Self-medication, the practice of using medications without professional guidance, is a significant public health concern globally, particularly among medical students who, despite their pharmacological training, often engage in this practice at high rates. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of self-medication among medical students at the University of Tripoli, Libya. A sample of 121 undergraduate medical students was surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The results revealed a high prevalence of self-medication (82.6%), with analgesics (51.2%) and vitamins (31.4%) being the most commonly used medications. Headache (80.4%), pain (79.9%), and respiratory issues (73.2%) were the primary health complaints prompting self-medication. Key determinants included pharmacist advice (43.8%), prior medical knowledge (32.2%), and recommendations from family or friends (12.4%). Factors such as residing in Tripoli and higher parental education levels were significantly associated with increased self-medication practices. Notably, 62.0% of the students reported using antibiotics without a prescription, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance. The study highlights the need for educational interventions to promote responsible self-medication practices among medical students, emphasizing the risks associated with inappropriate drug use. Addressing these issues early in medical education could help mitigate the public health implications of widespread self-medication.
Mediterranean journal of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences
Background: Old age is one of the vulnerable and prone stages in terms of health status. So this study aimed to assess the nutritional status and common health complications of older people. Methods: Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire (SNAQ), Anthropometric measurements, Diet History Method, and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tools were used to measure the nutritional status. Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 16. Results: Out of the total 320 elderly participants the mean SD value for the age of male and female was 67.25 6.5 and 67.32 7.7 years respectively. According to BMI classification, it was noticed that with advancing age the percentage of underweight was also increased such as for 60–75 years old age group the underweight percentage was 30.0% where for 76 to 85 and >85 years old age group the underweight percentage was 45.0% and 60.0% respectively. According to the MNA score, 97 elderly respondents were malnourished and a total of 172 respondents had SNAQ scores below 14. This study found a statistically significant (P < 0.05) correlations among various health complications with nutritional status according to MNA score. In addition 56.6% (OR ¼ 1.24, 95% CI ¼ .799–1.939), 63.8% (OR ¼ 1.18, 95% CI ¼ .745–1.857) and 64.7% (OR ¼ 1.14, 95% CI ¼ .720–1.804) respondents had diabetes mellitus, hypertension and cardiovascular disease respectively. The risk of musculoskeletal pain (OR ¼ 1.073, 95% CI ¼ .684–1.681), bedsore (OR ¼ 1.884, 95% CI ¼ .903–3.934) and decreased sense of thirst (OR ¼ 1.278, 95% CI ¼ .821–1.991) were higher among females than males. A little number of the elderly used to take milk, meat, and fish daily. Conclusion: During this cross-sectional study, significant correlations among nutritional changes with health complications were determined. To prevent malnutrition among the elderly a proper health policy as well as periodical nutritional screening should be conducted
Prescribing drugs for elderly patients is not an easy task since elderly patients are frequently with comorbid conditions. In Libya, there are no guidelines for the management of medications used in elderly patients and no specialized geriatric health institutions. The aim of this study is to assess the pattern of medication use among hospitalized elderly patients in Sebha Medical Centre and the drug-related problems associated with these patterns. This report is descriptive and retrospective cross-sectional study that is conducted at Sebha Medical Center during 2021. Potential drug-related problems were assessed based on the classification of Hepler and Strand. In this study, out of 195 participants, most of the patients have been given antibiotics (92%). The majority of patients have been prescribed anti-gastric agents, vitamins and anti-thrombotic agents which accounted for 75%, 62% and 55%, respectively. To less extent, anti-hypertensive agents, analgesics and anti-hyperlipidemics were reported by 45%, 43% and 38%, correspondently. Almost all the patients have at least one event of drug-related problem and more than three-quarters of the patients had more than one event of drug-related problems. The highest rate was untreated indications which were reported for 77% then followed by drug use without indication nearly a half of the events 48%. To fewer extent rates were reported: “in improper drug selection”, “drug interaction” and “adverse effects” which were reported for 25%, 23% and 18% of the total events, respectively. Almost all elderly patients have been prescribed antibiotics, analgesics and vitamins. Drug-related problems are predominant prevalent in the clinical practice at the center. This study highlights the importance of activation of clinical pharmacist interventions at hospitals which can contribute to reducing the chance of risk of drug-related problems events among hospitalized elderly patients and ensuring rational drug prescribing in the geriatric clinical settings.
Mediterranean journal of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences
Emesis is defined as a forceful expulsion of stomach contents via the mouth. The adverse effects of available anti-emetic drugs potentiate us to evaluate natural products to explore effective natural anti-emetics with fewer side effects. The fruits of Illicium verum Hook. f. were selected for anti-emetic activity based on their folkloric use against gastrointestinal complaints. Crude methanolic extract and its aqueous, dichloromethane, ethylacetate and hexane fractions were evaluated using the copper sulphate-induced chick emesis model. Emesis was induced by the oral administration of copper sulfate 10 ml/kg body weight and metoclopramide (150 mg/kg p.o.) as a standard anti-emetic drug. The anti-emetic effect was observed by calculating the mean decrease in the number of retches compared to that of the control. Methanolic extract and its fractions were tested at 25, 50 and 75 mg/kg oral doses. Among all tested fractions, ethyl acetate showed the highest (94.46%), and hexane showed the lowest (56.30%) anti-emetic activity at 50 mg/kg. Further, isolation and purification from the same fractions are in process to discover effective natural anti-emetic compound(s) with less unwanted effects.
This is a study on the growth of public relations in Malaysia based on the advertisements placed in the newspapers during the colonial period. Tracing the historical development serves to make a better understanding about the nature of public relations practice. This paper therefore aims at exploring the development of the public relations profession by studying the advertisements placed in the nationwide newspapers, the Straits Times and the Singapore Free Press & Mercantile Advertiser from 1939 which included the early advertisement that contained the phrase “public relations” to 1956 a year before the independence of the Federation of Malaysia. An analysis of the advertisements was made to fully understand the historical development of public relations in Malaya or then Malaysia. The very first advertisement that was identified was on 31 January 1948, which was placed by the Department of Public Relations of the federal government. The British colonial government had placed another four advertisements in 1949 and 1950. A British mining Co. was the first corporation to hire an information & public relations officer in 1956. The results showed some differences and similarities through the analyses of advertisements in the job specification, which included qualification, duties, and salaries. The results revealed that those who had higher education and experience obtained a higher salary. The results also showed that some advertisers companies/ organizations had substituted academic qualifications for working experience) when advertising for their public relations personnel.
Learning is a process of interaction that occurs between teachers and students. The learning process requires a way or method so that interaction occurs reciprocally and can achieve the desired learning goals. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach, and the type of research is a case study. Data collection techniques using observation, interviews, and documentation. While the data analysis with an interactive analysis model (interactive analysis)—the validity of this research data uses the triangulation technique. The results of this study indicate (1) Planning for STAD Type Cooperative Learning Methods in Fiqh Subjects at MIMA 42 Wuluhan, namely: The teacher makes a Learning Implementation Plan (RPP), makes observation sheets and score assessment sheets, choose learning media, makes materials and questions. group and individual assignments, and designing study groups. (2) Implementation of STAD Type Cooperative Learning Method in Fiqh Subjects at MIMA 42 Wuluhan: Initial activity: the teacher explains the material that will be given to students. The core activities are: The teacher explains the method to be used, divides students into several groups, plays videos as material, asks students to observe pictures/videos of people, and discusses the material in the video. And all groups present the results of their discussions. Closing activities, namely: providing reinforcement to the material presented by students, the teacher and students reciting prayers, and the teacher planning follow-up learning. (3) Evaluation of STAD Type Cooperative Learning Method in Class Fiqh Subjects at MIMA 42 Wuluhan Jember, namely: Evaluation of observation and performance (demonstration) on group performance. Meanwhile, individual evaluation is in the form of homework (PR).
Micro Gas Turbines (MGTs) are compact power generation systems that offer several advantages such as highpower density, low emissions, and fuel flexibility. They are commonly used in remote areas where grid connectivity is limited or unreliable. However, MGTs suffer from inherent instability issues due to their small size and high rotational speeds. These instabilities can lead to irregular speed responses, affecting the overall performance and reliability of the system. To address these concerns, the researchers utilized a genetic algorithm (GA)-based approach and conducted sensitivity studies to analyze the iteration parameter of the GA and its impact on the speed response of the MGTs. To evaluate the performance of the developed solution, they employed the Mean Step of Absolute Speed Error (MSASE) evaluation metric and compared the outcomes of the proposed strategy with a baseline Proportional Integral (PI)-only solution. The results demonstrated that the proposed solution surpassed the baseline approach by delivering a superior error response. Similarly, the findings suggested that the optimal iteration parameter setting for the GA was a maximum of 30 compared to 20 and 10 consequently lessening the settling time from 140s to 60s. Accordingly, the researchers concluded that optimizing the GA's iteration parameter could lead to enhanced stability in the speed response of the MGT units. Subsequently, this can bolster the power generation capacities of the units, highlighting the potential for enhanced efficiency and stability in MGT operations. As a final recommendation, the study advised practitioners working with MGTs to adopt the proposed GA-based speed control strategy to optimize the overall performance and reliability of these units.
Dunbar syndrome (DS) is a rare condition, predominantly in females. It arises due to the compression of the celiac trunk and celiac plexus by the fibrous attachments of the median arcuate ligament of the diaphragm. DS mimics many common gastrointestinal disorders due to the postprandial nature of symptoms and is technically a diagnosis of exclusion, confirmed by various imaging modalities. The goal of treatment is decompression of the celiac trunk, and surgery is either the mainstay of therapy, along with adjuvant interventional procedures like percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting. In this review article, we revisit DS to enhance awareness among healthcare providers and discuss this disorder in terms of its historical background, epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management.
This study sets out to explore the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) necessary for Total Quality Management (TQM) implementation in hotels. It also aims to classify participating hotels into groups based on their TQM adoption by using cluster analysis. A quantitative survey method was applied. Data were collected from a sample of managers from four- and five-star hotels in Jordan, 170 questionnaires were distributed to managers and 104 usable questionnaires were returned. The findings revealed that TQM is existed and implemented in the hotel industry. The researcher then confirmed that four- and five-star hotels can be classified into two groups, namely, “high TQM adopters” and “low TQM adopters”.
The aim of the study was to explore the inhibition and modulation of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals into calcium oxalate dihydrate by phytic acid. The study was carried out on glass slides using phytic acid (1 - 5%) solutions. All tested solutions inhibited the growth and modulated calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals. Donuts, rosettes and X-shape crystals of calcium oxalate monohydrate along with their defected forms were observed. The presence of calcium oxalate dihydrate crystals as elongated rods and tetragonal bipyramidal crystals revealed the modulated forms of calcium oxalate monohydrate. Smaller zones of nucleation are declared as general patterns of growth inhibition. This study gives valuable information about calcium oxalate crystals' inhibition and modulation patterns. Further studies are required to confirm the results of the present study.
The global burden of metabolic disorders, including obesity and type 2 diabetes, necessitates innovative therapeutic strategies. SLU-PP-332, a synthetic agonist of estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα), has emerged as a promising exercise mimetic, demonstrating preclinical efficacy in enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis, insulin sensitivity, and energy expenditure. This brief review synthesizes current knowledge on SLU-PP-332 and related ERRα agonists, highlighting their molecular mechanisms, preclinical outcomes, translational challenges, and ethical considerations. ERRα activation by SLU-PP-332 upregulates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), driving fatty acid oxidation and mimicking exercise-induced metabolic adaptations. However, pan-ERR activity raises concerns about off-target effects such as cardiac hypertrophy and hepatotoxicity. Despite robust preclinical data, clinical translation remains hindered by the absence of human trials and undefined long-term safety. Future research must prioritize isoform-selective agonist design, rigorous clinical validation, and equitable access frameworks.
The strategy is a means of establishing the organisation's purpose in terms of priorities for resource allocation, action programs and long term objectives (Grant 2005). Chandler (1962) defines strategy as determining the primary long-term goals of an organisation, the adoption of courses of action, and the allocation of necessary resources. Besides, the strategy also focuses on allocating resources in relation to the organisation and its environment (Schendel & Hatten 1972). The strategy also pertains to the top management's decisions pertaining to its scope and the future direction. Such strategy covers an action plan on the organisation's future, commitments to specific products, services, and the markets.
Vallecular cysts, although infrequent in adults, pose a challenge for anesthesiologists in view of the risk of airway obstruction at anesthesia induction or aspiration in case of cyst rupture. The present case is of a 35-year-old male patient who was scheduled for excision of a vallecular cyst. An awake technique was initially decided for nasotracheal intubation using a flexible videolaryngoscope, AmbuscopeTM, after complete topicalization of the airway with local anesthesia. However, anticipating the need for a tracheostomy, the surgical team was prepared, and this was timely chosen as the only viable option following failure to visualize the glottis despite negotiating every possible way around the cyst. This case highlights the successful management of a large vallecular cyst in an adult patient, where failed awake nasotracheal intubation despite optimal preparation necessitated an early, planned tracheostomy. This reiterates the fact that the surgical airway may not be always chosen as the last resort in crisis but also as a timely intervention to prevent an airway catastrophe.
To the editor, Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, necessitating innovative and multifaceted therapeutic strategies. [1] We propose a promising combination approach that synergizes Artificial Intelligence (AI), oncolytic virotherapy, probiotic therapy, stem cell therapy, and immunotherapy to target breast cancer more effectively.
Plants, the beauty of nature, have been the basis For treating human ailments. The current accepted modern medicine has gradually developed over the years and is undoubtedly the gift of God in the sense of traditional knowledge about different medicinal plants. However, what is needed are rapid screening techniques, structure base design and combinatorial chemistry for drug development under innovations, which will share the profit of products derived from indigenous plants. There is less known information about Ficus exasperata Vahl., and Cleome ciliata Schmach and Thonn. However, the author of this book presents comprehensive information about traditional uses and the biological and phytochemical investigation of Ficus exasperata Vahl. and Cleome ciliata Schmach and Thonn.
This review shares historical glimpses of the art and science of urinary crystal growth in the gel. This successful journey of long and detailed research consists of theoretical and experimental knowledge. The survey consists of historical aspects of crystal growth, the development of urinary crystal growth in the gel as an in vitro urolithiasis model and the application of this model to evaluate prophylactic management against kidney stones.
A state in southern India called Telangana has a rich and varied cultural history. There are numerous tribes in the area, and they have long coexisted peacefully with the environment. These tribes have distinctive traditions that have been handed down through the generations. The Gond, Koya, Lambada, and Banjara are notable tribes in Telangana. Over the years, these tribes have encountered several difficulties, such as land acquisition, displacement, and a loss of cultural identity. However, via several government initiatives and community-based programs, efforts are being undertaken to maintain their culture and give them more authority. Tribal Development has been in the agenda for discussion at several levels in different forums for quite some time and continues to be an important aspect for serious deliberation in Telangana, not only because of a significant portion of the tribal population but more importantly because of the inequality of their participation, both socially and economically. The conventional wisdom that the tribal population should not be integrated with the mainline population, does not cut ice any longer as tribals themselves are eager to participate in national development and construction. A major initiative to empower the tribals, in my view is through the provision of appropriate educational opportunities to the children of the tribal families, though the aspects like infrastructural and health are identified as critical inputs. The present book tries to disclose the situation of the Scheduled Tribes in Telangana State. Various eminent scholars and students, media friends delivered their observations through their research papers. As per the observations and findings, the book contains some valuable and instant suggestions for overall development of tribes that the Telangana State Government has to play a major role in this endeavour This article critically examines initiatives for greater participation in education by tribal communities in India, arguing that current policy does not effectively enough facilitate greater participation and may, in fact, go against the avowed principle of ensuring greater equity. The article relies on fieldwork-based study to support arguments for the need to be culturally sensitive in making appropriate provisions for the education of scheduled tribes in India. Reasons for high dropout rates and non-enrolment among tribal children are examined and some searching
Four Trichoderma species with known biocontrol activity (T. harzianum, T. hamantum, T. viride and T. virens) were tested for their efficacy against Cephalosporium acremonium, a causal organism of Black bundle disease in maize. Interactions between the fungi were assessed in vitro to study mutual antagonisms. Among the four bio-agents, T. hamantum proved to be promising which showed maximum inhibition (51.3%) followed by T. virens (45.2%), T. harzianum (44.6%) and T. viride (20.3%). T. hamantum was also found to be hyperparasite on C. acremonium whereas, T. harzianum and T. viride showed mycelial deformation. The volatile toxicants released by all the Trichoderma spp. were inferior in inhibiting the growth of C. acremonium when compared to the control as evident by inverted plate technique. The results of in vivo experiments confirmed the results from the in vitro study and showed that all the four bio-agents significantly reduced the disease incidence of Black bundle disease.
A performance analysis on a vapour compression refrigeration system with various refrigerants mixture of R152a, RE170, R600a, and R290 were done for various mixture ratios and their results were compared with R134a as possible alternative replacement. The results showed that all of the alternative refrigerants investigated in the analysis except R431A, [R 152a (29%), R290 (71%)] have a slightly higher performance coefficient (COP) than R134a for the condensation temperature of 500C and evaporating temperatures ranging between -300C and 100C.Refrigerant blend of R152a/RE170 (20/80 by wt%) instead of R134a was found to be a replacement refrigerant among other alternatives. The effects of the main parameters of performance analysis such as refrigerant type, degree of sub cooling and super heating on the refrigerating effect, coefficient of performance and volumetric refrigeration capacity were also investigated for various evaporating temperatures.
The international opioid crisis highlights the important role of pharmacists in prevention, using their availability and drug knowledge to prevent abuse. In this study, the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Mangalore pharmacists towards preventing opioid abuse were assessed. From February to March 2025, a cross-sectional survey was done among 203 pharmacists aged 18-46 years in Mangalore using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test, and thematic analysis of qualitative feedback. Pharmacists showed high knowledge, with 93.6% identifying opioids' mechanism as binding to CNS receptors correctly, 78.8% identifying naloxone's role in reversing overdose, and 70.0% knowing prescription drug monitoring programs' usefulness. Attitudes were optimistic, with 92.6% considering patient education a primary responsibility, 92.1% identifying multiple visits to the pharmacy as misuse, and 93.1% supporting medication-assisted treatment. The practice was active, with 93.1% checking prescription drug monitoring programs for suspected misuse and 69.0% advising take-back programs, but 43.8% associated early refills with misuse. Mangalore pharmacists show strong knowledge, attitudes, and practice against opioid abuse, being very strong in education and medication-assisted treatment support but having voids in misuse detection (for example, recognition of early refill) and naloxone confidence. Stronger training, better prescription drug monitoring program access, and policy adjustments can enhance their role in India's opioid strategy. Pharmacists are presented as front-line champions of opioid misuse prevention in this study, with implications for localized harm reduction.
Mediterranean journal of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences