Stakeholder Perceptions on Landscape Governance in Northern Ghana: A Q-Study to Identify Common Concern Entry Points for Integrated Landscape Approaches.

In a landscape, perceptions can influence people's actions and behavior toward natural resource use. Improving landscape governance, therefore, requires understanding the different concerns of stakeholders operating within the landscape. This paper analyzes the perceptions of local stakeholders-local landscape users, practitioners engaged in conservation and sustainable resource use, and private actors-regarding the landscape governance system, using the Q-methodology to identify common concern entry points for the implementation of a landscape approach in the Western Wildlife Corridor (WWC) in northern Ghana. To this end, individual interviews and focus groups were conducted with local communities and organizations operating in three Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs). They identified destructive livelihood activities, constrained livelihoods, and a weak governance system as the main challenges, and the need to balance livelihoods with conservation, strengthening landscape governance through the CREMA initiative, and awareness raising as the main solutions. Thus, the Q-method allowed identifying common concern entry points regarding landscape challenges, governance issues, and potential solutions. I argue that consensus among stakeholders regarding these challenges and solutions could lay the groundwork for a multi-stakeholder process in the area, which could help foster the implementation of an integrated landscape approach in the WWC landscape. It is crucial to support the livelihoods of local people to reduce pressures on natural resources. It is also important to strengthen the functioning of local CREMA management bodies with technical, logistical, and financial support. Implementing a participatory monitoring and evaluation mechanism is critical in this regard.

Efectividad de películas de barrera no irritantes y pomada con óxido de zinc: revisión exploratoria / Effectiveness of non-irritant barrier films and zinc oxide ointment: a scoping review

Objetivos: Valorar la efectividad de las películas de barrera no irritante (PBNI) y la pomada de óxido de zinc (ZnO) en la prevención y tratamiento de lesiones asociadas a la incontinencia (DAI).Metodología:Revisión exploratoria en las principales bases de datos bibliográficas (PubMed, CINAHL, LILACS, CUIDEN y Embase). Estudios de investigación acerca de las PBNI y las pomadas de ZnO desde 2010 hasta febrero de 2021, sin límite de idiomas. Criterios de inclusión: revisiones sistemáticas, artículos originales de cualquier tipo y tesis doctorales que relacionen la crema de ZnO o la PBNI con la prevención o tratamiento de la incontinencia urinaria o mixta, así como estudios que evalúen su rentabilidad o efectos secundarios.Resultados:Se han analizado 12 estudios: 5 ensayos clínicos aleatorios, 6 revisiones sistemáticas y 1 estudio descriptivo. No se ha hallado superioridad de eficacia de la PBNI frente a la pomada de ZnO, aunque aún se precisan más estudios para un posicionamiento, sí parece que la evidencia hasta el momento respalda una superior rentabilidad de la PBNI por coste por proceso.Conclusiones:Se precisaría de una herramienta estandarizada y validada de evaluación de la piel de la DAI. Se requieren más ensayos clínicos con un tamaño muestral más grande para poder comparar los diferentes productos y presentaciones con un diseño adecuado para poder realizar un metaanálisis después, y objetivos de estudio tanto de prevención como de tratamiento. (A)

Objectives: To assess the primary and secondary studies generated from 2010 to the present on the effectiveness of non-irritant barrier films (NIBF) and zinc oxide ointment (ZnO) in the prevention and treatment of incontinence-associated injuries (IAD).Methods:Scoping review in the main bibliographic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, LILACS, CUIDEN and Embase). Research studies on LIPNPs and ZnO ointments from 2010 to February 2021, with no language limit. Inclusion criteria: systematic reviews, original articles of any type and doctoral theses linking ZnO cream or PBNI to the prevention or treatment of urinary or mixed incontinence, as well as studies evaluating their cost-effectiveness or side effects.Results:Twelve studies were analyzed: 5 randomized clinical trials, 6 systematic reviews and 1 descriptive study. No superiority of efficacy of PBNI over ZnO ointment was found, more studies are still needed for a position but it does appear that the evidence so far supports a superior cost-effectiveness of PBNI on a cost per process basis.Conclusions:A standardized and validated IAP skin assessment tool would be required. More clinical trials with a larger sample size are needed to compare the different products and presentations with an adequate design to be able to perform a meta-analysis afterwards, and study objectives for both prevention and treatment.(AU)

The prospects of community-based natural resource management in Ghana: A case study of Zukpiri community resource management area.

The Community Resource Management Area (CREMA) model was adopted in Ghana in the 1990s to help conserve and increase the forest area of Ghana. Since its adoption, little is known about the prospects of the model in the scientific literature. To fill this gap, this study examined the management strategies, benefits and challenges of the Zukpiri CREMA in the Upper West Region. Mixed methods research involving a survey of 190 households, seven (7) focus group discussions and key informant interviews were employed to collect data in seven (7) CREMA communities. The study found that local communities employed several strategies including the formation of community resource management committees, enactment of bye-laws and fines regarding the management and extraction of the CREMA resources. The CREMA has positively impacted the livelihoods of the inhabitants through the harvesting of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and support from Governmental and Non-Governmental Organisations. Nonetheless, the CREMA is not without challenges. These include land tenure and the CREMA resource use conflicts. This study, therefore, argued that besides creating an enabling ecologically balanced environment, inhabitants of the CREMA communities are reaping the benefits of the CREMA in many ways. Hence, the Forestry Commission of Ghana should focus on aligning relevant livelihood strategies in line with the CREMA approach to further deepen local communities' commitment to the conservation drive.

Incorporación de un novedoso complejo de tinidazol con propiedades antimicrobianas a dos formas semisólidas de uso tópico / Incorporation of a novel tinidazole complex with antimicrobial properties into two semi-solid topical forms / Incorporação de um novo complexo de tinidazol com propriedades antimicrobianas a duas formas semissólidas para uso tópico

RESUMEN Introducción: El aumento de la resistencia bacteriana a los antibióticos comúnmente empleados para el tratamiento de infecciones cutáneas pone en manifiesto la necesidad de encontrar medicamentos alternativos y eficaces, capaces de contrarrestar este problema de salud que no sólo implica una región, sino que se ha convertido en un problema de salud mundial. Se ha demostrado que un novedoso complejo a base de tinidazol y cobre ([Cu(tnz)2(NO3)2]) posee buena actividad antimicrobiana, sin embargo, para que pueda emplearse como una alternativa para el uso tópico, debe poseer las características necesarias para incorporarse en una formulación que permita su aplicación. Objetivo: Las formas farmacéuticas semisólidas constituyen el grupo más empleado dentro de las formulaciones dermatológicas; se elaboraron dos tipos formulaciones una tipo crema y otra crema-gel, con el fin de verificar en cuál de ellas incorpora convenientemente el complejo [Cu(tnz)2(NO3)2]. Para ambas formulaciones se determinaron las propiedades organolépticas, pH, área de extensibilidad, viscosidad, y tamaño de partícula del complejo. Resultados: Obtenidos evidencian las ventajas de la formulación tipo crema frente a la crema-gel.

SUMMARY Introduction: The increase in bacterial resistance to antibiotics commonly used for the treatment of skin infections highlights the need to find alternative and effective drugs, capable of counteracting this health problem that not only involves a region but has become into a global health problem. A novel complex based on tinidazole and copper ([Cu(tnz)2(NO3)2]) has been shown to have good antimicrobial activity, however, in order to be used as an alternative for topical use, it must have the characteristics necessary to be incorporated into a formulation that allows its application. Aim: Semi-solid pharmaceutical forms are the most widely used group within dermatological formulations; Two types of formulations were elaborated, one type of cream and the other cream-gel, in order to verify in which of them the complex [Cu(tnz)2(NO3)2] is conveniently incorporated. For both formulations, the organoleptic properties, pH, area of extensibility, viscosity, and particle size of the complex were determined. Results: Obtained show the advantages of the cream-type formulation compared to the cream-gel.

RESUMO Introdução: O aumento da resistência bacteriana aos antibióticos comumente utilizados no tratamento de infecções cutâneas evidencia a necessidade de encontrar medicamentos alternativos e eficazes, capazes de fazer frente a esse problema de saúde que não envolve apenas uma região, mas se tornou um problema de saúde global. Um novo complexo à base de tinidazol e cobre ([Cu(tnz)2(NO3)2]) demonstrou ter boa atividade antimicrobiana, porém, para ser utilizado como alternativa para uso tópico, deve ter as características necessárias para ser incorporado em uma formulação que permita sua aplicação. Objetivo: As formas farmacêuticas semissól-idas são o grupo mais utilizado nas formulações dermatológicas; foram elaborados dois tipos de formulações, um tipo creme e outra creme-gel, a fim de verificar em qual delas o complexo [Cu(tnz)2(NO3)2] está convenientemente incorporado. Para ambas as formulações foram determinadas as propriedades organolépticas, pH, área de extensibilidade, viscosidade e tamanho de partícula do complexo. Resultados: Os obtidos mostram as vantagens da formulação tipo creme em relação ao gel-creme.

Unraveling the science of coffee foam - a comprehensive review.

Coffee foam is the frothy layer that forms above the liquid phase of espresso and instant coffee beverages. While the carbon dioxide formed during roasting is responsible for crema formation in espresso, gasification is the established foaming approach in instant coffee. The protein-like fractions and polysaccharides extracted from roasted coffee promote foamability and foam stability, respectively. Crema of consolidated texture retains the volatile aromatic substances and prevents the espresso from cooling too rapidly. Further, an inverse relationship has been observed between foam persistence and volatility of aroma molecules above the cup. Gasified spray-dried instant coffee exhibited an accelerated delivery rate of hydrophobic aroma compounds. Thus, foam is the signature of a high-quality cup of coffee. Despite its various functionalities, coffee foam is scarcely investigated owing to its metastable nature. Only recently, the chemical, structural, and interfacial rheology properties of the coffee foam have been looked at. The current study intends to review the scientific knowledge acquired on coffee foam, thus far. The initial sections describe the general attributes and functions of espresso and instant coffee foam. Further, the mechanisms of formation and stabilization of coffee foam are detailed, followed by the factors influencing the same. The following discussions focus on the role of coffee foam in determining the sensory and aroma release characteristics of the beverages. The scope for future research in this field of study is highlighted in the concluding section.

Uso de crema dental en niños peruanos menores de 12 años, durante el periodo del 2016 al 2018. Resultados de una encuesta nacional

Objetivo: Reportar el uso crema dental en niños peruanos menores de 12 años, durante el periodo del 2016 - 2018. Materiales y métodos: El estudio fue descriptivo, longitudinal y retrospectivo, utilizándose los registros de la base de datos ENDES, Perú, durante 2016-2018. La muestra fue multietápico, probabilística y estratificada, formada por 118 716 registros de niños menores de 12 años de edad. Las variables fueron: uso de crema dental, concentración de flúor, departamento, ámbito geográfico y región natural. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Resultados: De los participantes, se cepillaban los dientes, el 88%; se cepillan los dientes 2 veces al día, el 40%; utilizaban crema dental, el 98%; usaban crema dental con una concentración de flúor de 1000ppm o más, el 44,6% (n=15 376), 43,2% (n=14 545) y 44% (n=16 227), para los años 2016, 2017 y 2018, respectivamente. En los departamentos de Piura, Loreto, San Martin y Ucayali usan crema dental ≥1000ppm de flúor, en mayor porcentaje, en un 55% a 74,9%. Las cremas dentales con ≥1000ppm de flúor fueron más utilizadas en la región de la selva y zonas urbanas. Conclusión: Se encontró que la población se cepilla los dientes, con una frecuencia de 2 veces al día y utilizan crema dental; sin embargo, menos de la mitad de peruanos menores de 12 años de edad, utiliza crema dental fluorada con 1000 ppm o más. Estos resultados se podrían relacionarse con las políticas preventivas actuales contra la caries dental.

Eficacia y seguridad de los AINE tópicos / Efficacy and safety of topical NSAIDs / Eficácia e segurança dos AINEs tópicos

Resumen: Introducción: los antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (AINE) constituyen uno de los grupos farmacológicos más prescritos a nivel mundial. En los últimos años ha aumentado el uso de AINE de administración tópica, con una prevalencia de prescripción creciente. Objetivo: revisar la eficacia y seguridad de AINE tópicos comparados con los administrados por vía oral en el tratamiento del dolor. Material y método: se realizó una revisión narrativa utilizando la base de datos Pubmed. La búsqueda arrojó un total de 141 artículos de los cuales 4 cumplían con los criterios de inclusión propuestos. Discusión: la evidencia que respalda el uso de AINE tópicos en cuanto a eficacia está comparada con placebo, incluyen escaso número de pacientes y utilizan variables primarias blandas, lo que constituye una limitante metodológica para determinar su beneficio, por lo que no se pudo analizar la evidencia disponible según el objetivo planteado. En cuanto a la seguridad, la incidencia de efectos adversos más frecuentemente reportados son los gastrointestinales, siendo menos frecuente con la administración tópica, sin embargo, ésta vía agrega efectos adversos cutáneos en el sitio de administración. Conclusión: la facilidad de acceso a estos medicamentos, la percepción de menor riesgo por tratarse de una vía no sistémica y la escasa evidencia disponible favorecen el uso irracional de los AINE tópicos.

Abstract: Introduction: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are one of the most prescribed pharmacological groups worldwide. In recent years the use of topical NSAID has increased, with a growing prevalence of prescription. Objective: The aim of the present work was to review the efficacy and safety of topical NSAID compared to oral administration for the treatment of pain. Material and method: A narrative review was made using the Pubmed database. The evidence that supports the use of topical NSAID in terms of efficacy is compared with placebo, include a small number of patients and use soft primary outcomes, which constitutes a methodological limitation to asses their benefit, not allowing to analyze the available evidence according to the aim set. Regarding safety, the incidence of adverse effects most frequently reported are gastrointestinal, which are less frequent with topical administration, however, this route adds adverse cutaneous effects at the administration site. Conclusion: The ease of access to these medications, the low risk perception due to it is a non-systemic route and the limited available evidence stimulate the irrational use of topical NSAID.

Resumo: Introdução: Os medicamentos anti-inflamatórios não esteroides (AINE) são um dos grupos farmacológicos mais prescritos em todo o mundo. Nos últimos anos, o uso de AINE tópicos aumentou, com uma crescente prevalência de prescrição. Objetivos: O objetivo do presente trabalho foi revisar a eficácia e segurança dos AINE tópicos em comparação com a via oral no tratamento da dor. Materiais e métodos: Uma revisão narrativa foi feita usando o banco de dados Pubmed. A evidência que suporta o uso de AINE tópicos em termos de eficácia é comparada com placebo, inclui um pequeno número de pacientes e usa variáveis ​​primárias moles, o que constitui uma limitação metodológica para determinar seu benefício, portanto, a evidência disponível não pôde ser analisada de acordo com o objetivo. Em relação à segurança, a incidência de efeitos adversos mais frequentemente relatados é gastrointestinal, sendo menos freqüente com a administração tópica, porém, esta via acrescenta efeitos cutâneos adversos no local de administração. Conclusões: A facilidade de acesso a esses medicamentos, a percepção de menor risco, por ser uma via não sistêmica e a limitada evidência disponível, favorecem o uso irracional de AINE tópicos.

Molecular Traits of Long Non-protein Coding RNAs from Diverse Plant Species Show Little Evidence of Phylogenetic Relationships.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) represent a diverse class of regulatory loci with roles in development and stress responses throughout all kingdoms of life. LncRNAs, however, remain under-studied in plants compared to animal systems. To address this deficiency, we applied a machine learning prediction tool, Classifying RNA by Ensemble Machine learning Algorithm (CREMA), to analyze RNAseq data from 11 plant species chosen to represent a wide range of evolutionary histories. Transcript sequences of all expressed and/or annotated loci from plants grown in unstressed (control) conditions were assembled and input into CREMA for comparative analyses. On average, 6.4% of the plant transcripts were identified by CREMA as encoding lncRNAs. Gene annotation associated with the transcripts showed that up to 99% of all predicted lncRNAs for Solanum tuberosum and Amborella trichopoda were missing from their reference annotations whereas the reference annotation for the genetic model plant Arabidopsis thaliana contains 96% of all predicted lncRNAs for this species. Thus a reliance on reference annotations for use in lncRNA research in less well-studied plants can be impeded by the near absence of annotations associated with these regulatory transcripts. Moreover, our work using phylogenetic signal analyses suggests that molecular traits of plant lncRNAs display different evolutionary patterns than all other transcripts in plants and have molecular traits that do not follow a classic evolutionary pattern. Specifically, GC content was the only tested trait of lncRNAs with consistently significant and high phylogenetic signal, contrary to high signal in all tested molecular traits for the other transcripts in our tested plant species.

Investigation of the factors that affect the volume and stability of espresso crema.

This study investigated the effects of key brewing parameters (basket size, particle size, temperature, brewing ratio, coffee freshness, bean variety, and degree of roast) on the crema volume and stability of espresso coffees. Moreover, the brewing time and pressure, as well as brew total solid and extraction yield were characterized. The results show that the crema volume was mainly affected by the coffee variety and freshness. A larger crema volume was generated from Robusta than Arabica beans. Moreover, the fresher the coffee, the greater the crema volume. Crema stability was strongly affected by basket size, with double- and triple-shot baskets producing more stable crema than that from the single-shot basket. Arabica beans resulted in brews with a more stable crema than Robusta, attributable to the higher lipids content in the former. In comparison, crema volume and stability were less affected by the particle size, brewing ratio, and brewing temperature. Besides elucidating the parameters that affect the crema volume and stability of espresso coffee, findings from this study are expected to be useful for café barista and coffee connoisseurs in preparing espresso coffee with consistent crema quality.

[Reducing the pain in invasive procedures during paediatric hospital admissions: Fiction, reality or virtual reality?] / Disminuyendo el dolor en los procedimientos invasivos durante la hospitalización pediátrica: ¿ficción, realidad o realidad virtual?

INTRODUCTION: Potentially painful invasive procedures are often performed for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in hospitalised paediatric patients. Approaches, such as virtual reality (VR), should be sought in order to minimise pain and anxiety during these procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hospitalised patients between 4 and 15-years-old requiring an invasive procedure were included. Pain and anxiety evaluation scales were given to children, relatives and health workers. A comparison was made with patients in whom VR was used (with or without concomitant use of a prilocaine/ lidocaine 2.5% analgesic cream) and patients in whom neither VR nor analgesic cream were used. RESULTS: The study included 58 patients, 38 in the VR group and 20 in the control group. Pain scores, as performed by patients, relatives and health workers, significantly decreased in the VR group (control group median 4/5 vs. VR group median 1/5, P<.001). Patient-reported anxiety scales were also lower in the VR group (control group median 4/5 vs. VR group 1/5, P=.001). The number of punctures (R2: 0.5, ß: 0.6; P=.01) and the lack of analgesic techniques (ß: -0.9; P=.02) were associated with higher scores in patient-reported pain scales. COMMENTS: The use of VR can reduce pain and anxiety during invasive procedures in hospitalized children.

Estrógeno tópico vaginal y dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal en pacientes con histerectomía total laparoscópica / Topical vaginal estrogen and vaginal vault dehiscence in patients rather than a laparoscopic total hysterectomy

Resumen OBJETIVO: Comparar la frecuencia de dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal en pacientes tratadas con y sin estrógenos equinos conjugados por vía vaginal antes de la histerectomía total laparoscópica. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Ensayo clínico controlado, comparativo, ciego simple, efectuado en pacientes atendidas entre enero de 2013 y agosto de 2016 en el Hospital Civil de Culiacán con indicación de histerectomía total laparoscópica por enfermedad benigna. Criterios de inclusión: haber recibido durante tres semanas previas al procedimiento estrógenos equinos conjugados por vía vaginal (grupo de estudio) o crema lubricante vaginal como placebo (grupo control). Criterios de exclusión: pacientes con diabetes mellitus tratadas con esteroides y antecedente de un evento tromboembólico reciente. Se evaluó la frecuencia de dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal a los 7 y 30 días posteriores a la cirugía. Se utilizó la prueba t de Student para comparar medias y la χ2 para la comparación de proporciones, con cálculo de riesgo relativo para evaluar el riesgo de dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 236 pacientes con edad promedio, en ambos grupos, de 47.1 y 47.7 años, respectivamente (p > .05). Los antecedentes ginecoobstétricos y las indicaciones para histerectomía fueron similares en ambos grupos (p = .340). La incidencia total de dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal fue de 4.6% (n = 11/236) con frecuencia de 6.8% (n = 8/118) en las pacientes del grupo tratado con lubricante vaginal y de 2.5% (n = 3/118) en el grupo tratado con estrógenos equinos conjugados por vía vaginal, sin diferencias entre ambos grupos (p = .123; RR=.359; IC95%: .093-1.387). CONCLUSIONES: El riesgo de dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal fue similar entre el grupo que recibió lubricante y el de estrógenos tópicos vaginales, pero con una tendencia menor en la frecuencia de dehiscencia de la cúpula vaginal en el grupo tratado con estrógenos tópicos.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To compare the frequency of vaginal cuff dehiscence in patients managed with and without conjugated equine estrogens vaginally prior to total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a single-blind controlled clinical trial, 236 patients with indications for laparoscopic total hysterectomy for benign pathology at the Hospital Civil de Culiacán and who agreed to participate in the study were randomly assigned to receive vaginally conjugated equine estrogens (study group) or vaginal lubricating cream as a placebo (control group) for 3 weeks prior to the procedure. Patients with diabetes mellitus, treated with steroids and history of a recent thromboembolic event were excluded. The frequency of vaginal cuff dehiscence was evaluated at 7 and 30 days after surgery. The student's t-test was used to compare means and the Chi-square test was used to compare proportions, with relative risk (RR) calculation to evaluate the risk of vaginal cuff dehiscence. RESULTS: We studied 236 patients with average age, in both groups, 47.1 and 47.7 years, respectively (p > .05). The mean age of the patients was similar between the groups (47.1 vs 47.7 years, p>.05). The gynecological-obstetric history and indications for hysterectomy were similar between both groups (p = .340). The incidence of vaginal cuff dehiscence was 2.5% (n = 3) in the group treated with conjugated equine estrogens vaginally and 6.8% (n = 8) in the patients of thse group treated with vaginal lubricant (p= .123; RM= .359; IC95%: .093-1.387). CONCLUSIONS: The risk of presenting vaginal cuff dehiscence was similar between the group of lubricant and topical vaginal estrogens, but with a lower tendency in the frequency of vaginal cuff dehiscence in the group of topical estrogens.

Uso de la crema Vimang® en la cicatrización alveolar después de la extracción dentaria en un paciente con diabetes mellitus / Use of the Vimang® cream in the alveolar healing after dental extraction in a patient with diabetes mellitus

Se presenta el caso clínico de un anciano de 75 años de edad, con antecedentes de hipertensión arterial y diabetes mellitus, quien acudió a consulta estomatológica para que le extrajeran el segundo molar inferior izquierdo por presentar gran destrucción debido a caries dental. Después de concluir el proceder se le aplicó la crema Vimang® directamente en el alveolo para acelerar los procesos de cicatrización y evitar cualquier complicación inmediata o mediata; luego se indicó 4 veces al día después de cepillarse. El paciente logró la curación a los 15 días y no se detectó ninguna reacción adversa(AU)

The case report of a 75 years old man with history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus is presented. He went to the stomatological service to have the second left lower molar extracted, because it had a great destruction due to dental decay. After concluding the procedure the Vimang® cream was directly applied in the alveolus to accelerate the healing processes and avoid any immediate or mediate complication; then it was indicated 4 times a day after brushing his teeth. The patient achieved healing after 15 days and no adverse reaction was detected(AU)

Natural Resource Management Schemes as Entry Points for Integrated Landscape Approaches: Evidence from Ghana and Burkina Faso.

In recognition of the failures of sectoral approaches to overcome global challenges of biodiversity loss, climate change, food insecurity and poverty, scientific discourse on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development is shifting towards integrated landscape governance arrangements. Current landscape initiatives however very much depend on external actors and funding, raising the question of whether, and how, and under what conditions, locally embedded resource management schemes can serve as entry points for the implementation of integrated landscape approaches. This paper assesses the entry point potential for three established natural resource management schemes in West Africa that target landscape degradation with involvement of local communities: the Chantier d'Aménagement Forestier scheme encompassing forest management sites across Burkina Faso and the Modified Taungya System and community wildlife resource management initiatives in Ghana. Based on a review of the current literature, we analyze the extent to which design principles that define a landscape approach apply to these schemes. We found that the CREMA meets most of the desired criteria, but that its scale may be too limited to guarantee effective landscape governance, hence requiring upscaling. Conversely, the other two initiatives are strongly lacking in their design principles on fundamental components regarding integrated approaches, continual learning, and capacity building. Monitoring and evaluation bodies and participatory learning and negotiation platforms could enhance the schemes' alignment with integrated landscape approaches.

Uso de la crema Vimang® en la cicatrización alveolar después de la extracción dentaria en un paciente con diabetes mellitus / Use of the Vimang® cream in the alveolar healing after dental extraction in a patient with diabetes mellitus

Se presenta el caso clínico de un anciano de 75 años de edad, con antecedentes de hipertensión arterial y diabetes mellitus, quien acudió a consulta estomatológica para que le extrajeran el segundo molar inferior izquierdo por presentar gran destrucción debido a caries dental. Después de concluir el proceder se le aplicó la crema Vimang® directamente en el alveolo para acelerar los procesos de cicatrización y evitar cualquier complicación inmediata o mediata; luego se indicó 4 veces al día después de cepillarse. El paciente logró la curación a los 15 días y no se detectó ninguna reacción adversa

The case report of a 75 years old man with history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus is presented. He went to the stomatological service to have the second left lower molar extracted, because it had a great destruction due to dental decay. After concluding the procedure the Vimang® cream was directly applied in the alveolus to accelerate the healing processes and avoid any immediate or mediate complication; then it was indicated 4 times a day after brushing his teeth. The patient achieved healing after 15 days and no adverse reaction was detected

Espresso coffee foam delays cooling of the liquid phase.

Espresso coffee foam, called crema, is known to be a marker of the quality of espresso coffee extraction. However, the role of foam in coffee temperature has not been quantitatively clarified. In this study, we used an automatic machine for espresso coffee extraction. We evaluated whether the foam prepared using the machine was suitable for foam analysis. After extraction, the percentage and consistency of the foam were measured using various techniques, and changes in the foam volume were tracked over time. Our extraction method, therefore, allowed consistent preparation of high-quality foam. We also quantitatively determined that the foam phase slowed cooling of the liquid phase after extraction. High-quality foam plays an important role in delaying the cooling of espresso coffee.

Efecto terapéutico del extracto etanólico de las hojas de Oenothera rosea A. "Chupasangre", en forma de crema farmacéutica / Therapeutic effect of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Oenothera rosea A. "Chupasangre", in the form of a pharmaceutical cream

El presente trabajo de investigación tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto antiinflamatorio y cicatrizante de la crema farmacéutica a base del extracto etanólico de las hojas de Oenothera rosea "chupasangre" procedente del Departamento de Ancash (Huaraz). Se determinaron los metabolitos secundarios mediante marcha fitoquímica (flavonoides, alcaloides, taninos, saponinas, fenoles, glucósidos y otros). Se evaluó el efecto contra la inflamación y su actividad en las cicatrices en 3 grupos poblacionales (contusiones leves, contusiones moderadas y heridas leves cerradas) de 20 a 50 años de edad, de ambos sexos, los cuales se subdividieron en grupos experimentales y controles, en el Centro de Salud Ganimedes DISA IV LIMA ESTE ­ MINSA del distrito de San Juan de Lurigancho. Se evaluó el estado general para un diagnóstico médico; para luego iniciar el uso tópico por medio de controles de observación y medición de la zona afectada hasta su completa recuperación. Los datos fueron procesados mediante el análisis (ANOVA), Tukey y análisis de varianza, dándonos como resultado que las cremas al 3 y 5 % mostraron buen efecto antiinflamatorio (contusiones leves y contusiones moderadas) y regular efecto cicatrizante (heridas leves cerradas), mientras, que la crema al 1 % no tiene efecto. Además, la crema al 5 % fue sometida a estabilidad acelerada a una temperatura de 40 °C durante 90 días teniendo como parámetros los análisis organolépticos (aspecto, color y olor), fisicoquímicos (pH, viscosidad) y carga microbiológica total; obteniendo como resultado una crema estable y que cumple con los criterios de aceptación.

Short communication: Characterization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from raw milk fresh cheese in Colombia.

The aim of this study was the characterization of a collection of 8 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates, obtained from samples of fresh cheese (Doble Crema) produced from raw cow milk in small dairies in Colombia. All the isolates harbored the mecA and Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) genes, presented with SCCmec type IV, and belonged to multilocus sequence type 8 and spa type 024. Seven isolates presented 3 closely related pulsed-field gel electrophoresis profiles. Three of them carried the staphylococcal enterotoxin B gene. The isolates were resistant to cefoxitin, oxacillin, penicillin, and ampicillin and susceptible to all non-ß-lactams antibiotics tested, with minimum inhibitory concentration values for oxacillin of 4 to 8mg/L. The isolates belonged to the community-acquired MRSA group, suggesting a human source of contamination. The risk of human infection by MRSA via contaminated foods is considered low, but contaminated food commodities can contribute to the worldwide dissemination of clones of community-acquired MRSA.

[Epidermal growth factor, innovation and safety]. / Factor de crecimiento epidérmico, innovación y seguridad.

Bioidentical recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) is available in concentrations and purity suitable for therapeutic use in long time stable formulations. Beneficial effects in several skin pathologies and lesions have been reported (traumatic and surgical wound healing, laser induced wounds, abnormal scars, keloids, radiation or chemotherapy induced dermatitis, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or for skin aging damage repairing) and also may be considered for the treatment of several oropharingeal and high gastroesophageal tract mucosa diseases (mouth sores, pharyngeal fistulas, ulcers), and several corneal or conjunctive mucosa lesions. rhEGF has not shown any important side or collateral effects in humans or in laboratory experimentation animals, showing optimal tolerability and safety with continuous use for months. Compounding gives advantages of versatility, individualization, personalization, molecular stability, safety and effectiveness in ideal conditions, showing good tissue penetration, both on intact skin and skin lesions that expose the lower planes to the surface. rhEGF compounds can be considered for prevention or as a treatment of diverse skin and mucosa diseases and conditions through compounding preparations.

Estudio de los alcaloides de Croton draconoides "Sangre de grado", su actividad cicatrizante y el diseño de una forma farmacéutica / Study of the alkaloids of Croton draconoides "Blood grade", its healing activity and the design of a pharmaceutical form

El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo, realizar el estudio de los alcaloides del látex de la especie Croton draconoides "sangre de grado", y la elaboración de una forma farmacéutica (crema) de acción cicatrizante. La parte experimental se desarrolló en tres etapas: obtención, caracterización y liofilización del látex de la especie Croton draconoides, e incorporación y evaluación de la actividad cicatrizante del látex liofilizado en una forma farmaceútica de aplicación tópica. Se obtuvo el látex mediante el método de incisión sobre la corteza del árbol, recolectado en el departamento de Ucayali, provincia de Coronel Portillo, distrito de Yarinacocha. Se le realizó el liofilizado del látex y se desarrolló técnicas fisicoquímicas, cromatográficas y análisis fitoquìmicos. Se evaluó el efecto cicatrizante utilizando el método de incisión en la piel de ratones previamente anestesiados, empleándose concentraciones de 0.5%, 1.0 %, 1.5% y 2.0% del látex liofilizado incorporado en la forma farmaceútica, junto a un grupo placebo y control. Se determinó que la mayor actividad cicatrizante, después de las 96 horas de tratamiento, ocurrió cuando se le aplicó la crema al 1.5%.

Desarrollo de una crema elaborada a base del extracto atomizado de las vainas de Caesalpinia spinosa Molina Kuntze "tara". Ayacucho 2015 / Development of a cream made from the atomized extract of the Caesalpinia spinosa pods Molina Kuntze "tara". Ayacucho 2015

El presente trabajo de investigación se ejecutó en los Laboratorios de la Escuela Profesional de Farmacia y Bioquímica de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Nacional de San Cristóbal de Huamanga, en el Centro de Desarrollo, Análisis y Control de Calidad de Medicamentos y Fito medicamentos y se realizó con el objetivo de desarrollar una formulación de una crema a base del extracto atomizado .de Caesalpinia spinosa Malina Kuntze "Tara". Las muestras fueron recolectadas del distrito de Luricocha, provincia de Huanta del departamento de Ayacucho. Se desarrolló tres formulaciones de crema a base de extracto atomizado al 3%. Se realizó estudios de pre-estabilidad y estudio de estabilidad a largo y corto plazo durante un mes, durante eil cual se evaluó sus características organolépticas y fisicoquímicas, así como el porcentaje de ácido tánico por el método de Folin Ciocalteau. El extracto atomizado tuvo un olor característico, sabor amargo, es de colorbeige claro y tiene un aspecto de polvo fino homogéneo. Es muy soluble en agua, con pH es iguala 3,5 ± 0,06; con una humedad de 9,7%; cenizas 3,2%; un rendimiento de 11 ,89% y con un porcentaje de taninos de 79,84 ± 0,06%. La crema al 3%, elegida para el estudio estabilidad presentó un aspecto homogéneo, de color beis claro, astringente y sabor dulce, pH de 6.0. Del estudio de pre-estabilidad, la fórmula no presentó variación de sus características organolépticas después de su exposición a temperatura ambiente y a la luz, se mantuvo estable hasta los 30 días, a la exposición de temperatura de 30°C y 50°C, al cabo de este tiempo se observa la liberación de un líquido pardo. El pH varió de 5.86 a 5.80. Del estudio de estabilidad, durante un mes, no hubo variación estadísticamente significativa de los parámetros organolépticos, fisicoquímicos, ni en los porcentajes de ácido tánico. Del control de calidad microbiológico, la crema es estable. Por lo cual concluimos que la crema al 3% tiene buenos atributos de estabilidad.