Formulation F2 Research Articles

Preparation, Characterization and Evaluation of Antioxidant Flavonosomes

The objective of the present study was to prepare flavonosomes loaded with kaempferol and curcumin in order to improve the bioavailability of the flavonoids. The flavonosomes loaded with kaempferol and curcumin were prepared using bulk co-loading method using lecithin as the lipid molecule. The particle size of the flavonosomes was determined using zeta sizer and ranged from 497.3 nm to 167.1 nm. The results indicated that increase the ratio of lipid to extract was able to reduce the particle size of the flavonosomes. The flavonosomes prepared using 4:1 ratio of lipid to flavonoids were found to be rigid, spherical as seen in SEM with smooth regular surface. Sharp and distinct endothermic peaks in DSC revealed the formulation of stable flavonosomes due to molecular interactions between the extract and lecithin. The entrapment efficiency of flavonosome preparation F4 was determined by measurement of the non-entrapped flavonoids and subtracting from the total flavonoids used to obtain the flavonoids entrapped in the formulation. The entrapment efficiency of F4 has been calculated to be 94.12%. The flavonosome F4 was studied for release of the entrapped flavonoids by dialysis method. The amount of flavonoids released at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 hours was determined using UV spectrophotometry. After the first hour, the entrapped flavonoids released in a steady manner from the flavonosome depicting and almost complete release (90.52% for kaempferol and 94.67% for curcumin) from the formulation. The flavonosomes were found to be stable under the storage conditions. The best formulation with respect to particle size and anti-inflammatory action was F4 that contained 4:1 ratio of lecithin: flavonoids. DPPH radical scavenging assay was used to determine the antioxidant action of the individual flavonoids and the flavonosome formulation. It was found that the formulation F4 was having higher antioxidant activity in comparison to kaempferol and curcumin. The IC50 of kaempferol, curcumin and flavonosome were found to be 228.20 µg/mL, 175.51 µg/mL and 158.19 µg/mL respectively. Keywords: Flavonosome, Kaempferol, Curcumin, Bulk co-loading, antioxidant

Production and evaluation of quality characteristics of ready-to-drink Aloe vera juice incorporation with ginger and lemon

The food and beverage industry are witnessing an increase in demand for health beverages. Globally, Aloe vera is well-known for its useful qualities and health advantages. The study was conducted to formulate a ready-to-drink Aloe vera juice from mature Aloe vera gel to examine biochemical properties, microbial analysis, and the sensory properties of the Aloe vera juice produced. Three formulations coded as F1, F2, and F3 were prepared. Fresh Aloe vera gel had the following properties: 98.49 % moisture, 0.15 % ash, pH 4.73 %, and 0.06 % acidity. Formulation F2 had the highest levels of total phenol, flavonoid, DPPH, and FRAP, while formulation F3 had greater levels of vitamin C and acidity. The finished products were preserved in clean, dry, and sterilized plastic bottles and stored in the refrigerator at 4 °C. The drink's TSS, acidity, pH, and vitamin C levels were all measured up to 60 days of storage. It was observed that during the storage periods, pH and vitamin C gradually decreased while TSS and acidity slightly increased. The minimal change in microbial activity was observed in formulation F3 while F2 obtained the highest scores in the sensory evaluation.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Stability Optimization of Ibuprofen Cocrystals eEploying Various Hydrophilic Polymers.

Cocrystals are an efficient way for the delivery of low soluble drugs but when dissolved they rapidly disproportionate. To formulate the cocrystals in tablets, cocrystals must be stabilized. In this study ibuprofen-nicotinamide (IBU-NIC) cocrystals were synthesized initially by slow solvent evaporation and for bulk production by fast solvent evaporation techniques. The cocrystals were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and optical microscopy. The ibuprofen cocrystals showed greater solubility compared to the parent drug. Intrinsic dissolution data was utilized for efficacious screening of tablet formulations. Using hydrophilic polymers at a ratio of 6:1 (polymer to IBU-NIC cocrystal ratio), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (F1), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) K-30 (F2) and PVP K-90 (F3), three tablet formulations were prepared that stabilized cocrystals during dissolution. The drug release profiles after 60 minutes from formulations F1 (92.30), F2 (98.54), F3 (99.88) were all higher compared to the marketed brand BRUFEN® F, (79.61%) in a simulated intestinal media (p<0.001). Significant increase in the dissolution rate of cocrystal was observed with no phase change in all formulations.

Conversion of Sweet Whey to Bioethanol: A Bioremediation Alternative for Dairy Industry

In many countries, whey from the dairy industry is an abundant waste that generates an important environmental impact. Alternative processes to use the whey and minimize the environmental impact are needed. This work considered six formulations with different ammonium sulfate and L-phenylalanine (L-Phe) concentrations to produce bioethanol in sweet whey fermentation by Kluyveromyces marxianus. The results showed a maximum bioethanol concentration equal to 25.13 ± 0.37 g L−1 (p &lt; 0.05) for formulation F6, with 1 g L−1 of L-Phe and 1.350 g L−1 of ammonium sulfate (96 h). For these conditions, the chemical oxygen demand removal percentage (CODR%) was 67%. The maximum CODR% obtained was 97.5% for formulation F3 (1 g L−1 of L-Phe) at 96 h; however, a significant decrease in bioethanol concentration (14.33 ± 2.58 g L−1) was observed. On the other hand, for formulation, F3, at 48 h of fermentation time, a bioethanol concentration of 23.71 ± 1.26 g L−1 was observed, with 76.5% CODR%. Based on these results, we suggest that the best conditions to obtain a significant bioethanol concentration and CODR% value are those used on the configuration F3 at 48 h.

Formulation and evaluation of transdermal patch of carbamazepine

Transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) is a widely accepted mode of drug delivery method due to various advantages and one of the novel routes for systemic delivery of drugs through intact skin. Topical drug administration is a systemic and localized method of delivering drugs through skin and is considered an attractive alternative to oral and parenteral routes. The aim of present study was to formulate and evaluate Matrix type transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) of Carbamazepine was prepared by the solvent evaporation technique. Several batches were prepared by using combination of HPMC E-15, Eudragit RL-100, and Ethyl Cellulose different ratios. Propylene glycol was used as plasticizer and DMSO was incorporated as a permeation enhancer. These Formulated transdermal patches were characterized for their physicochemical parameters like thickness, weight variation, folding endurance, percentage moisture uptake, Percentage moisture uptake and In vitro drug release studies were examined. Among the above all formulation F6 was chosen as a best Formulation, because this optimised formulation showed satisfactory drug content, physical characteristic for its thickness, weight uniformity, percentage moisture content, percentage moisture uptake, and maximum % of drug release i.e., 93.95 % in 12 hours. The optimized formulation (F6) showed maximum highest percentage of drug release.

FORMULATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND IN-VITRO EVALUATION OF FLOATING MICROSPHERE OF IBUPROFEN USING CARBOPOL 940 POLYMER

In this study, ibuprofen hollow microspheres are prepared and assessed using a novel emulsion-solvent diffusion process in an effort to increase the drug's enteric bioavailability by extending the duration of the drug's stomach residence. Carbopol 940, drug, ethanol, and the DCM solution were added to an agitated PVA aqueous solution that was thermally regulated to 40 degrees Celsius to create microspheres. The resultant microspheres were separated through filtration and subjected to various evaluations like micrometrics characteristics, morphology, in vitro floating behaviour, percentage of drug entrapment, and in vitro drug release. According to in vitro release experiments, formulation F3 was found to be 86.75 % in 10 hrs. It is possible to draw the conclusion from the study that microspheres are the perfect tool for increasing the length of time a drug is present in the stomach and improving its enteric bioavailability.

Ethnobotanical Study and Hedonic Evaluation with Cost Analysis of Banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) Stem Serum Preparation as an Anti-Aging Solution

In skincare, particularly facial serums, the utilization of natural ingredients is crucial in addressing various skin issues, notably combating the effects of free radicals that contribute to wrinkles. This study explores the potential of banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) stem extract as an active ingredient in serum formulation due to its rich anthocyanin content known for antioxidant properties. Hedonic testing and cost analysis serve as initial steps in the marketing mix of a product. This research aims to assess the hedonic preferences of various M. paradisiaca stem serum formulations and analyze the production costs. A descriptive research method employing survey and observational techniques was utilized for data collection and descriptive analysis. Hedonic testing was conducted to gauge the personal preferences of panelists toward M. paradisiaca stem serum formulations. Three formulations (F1 with 4%, F2 with 8%, and F3 with 12% M. paradisiaca extract) were evaluated by 40 panelists. Cost analysis of serum production employed quantitative descriptive analysis, computing the cost per unit using a variable costing method. The hedonic evaluation results showed that F1 formulation was highly preferred (79.3%), followed by F2 (73.2%), and F3 (66.8%). Cost analysis using the variable costing method revealed a total production cost of IDR 614,000.00 for 10 packages of M. paradisiaca stem serum formulation, translating to an approximate unit price of IDR 61,400.00.

Formulation and evaluation of emulgels loaded with microspheres containing Baricitinib

The main objective of the present research work was to formulate and evaluate transdermal gel loaded with microspheres of Baricitinib to increase bioavailability and to reduce the dosing frequency and to improve patient compliance. Gel loaded with microspheres of Baricitinib was prepared by taking different ratios and grades of Carbopol polymers. The prepared formulations (F1–F9) were evaluated for pre-formulation studies, percentage yield, particle size, content Uniformity, drug content entrapment efficiency and in vitro dissolution studies. The optimized gel loaded with microspheres of F8 formulation (drug: Carbopol 974polymer in 1:1 ratio) is more effective compared to all formulations. The prepared gel showed acceptable physical properties such as particle size of (126.5 microns), percentage yield of (96.5%), content uniformity (97.8), and drug content entrapment efficiency (90.5%). In vitro dissolution studies have shown 100.1% drug release in 12 h. With the optimized formulation Baricitinib emulgels are formulated using different grades and ratios of Carbopol and optimized microsphere formulation F8. The Emulgel formulation F7 showed the acceptable results with a yield of 92.3%, Drug content (100.2%), Spread ability (13.38 g.cm/s), Viscocity (112.3 cP), pH off 6.05 and it was observed that formulation F7 showed 100.2% drug release within 12 hours. All the results show that the gel loaded with microspheres of Baricitinib can be effectively used for the treatment of viral infections like small fox.

Preparation and Evaluation of Metronidazole Tablets Produced with Different Binders Using Wet Granulation Method

In tablet formulation, binders are essential for ensuring proper powder mix, granulation and overall tablet quality. Variations in binder quality and concentration can impact drug bioavailability, strength and manufacturing processes. The inconsistency in bioavailability and therapeutic response of metronidazole from different manufacturers highlights the importance of binder selection in tablet formulation. This study evaluates the impact of different binding agents on tablet quality. The optimum binder concentration for each of the binders was assessed to obtain suitable concentration that was used to prepare metronidazole tablets. Metronidazole tablets were formulated with four different binder vis, acacia, gelatine, PVP, maize starch at 3% concentration using wet granulation method after which the tablet properties were evaluated. Metronidazole powder exhibited poor flow indices, as indicated by angle of repose: 39.92 ± 1.85, Carr’s compressibility index (CI): 20.13 ± 0.28 and Hausner’s ratio (Hr): 1.26 ± 0.01, whereas its granules exhibited good flow properties. The crushing strength (CS), friability (FR), disintegration time (DT) (CSFR/DT) ratio for batches showed values in 3% binder concentration, indicating higher strength as compared to other concentrations. There was a significant increase (P &lt; 0.05) in the CSFR/DT ratio for gelatine (2.22) in formulation F2 compared to maize starch in Formulation F4. The formulated tablets with the various binders have met with the British Pharmacopeial criteria of 80% drug release from uncoated immediate-release tablets. Amongst the four binders, gelatine was found to be the best in the formulation of robust metronidazole tablets by wet granulation method at an optimised concentration of 3% w/w. Tablets produced with gelatin exhibited greater mechanical strength than those produced with other binders, while also demonstrating a slightly longer DT. Metronidazole tablets produced with gelatine have met the British Pharmacopeial requirements including an acceptable in-vitro drug release profile.

Effect of Edge Activator Combinations in Transethosomal Formulations for Skin Delivery of Thymoquinone via Langmuir Technique

Thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive compound found in Nigella sativa seeds, possesses diverse therapeutic properties for skin conditions. However, formulating TQ presents challenges due to its hydrophobic nature and chemical instability, which hinder its skin penetration. Transethosomes, as a formulation, offer an environment conducive to enhancing TQ’s solubility, stability, and skin permeation. To optimize TQ transethosomal formulations, we introduced a combination of ionic and nonionic surfactants, namely Tween 20 and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium lauroyl glutamate (SLG). Surfactants play a crucial role in stabilizing the formulation, reducing aggregation, improving biocompatibility, and minimizing potential toxicity. We fine-tuned the formulation composition and gained insights into its interfacial behavior using the Langmuir monolayer technique. This method elucidated the interfacial properties and behavior of phospholipids in ethosome and transethosome formulations. Our findings suggest that monolayer studies can serve as the initial step in selecting surfactants for nanocarrier formulations based on their interfacial dilational rheology studies. It was found that the addition of surfactant to the formulation increased the elasticity considering the capability of transethosomes to significantly decrease their radius when permeating the skin barrier. The results of the dilational rheology experiments were most relevant to drug permeation through the skin for the largest amplitude of deformation. The combination of Tween 20 and SLS efficiently modified the rheological behavior of lipids, increasing their elasticity. This conclusion was supported by in vitro studies, where formulation F2 composed of Tween 20 and SLS demonstrated the highest permeation after 24 h (300.23 µg/cm2). Furthermore, the F2 formulation showed the highest encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 94%, surpassing those of the control and ethosomal formulations. Additionally, this transethosomal formulation exhibited antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, with a zone of inhibition of 26.4 ± 0.3 mm. Importantly, we assessed the cytotoxicity of both ethosomes and transethosomes at concentrations ranging from 3.5 µM to 50 µM on HaCaT cell lines and found no cytotoxic effects compared to TQ hydroethanolic solution. These results suggest the potential safety and efficacy of TQ transethosomal formulations.

Development of novel 3D printable inks for protein delivery

The application of 3D printing technology in the delivery of macromolecules, such as proteins and enzymes, is limited by the lack of suitable inks. In this study, we report the development of novel inks for 3D printing of constructs containing proteins while maintaining the activity of the proteins during and after printing. Different ink formulations containing Pluronic F-127 (20–35 %, w/v), trehalose (2–10 %, w/v) or mannitol, poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) (0 or 10 %, w/w), and diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (TPO, 0 or 0.2 mg/mL) were prepared for 3D-microextrusion printing. The F2 formulation that contained β-galactosidase (β-gal) as a model enzyme, Pluronic F-127 (30 %), and trehalose (10 %) demonstrated the desired viscosity, printability, and dose flexibility. The shear-thinning property of the F2 formulation enabled the printing of β-gal containing constructs with a good peak force during extrusion. After 3D printing, the enzymatic activity of the β-gal in the constructs was maintained for an extended period, depending on the construct design and storage conditions. For instance, there was a 50 % reduction in β-gal activity in the two-layer constructs, but only a 20 % reduction in the four-layer construct (i.e., 54.5 ± 1.2 % and 82.7 ± 9.9 %, respectively), after 4 days of storage. The β-gal activity in constructs printed from the F2 formulation was maintained for up to 20 days when stored in sealed bags at room temperatures (21 ± 2 °C), but not when stored unsealed in the same conditions (e.g., ∼60 % activity loss within 7 days). The β-gal from constructs printed from F2 started to release within 5 min and reached 100 % after 20 min. With the design flexibility offered by the 3D printing, the β-gal release from the constructs was delayed to 3 h by printing a backing layer of β-gal-free F5 ink on the constructs printed from the F2 ink. Finally, ovalbumin as an alternative protein was also incorporated in similar ink compositions. Ovalbumin exhibited a release profile like that of the β-gal, and the release can also be modified with different shape design and/or ink composition. In conclusion, ink formulations that possess desirable properties for 3D printing of protein-containing constructs while maintaining the protein activity during and after printing were developed.

Formulation and evaluation of immediate-release capsules of pregabalin

The aim is to develop and evaluate capsules with various excipient compositions that satisfy the reference product's specifications to achieve an in-vitro correlation with the reference product after that. Pregabalin I.R. capsules were formulated using Corn starch, Dibasic calcium phosphate, Lactose anhydrous, and Avicel pH 102(Microcrystalline cellulose). After compatibility studies for the capsule blend were completed, the Drug was determined to be compatible with all excipients used in various formulations. After the blend was put into capsules, several metrics were examined, including average weight, disintegration, and assay. The formulation containing D.C.P. disintegrates at a faster rate than other formulations. It was discovered that the percentage of drug release in the F7 invitro dissolving profile was equal to that of the innovator product. Finally, it was concluded that the F7 formulation is better and similar to the innovator product.

Formulation and Evaluation of Betulin Loaded Transdermal Patches

Objectives: To develop and evaluate Transdermal patches of Betulin along with various polymers for controlled release action. Method: Suitable method such as Solvent Casting Technique of Film Casting Technique are used for preparation of Transdermal patch. Result: The prepared Transdermal patches were transparent, smooth, uniform and flexible. The method adopted for preparation of system was found satisfactory. Conclusion: Various formulations were developed by using hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers like HPMC E5 and EC respectively in single and combinations by solvent evaporation technique with incorporation of penetration enhancer such as dimethylsulfoxide and dibutyl phthalate as plasticizer. Formulation F7 containing equal ratio of HPMC E5: EC (5:5) showed maximum percentage drug content 95.44%. A suitable UV Spectroscopy method for the analysis of Betulin was developed. Betulin showed maximum absorption at wave length 215 nm in isotonic phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) solutions. The pre-formulation studies involving description, solubility, melting point, partition coefficient of the drug were found to be comparable with the standard. The Transdermal patch of Betulin was prepared successfully by solvent evaporation method. Transdermal patch of Betulin for Transdermal drug delivery was evaluated. Calibration curve was obtained; Transdermal film was prepared, overcome limitations regarding bioavailability of drug was done. Keywords: Controlled DDS, Transdermal DDS, Betulin, Transdermal Patch, solvent evaporation method.

Formulation, Evaluation, and Characterization of Indapamide Niosomes

Niosomes, also known as nonionic surfactant vesicles, are one of the many carriers used to carry drug molecules to their target sites. They can hold both hydrophilic and hydrophobic medicines. Indapamide is an angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) antagonist medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure. Niosomes containing Indapamide were created utilizing the thin film hydration process with various cholesterol concentrations and nonionic surfactants (span 60). All noisome formulations were assessed for entrapment efficiency, drug content, reproducibility, vesicular diameter, shape and size distribution microphotography, FTIR analysis, and in vitro release experiments. The results indicate that in all of the created niosomal formulations, as the surfactant content increases, the entrapment efficiency also increases. The drug content ranged between 90.06±0.57 and 96.15±0.42, with a low standard deviation. Niosomes range in size from 0.280±0.098µm to 0.299±0.044µm and have a spherical shape. The IR spectrum analysis indicated no interaction between the medication and the formulation ingredients. Membrane diffusion cells were used to study the in vitro dissolution parameters. The results demonstrate that formulation F6 had a better-controlled release action than other formulations, with an 'n' value of 0.917, indicating that the medication was released using zero-order kinetics.

FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT AND IN VITRO PENETRATION TEST OF ETHOSOME OF CHROMOLAENA ODORATA LEAVES EXTRACT

Objective: This study aimed to develop and assess ethosome preparation using extracts derived from the leaves of Chromolaena odorata. Methods: The study started by obtaining Chromolaena odorata leaf extracts. Furthermore, Ethosome formulations were produced using a thermal technique. Ethosome variants were created, each with distinct compositions: Formulation F1, containing 10 ml of ethanol without the extract; Formulation F2, consisting of 0.5 grams of the extract mixed with 10 ml of ethanol; Formulation F3, combining 1 gram of the extract with 20 ml of ethanol; and Formulation F4, incorporating 1.5 grams of the extract with 30 ml of ethanol. The ethosomal systems were thoroughly characterized using various analytical techniques, such as organoleptic analysis, quantification of particle dimensions, zeta potential evaluation, pH metric analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging, and in vitro permeability assessment using the Franz Diffusion Cell apparatus. Results: The findings indicated that the optimized F4 formulation showed 161.2±32.0 nm particle size measurement and a+34.33±0.58 mV zeta potential. All formula possess a pH range of 4.5-6.5, within which the skin can acclimate to preparations. It is evident from all formulations that the pH decreased after the addition of the extract at an acidic pH of 4.11. Following the 12-week storage period, the pH of all treatments exhibited a modest reduction; however, it remained within the acceptable range for skin pH. Furthermore, the F4 formula also had a higher level of penetration activity. Conclusion: The optimized ethosomal formulations of Chromolaena odorata have promising applications in enhancing the permeability and efficacy of plant-derived therapeutic agents.

The Formulation, Development And Evaluation Of Ointment For Anti-Inflammatory Activity

The search for safer anti-inflammatory agents has led to exploration of natural sources such as curcumin and fenugreek. Curcumin, derived from Curcuma longa, and α-linolenic acid from Trigonella foenum-graecum, exhibit significant anti-inflammatory properties. This study focuses on formulating an ointment utilizing these extracts for topical application. Molecular docking techniques were employed to assess the binding affinities of curcumin and α-linolenic acid. The ointment was prepared using various bases and preservatives, and its physicochemical properties were evaluated. Stability studies revealed consistent properties under different temperature conditions. Characterization of the drug extracts and ointment formulations was conducted to ensure efficacy and safety. The ointment showed promising results in terms of stability and efficacy, particularly formulation F2, suggesting its potential as a topical anti-inflammatory therapy with improved patient compliance

DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND IMPROVEMENT OF AN EMULGEL CONTAINING SILVER NANOPARTICLES AND VITAMIN D-3 FOR ITS POTENTIAL TO ACCELERATE THE HEALING OF WOUND

Objective: The aim of this research work was to prepare a topical emulgel based dosage form incorporated with vitamin D-3 and silver nanoparticles to reduce the wound healing time in any kind of wound. Methods: Central Composite Design (CCD) was applied for the optimization of emulgel by using Design expert software. Three responses (pH, viscosity, and in vitro drug release) and two factors (Carbopol concentration and stirring duration) were chosen, and Statistical Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed that all the factors were significantly affecting the responses. Silver Nanoparticles (SNPs) was prepared with Green Tea Extract (GTE) and evaluated for particle size, Poly Dispersity Index (PDI), zeta potential and Fourier Transform Infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and revealed that SNPs of desired range and stability have been synthesized. Here excision wound model was used to evaluate the wound healing activity of formulation in vivo. Results: Maximum in vitro release 88.2±2.1 has shown by the optimized formulation F13, pH and viscosity were also found in optimum range i.e., 6.2±0.4 and 1672±33 respectively, followed by Korsmeyer and Peppas model. Total eight groups were designed for animal study and silver sulphadiazine was used as marketed formulation. F13 formulation was further evaluated for in vivo data, it was revealed that emulgel loaded with high dose of vitamin D-3 along with silver nanoparticles has shown 100.5±1.7% wound contraction, while marketed formulation has shown 103.7±1.1% wound contraction, which was much similar with test formulation. Cytotoxic cell study was done using assay on chicken egg, formulation has not shown any cytotoxic behaviour like haemolysis and cell damage on chick embryo’s blood vessels. Accelerated stability study of the optimized formulation was also performed to check whether the formulation was stable or not and it was revealed that optimized formulation was found stable for the period of six months. Conclusion: It was revealed that emulgel loaded with high dose of vitamin D-3 and SNPs found suitable to accelerate wound healing and showed almost similar response in wound contraction on comparison with marketed formulation. This emulgel promised to controlled the delivery of the drug for the longer duration.

Self-assembly mucoadhesive beads of κ-carrageenan/sericin for indomethacin oral extended release

Oral drug administration, especially when composed of mucoadhesive delivery systems, has been a research trend due to increased residence time and contact with the mucosa, potentially increasing drug bioavailability and stability. In this context, this study aimed to develop self-assembly mucoadhesive beads composed of blends of κ-carrageenan and sericin (κ-Car/Ser) loaded with the anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin (IND). We investigated the swelling, adhesion behaviour, and mechanical/physical properties of the beads, assessing their effects on cell viability, safety and permeation characteristics in both 2D and triple-culture model. The swelling ratio of the beads indicated pH-responsiveness, with maximum water absorption at pH 6.8, and strong mucoadhesion, increasing primarily with higher polymer concentrations. The beads exhibited thermal stability and no chemical interaction with IND, showing improved mechanical properties. Furthermore, the beads remained stable during accelerated and long-term storage studies. The beads were found to be biocompatible, and IND encapsulation improved cell viability (>70 % in both models, 79 % in VN) and modified IND permeation through the models (6.3 % for F5 formulation (κ-Car 0.90 % w/v | Ser 1.2 % w/v| IND 3.0 g); 10.9 % for free IND, p < 0.05). Accordingly, κ-Car/Ser/IND beads were demonstrated to be a promising IND drug carrier to improve oral administration while mitigating the side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.

Fast-drying of red ceramics: A new evaluating approach based on the combined use of optical dilatometry and thermogravimetric analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of composition and heating rate on the fast-drying (∼60 min) of red ceramics obtained by extrusion using optical dilatometry and thermogravimetry to obtain the drying curve. Three different plastic clays were used in the four formulations investigated, as well as three heating rates with a total time of 60 min and a maximum drying temperature of 200 °C: 5.83, 3.89, and 2.92 °C/min. Based on the results obtained from the modified Bigot curves, a fast-drying curve (3 °C/min) was established in a static laboratory dryer with a total cycle of 60 min and a maximum temperature of 160 °C. The samples were characterised in terms of compressive resistance and visual aspects related to drying cracks. Formulation F5, containing 50 wt% AM clay and 50 wt% AV clay, exhibited the worst performance in fast-drying with drying cracks, whereas formulation F7, containing 33.3 wt% AC clay, 33.3 wt% AM clay and 33.3 wt% AV clay, exhibited the best performance. Formulations F7 and F8 (16.7 wt% of AC clay, 66.6 wt% of AM clay and 16.7 wt% of AV clay) were fired at 900 °C in an electric kiln, with a heating rate of 1.5 °C/min and a 2 h holding time, and then characterised in terms of firing shrinkage, water absorption and compressive strength. The results showed that Formulation F7 presented suitable behaviour in the fast-drying process at 160 °C for 60 min in a laboratory dryer at a heating rate of 3 °C/min, 0.9 wt% a residual moisture. It exhibited no drying cracks and a dry compressive strength of 0.94 ± 0.09 MPa. However, the combined analysis of optical dilatometry and thermogravimetry indicated that the drying conditions could be optimised for a residual moisture of 2 wt%, using a thermal cycle of 138 °C for 19 min (heating rate of 5.83 °C/min) if adequate control of the humidity of the chamber atmosphere in the first drying stage is employed to avoid drying cracks. The results also showed that the specimens of formulations F7 and F8 met the technological requirements defined by the Brazilian standard ABNT NBR 15270-1, demonstrating the feasibility of producing red ceramic bricks by extrusion with fast-drying. The combined optical dilatometry and thermogravimetry techniques used to obtain the Bigot curve applied to fast-drying showed very good agreement with those obtained in the laboratory dryer. These combined techniques represent promising approaches for studying the fast-drying of red ceramics.

Formulation of Instant Multigrain Rice Enriched with High Levels of Dietary Fiber and Protein

In the modern era, the focus of food formulation lies in the creation of functional foods that not only fulfill sensory and physiological requirements but also offer adequate nutrition. The objective of this study was to develop instant multigrain rice with high levels of dietary fiber and protein and also to determine the best formulation. Therefore, a type of instant multigrain rice was developed, consisting of sorghum, red rice, corn, and edamame. Employing a non-factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) method, the study tested five treatments with three repetitions using ANOVA. The treatments exhibited varied compositions: F1 formulation, consisting of 40% sorghum, 10% red rice, 40% corn, and 10% edamame; F2 formulation consisting of 40% sorghum, 10% red rice, 10% corn, and 40% edamame; F3 formulation consisting of 25% sorghum, 25% red rice, 25% corn, and 25% edamame; F4 formulation consisting of 10% sorghum, 40% red rice, 40% corn, and 10% edamame; and F5 formulation consisting of 10% sorghum, 40% red rice, 10% corn, and 40% edamame. The findings suggested that the best formulation was F2 (40% sorghum, 10% red rice, 10% corn, 40% edamame), showcasing a water content of 11.88 ± 0.07%, protein content of 22.11 ± 0.12%, fat content of 11.00 ± 0.06%, dietary fiber of 12.47 ± 0.14%, and sensory attributes of aroma, color, taste, and texture falling within the range of slightly favorable to favorable.