Formulation F2 Research Articles

Biodegradable and active film based on keratin and protein hydrolysate of free-range chicken feathers: Structural and antioxidant properties

Keratin can be applied in developing films for food packaging due to its biodegradable and non-toxic nature. It can be extracted from chicken feathers and used as a source of protein to obtain peptides with technological properties of interest to the food industry. Therefore, this study aimed to elaborate on an active film with keratin and protein hydrolysate extracted from the feathers of free-range chicken. Four treatments were elaborated: F0 - control film without the addition of protein hydrolysate; F1 - film with the addition of 1.5% of protein hydrolysate; F3 - film with the addition of 3.0% protein hydrolysate and F6 - film with 6.0% protein hydrolysate. The films were evaluated for optical and thermal properties, water solubility, degradability, and antioxidant potential. The influence of hydrolysate addition on mechanical properties, solubility, and permeability to water vapor was observed. The percentage of degradability and the ABTS antioxidant potential was higher in the F6 treatment than the others.Regarding thermal analyses, the films presented high stability, which was associated with keratin thermal resistance. The present study points out that producing active films from free-range chicken feathers is an alternative to reducing the by-products and the use of plastics harmful to the environment. The F6 formulation is recommended for use by the active packaging industry because it presents the highest antioxidant activity and tensile strength but lower permeability to water vapor.

Assessing the effects of fluorine-free and PFAS-containing firefighting foams on development and behavioral responses using a zebrafish-based platform

Significant progress has been made in developing fluorine-free firefighting foams (F3) as alternatives to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-containing aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) to help eliminate the health and environmental concerns linked to PFAS exposure. However, developing viable F3 options hinges on a thorough assessment of potential risks alongside the technical performance evaluations. This study showcases the capability of a zebrafish-based platform to discern the developmental and behavioral toxicities associated with exposure to one AFFF and two F3 formulations. To facilitate direct exposure to the chemicals, embryos were enzymatically dechorionated and then exposed to the diluted formulations (6–120 hours post fertilization (hpf)) at concentrations folding from 0.1% of the manufacturer-recommended working concentrations. The exposure regimen also included daily automated media changes (50%) and mortality assessments (24 and 120 hpf). At 120 hpf, a comprehensive assessment encompassing overall development, prevalence of morphological defects, and behavioral responses to acute stressors (visual, acoustic, and peripheral irritant) was conducted. Exposure to both F3s significantly increased larval mortalities to percentages exceeding 90%, whereas AFFF exposures did not cause any significant effect. Overall development, marked by total larval length, was significantly impacted following exposures to all foams. Behavioral responses to acute stressors were also significantly altered following exposures to both F3s, whereas the AFFF did not alter behavior at the concentrations tested. Our findings demonstrate toxicities associated with tested F3 formulations that encompass several endpoints and highlight the utility of the proposed platform in evaluating the developmental toxicities of current and future foam formulations.

Curcumin-loaded gold nanoparticles with enhanced antibacterial efficacy and wound healing properties in diabetic rats

Diabetic wounds pose a significant global health challenge. Although curcumin exhibits promising wound healing and antibacterial properties, its clinical potential is limited by low aqueous solubility, and poor tissue penetration. This study aimed to address these challenges and enhance the wound healing efficacy of curcumin by loading it onto gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The properties of the AuNPs, including particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, percent drug entrapment efficiency (%EE) and UV–Vis spectra were significantly influenced by the curcumin/gold chloride molar ratio used in the synthesis of AuNPs. The optimal formulation (F2) exhibited the smallest particle size (41.77 ± 6.8 nm), reasonable PDI (0.59 ± 0.17), high %EE (94.43 ± 0.25 %), a moderate zeta potential (−8.44 ± 1.69 mV), and a well-defined surface Plasmon resonance peak at 526 nm. Formulation F2 was incorporated into Pluronic® F127 gel to facilitate its application to the skin. Both curcumin AuNPs solution and gel showed sustained drug release and higher skin permeation parameters compared with the free drug solution. AuNPs significantly enhanced curcumin’s antibacterial efficacy by lowering the minimum inhibitory concentrations and enhancing antibacterial biofilm activity against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. In a diabetic wound rat model, AuNPs-loaded curcumin exhibited superior wound healing attributes compared to the free drug. Specifically, it demonstrated improved wound healing percentage, reduced wound oxidative stress, increased wound collagen deposition, heightened anti-inflammatory effects, and enhanced angiogenesis. These findings underscore the potential of AuNPs as efficacious delivery systems of curcumin for improved wound healing applications.

Ex Vivo Irritation Evaluation of a Novel Brimonidine Nanoemulsion Using the Hen's Egg Test on Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM).

The hen's egg test on chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) assay is a cost-effective and well-validated, non-animal-based ex vivo method for evaluating the irritant potential and eye toxicity of substances. A colloidal dispersion of a surfactant and a cosurfactant with a nanosize range is called a nanoemulsion (NE), which is formed by mixing immiscible liquids and stabilized by surfactants. Patients with glaucoma are commonly prescribed Brimonidine (BR), an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, to lower their intraocular pressure. In this study, surfactant-cosurfactant blends were prepared by mixing Tween 80 (surfactant) and propylene glycol (cosurfactant) in a 4:1(v/v) ratio. Triacetin served as the oil phase, while deionized water was used as the aqueous phase. Using the drop method, a range of NE formulations (F1, F2, F3, FB1, FB2, and FB3) were developed and subsequently evaluated for their potential to irritate, and then the results were compared to those of a commercially available BR eye drop formulation. According to the average cumulative HET-CAM test scores (IS), from excipients, propylene glycol caused moderate irritation by causing slight damage to blood vessels. The formulations FB1 and F1 were found to have the highest level of irritation among other formulations in the investigation, recording 1.05 ±0.07 and 1.2 ±0.10, respectively. All other NE formulations exhibited non-irritating potential, as confirmed by the HET-CAM test, and were comparable to the marketed BR eye drop formulation. The NE formulations created for BR were determined to be safe and non-irritating. The findings indicate that the prepared NE could be a beneficial solution for addressing problems with conventional eye drops and delivering BR effectively to the eyes.

Formulation and evaluation of extended-release floating tablets of labetalol hydrochloride 200 mg

The aim of present work is to formulate and evaluate extended-release floating tablets of Labetalol HCL to improve the bioavailability, Patient compliance and solubility on oral floating drug of Labetalol HCL. Labetalol HCL is mainly used in the treatment of hypertension, which is BCS Class Ⅰ drug i.e. Highly soluble and highly permeable. The tablets were prepared by wet granulation method by using different concentrations of HPMC polymer. The tablets were evaluated for Preformulation characteristics, Pre compression parameters and post compression parameters. In-vitro dissolution studies were performed for all prepared formulations by using dissolution test apparatus employing a paddle stirrer at 50 rpm and 37 ± 0.5°C, 0.1N HCL buffer was used as dissolution medium. Samples of 5ml each were withdrawn at different time intervals. Each sample withdrawn was replaced with an equal amount of fresh dissolution medium. Samples were diluted and assayed at 302 nm using Agilent UV Visible double beam spectrophotometer. The increased drug release is due to the presence of low concentration of HPMC K4 m. The drug release kinetics was calculated for all the formulations, among all the formulations F8 was taken as optimized formulation whose percentage drug release was found to be 96%. It indicates the release follows zero order and Hixon kinetics. Hence formulation F8 was Considered as the optimized batch and stability studies were conducted at 40oc±2oc/75±5%RH, Storage condition for 3 months and no change was observed.

QBD driven optimized approach for formulation of ginkgo biloba extract -fast dissolving oral films (FDOF’S)

As Alzheimer's disease (AD) advances, cholinergic dysfunction, β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangle development, oxidative damage, and neuroinflammation occur, making the major addressal setting the health care environment. Though less successful than a synthetic method, the therapy of AD has focused on cholinergic dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative damage. Neurodegenerative diseases are treated commercially with gingko biloba extract. FDOFs are therefore effective in changing and enhancing the bioavailability of nutraceuticals. FDOFs of Gingko biloba extract were formulated using QbD 33 factorial designs in the current study, and the optimal formulations were examined for both in-vitro and in-vivo models of Alzheimer's disease. Twelve formulations have been prepared and described in compliance with ICH guidelines. The formulations F7 and F10 were chosen because of their optimal formulation properties.

Development and characterization of transdermal drug delivery system of ramosetron HCL using different polymers and their effect on In-vitro release

Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems (TDDS) offer a controlled and consistent release of medications, bypassing first-pass metabolism and minimizing side effects associated with traditional oral and intravenous therapies. This study focuses on the development and evaluation of Ramosetron HCl transdermal patches designed for sustained release to manage nausea and vomiting. Ramosetron HCl, a selective 5-HT₃ serotonin receptor antagonist, was incorporated into various formulations using different grades of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone (PVP K30), and Polysorbate 80. The patches were prepared by solvent casting and evaluated for various parameters including thickness, weight variation, drug content, folding endurance, tensile strength, and in-vitro drug release. The calibration curve for Ramosetron HCl in 7.4 pH phosphate buffer was established with a λmax of 240 nm. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to ensure compatibility between the drug and excipients. Formulation F5 demonstrated optimal properties, including satisfactory drug release profiles and mechanical strength. Stability studies of F5 showed that the formulation maintained its release characteristics under accelerated storage conditions (40°C / 75% RH) for up to three months. This study confirms the potential of Ramosetron HCl transdermal patches as an effective alternative to oral dosage forms, providing sustained drug delivery and enhanced patient compliance.

Evaluation of Quality Attributes and Rheological Behavior of Tahini with Addition of Natural Sweetener and Cocoa Liquor

Tahini is a globally recognized creamy paste made from sesame seeds, whose seeds are widely produced in Colombia but little used in the production of products. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the quality attributes through proximal, microbiological, and sensory analysis, and the rheological behavior of tahini with the addition of natural sweetener, honey, and cocoa liquor as sensory additives, using local crops. A 2X2X2 factorial design with sesame paste, honey concentration, and cocoa liquor as factors were used to prepare tahini. Proximal, microbiological, and sensory analyses were carried out to determine the bromatology, microbiological suitability, and sensory acceptability, respectively. The rheological behavior was studied by shear rate sweep, controlling the deformation 1x10-² s-1 to 1x10-² s-1 with a fit to the Ostwald de Waele model. The rheological characterization of the formulations showed that all of them exhibited pseudoplastic flow behavior, with F4 standing out as having a higher apparent viscosity. Finally, formulation F4 showed the best bromatological, rheological, and sensory characteristics, demonstrating that the incorporation of new ingredients can modify traditional tahini to promote its consumption.

Development of Sustainable Construction Materials from Inert Waste Mixtures Using the Mechanosynthesis Process.

This research investigates the potential of mechanosynthesis to transform inert waste mixtures into sustainable construction materials. Three waste streams were employed: recycled glass, recycled concrete, and excavated soils. Two alternative material formulations, F1 (50% recycled concrete, 30% recycled glass, 20% excavated soil) and F2 (60% excavated soil, 20% recycled concrete, 20% recycled glass), were developed. Cement pastes were produced by partially substituting cement (CEM I) with 50% of either F1 or F2. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and mechanical testing, were performed. Cement pastes incorporating milled waste materials exhibited significantly enhanced compressive strength compared to their unmilled counterparts. At 28 curing days, compressive strengths reached 44, 47, 45, and 49.7 MPa, and at 90 curing days, they increased to 47.5, 50, 55, and 61 MPa for milling conditions of 200 rpm for 5 min, 200 rpm for 15 min, 400 rpm for 5 min, and 400 rpm for 15 min, respectively. In addition, F1 formulations showed higher compressive strengths than the reference CEM II and CEM III pastes. These results highlight the efficacy of mechanosynthesis in valorizing construction waste, mitigating CO2 emissions, and creating environmentally friendly construction materials.

A Mayonnaises with improved protein content and natural food preservatives

The aim was to prepare mayonnaises with natural preservatives and improved protein content to verify their structural and nutritional properties. Three formulations were developed (70% fat + variation in protein), F1 (powdered whey) did not reach the structural standards of commercial mayonnaise; F2 (skimmed milk) reached standards equivalent to commercialized products; F3 (powdered whey + skimmed milk) presented light mayonnaise pattern; F0 (Control). Protein content was higher than market products (more than 1.0 %). The evaluation of 30 days showed variations: AW (0.934-0.941); extrusion values F1 (1.035 N ±0.026 – 0.566 N ±0.024), F2(4.255 N ±0.160 – 3.218 N ±0.060), F3 (3.198 N ±0.086 – 1.700 N ±0.044). The preservatives favored the color ∆E: F1 (11.31 ±0.04), F2 (2.65 ±0.14), F3 (1.65 ± 0.22). DPPH analysis showed the difference of products with added natural preservatives and whey in relation to the F0; F3 formulation was favored. Thixotropy appeared in all samples. The exothermic peak occurred F1 (6˚C - 7˚C), F2 (5˚C - 7˚C) and F3 (3˚C - 4˚C), indicating faster crystallization of the F3 (lipid-protein bond). The use of whey and powdered milk as emulsifying agent for mayonnaise emulsions, garlic and mustard, increased shelf life and protein content were demonstrated.

Exploring the Prospects and Challenges of Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foams (F3) as Alternatives to Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF): A Review.

This review provides a comparative analysis of the performance, toxicity, environmental impact, and health risks associated with fluorotelomer-based/short-chain AFFF and F3. Despite notable progress in F3 development, achieving comparable performance remains challenging in some cases. F3 formulations, while promising, are yet to be considered a direct replacement for AFFF in all Class B fire suppression scenarios due to variations in their performance across different fuel types and test conditions. Available studies indicate that commercially available F3 exhibit greater biodegradability and reduced environmental persistence compared to AFFF. However, some alternatives may still pose similar environmental impacts. Limited ecotoxicity studies suggest that some F3 may exhibit equal or even higher toxicity to aquatic species than short-chain (C6) AFFF. Toxicological assessments and risk evaluations of F3 should consider factors beyond environmental persistence, including acute and chronic ecotoxicity, potential endocrine disruption, and the full toxicological profile of foam formulations and their individual components. Further research is necessary to understand the fate, transport, bioaccumulation, and toxicity of F3 degradation products. Addressing these knowledge gaps is crucial to ensure the safe and sustainable implementation of F3 as an alternative fire suppression solution.

Physicochemical and sensory properties of cookies with cricket powder as an alternative snack to prevents iron deficiency anemia and chronic energy deficiency

Cricket contains high protein content, making them a valuable resource for enhancing nutritional properties of cookies for prevents Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) and Chronic Energy Deficiency (CED) in female adolescents. This study evaluates the physicochemical properties and acceptability of cookies enriched with cricket powder. An experimental study with five treatments was conducted: F0 (0 %), F1 (5 %), F2 (10 %), F3 (15 %), and F4 (20 %). Texture was determined using a texture analyzer and color was assessed using a chromameter. Chemical attributes, including macronutrients, were determined using thermogravimetric, drying ash, Kjeldahl, Soxhlet, by difference, and gravimetric methods. Micronutrients (Fe, Ca, Zn) were measured using ICP-OES, amino acid profiles were analyzed using the HPLC, and in vitro protein digestibility was assessed using the enzymatic method. One-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney were used for statistical analysis. Adding cricket powder to cookies increased their nutritional content. While it reduced the lightness of the cookies' color, the texture quality remained comparable to commercial products. The F3 formulation was the most liked by panelists, and the best formulation was obtained in F4. In conclusion, adding cricket powder affects the physicochemical properties and consumer acceptance of the cookies, enhancing their nutrient content and protein digestibility.

Design, In-Vitro Characterization and Optimization of Fast Dissolving Sublingual Film containing Aripiprazole

The present research work aim was to formulate a fast-dissolving sublingual film containing Aripiprazole, which is used in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Fast Dissolving Sublingual Film Containing Aripiprazole prepared by using the solvent casting method. Aripiprazole is a BCS IV drug with poor solubility and poor permeability causing poor systemic absorption. Fast dissolving sublingual film prepared by using Design-Expert® version13 software with 32 full factorial designs in which Film-forming polymer HPMC K4M and plasticizers like PEG 400, and PVA are used in different concentrations. The formulated batches was evaluated for mechanical properties, surface pH, folding endurance, drug content, swelling property, SEM analysis, and in vitro % drug release. The characterization of the film shows satisfactory results following mechanical properties of a film like weight variation and thickness. The formulation (F4, F12) containing the highest concentration of plasticizer shows a high folding endurance ranges from 90-100%. FTIR and DCS studies reveal that there are no interactions means drugs and excipients are compatible with each other. Formulation F4 is optimized batch passes evaluation parameters and maximum % drug release i.e. 98.79 % ±0.36 within 1.5 min. Therefore, the sublingual film is an effective approach for BCS IV and III class drugs by avoiding first-pass metabolism with rapid onset of action and better patient compliance in psychotic disorders.

Fabrication and Characterization of Andrographolide-loaded Microsponges to Enhance Oral Bioavailability of Drug against Colon Cancer Using HT29 Cells

Background: The current research aimed to determine ways to improve the bioavailability of andrographolide (AGP) for use in colon cancer treatment by developing and evaluating microsponges loaded with the drug. Methods: Utilising the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion approach, microsponges containing AGP were synthesised. A total of ten formulations were prepared using different concentrations of drug, polymer and other excipients. Particle size, shape, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to characterise the microsponges that were created. To find out the rate at which the microsponges would expel their contents, researchers measured their release dynamics. In vitro anticancer activity of formulation was determined using HT29 cells Results: Results showed that the percentage yield of the formulations ranged from 10.85-41.03%. The highest drug concentration was achieved in formulation F8 with a particle size of 33.7 nm. SEM analysis demonstrated that the particles were round and possessed a rough and porous surface. Increasing the ratio of ethyl cellulose to AGP reduces surface roughness. The microsponge's DSC difractogram reveals prominent peaks at 18°, 24°, and 38° (2 θ) with reduced intensity, suggesting that the microsponges' crystalline character has diminished. In vitro drug release study showed 93.85% release upto 12 hours. Mathematical models showed normal release of the formulations with “n” values greater than 0.90 of all the formulations. Formulation F8 decreased the HT-29 cells' ability to survive. The percentage of cell cytotoxicity was 75.54 at 100μg/ml. Since AGP microsponges had a detrimental effect on the survival of colorectal cancer cells. Conclusion: It can be concluded from the study that prepared formulations possess anticancer properties against cancerous cells and can be used as an alternative anticancer drug.

Tailored Borneol-Modified Lipid Nanoparticles Nasal Spray for Enhanced Nose-to-Brain Delivery to Central Nervous System Diseases.

The nanodrug delivery system-based nasal spray (NDDS-NS) can bypass the blood-brain barrier and deliver drugs directly to the brain, offering unparalleled advantages in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the current design of NNDS-NS is excessively focused on mucosal absorption while neglecting the impact of nasal deposition on nose-to-brain drug delivery, resulting in an unsatisfactory nose-to-brain delivery efficiency. In this study, the effect of the dispersion medium viscosity on nasal drug deposition and nose-to-brain delivery in NDDS-NS was elucidated. The optimized formulation F5 (39.36 mPa·s) demonstrated significantly higher olfactory deposition fraction (ODF) of 23.58%, and a strong correlation between ODF and intracerebral drug delivery (R2 = 0.7755) was observed. Building upon this understanding, a borneol-modified lipid nanoparticle nasal spray (BLNP-NS) that combined both nasal deposition and mucosal absorption was designed for efficient nose-to-brain delivery. BLNP-NS exhibited an accelerated onset of action and enhanced brain targeting efficiency, which could be attributed to borneol modification facilitating the opening of tight junction channels. Furthermore, BLNP-NS showed superiority in a chronic migraine rat model. It not only provided rapid relief of migraine symptoms but also reversed neuroinflammation-induced hyperalgesia. The results revealed that borneol modification could induce the polarization of microglia, regulate the neuroinflammatory microenvironment, and repair the neuronal damage caused by neuroinflammation. This study highlights the impact of dispersion medium viscosity on the nose-to-brain delivery process of NDDS-NS and serves as a bridge between the formulation development and clinical transformation of NDDS-NS for the treatment of CNS diseases.

Preparation and evaluation of liposomal gel containing Neolamarckia cadamba leaves extract for anti-inflammatory activity

The objective of present research work is to develop liposomes as a carrier system for methanolic extract, its incorporation in to gel formulations and to characterize the prepared and develop liposomal gel formulation. Formulation was carried out by thin film technique. Scanning electron micrograph of the prepared nanosponges at 50.00 kx magnification showed that the liposome was porous with a smooth surface morphology and spherical shape. The porous nature of liposome was clearly observed in the SEM images. Particle size and zeta potential was determined by Malvern Zeta sizer. The particle size analysis confirmed that the prepared sample were in the nanometer range. Average particle size obtained for the formulations F1 to F5 were 162.7 nm to 195.6 nm. Zeta potential values of liposome indicated that the formulated liposomes are stable. The amount of drug being entrapped in liposome was calculated and all the prepared liposome was found to possess very high entrapment efficiency. The viscosity of liposome loaded gel is found to 6842±0.32cps. The pH of liposome loaded gel is 6.3 and spreadability is 12.11, indicating that liposome loaded gel has high release and permeability. The in vitro anti-inflammatory effect of Neolamarckia cadamba extract was evaluated against denaturation of egg albumin. The present findings exhibited a concentration dependent inhibition of protein (albumin) denaturation by Neolamarckia cadamba throughout the concentration range of 20-100μg/ml. Diclofenac sodium (at the concentration range of 20-100 μg/ml) was used as reference drug which also exhibited concentration dependent inhibition of protein denaturation; however, the effect of diclofenac sodium was found to be less active when compared with extract name. Moreover, the results demonstrated that the liposome-based drug delivery approach could be a valuable tool to improve the therapeutic efficacy of phytochemicals by improving their absorption, and bioavailability via altering their physicochemical and release properties. Keywords: Liposomes, Neolamarckia cadamba, Qualitative phytochemical screening, Thin film technique, In vitro anti-inflammatory activity.

Ferrous ascorbate non-effervescent floating mini-caplets as an oral iron supplement.

This research aimed to develop non-effervescent floating mini-caplets of Ferrous Ascorbate (FA) using low-density polymers to overcome the problems of poor bioavailability associated with immediate-release iron products.Methods:The excipients and method (melt granulation) were selected based on pre-and post-compression parameters in trial batches. The formulation was optimized by a full factorial 32 experimental design. An optimized formulation was evaluated for drug release kinetic, accelerated stability study, and in vivo study in healthy adult New Zealand female rabbits.Results:The optimized formulation F6 mini-caplets (42.5% FA, 45% Glyceryl palmitostearate asPrecirol, 10% polyvinyl pyrrolidone K-30, and 2.5% lactose) were found to have instant floating and 12h floating duration in 0.1N Hydrochloric acid (HCl) dissolution medium. In vitro drug release (diffusion mechanism) at 1h and 5h was 30-35% and 65-70%, respectively. It was found stable for three months under an accelerated stability study. In vivo study showed significantly increased serum iron levels and decreased unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) in the test group (optimized formulation) compared to control and standard (immediate-release iron).Conclusion:Based on the in vitro and in vivo results, we conclude that non-effervescent floating FA mini-caplets have higher bioavailability compared to immediate release FA, which may be attributed to prolonged iron release at its absorption site due to their retention in the gastric region. Hence, non-effervescent floating FA mini-caplets may act as a potential approach for iron deficiency.

Transdermal drug delivery of rizatriptan using microneedles array patch: preparation, characterization and ex-vivo/in-vivo study

Given the extensive first pass metabolism of rizatriptan in oral administration and its delayed absorption during a migraine attack as a result of gastric stasis, focus has been on transdermal delivery. The main purpose of this study is to prepare and assess transdermal formulation of rizatriptan, loaded on hydrogel microneedles delivery system, to avoid first pass metabolism and also improve its percutaneous permeation rate. Rizatriptan hydrogel microneedles were prepared using micromolding method and evaluated in terms of mechanical strength, encapsulation efficiency, permeation and in-vivo skin absorption. Different formulations of rizatriptan microneedles (F1–F5) were successfully prepared using different concentrations of carboxymethyl cellulose and gelatin type A. Rizatriptan hydrogel microneedles demonstrated favorable mechanical properties, including withstanding insertion forces, thereby enhancing its skin insertion ability. In permeation study, the percent cumulative drug released after 24 h ranged between 93.1–100% which means that microneedles were able to deliver the drug effectively. For in-vivo study, F3 formulation was selected due to its superior characteristics over other formulations as it exhibited the highest swelling capacity, and demonstrated favorable mechanical properties. Furthermore, F3 showcased the most controlled drug release over a 24-hour period. Relative bioavailability of F3 microneedles was 179.59% compared to oral administration based on the AUC0-24. The observed AUC0-24 in F3 microneedles was statistically significant and 1.80 times greater than that in oral administration. The higher rizatriptan level in the microneedle demonstrated adequate drug permeability through the rat skin, suggesting the potential of microneedles for enhanced therapeutic effectiveness.

Development of A Combination of Red Ginger, Cinnamon, and Honey as Antioxidant Functional Drinks

Background: Analyzing antioxidant activity to determine its ability as an anti-radical and test panelists' preference for taste, aroma, and color parameters. Methods: This type of research is an experimental design with a completely randomized design (RAL) with 3 factorial formulations with comparisons of red ginger and cinnamon F1 (25: 25), F2 (25: 50), and F3 (50: 25). Antioxidant activity test by DPPH method and panelists preference by hedonic test. Statistical analysis of hedonic using SPSS with Kruskal Wallis test (α≤0.05) and Mann Whitney follow-up test. Results: Antioxidant activity of F1(73,41%), F2(74,26%) and F3(60,42%). The panelists' best preference was on the F1(25:25) formulation for the taste parameter 3.17; 3.37 fragrance and 3.1 color in the like category. There was a significant difference in the hedonic assessment of the taste and aroma parameters (p= 0.000 < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in the color parameter (p = 0.869 > 0.05). Conclusion: The overall antioxidant activity of the formulation was said to be active as antiradical (% inhibition 50%).

Development of Dusun Traditional Fermented Fish (Bosou Ikan) Using Different Concentrations of Tuhau (Etlingera coccinea)

This study aimed to determine the best formulation of Dusun traditional fermented fish (Bosou ikan) through sensory evaluation employing a 9-point hedonic test. Various concentrations of Etlingera coccinea, ranging from 0% to 8% w/w, were incorporated into fermented fish samples. Results revealed that the formulation containing 2% E. coccinea (F1) consistently exhibited superior sensory attributes, maintaining the traditional appearance while enhancing aroma, taste, and overall acceptability. Statistical analysis using the Friedman test confirmed F1's superiority, showing the lowest mean rank among alternatives (p<0.05). Proximate analysis of F1 demonstrated notable increases in ash, crude fat, crude fiber, and crude protein content compared to Control Bosou ikan formulations, indicating enhanced nutritional profiles. Shelf-life analysis demonstrated a more controlled trend in reducing total viable count and total yeast and mold counts for the F1 formulation compared to the control, suggesting a potential influence of E. coccinea in inhibiting excessive microbial proliferation. Comparison of microbial loads between raw and cooked samples revealed that cooking effectively eliminated microbial counts, reaching safety consumption levels of 4 log10 CFU/g (total yeast and mold) and 6 log10 CFU/g (total viable count). The decrease in pH of raw and cooked samples over one month was attributed to increased acidity resulting from the activities of Lactobacillus sp., which utilizes carbohydrates in the medium to produce lactic acid. The study highlights that the F1 formulation with 2% Etlingera coccinea offers the most favourable sensory characteristics, proximate analysis, and microbial quality, providing valuable insights for product development in Bosou ikan production.