.p. macrophage count, in 10 fields of microscopic slide smear magnified at x1,000, was equal to 81.7), compared to recruitment in birds of breed B (33.3) or breed C (41.2). The mean number of phagocytized S. Enteritidis cells per i.p. macrophage in birds of breed A (2.68) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than in breed B (0.83) and insignificantly higher (P > 0.05) than in breed C (2.35). In addition, the highest level of recruitment and phagocytic activity of macrophages, in birds of breed A, was associated with a higher significant mean i.p. beta-glucuronidase activity (10,425.5 units/ml) than in breed B (3,438.2 units/ml) or breed C (3,356.94 units/ml) (P < 0.05). Moreover, birds of breed A demonstrated a higher mean i.p. beta-galactosidase activity (2.225 units/ml) than birds of breed B (0.852 units/ml) or breed C (1.852 units/ml) (P > 0.05). The higher level of recruitment and activity of i.p. macrophages and the higher rate of degranulation of i.p. enzymes in breed A were associated with a greater number of surviving i.p. S. Enteritidis cells. In response to outbreaks of S. Enteritidis in the field, the average mortality was significantly higher in flocks of breed A (3.2%) than in flocks of breed B (1.2%) or breed C (0.96%) (P < 0.05). These data provide an indication of the significance of the model in reflecting the differences in resistance of S. Enteritidis of broiler breeds reared in a farm environment.

Acute haematogenous osteomyelitis and ABO blood groups and secretor status

A correlation was found between the incidence of acute haematogenous osteomyelitis (AHO) and ABO blood groups but not between AHO and the secretory function of the saliva. AHO is more common among children of blood group O and, to a lesser extent, group A. Although it was found to occur more commonly among secretors than non-secretors, the difference from a control group was not statistically significant. At present this possibility can only be taken as a tentative suggestion for further research in this field.

Fractures of the pelvis

Pelvic fractures in this series constituted 3.3% of all traumatic admissions and 5.7% of all fractures. A classification of pelvic fractures was adopted in which five types were identified. Type I (24.2%) comprised fractures without a break in the pelvic ring. Type II (17.7%) comprised those with a single break in the pelvic ring. Fractures with a double break of the pelvic ring constituted Type III (23.6%). Multiple fractures of the pelvis were identified as Type IV (10.8%). Fractures of the acetabulum were grouped separately as Type V (23.7%). On the basis of blood loss, mortality and potential disability, Types I and II constituted the 'minor' fractures of the pelvis. Types III, IV and V were the 'major' fractures of the pelvis, of which Type IV were the worst. The commonest fracture encountered was that of a single pubic ramus. The pubic area was involved in 43.0% of the cases. Associated injuries were common (2.19 per patient). Some of these lesions were the result of the causative trauma. Some others, however, were related to certain types of pelvic fractures.

Early urinary complications of fractures of the pelvis

The occurrence, relation to a particular type of fracture of the pelvis and the possible mechanism of early urinary complications were studied in 186 consecutive patients with fracture of the pelvis. Eighty-eight patients (47.3%) showed early urinary complications. These complications were minor in 73 patients (83.0%; 32.9% of all pelvic features) and major in 15 (17.0%; 8.1% of all pelvic fractures). The former comprised retention of urine in 41 patients (33.0%; 15.6% of all pelvic fractures), haematuria in 29 patients (33.0%; 15.6% of all pelvic fractures), and oliguria in three (3.4%; 1.6% of all pelvic fractures). The latter comprised rupture of the posterior urethra in nine patients (10.2%; 4.8% of all pelvic fractures), rupture of the bladder in five (5.7%; 2.7; of all pelvic fractures), and combined injury to the bladder and posterior urethra in one (1.1%; 0.5% of all pelvic fractures). These complications were common in relation to run-over and collision accidents. The common pelvic fracture encountered in these patients was the Type III and the individual pelvic fracture was that of both pubic rami on one or both sides; fractures of the acetabulum and posterior segment of the pelvis were next in frequency. On the other hand, fractures of a single ischial ramus or wing of the ilium were not commonly encountered. Fractures with intact pelvic ring were associated with only 9.1% of these complications; all were minor.

Aetiological factors in non-union following Küntscher intramedullary nailing of the femur

One hundred and three consecutive patients who underwent Küntscher intramedullary nailing for recent non-pathological single fracture of the femoral shaft showed 13.6% incidence of non-union. The latter complication was not significantly influenced by the type, site, and cause of the fracture nor by sex, timing of the operation, and reaming of the medullary cavity. Conversely, non-union was more common in older patients and in those who were in bad general condition prior to and at the time of operation. Similarly, non-union increased significantly when the nail was too thin, or its lower end did not reach the optimum level (2 cm higher than the joint line), when weight-bearing was started 6 weeks or less after operation and in the presence of post-operative knee stiffness. Two patients presented with broken nails and four with angulated nails in the presence of non-union. Three patients with segmental fracture of the femur showed non-union of the fracture nearer to the middle of the shaft.

Some immunological aspects of staphylococcal haematogenous osteomyelitis

Patients with primary (haematogenous) staphylococcal osteomyelitis have been suspected for being deficient in their immune response. Serum levels of the three major circulating immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, and IgM) have been determined in 90 patients with this disease of varying duration and activity and in 100 control subjects. Of 270 measurements in the patient group, 80% fell within or below the normal (control) range. A small group of eight patients, however, were found to have sufficiently large increases in IgM levels to raise the mean value of the whole series to a statistically significnat level. Similarly IgA production was increased in chronic infection. These findings, on the whole, indicate that a majority of patients suffering from primary osteomyelitis may have depression of their normal immune response to infection.

Aetiological factors in infection following open retrograde intramedullary nailing of the femur

Thirty-three patients with chronic osteomyelitis of the femur following open retrograde Küntscher intramedullary nailing of the femur were studied to determine possible reasons for the development of infection. In 32 patients the indication for the operation was a closed fracture of the shaft of the femur (recent or malunited) and in one it was to shorten the femur. In 6 patients (18·2%) there was evidence of skin, urinary and upper respiratory tract infection. In 14 patients (42·4%) it was felt that potential infection was present in poor skin overlying the fracture and unhealed laparotomy wounds. Four patients were under the age of 15 years. The operating theatres lacked facilities for room-air exchange, for provision of filtered air or for modern body-exhaust systems. Twenty-two (66·7%) operations were performed by surgeons under training.

Osteomalacia as a contributing factor in fracture of the femoral neck in the elderly in Quatar

Eighty-seven patients with femoral neck fractures were investigated for possible evidence of osteomalacia. Eighteen patients were under the age of 50, or had sustained the fracture following severe injury. No evidence of osteomalacia was demonstrated in this group. In the remaining 69 patients the fracture was associated with a trivial injury, and in some patients no history of injury could be obtained. Only 16 (23.2%) of these showed evidence of osteomalacia; in 7 (10.1%) the disease was suspected. This occurred more often in women than men, and in trochanteric rather than cervical fractures.

Reduction of displaced supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children by manipulation in flexion

Sixty-one children with posteriourly displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus were treated by minipulation with the elbow flexed 40 degrees-60 degrees. This method proved to be safe, easy to apply and was followed by a high rate of success. The elbow was immobilized using a collar-and-cuff or a broad sling and binding of the arm to the forearm with zinc oxide adhesive plaster. In difficult children, the limb was put under the child's clothing to avoid its being used. Redisplacement occurred in only 8.2 per cent of the patients and in none of these was it severe enough to justify remanipulation.

Treatment of chronic haematogenous osteomyelitis of the os calcis

Twenty-five patients suffering from chronic haematogenous osteomyelitis of the os calcis were studied. The disease often presents in a subacute or chronic form, and the pathological process is well established in the majority of the cases by the time treatment is begun. For this reason, conservative treatment was found to be ineffective. Similarly, limited surgical procedures, such as curettage, sequestrectomy or partial excision, were also inadequate because of the wide-spread nature of the infection. Complete excision of the os calcis and stitching of the Achilles tendon to the plantar fascia was followed by a high rate of success, provided the other tarsal bones were not involved in the infective process. The infection was cured and reasonably normal function was obtained in 14 out of 19 patients (73.7 per cent). A "new heel" is often formed after the operation by the laying down of plaques of calcification within the toughened scar tissue of the heel pad.