The therapeutic potential of purified cannabidiol.

The use of cannabidiol (CBD) for therapeutic purposes is receiving considerable attention, with speculation that CBD can be useful in a wide range of conditions. Only one product, a purified form of plant-derived CBD in solution (Epidiolex), is approved for the treatment of seizures in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex. Appraisal of the therapeutic evidence base for CBD is complicated by the fact that CBD products sometimes have additional phytochemicals (like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)) present, which can make the identification of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in positive studies difficult. The aim of the present review is to critically review clinical studies using purified CBD products only, in order to establish the upcoming indications for which purified CBD might be beneficial. The areas in which there is the most clinical evidence to support the use of CBD are in the treatment of anxiety (positive data in 7 uncontrolled studies and 17 randomised controlled trials (RCTs)), psychosis and schizophrenia (positive data in 1 uncontrolled study and 8 RCTs), PTSD (positive data in 2 uncontrolled studies and 4 RCTs) and substance abuse (positive data in 2 uncontrolled studies and 3 RCTs). Seven uncontrolled studies support the use of CBD to improve sleep quality, but this has only been verified in one small RCT. Limited evidence supports the use of CBD for the treatment of Parkinson's (3 positive uncontrolled studies and 2 positive RCTs), autism (3 positive RCTs), smoking cessation (2 positive RCTs), graft-versus-host disease and intestinal permeability (1 positive RCT each). Current RCT evidence does not support the use of purified oral CBD in pain (at least as an acute analgesic) or for the treatment of COVID symptoms, cancer, Huntington's or type 2 diabetes. In conclusion, published clinical evidence does support the use of purified CBD in multiple indications beyond epilepsy. However, the evidence base is limited by the number of trials only investigating the acute effects of CBD, testing CBD in healthy volunteers, or in very small patient numbers. Large confirmatory phase 3 trials are required in all indications.

Post-COVID-19 syndrome mimicking cholangiocarcinoma: A case report.

Key Clinical Message: The differential diagnosis of post-COVID-19 syndrome is important in patients with symptoms of biliary obstruction. This patient had severe COVID-19 who underwent ERCP and mimicked cholangiocarcinoma. Abstract: Patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) manifest liver injuries with pathological changes because of lowered blood oxygen saturation, cardiac malfunction, hepatotoxic drugs during treatment, and cellular injury. This paper reports a patient with a history of severe COVID-19 who mimics cholangiocarcinoma after undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). It was shown that differential diagnosis of post-COVID-19 syndrome is greatly important mostly in patients with symptoms of biliary obstruction.

The Post-Pandemic Central Business District (CBD): Re-Imagining the Creative City?

After central business districts (CBD) emptied from COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns and widespread working-from-home, culture and creativity feature prominently within recovery strategies, enrolling the arts and events to enliven urban precincts and attract people back into city centres. We draw upon resilience theory and creative city policymaking to critique present formulations of CBD revitalisation, and suggest alternatives. Despite overtures to social inclusion and environmental sustainability, revitalisation strategies mobilise pre-existing "vehicular ideas" that support corporate business interests in and claims on central city space. We articulate concerns around inclusivity, financial and property interests, creativity as consumption rather than production, livelihood concerns, and underwhelming acknowledgement of pandemic disruption. Instead of placing creativity in service of the competitive positioning of the CBD, we ask: what is the very purpose of the post-pandemic CBD, and who is the CBD for? Answering these questions invitesmore courageous propositions that seize once-in-a-generation opportunities for transformational change. (English) [ FROM AUTHOR] 由于新冠肺炎疫情的封锁和在家办公的普及，中央商务区(CBD)日渐冷清，文化和创意在复苏战略中占据了突出的位置，引入艺术和活动来活跃城市区域，并吸引人们回到城市中心。我们利用弹性理论和创意城市政策来批判现有的CBD复兴模式，并提出替代方案。尽管提出了社会包容和环境可持续发展的提议，但复兴战略调动了支持企业对中心城市空间商业利益和主张的既有"车辆理念"。我们表达了担忧，包括对包容性、金融和财产利益、将创造力视为消费而不是生产、生计问题以及对疫情破坏平淡无奇的认识。我们不要让创造力为CBD的竞争定位服务，而是要问：大流行后CBD的真正目标是什么，CBD是为谁服务的？回答这些问题需要更大胆的主张，以抓住千载难逢的变革机遇。 (Chinese) [ FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Urban Policy & Research is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full . (Copyright applies to all s.)

Tocilizumab-coated solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with cannabidiol as a novel drug delivery strategy for treating COVID-19: A review.

Commonly used clinical strategies against coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), including the potential role of monoclonal antibodies for site-specific targeted drug delivery, are discussed here. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) tailored with tocilizumab (TCZ) and loading cannabidiol (CBD) are proposed for the treatment of COVID-19 by oral route. TCZ, as a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody and an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor agonist, can attenuate cytokine storm in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. CBD (an anti-inflammatory cannabinoid and TCZ agonist) alleviates anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression. CBD, obtained from Cannabis sativa L., is known to modulate gene expression and inflammation and also shows anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been recognized to modulate angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) expression in SARS-CoV-2 target tissues. It has already been proven that immunosuppressive drugs targeting the IL-6 receptor may ameliorate lethal inflammatory responses in COVID-19 patients. TCZ, as an immunosuppressive drug, is mainly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, although several attempts have been made to use it in the active hyperinflammatory phase of COVID-19, with promising outcomes. TCZ is currently administered intravenously. It this review, we discuss the potential advances on the use of SLN for oral administration of TCZ-tailored CBD-loaded SLN, as an innovative platform for managing SARS-CoV-2 and related infections.

Leveraging access to technology and enhanced surgical technique (LATEST) in laparoscopic bile duct exploration (LBDE).

Single-stage management of choledocholithiasis with concomitant gallstones consists of performing either laparoscopic bile duct exploration (LBDE) or intra-operative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography at the same time as laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Transductal LBDE is associated with significantly higher post-operative morbidity, longer operative times and longer hospital stay when compared to transcystic LBDE. The aim of this study was to report the transcystic exploration rate and post-operative outcomes from LBDE before and after implementation of the LATEST (Leveraging Access to Technology and Enhanced Surgical Technique) principles. METHODS: A retrospective review of 481 consecutive patients between February 1998 and July 2021 was performed. Patients were assigned into two groups determined by whether they were operated before or after the implementation of LATEST. Data collected included pre-operative demographic information, medical co-morbidity, pre-operative investigations, and intra-operative findings (including transcystic exploration rate, negative choledochoscopy rate, use of holmium laser lithotripsy and operative time). Outcomes of this study were the transcystic exploration rate, stone clearance rate, conversion to open surgery, post-operative morbidity and mortality, and length of post-operative hospital stay. RESULTS: The pre-LATEST group contained 237 patients and the LATEST group comprised of 244 patients. Ultra-thin choledochoscopes and holmium laser lithotripsy were used more frequently in the LATEST group (41.4% and 18.4%, respectively). Enhanced surgical techniques (correction of the cystic duct-CBD junction and the trans-infundibular approach) were also performed more frequently in the LATEST group. More patients in the LATEST group received transcystic LBDE (86.1% vs 11.0%, p < 0.0001). The LATEST group had significantly higher stone clearance rates (98.8% vs 93.7%, p = 0.0034), reduced post-operative morbidity and shorter post-operative hospital stay (4 days vs 1 day, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: LATEST describes four key factors that can be used when performing LBDE. The adoption of LATEST in LBDE is associated with an increased stone clearance, a higher transcystic exploration rate and reduced post-operative morbidity.

Cannabinoids and neuroinflammation: Therapeutic implications

This review summarizes the pharmacological properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinoid components of several species of herbal cannabis. The pharmacological effects of the phytocannabinoids have been extensively investigated and the importance of the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) on immune cells has provided important information on the intracellular targets for these molecules. In addition to the phytocannabinoids, endogenous cannabinoids also exist in the form of anadramide and 2-srodolylglycerol (2-AG). These, together with their synthesizing and metabolizing enzymes, form the cannabinoid system. Since the discovery of the endocannabinoid system and the role that neuroinflammation plays in neurological and psychiatric illness, the potential therapeutic importance of this system has been of growing interest. In addition, the need to develop drugs which specifically target the CB1 and CB2 receptors has been stimulated by the pharmacological complexity of both THC and CBD. This review briefly summarizes the therapeutic potential of the naturally occurring and the synthetic cannabinoids which will need to be developed, if such drugs are to fulfill the therapeutic promise which the cannabinoids offer. © 2023

Can Cannabinoids Suppress the Cytokines Cascade in Patients with Coronavirus Disease COVID-19? A Mini-Review

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, started in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and became a global pandemic. According to WHO, more than fourteen million cases were reported and thousands of casualties worldwide (until July 18, 2020). Most of the COVID-19 patients have symptoms such as fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some people may also experience body aches, nasal congestion, a runny nose, and diarrhea. So far, doctors have been using treatment to relieve symptoms and give patients' immune systems time to regain control of this virus. Many studies have high-lighted the important role of cytokine cascades in the death rate in COVID-19 patients. Therefore, inhibi-tion of this phenomenon has become a very important target in the clinical management of this disease. With this idea, in this mini-review, we will focus on the potential role of cannabinoids in the suppression of cytokines cascades in patients with COVID-19 and their importance in the clinical management of this disease.Copyright © 2021 Bentham Science Publishers.

Factors Associated with Medical Cannabis Use After Certification: A Three-Month Longitudinal Study.

Background: Over the past decade, there has been increased utilization of medical cannabis (MC) in the United States. Few studies have described sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with MC use after certification and more specifically, factors associated with use of MC products with different cannabinoid profiles. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal cohort study of adults (N=225) with chronic or severe pain on opioids who were newly certified for MC in New York State and enrolled in the study between November 2018 and January 2022. We collected data over participants' first 3 months in the study, from web-based assessment of MC use every 2 weeks (unit of analysis). We used generalized estimating equation models to examine associations of sociodemographic and clinical factors with (1) MC use (vs. no MC use) and (2) use of MC products with different cannabinoid profiles. Results: On average, 29% of the participants used predominantly high delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) MC products within the first 3 months of follow-up, 30% used other MC products, and 41% did not use MC products. Non-Hispanic White race, pain at multiple sites, and past 30-day sedative use were associated with a higher likelihood of MC use (vs. no MC use). Current tobacco use, unregulated cannabis use, and enrollment in the study during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with a lower likelihood of MC use (vs. no MC use). Among participants reporting MC use, female gender and older age were associated with a lower likelihood of using predominantly high-THC MC products (vs. other MC products). Conclusion: White individuals were more likely to use MC after certification, which may be owing to access and cost issues. The findings that sedative use was associated with greater MC use, but tobacco and unregulated cannabis were associated with less MC use, may imply synergism and substitution that warrant further research. From the policy perspective, additional measures are needed to ensure equitable availability of and access to MC. Health practitioners should check patients' history and current use of sedative, tobacco, and unregulated cannabis before providing an MC recommendation and counsel patients on safe cannabis use. clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03268551).

Road crashes in Adelaide metropolitan region, the consequences of COVID-19.

Background: Many countries instituted lockdown rules as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, however, the effects of COVID-19 on transportation safety vary widely across countries and regions. In several situations, it has been shown that although the COVID-19 closure has decreased average traffic flow, it has also led to an increase in speeding, which will indeed increase the severity of crashes and the number of fatalities and serious injuries. Methods: At the local level, Generalized linear Mixed (GLM) modelling is used to look at how often road crashes changed in the Adelaide metropolitan area before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The Geographically Weighted Generalized Linear Model (GWGLM) is also used to explore how the association between the number of crashes and the factors that explain them varies across census blocks. Using both no-spatial and spatial models, the effects of urban structure elements like land use mix, road network design, distance to CBD, and proximity to public transit on the frequency of crashes at the local level were studied. Results: This research showed that lockdown orders led to a mild reduction (approximately 7%) in crash frequency. However, this decrease, which has occurred mostly during the first three months of the lockdown, has not systematically alleviated traffic safety risks in the Greater Adelaide Metropolitan Area. Crash hotspots shifted from areas adjacent to workplaces and education centres to green spaces and city fringes, while crash incidence periods switched from weekdays to weekends and winter to summer. Implications: The outcomes of this research provided insights into the impact of shifting driving behaviour on safety during disorderly catastrophes such as COVID-19.

Analyzing the Perspectives of Health Professionals and Legal Cannabis Users on the Treatment of Chronic Pain With Cannabidiol: Protocol for a Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND: Medical cannabis is one of the most commonly reported treatments for chronic pain. The wide acceptance and research in alternative medicine have put medical cannabis in the limelight, where researchers are widely examining its therapeutic benefits, including treatment of chronic pain. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this scoping review is to provide an overview of the perspectives on cannabidiol as an alternative treatment for chronic pain among health professionals and legal cannabis users. METHODS: The framework of Arksey and O'Malley guides the design of this scoping review, and the elements reported use the recommended guidelines of the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews). A comprehensive literature search accessed the databases CINAHL Complete and MEDLINE via EBSCO, Australia/New Zealand Reference Centre, PsycINFO, Ovid Emcare, Wiley Online Library, Scopus, Informit New Zealand Collection, and Google Scholar for published literature, and then it was extended to include gray literature. Gray literature searches included searching the databases Australia/New Zealand Reference Centre, Informit New Zealand Collection, INNZ: Index New Zealand, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, and AUT Tuwhera Research Repository, and the website nzresearch.org.nz. The studies included in this scoping review were assessed for eligibility for inclusion using the following criteria: published in English after 2000, conducted in New Zealand (NZ) or Australia, and aimed to investigate the perspectives of health professionals and medical cannabis users using interviews for data collection. Studies were screened for inclusion using Covidence, a software tool to filter search results, and the risk of bias was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool. Although this is not a required step for scoping reviews, it added an element of strength to this scoping review. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis guided by Braun and Clarke. The findings from the data analysis will be presented in a table, which will then inform the key themes for discussion. RESULTS: The database search started in October 2021 and was completed in December 2021. The total number of studies included in this review is 5 (n=5). Studies included were conducted in NZ or Australia and examined the perspectives using participant interviews. This scoping review is anticipated to be submitted for publication in December 2022. CONCLUSIONS: Using perspectives is a valuable tool to understand the challenges experienced by health professionals and medical cannabis users associated with medical cannabis treatment. Addressing these challenges through interventions that are highlighted through perspectives such as educating health professionals to increase access to medical cannabis in NZ may aid in policy reformulation for medical cannabis in the context of NZ. Thus, this scoping review highlights the importance of medical cannabis research and suggests recommendations to guide and inform medical cannabis policy in the context of NZ. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/37697.

Parent and Caregiver Perspectives towards Cannabidiol as a Treatment for Fragile X Syndrome.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating chemical in cannabis plants that is being investigated as a candidate for treatment in Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), a leading known cause of inherited intellectual developmental disability. Studies have shown that CBD can reduce symptoms such as anxiety, social avoidance, hyperactivity, aggression, and sleep problems. This is a qualitative study that utilized a voluntary-anonymous survey that consisted of questions regarding demographics, medical information, the form, type, brand, dose, and frequency of CBD use, the rationale for use, the perception of effects, side effects, and costs. The full survey contained a total of 34 questions, including multiple-choice, Likert-scale, and optional free-response questions. This research revealed that there are a wide range of types, brands, and doses of CBD being administered to individuals with FXS by their parents and caregivers. There were many reasons why CBD was chosen, the most common ones being that respondents had heard positive things about CBD from members of the community, the perception that CBD had fewer side effects than other medications, and because respondents felt that CBD was a more natural substance. Most of the parents and caregivers who responded agreed that CBD improved some of the symptoms of FXS and made a positive difference overall. CBD has the therapeutic potential to help relieve some FXS symptoms. Future research is necessary to understand the benefits of CBD in FXS.

CANNABINOIDS AND NEUROINFLAMMATION: THERAPEUTIC IMPLICATIONS

This review summarizes the pharmacological properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinoid components of several species of herbal cannabis. The pharmacological effects of the phytocannabinoids have been extensively investigated and the importance of the cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) on immune cells has provided important information on the intracellular targets for these molecules. In addition to the phytocannabinoids, endogenous cannabinoids also exist in the form of anadramide and 2-srodolylglycerol (2-AG). These, together with their synthesizing and metabolizing enzymes, form the cannabinoid system. Since the discovery of the endocannabinoid system and the role that neuroinflammation plays in neurological and psychiatric illness, the potential therapeutic importance of this system has been of growing interest. In addition, the need to develop drugs which specifically target the CB1 and CB2 receptors has been stimulated by the pharmacological complexity of both THC and CBD. This review briefly summarizes the therapeutic potential of the naturally occurring and the synthetic cannabinoids which will need to be developed, if such drugs are to fulfill the therapeutic promise which the cannabinoids offer.

The Post-Pandemic Central Business District (CBD): Re-Imagining the Creative City?

After central business districts (CBD) emptied from COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns and widespread working-from-home, culture and creativity feature prominently within recovery strategies, enrolling the arts and events to enliven urban precincts and attract people back into city centres. We draw upon resilience theory and creative city policymaking to critique present formulations of CBD revitalisation, and suggest alternatives. Despite overtures to social inclusion and environmental sustainability, revitalisation strategies mobilise pre-existing "vehicular ideas” that support corporate business interests in and claims on central city space. We articulate concerns around inclusivity, financial and property interests, creativity as consumption rather than production, livelihood concerns, and underwhelming acknowledgement of pandemic disruption. Instead of placing creativity in service of the competitive positioning of the CBD, we ask: what is the very purpose of the post-pandemic CBD, and who is the CBD for? Answering these questions invitesmore courageous propositions that seize once-in-a-generation opportunities for transformational change. [ FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabidiol as a personalized treatment for anxiety: clinical cases in Mexico.

Anxiety-related disorders are one of the most common mental health issues worldwide. Mexico has reported an increase in the prevalence of these ailments secondary to the confinement derived from the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the limitations of commonly used treatments for these disorders, a need arises to develop new pharmacological treatments for these patients. This paper has the primary objective of evaluating the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol isolate in drug compounding used as a personalized treatment in patients with anxiety disorders through the presentation of four clinical cases.

Maintained anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol after treatment discontinuation in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective: To assess whether the effects of oral administration of 300 mg of Cannabidiol (CBD) for 28 days on mental health are maintained for a period after the medication discontinuation. Methods: This is a 3-month follow-up observational and clinical trial study. The data were obtained from two studies performed simultaneously by the same team in the same period and region with Brazilian frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scales to assess emotional symptoms were applied weekly, in the first month, and at weeks eight and 12. Results: The primary outcome was that, compared to the control group, a significant reduction in General Anxiety Disorder-7 Questionnaire (GAD-7) from baseline values was observed in the CBD group on weeks two, four, and eight (Within-Subjects Contrasts, time-group interactions: F1-125 = 7.67; p = 0.006; ηp 2 = 0.06; F1-125 = 6.58; p = 0.01; ηp 2 = 0.05; F1-125 = 4.28; p = 0.04; ηp 2 = 0.03, respectively) after the end of the treatment. Conclusions: The anxiolytic effects of CBD in frontline health care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic were maintained up to 1 month after the treatment discontinuation, suggesting a persistent decrease in anxiety in this group in the real world. Future double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm the present findings and weigh the benefits of CBD therapy against potential undesired or adverse effects.

A Single-Blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Study to Evaluate the Benefits and Safety of Endourage Targeted Wellness Formula C Sublingual +Drops in People with Post-Acute Coronavirus Disease 2019 Syndrome.

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes a wide range of symptoms, including death. As persons recover, some continue to experience symptoms described as Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS). The objectives of this study were to measure the efficacy of Formula C™, a cannabidiol (CBD)-rich, whole-flower terpene-rich preparation in managing PACS symptoms. Materials and Methods: This randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, open-label crossover study was conducted in 2021. Informed consent was obtained from participants, and they were randomized to two treatment groups. Group 1 (n=15) received blinded active product for 28 days, and Group 2 (n=16) received blinded placebo for 28 days (Treatment Period 1). Both groups crossed over to open-label active product for 28 days (Treatment Period 2) with a safety assessment at day 70. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) scores and the Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) score were used to assess primary and secondary objectives. Safety assessments were also done at each visit. Results: Twenty-four participants completed study, with 8 withdrawals, none related to study product. PGIC and PROMIS scores improved across both groups at day 28. This raised questions about the placebo. A reanalysis of the placebo confirmed absence of CBD and unexpected medical concentration of terpenes. The study continued despite no longer having a true placebo. The improved scores on outcome measures were maintained across the open label treatment period. There were no safety events reported throughout the study. Discussion: For persons with PACS who are nonresponsive to conventional therapies, this study demonstrated symptom improvement for participants utilizing Formula C. In addition, the benefits seen in Group 2 suggest the possibility that non-CBD formulations rich in antioxidants, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids, gamma-linoleic acid, and terpenes may also have contributed to the overall improvement of the partial active group through the study. Conclusion: Given that both groups demonstrated improvement, both formulations may be contributing to these findings. Limitations include the small number of participants, the lack of a true placebo, and limited time on study products. Additional studies are warranted to explore both CBD-rich hemp products and hempseed oil as treatment options for PACS. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04828668.

Reimagining the Future of the Sydney CBD: Reflecting on Covid-19-Driven Changes in Commercial and Residential Property Trends

Covid-19 has led to unprecedented changes in functional structures in our cities. Since the mid-20th century, central business districts (CBDs) worldwide have hosted economic and employment activities, leaving suburbia to home the residential function. However, the global Covid-19 responses have resulted in changes in some urban functions, and it is yet to see if these changes would transpire as temporary or permanent. Some argue that the broad macrogeographical pattern of urbanisation is unlikely to be changed. Still, that significant intra-metropolitan, neighbourhood-level and daily life changes are to become part of the new reality. Thus, this article considered these changes by focusing on property trends in the Sydney CBD to reflect on future trends, urban structures, and associated functions. An evaluative single case study desk-top analysis was conducted to investigate commercial vacancy rates and rental prices within the CBD of Sydney (Australia) between 2018 and 2021 to reflect on the Covid-19-drive changes and their implications for urban planners. Findings high-lighted that before Covid-19, both residential and commercial markets were growing, with rising rental prices and decreasing vacancy rates. However, commercial vacancies in the CBD have increased, and rental prices have decreased since 2020's lockdown, stressing the dropping demand for commercial spaces. The residential market experienced a different trend with dropping vacancy rates and increasing rental prices. The data analysed provide an initial understanding of how Covid-19 has impacted the Sydney CBD. It poses some insights into potential future trends and changes in the urban landscape. It highlights the implications that the planning profession should consider in the quest to realise sustainable and resilient cities.

High-CBD Extract (CBD-X) Downregulates Cytokine Storm Systemically and Locally in Inflamed Lungs.

Cytokine storm refers to the dysregulated production of inflammatory mediators leading to hyperinflammation. They are often detrimental, and worsen the severity of COVID-19 and other infectious or inflammatory diseases. Cannabinoids are known to have anti-inflammatory effects but their possible therapeutic value on cytokine storms has not been fully elucidated. In vivo and ex vivo studies were carried out to investigate the effects of high-THC and high-CBD extracts on cytokine production in immune cells. Significant differences between the extracts were observed. Subsequent experiments focusing on a specific high CBD extract (CBD-X) showed significant reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines in human-derived PBMCs, neutrophils and T cells. In vivo mouse studies, using a systemically inflamed mouse model, showed reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IL-1ß and a concurrent increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in response to CBD-X extract treatment. Lung inflammation, as in severe COVID-19 disease, is characterized by increased T-cell homing to the lungs. Our investigation revealed that CBD-X extract impaired T-cell migration induced by the chemoattractant SDF1. In addition, the phosphorylation levels of T cell receptor (TCR) signaling proteins Lck and Zap70 were significantly reduced, demonstrating an inhibitory effect on the early events downstream to TCR activation. In a lung inflamed mouse model, we observed a reduction in leukocytes including neutrophil migration to the lungs and decreased levels of IL-1ß, MCP-1, IL-6 and TNFα, in response to the administration of the high-CBD extract. The results presented in this work offer that certain high-CBD extract has a high potential in the management of pathological conditions, in which the secretion of cytokines is dysregulated, as it is in severe COVID-19 disease or other infectious or inflammatory diseases.

Investigating small, medium and micro-scale enterprises strategic planning techniques in Johannesburg central business district post-COVID-19 lockdown

Background: Strategic planning assists organisations to capitalise on opportunities that arise and to minimise the threats posed by unstable market environments. Apart from the track record of poor performance amongst some small, medium and micro-scale enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa, COVID-19 pandemic severely affected more than 55 000 South African SMMEs in March 2020 after the lockdown imposed by the government. Aim: This research study sought to investigate strategic planning techniques or tools implemented by SMMEs post-COVID-19 lockdown in Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD). Setting: The study was conducted at small, medium and micro-enterprises in Johannesburg Central Business District. Methods: A quantitative study was conducted by using an online E-Survey Hero which was distributed to the sample of 169 respondents who were SMME owners and managers in Johannesburg CBD. Results: The results revealed that most SMMEs owners had knowledge on the strategic planning techniques such as the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis, the political, economic, social and technological (PEST) analysis, financial analysis of the competitors and financial analysis of their own business. Conclusion: Small, medium and micro-scale enterprises should take advantage of technology and invest in key skills needed for more effective strategic planning.

Simultaneous Quantification of 17 Cannabinoids in Cannabis Inflorescence by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

With an increasing appreciation for the unique pharmacological properties associated with distinct, individual cannabinoids of Cannabis sativa, there is demand for accurate and reliable quantification for a growing number of them. Although recent methods are based on highly selective chromatography-mass spectrometry technology, most are limited to a few cannabinoids, while relying on unnecessarily sophisticated and expensive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Here we report an optimised, simple extraction method followed by a reliable and simple high performance liquid chromatography method for separation. The detection is performed using a time-of-flight mass spectrometer that is available in most natural products research laboratories. Due to the simplicity of instrumentation, and the robustness resulting from a high resolution in the chromatography of isobaric cannabinoids, the method is well suited for routine phytocannabinoid analysis for a range of applications. The method was validated in terms of detection and quantification limits, repeatability, and recoveries for a total of 17 cannabinoids: detection limits were in the range 11–520 pg when using a 1 µL sample injection volume, and the recovery percentages ranged from 85% to 108%. The validated method was subsequently applied to determine cannabinoid composition in the inflorescences of several medicinal Cannabis sativa varieties.