Empathy plays a vital role in the pharmacist-patient relationship, enhancing patient outcomes and treatment adherence. This study aims to measure the level of empathy among Pharmacists. The study used a cross-sectional approach. The first draft of the survey was developed after conducting an extensive literature review, followed by face and content validation. The final survey was organized into three main sections: demographics, assessment of general empathy levels using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), and empathy-related items that focused specifically on the pharmacist-patient relationship. The average age of the participants was 28.23 years (SD = 7.26), with over 80.0

Chronic and infected wounds often face delayed healing due to prolonged inflammation, microbial invasion, and oxidative stress. To overcome these barriers, this study developed sodium alginate (SA)-based nanogels co-loaded with Lactoferrin (LCT), known for its antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which supports mitochondrial energy production and combats oxidative damage. These nanogels were fabricated using ionic gelation with calcium chloride, with SA concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2% w/v. Physicochemical analyses, including SEM, TEM, zeta potential, and drug encapsulation efficiency (EE), revealed spherical nanogels sized 177-386 nm and zeta potentials from -16.3 to -29.7 mV. The highest EE was observed at 2% SA (LCT: 76.3%; CoQ10: 80.6%). Stability was confirmed through DSC, FT-IR, and XRD. In vitro release showed sustained delivery over 24 h, fitting both Higuchi (R2 = 0.992) and Korsmeyer-Peppas (R2 = 0.988) models. ELISA assays demonstrated significant upregulation of VEGF and TGF-beta 1, correlating with enhanced wound closure in vivo (98.6% vs. 64.4% in controls). These findings suggest that LCT-CoQ10 nanogels synergistically promote antimicrobial defence, antioxidant protection, and tissue regeneration, highlighting their promise as an effective topical treatment for chronic and infected wounds.

Dapagliflozin (DAPA), a selective SGLT2 inhibitor approved for type 2 diabetes, shows emerging potential for repurposing in oncology due to its anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties. However, its poor solubility and rapid systemic clearance limit its therapeutic utility in cancer treatment. Here, we report the development of an oral novel gravity-induced nano hydrogel mass system encapsulating DAPA using sodium alginate (SA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanoparticles (DAPA-PVA-SA-NPs). The formulation exhibited enhanced solubility (1.8-fold increase), high encapsulation efficiency (88.37%), and sustained release in simulated gastrointestinal conditions. In vitro studies demonstrated improved cytotoxicity against HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells and significant downregulation of oncogenic and inflammatory markers (KRAS, IL-6, TGF-β, TNF-α). In vivo pharmacokinetic evaluation in rats showed delayed Tmax, extended half-life, and a 7% increase in AUC, indicating prolonged systemic exposure with modest AUC improvement. This delivery platform improves oral exposure in rats, shows in vitro activity in HCT-116 cells and supporting further exploratory evaluation for repurposing DAPA in colorectal cancer, pending confirmation in additional models.

cute wounds are driven by persistent oxidative stress and impaired tissue regeneration. Glutathione (GLU), a key antioxidant, offers therapeutic potential but faces instability and poor dermal penetration. A nanogel delivery system combining GLU–acacia complex in an alginate matrix was developed using ionic gelation. Physicochemical properties, in vitro release, and long-term stability were assessed. Wistar rats with full-thickness wounds were treated for 14 days, and healing biomarkers were quantified. The nanogel exhibited 99.6 nm particle size, −33.0 mV zeta potential, 91.6

Antimicrobial resistance is reducing the clinical durability of glycopeptide antibiotics by combining target-site adaptation with biofilm protection, poor tissue penetration, limited intracellular access, and host-mediated barriers to treatment. These limitations indicate that improving antibacterial potency alone is insufficient; effective therapy increasingly depends on material design, delivery behavior, and immunological compatibility. This review examines how nano-enabled strategies can extend glycopeptide performance, with emphasis on exosome-based carriers as biologically derived nanomaterials capable of improving transport across infected tissues, facilitating intracellular delivery, and modulating host immune responses. Review has discussed recent advances in glycopeptide structural redesign, exosome engineering, passive and targeted delivery, and hybrid antimicrobial-immunological mechanisms relevant to resistant Gram-positive infections. Preclinical studies indicate that exosome-mediated antibiotic delivery can enhance intracellular drug accumulation by approximately 2-5-fold and reduce effective minimum inhibitory concentrations by up to one order of magnitude in resistant Staphylococcus aureus models. However, these findings remain context-dependent and require validation in controlled clinical settings. Review has also evaluated analytical and computational frameworks, including proteomics, immune profiling, live-cell imaging, and machine learning, as enabling tools for mechanistic mapping, biomarker discovery, and rational combination design. Finally, review has outlined translational priorities involving manufacturing consistency, immunotoxicity assessment, regulatory classification, and costeffective scalability. By integrating antibiotic chemistry with nanocarrier design and host-directed biology, glycopeptide-exosome platforms represent a promising materials-based strategy for overcoming persistent therapeutic barriers in antimicrobial resistance.

Dry, nutrient-poor wounds often heal slowly because inflammation persists and tissue repair is impaired. This study developed a biotin-loaded acacia-alginate nanogel (BOT-ACC-SA) to improve biotin's poor water solubility, limited skin penetration, and therapeutic performance in wound healing. Biotin was first adsorbed onto acacia gum and then incorporated into sodium alginate nanogels using sonication-assisted self-assembly. The formulation was thoroughly characterized by thermal, spectroscopic, crystallographic, microscopic, particle-size, and rheological analyses. The optimized nanogel showed a mean size of about 120 nm, a zeta potential of -32.7 mV, and high encapsulation efficiency (90.1%). It increased biotin solubility 2.8-fold and released 97% of the drug within 24 hours, following the Higuchi release model. In vivo evaluation in Wistar rats over 14 days demonstrated superior wound closure with BOT-ACC-SA (94.6%) compared with BOT-SA, ACC-SA, and untreated controls. The nanogel also significantly increased VEGF, TGF-β1, and collagen I while reducing IL-6, indicating enhanced angiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and inflammation resolution. Stability testing confirmed that the formulation remained stable for 12 months at refrigerated conditions. Overall, BOT-ACC-SA appears to be a promising topical treatment for difficult-to-heal wounds.

American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is consumed as juice, fruit, or standardized supplements and is widely promoted for urinary tract health. Evidence suggests cranberry preparations may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), yet pharmacists' knowledge and counseling practices may vary. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding cranberry extract among registered pharmacists in Jordan. A self-administered online questionnaire, developed from the literature and assessed for face/content validity and internal consistency, was distributed to registered pharmacists in Jordan. Knowledge was assessed using 14 true/false/I do not know items, while attitudes and practices were assessed using Likert-type scales. Descriptive analyses were supplemented with bivariate testing, multivariable regression models, correlation analyses, and a comparison of participants who did and did not complete the practice section. A total of 409 responses were analyzed. Participants were predominantly aged < = 35 years (82.6%), resided in central Jordan (89.2%), and worked in community pharmacies (52.6%). Overall knowledge was moderate/neutral (mean 7.65 ± 3.07 out of 14), and 57.9% had low knowledge scores using Bloom's < 60% cut-off. Attitudes were neutral overall (mean 3.21 ± 0.41 out of 5). Among 268 participants who completed the practice section, the mean practice score was 3.14 ± 0.70 out of 5. In multivariable analysis, working in community pharmacy (β = 1.16, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.79; p < 0.001) and using research/books/university sources of information (β = 1.18, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.92; p = 0.002) independently predicted higher knowledge. Among practice-section respondents, higher knowledge (β = 0.05, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.08; p < 0.001) and more positive attitudes (β = 0.44, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.63; p < 0.001) independently predicted safer practice scores. Jordanian pharmacists recognized cranberry's role in UTI prevention, but clinically relevant gaps were identified regarding safety, interactions, dose limits, pregnancy/lactation uncertainty, and appropriate counselling. The inferential analyses suggest that evidence-based information sources and KAP interrelationships are important targets for continuing professional development. Findings should be interpreted cautiously because recruitment was online and the practice section was completed mainly by pharmacists for whom cranberry dispensing was applicable.

Chronic wounds are a global health issue due to persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired extracellular matrix remodelling. Lutein, a xanthophyll carotenoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, holds therapeutic promise but suffers from poor solubility and skin permeability. To overcome these limitations, a lutein–acacia gum–sodium alginate (LUT–ACC–SA) nanoparticle-loaded hydrogel was developed to enhance topical delivery and accelerate wound healing. Nanoparticle-loaded hydrogels were formulated via ionic gelation and optimised for particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index. The statistically optimised nanogel system was developed using Box–Behnken design (1.0 mg/mL LUT, 12.2 mg/mL ACC, 2.5

Background:Magnesium is a vital mineral with a crucial role in different biochemical reactions. There is a contradicting evidences about its role in maintaining bone, muscle and cardiovascular health. Recently, magnesium supplements gained attention due to claimed effectiveness in improving sleep quality and relieving muscle spasm. Aim:This study aimed to assess Arab communities' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding magnesium supplementation. Methods:A cross-sectional self-administered survey was disseminated to collect responses from different Arab countries. Descriptive statistics were calculated for demographics. Data normality was assessed using Shapiro-Wilk test. Associations between sociodemographic variables and knowledge, attitudes and practices were explored using simple and multiple linear regression. Significance level was considered at p < 0.05. Results:A total of 1,445 responses were collected. Mean (±SD) knowledge scores were low 8.61 ± 5.9. Eighty seven percent recognized magnesium role in alleviating muscle spasm and sleep disorders (83%). Magnesium citrate was the mostly used magnesium salt (37.43%). Neutral attitudes were observed with a mean score of 3.02 ± 0.66. Only 31.8% reported using magnesium supplements, 36.1% of them received a medical consultation. Having poly cystic ovary (p = 0.033), relying on scientific articles (0.004), receiving pharmacist consultation (p = 0.019) significantly associated with higher knowledge. Conclusion:Despite the huge debate regarding magnesium benefits in maintaining muscle, bone health and improving sleep quality, this study found that there is a significant gap in knowledge and neutral attitude towards magnesium supplementation in Arab communities. These findings emphasizes the need for educational campaigns targeting the public on the rationale use of supplements.

Cannabis has long been esteemed for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative characteristics. Ancient people such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese acknowledged the curative value of their medicinal practices. The identification of the endocannabinoid system, which engages with cannabis phytochemicals, has elucidated the mechanisms by which cannabis influences the human immune system, including the central nervous system. Cannabis and its bioactive components, particularly cannabinoids such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have garnered substantial interest for their potential therapeutic effects. This review comprehensively examines the interactions between cannabis and the immune system, focusing on immune cell function, clinical evidence, molecular mechanisms, and ongoing controversies. Cannabinoids modulate immune responses by interacting with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) expressed on various immune cells. THC generally exhibits immunosuppressive properties beneficial in conditions such as autoimmune diseases, whereas CBD shows anti-inflammatory effects without broadly suppressing immune function. The review also highlights the complex impact of cannabinoids on T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells, influencing cytokine production and immune signaling pathways. Clinical studies suggest that cannabinoids may alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, although their long-term impact on immune competence remains uncertain. Epidemiological studies indicate that chronic cannabis use may alter immune responses, with both beneficial and adverse effects. The review underscores the need for more extensive research to understand the dose-dependent immunomodulatory effects of cannabinoids and their potential for developing personalized therapeutic strategies. Emerging trends in cannabinoid research and the potential for cannabis-based therapies in immune-related diseases are also discussed, highlighting the promise and challenges in this evolving field.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24473.].

The issue of drug toxicity continues to pose a major problem in the drug discovery as well as development processes, leading to a series of unfavorable reactions that in turn bring barriers to the safety and effectiveness of pharmaceutical treatments. In this research, the application of predictive analytics and machine learning approaches as tools for a more precise and reliable examination of drug toxicity has been particularly scrutinized. Through the analysis of various types of information sources such as biochemical, molecular, and clinical trial information, we have utilized the latest algorithms such as ensemble learning, deep learning, combined with features selection techniques which are intended for the identification of the main factors of toxicity. The examination of the results included the disciplines of molecular modeling, pharmacogenomics, and bioinformatics through the application of a complete framework for the toxicity screening in the first steps of drug discovery. The findings show marked improvements in predictive accuracy and a decrease in both false-positive and false-negative rates when compared to traditional approaches. The present study emphasizes the power of AI-based predictive analytics to shorten the time of drug development, reduce risks, and ensure patient safety.

Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) are a major obstacle in clinical environments which frequently cause bad effects that harm patients and reduce treatment effectiveness. Conventional techniques for the deduction of DDIs involve clinical studies as well as post-marketing observation, which are time-consuming and lack breadth. The introduction of the machine-learning (ML) technologies has led to the development of tools based on data that can be used effectively for the prediction and assessment of expected DDIs. We go on with the paper to explore how the machine-learning techniques can be used to analyze drug-drug interactions, using the pharmacological and clinical databases as the source of information. We look into a series of ML algorithms like supervised and unsupervised learning models to find out the interaction patterns as well as forecasting the adverse outcomes. At the same time, the feature selection methods applied to this project look into the key molecular, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic aspects that are crucial for interactivity. The results show that the machine-learning models can enhance the quality of DDI forecasts and reduce the number of false positives. The research establishes that machine learning can optimize drug safety in the future, as it is likely to be used as an integrated part of drug development processes and clinical decision-support systems.

Background: Chronic wounds and oxidative stress-related skin disorders, such as diabetic ulcers, burns, surgical wounds, and inflammatory dermatoses, require sustained topical delivery of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Glutathione (GSH) and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) offer synergistic therapeutic effects but suffer from poor stability and limited skin permeability. This study developed and evaluated a sodium alginate (SA)-based nanogel co-delivering GSH and CoQ10 for enhanced wound healing. Methods: A GSH-CoQ10 complex was prepared via adsorption and characterised using FT-IR, DSC, XRD, and SEM. The complex was incorporated into SA gels at varying concentrations (1.5%, 2.5%, 3.5%), and formulations were analysed for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential using dynamic light scattering. GSH release was measured using a DTNB assay and fitted to kinetic models. Rheological behaviour, long-term stability (12 months), and morphology (SEM/TEM) were examined. In vivo efficacy was tested in a rat excisional wound model (n = 36), with ELISA quantification of VEGF, TGF-beta 1, Collagen I, and IL-6. Results: The optimal 2.5% SA nanogel exhibited 122.0 +/- 4.9 nm particle size, -40.0 +/- 1.3 mV zeta potential, and PDI 0.25 +/- 0.02. GSH release reached 72% over 24 h, following Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics. Rheological analysis indicated pseudoplastic behaviour. The formulation remained stable for 12 months (f2 = 81.04). In vivo, the nanogel achieved 98.6% wound closure at day 14 and significantly improved collagen synthesis while reducing IL-6 levels. Conclusion: The GSH-CoQ10-loaded SA nanogel offers a stable and effective platform for treating chronic and acute skin injuries through synergistic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Chronic and post-surgical wounds often exhibit poor angiogenesis, persistent inflammation, and delayed tissue remodeling. Lactoferrin (LAC), a multifunctional glycoprotein with immunomodulatory and healing properties, faces challenges like low solubility and enzymatic degradation that limit its therapeutic use. This study developed a topical nanogel system incorporating LAC, acacia gum (ACC), and sodium alginate (SA) to improve stability, local delivery, and wound healing efficacy. A LAC-ACC complex was formed through adsorption and embedded into SA-based nanogels (Formulations A-C), with Formulation B (2.5 % SA) optimized based on physicochemical and rheological properties. Characterisation techniques included particle size analysis (DLS), thermal profiling (DSC), molecular interaction (FT-IR), crystallinity evaluation (XRD), morphological analysis (TEM), and viscoelastic property determination (rheology). The optimized nanogel exhibited nanoscale size (120.2  nm), low PDI (0.18), and improved solubility (∼2.9-fold). It sustained LAC release up to 82.5 % over 24  h and remained stable for 12 months. In vivo, the LAC-ACC-SA nanogel achieved 95.3 % wound closure by day 14 in rats, significantly outperforming LAC-SA gel, blank gel, and untreated control. The nanogel formulation enhanced VEGF, TGF-β1, and Collagen I expression while reducing IL-6 levels, collectively supporting accelerated tissue regeneration. This nanogel system demonstrates strong potential for managing chronic and post-operative wounds through improved protein delivery and modulation of wound healing pathways.

Background: The global healthcare systems have faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacists have been frontline healthcare workers playing a pivotal role during this pandemic. This study aimed to understand the experiences of Iraqi COVID-19 patients and highlight the of pharmacists during their infection. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based study was conducted among the Iraqi public. Inclusion criteria comprised individuals residing in Iraq who had previously contracted COVID-19. The survey assessed demographic information, the COVID-19 experience of participants, and the role of pharmacists from the patient's perspective. Results: Over 561 participants from various Iraqi cities responded. participants (43.5%) stated that their infection source was mainly contacting infected family or friends. About 40.0% of the participants required a specialist doctor visit during their infection, 5.9% required hospitalization, and 1.6% required admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Regarding herbal products, 42.8% of the study's participants used herbs. Fatigue and fever were the most comely reported symptoms. Vitamin C and analgesics were the most supplements/medications. Of the participants, 35.0% stated that they visited a pharmacy in person, while 31.2% contacted pharmacists through person. Nearly half of the respondents strongly agreed or agreed with the statements highlighting the proactive role of pharmacists in providing medical advice, prevention tips, medication instructions, and drug-to-drug interaction guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: The study highlights the significant role of pharmacists in Iraq during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing their importance in patient care, medication management, delivering health advice. Collaborative efforts between pharmacists and other healthcare professionals can further optimize patient care during crises.

Background: Corticosteroids (CS) are crucial for managing various medical conditions, but long-term use is associated with significant risks. Balancing the therapeutic benefits and potential hazards requires careful prescription and monitoring. This study explores Jordanian physicians' knowledge, experiences, and concerns regarding CS prescriptions. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between March and August 2023, using an online link distributed using social media platforms. Results: A total of 171 physicians enrolled in the study were predominantly male, with a median age of 31 years. Two-thirds worked in central Jordan, and one-third were general practitioners. The majority (86.5%) had experience both in topical (83.1%) and injectable (81.1%) dosage forms. Physicians demonstrated high knowledge (median score 11/11) and major concerns (median fear score 3.5/5) about CS. Major worries included the risk of osteoporosis (73.7%) and hyperglycemia (66.7%). Sociodemographic factors did not significantly impact their knowledge or fears. Conclusion: Our study showed that physicians have a high knowledge level about CSs but have major concerns about CS side effects, particularly osteoporosis and hyperglycemia. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these fears, enhancing physician confidence and improving patient management outcomes.

Chemical hepatotoxicity can cause liver illnesses like hepatitis and cirrhosis. Mercaptopurine, an anti-tumor medication, has potential myelotoxicity. Natural plants contain hepatoprotective phytoconstituents. The study aimed to explore the protective effect of J. Reia hydroalcoholic leaf extract against MTP-induced liver injury in rats. Seven groups of rats were randomly selected: Control received only distilled water and food; MP at 40 mg/kg b.w; Silymarin at 50 mg/kg b.w; Juglans Leaf extract 400 mg/kg b.w; Juglans Leaf extract 400 mg/kg and 6-MP 40 mg/kg; Silymarin 50mg/kg and 6-MP 40mg/kg; Juglans Leaf extract (200 mg/kg); silymarin 25mg/kg, and 6-MP 40 mg/kg. Blood samples were collected on days: zero, 10 and 21 days. Liver injury was assessed by serum biochemical parameters (SGOT, SGPT, ALP), bilirubin, albumin and total protein in addition to histopathology changes. Administration of J. Reia leaf extract significantly lowered SGOT, SGPT, ALP levels and bilirubin in MTP-treated rats. Histopathological evaluation of livers showed that J. Regia leaves extract reduced cell swelling, fatty degeneration, and inflammation in MTP-treated rats. These findings indicate that J. Regia extract has a protective impact on Oxidative injury in rat liver caused by MTP. Moreover, extract is an effective antioxidant and hepatoprotective agent for reducing hepatocellular damage.