Homogeneous Shape Research Articles

Formononetin-Loaded Self-Microemulsion Drug Delivery Systems for Improved Solubility and Oral Bioavailability: Fabrication, Characterization, In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation.

This study aimed to construct a self-microemulsion drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for Formononetin (FMN) to improve its solubility and bioavailability while combining the nanocrystals (NCs) technology. The SMEDDS prescription composition was optimized with a pseudo-three-phase diagram, followed by a series of in vitro and in vivo evaluations of the selected optimal prescriptions. FMN-NCs loaded SMEDDS showed a homogeneous spherical shape in the Transmission electron microscope and the particle size was measured as (20.65 ± 1.42) nm. The in vitro cumulative release rate in each dissolution medium within 30min was higher than 80%, much higher than that of FMN (6%) and FMN-NCs (40%); Cellular experiments confirm that the formulation has a high safety profile and significantly promotes cellular uptake. The results of pharmacokinetics and intestinal absorption in rats showed that the relative bioavailability of FMN-NCs and FMN-NCs loaded SMEDDS were (154.80 ± 3.76)% and (557.73 ± 32.88)%, respectively, and both of them significantly increased the rate and extent of absorption of the drug in intestinal segments. FMN-NCs loaded SMEDDS significantly enhanced the solubility and bioavailability of FMN.

Cetuximab scFv-Modified 5-FU Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles: "A Novel Therapeutic Platform."

Colorectal cancer [CRC] is among the most fatal types of cancer. An active targeting delivery system that specifically interacts with CRC cells could improve the therapy's outcomes. Herein, Cetuximab single-chain fragment variable antibody [scFv] fragments were conjugated to the surface of 5-FU encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles [CS NPs] to develop an effective therapeutic platform [scFv-CS/5-FU NPs]. CS/5-FU NPs were synthesized using a special fluidic system. Encapsulation efficiency [EE], loading capacity [LC], and the drug release profile of the particles were determined. scFv fragments were produced recombinantly and tailored on the surface of CS/5-FU NPs. The physicochemical features of scFv-CS/5-FU NPs were also characterized. MTT and flow cytometry assay investigated the toxicity effect of scFv-CS/5-FU NPs on the HCT116 cell line. CS/5-FU NPs had a homogenous spherical shape. They possessed sustainable drugrelease behavior. The produced scFv-CS/5-FU NPs were also spherical. scFv-CS/5-FU NPs significantly decreased the viability of cancerous cells in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis in 97.97% of targeted cells. scFv-CS/5-FU NPs showed remarkable anti-CRC activity. This novel targeting delivery system reduced the effective dose of 5-FU which is of vital importance to decrease the devastating side effects of chemotherapy.

Water purification and biological efficacy of green synthesized Co/Zn-Doped α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles

In the present study, Co/Zn doped α-Fe2O3 (Hematite) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and Azadirachta indica (AI) leaves aqueous extract. The analytical techniques including XRD, UV, SEM, EDX, VSM, Raman, and FTIR, we were able to identify and characterize the structural, morphological and magnetic attributes of the synthesized NPs. The findings demonstrated that the synthesized NPs exhibit homogeneous spherical shapes with particle sizes ranging from 8.64 to 15.32 nm. The NPs have rhombohedral crystal lattices, with crystallite sizes of 23.25 nm for chemically synthesized doped α-Fe2O3 NPs and 12.52 nm for those synthesized using green methods. The magnetic study has shown that the saturation magnetization (Ms) value of NPs, which ranges from 36 to 45 emu/g at ambient temperature, exhibits superparamagnetic properties (300 K). The treatment of industrial wastewater and its reuse for agricultural purposes are the subjects of the current study. Different concentrations of doped α-Fe2O3 NPs were used as photocatalysts to degrade dyes in a bioreactor under UV light in a heterogeneous mixture. The degradation rates achieved were 96.42 % for Congo Red (CR) and 98.36 % for Eosin Yellow (EY). DPPH assays were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the synthesized doped α-Fe2O3 NPs. The percentage inhibition of DPPH radicals ranged from 71.13 % to 90.35 %. Our findings indicate that AI leaf extract holds promise as a valuable resource for the development of bioactive compounds and environmentally friendly approaches to synthesizing green NPs. This is primarily attributed to the increased accessibility of bioactive components with potent antioxidant properties. The combination of these benefits provides opportunities for novel uses in environmental cleanup, biological applications, and energy conversion.

Tityus stigmurus-Venom-Loaded Cross-Linked Chitosan Nanoparticles Improve Antimicrobial Activity.

The rapid resistance developed by pathogenic microorganisms against the current antimicrobial pool represents a serious global public health problem, leading to the search for new antibiotic agents. The scorpion Tityus stigmurus, an abundant species in Northeastern Brazil, presents a rich arsenal of bioactive molecules in its venom, with high potential for biotechnological applications. However, venom cytotoxicity constitutes a barrier to the therapeutic application of its different components. The objective of this study was to produce T. stigmurus-venom-loaded cross-linked chitosan nanoparticles (Tsv/CN) at concentrations of 0.5% and 1.0% to improve their biological antimicrobial activity. Polymeric nanoparticles were formed with a homogeneous particle size and spherical shape. Experimental formulation parameters were verified in relation to mean size (<180 nm), zeta potential, polydispersity index and encapsulation efficiency (>78%). Tsv/CN 1.0% demonstrated an ability to increase the antimicrobial venom effect against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, exhibiting an MIC value of 44.6 μg/mL. It also inhibited different yeast species of the Candida genus, and Tsv/CN 0.5% and 1.0% led to a greater inhibitory effect of C. tropicalis and C. parapsilosis strains, presenting MIC values between 22.2 and 5.5 µg/mL, respectively. These data demonstrate the biotechnological potential of these nanosystems to obtain a new therapeutic agent with potential antimicrobial activity.

Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)/Poly(Acrylic Acid) Gel Polymer Electrolyte Modified with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and SiO2 Nanospheres to Increase Rechargeability of Zn-Air Batteries.

Zn-air batteries (ZABs) are a promising technology; however, their commercialization is limited by challenges, including those occurring in the electrolyte, and thus, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) and hydrogels have emerged as substitutes for traditional aqueous electrolytes. In this work, PVA/PAA membranes were synthesized by the solvent casting method and soaked in 6 M KOH to act as GPEs. The thickness of the membrane was modified (50, 100, and 150 μm), and after determining the best thickness, the membrane was modified with synthesized SiO2 nanospheres and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). SEM micrographs revealed that the CNTs displayed lengths of tens of micrometers, having a narrow diameter (95 ± 7 nm). In addition, SEM revealed that the SiO2 nanospheres had homogeneous shapes with sizes of 110 ± 10 nm. Physicochemical experiments revealed that SiO2 incorporation at 5 wt.% increased the water uptake of the PVA/PAA membrane from 465% to 525% and the ionic conductivity to 170 mS cm-1. The further addition of 0.5 wt.% CNTs did not impact the water uptake but it promoted a porous structure, increasing the power density and the stability, showing three-times-higher rechargeability than the ZAB operated with the PVA/PAA GPE.

Combination of Conventional Ultrasound with Quantitative and Qualitative Analyses of CEUS for the Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Breast Solid Lesions: A Modified Breast Cancer Model

ObjectiveBreast cancer has become one of the main diseases threatening women’s health and lives. Ultrasound (US) is the first diagnostic option for several patients because of its non-radiation, convenient, and low-cost features. Conventional US combined with contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) has improved diagnostic accuracy, while due to the presence of numerous parameters, no international consensus on diagnostic criteria could be attained. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a reliable diagnostic model with the involvement of a few parameters while increasing the diagnostic accuracy. MethodsData from 265 patients, including conventional US, CEUS, and postoperative pathological results, were collected. 21 parameters from the conventional US and both qualitative and quantitative aspects of CEUS were analyzed through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Specific parameters with independent influential factors were identified. A nomogram was subsequently developed to visually represent the contribution and linear weighting of each parameter. The effectiveness of the new model was assessed through calibration curves and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test. ResultsSix independent influential factors for breast malignant tumors were identified, including homogeneous echo, lesion vascularity, enhancement mode, enhancement shape, nourishing vessels, and slope. The area under the curve (AUC) values in the training and test datasets were 0.933 and 0.860, respectively. The modified model exhibited satisfactory diagnostic accuracy and operability. ConclusionThe modified model, despite incorporating fewer parameters, maintained diagnostic accuracy. It is exhibited as a convenient, effective, and easily deployable model for diagnosing malignant breast nodules.

Dual drug-loaded tumor-targeted polymeric nanoparticles for enhancing therapeutic response in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease where standard-of-care chemotherapeutic drugs have limited efficacy due to the development of drug resistance and poor drug delivery caused by a highly desmoplastic tumor microenvironment. Combining multiple drugs in a tumor-targeting carrier would be a favorable approach to overcome these limitations. Hence, a tumor-targeted peptide (TTP) conjugated amphiphilic tri-block copolymer was developed to make targeted polymer nanoparticles (TTP-PNPs) serving as a vehicle for carrying gemcitabine (Gem), paclitaxel (PTX), and their combination (Gem + PTX). The TTP-PNPs in the form of empty polymer (P), single drug-loaded [P(Gem) and P(PTX)], and dual drug-loaded [P(Gem + PTX)] polymer nanoformulations exhibited stable and homogenous spherical shapes with 110–160 nm size. These nanoformulations demonstrated excellent stability under in vitro physiological conditions and led to an efficient release of the drugs in the presence of reduced glutathione (GSH). The efficacy of these nanoparticles was thoroughly evaluated in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating a notable capacity to selectively target and restrict PDAC cells (PANC-1 and KPC) growth. The cellular uptake and biodistribution study showed a significantly higher tumor-targeting ability of TTP-PNPs than PNPs without TTP. Notably, P(Gem + PTX) exhibited the lowest IC50 compared to all other controls and showed heightened synergistic effects in both cell lines. Furthermore, P(Gem + PTX) showed a significantly better tumor reduction and median overall survival in mouse models than single drug-loaded TTP-PNPs or a combination of free drugs (Gem + PTX). In summary, our TTP-PNP system shows great promise as a novel platform for delivering Gem + PTX specifically to pancreatic cancer (PC), maximizing the therapeutic benefits with lower concentrations of the drugs and potentially reducing toxic side effects.

Design of Alginate/Gelatin Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications: Fine-Tuning Osteogenesis in Dental Pulp Stem Cells While Preserving Other Cell Behaviors.

Alginate/gelatin (Alg-Gel) hydrogels have been used experimentally, associated with mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs), to guide bone tissue formation. One of the main challenges for clinical application is optimizing Alg-Gel stiffness to guide osteogenesis. In this study, we investigated how Alg-Gel stiffness could modulate the dental pulp stem cell (DPSC) attachment, morphology, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation, identifying the optimal conditions to uncouple osteogenesis from the other cell behaviors. An array of Alg-Gel hydrogels was prepared by casting different percentages of alginate and gelatin cross-linked with 2% CaCl2. We have selected two hydrogels: one with a stiffness of 11 ± 1 kPa, referred to as "low-stiffness hydrogel", formed by 2% alginate and 8% gelatin, and the other with a stiffness of 55 ± 3 kPa, referred to as "high-stiffness hydrogel", formed by 8% alginate and 12% gelatin. Hydrogel analyses showed that the average swelling rates were 20 ± 3% for the low-stiffness hydrogels and 35 ± 2% for the high-stiffness hydrogels. The degradation percentage was 47 ± 5% and 18 ± 2% for the low- and high-stiffness hydrogels, respectively. Both hydrogel types showed homogeneous surface shape and protein (Alg-Gel) interaction with CaCl2 as assessed by physicochemical characterization. Cell culture showed good adhesion of the DPSCs to the hydrogels and proliferation. Furthermore, better osteogenic activity, determined by ALP activity and ARS staining, was obtained with high-stiffness hydrogels (8% alginate and 12% gelatin). In summary, this study confirms the possibility of characterizing and optimizing the stiffness of Alg-Gel gel to guide osteogenesis in vitro without altering the other cellular properties of DPSCs.

Preparation, optimization, and characterization of genistein-ginseng long-acting polymeric gel as a breast cancer treatment alternative

To address the prevalent genistein (GST) metabolism and inadequate intestinal absorption, an oral long-acting and gastric in-situ gelling gel was designed to encapsulate and localize the intestinal release of the loaded genistein-ginseng (GST-GNS) solid dispersion. Because of the high breast perfusion of GST upon oral absorption, the GST-GNS solid dispersion was developed to enhance GST's dissolution and penetration while offering a synergistic impact against breast cancer (BC). Physiochemical analysis of the GST-GNS solid dispersion, release analysis, gel characterizations, storage stability, penetration, and in vitro cytotoxicity studies were carried out. GST-GNS solid dispersion showed improved dissolution and penetration as compared to raw GST. GST-GNS solid dispersion homogenous shape particles and hydrophilic contacts were revealed by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier Transform-Infrared analysis, respectively. GST-GNS solid dispersion’s diffractogram shows the amorphous character. A second modification involved creating a gastric in-situ gelling system loaded with GST-GNS solid dispersion. This system demonstrated improved GST penetration employing the solid dispersion, as well as the localizing of the GST release at the intestinal media and antitumor synergism against BC. For a better therapeutic approach for BC, the innovative oral GST long-acting gel encasing the GST-GNS solid dispersion would be recommended.Graphical

Facile synthesis of eco-friendly mango peel-derived porous carbon for optimizing microwave absorption

An environment-friendly and cost-effective method to deal with electromagnetic pollution is fabricating porous carbon from biomass as a raw material with a simple technique. The purpose of this research is to create porous carbon from mango peel biomass for optimizing microwave absorption. The resulting porous carbon (PC) has the potential to be an effective microwave absorber. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) depictions also revealed the porous carbon with homogeneous shapes and uniform size distribution. Complex permittivity studies were performed to evaluate their microwave absorption capabilities, resulting in a high reflection loss of −50.2 dB at a thickness of 2.1 mm and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 3.39 GHz for the sample carbonized at 800 °C. The exceptional microwave absorption ability of porous carbon (PC) can be attributed to its effective impedance matching and consequent attenuation of microwaves through dielectric loss. This research introduces a novel biomass source, readily available in nature, which can be easily processed to enhance microwave absorption properties.

A novel green reducing agent for the synthesis of chromium oxide nanoparticles (Cr2O3 NPs) based on saffron by-products: Characterization and antioxidant activity

The production of nanomaterials using safe, biological and environmentally friendly methods is attracting increasing attention. In the present study, aqueous extracts of Moroccan saffron (Crocus sativus L) by-products were used for the first time as a green stabilizer and reductant agent to synthesize chromium oxide nanoparticles (Cr2O3NPs). The aqueous extract of saffron by-products was analyzed for phytochemical screening, while the green synthesized Cr2O3NPs were analyzed using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The antioxidant activity of Cr2O3NPs, aqueous chromium nitrate solution (Cr (NO3)), and aqueous extract of saffron by-products have been also investigated using 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The results showed that the aqueous extract of saffron by-products used for the synthesis of Cr2O3NPs appeared to be rich in phenolic (2.32 mg GA / g dry weight), flavonoid (2.28 mg RE / g dry weight), and anthocyanin compounds (33.67 mg Delphinidin / L extract). The XRD analysis confirmed that the Cr2O3NPs have a particle size of 31 nm with a hexagonal crystal structure. SEM micrographs of Cr2O3NPs showed a homogenous distribution and spherical shape, while the EDX spectrum confirmed that Cr2O3NPs contain significant amount of Chromium (61,90 %), and oxygen atoms (36,55 %). Moreover, the presence of absorption bands characteristic of the alcohol group (3451 cm−1) and the aromatic rings (1639 cm−1) in the infrared spectrum of Cr2O3NPs, indicates that the secondary metabolites of the saffron plant were successfully active in reducing chromium ions to Cr2O3NPs. Besides, the antioxidant activity results showed that the biosynthesized Cr2O3NPs exhibited strong inhibition percentages (63 %) compared to the aqueous extract of saffron by-products (74 %), and the aqueous solution of chromium nitrate (30 %) at 1,30 mg/mL. The study suggests that saffron by-products extract can be used as a natural reducing agent in the synthesis of Cr2O3NPs. Furthermore, the environmentally friendly synthesis process for Cr2O3NPs and their antioxidant effect make them suitable for use in various fields.

Multi-functional Chitosan Polymeric Micelles for improving the oral bioavailability of Paclitaxel based on synergistic effect.

A novel multi-functional micelle delivery system was developed for enhancing the oral absorption of paclitaxel (PTX). The delivery carriers were constructed by modifying chitosan-stearic acid (CS-SA) micelles with L-carnitine (LC) and co-encapsulating quercetin (Que), and the PTX-loaded micelles were prepared by film-sonication dispersing technique. The as-prepared micelles showed homogeneous spherical shapes with a small particle size of 148.3 ± 1.7nm, high drug loading of 7.05% and low critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 16.89µg/ml. Compared to the in-house PTX formulation similar to the commercial injection Taxol™, the target PTX-loaded micelles had obvious sustained-release effects and exhibited an oral relative bioavailability of 168.08%. The cellular uptake studies of Caco-2 cells confirmed the micellar modification of LC and the co-loading of Que played important roles in promoting the absorption of drug loaded in micelles. The CYP3A4 enzyme test demonstrated the micelles had an inhibitory effect on the metabolic enzyme due to the presence of Que. These findings confirmed the potential of the multi-functional chitosan polymeric micelles based on synergistic effect as an effective oral delivery system.

STUDY OF K2SiF6:Mn4+@SiO2 PHOSPHOR FOR WHITE LEDS WITH HIGH ANGULAR COLOR UNIFORMITY

The distinctive wide-band blue illumination absorption and red strait-line discharge of the phosphor K2SiF6:Mn4+ (KMnSF) make it an attractive material for manufacturing warm white light-emitting diodes (WLED). Nevertheless, using the highly corrosive raw ingredient HF to produce commercial KMnSF red phosphor has negative effects on the environment and people. In this study, microfluidic technology was used to successfully manufacture the KMnSF without the need for HF compound while resulting in a phosphor product with homogenous granule shape and size. The luminescence capabilities of the KMnSF samples were then thoroughly examined and characterized. Eventually, we made WLED packages comprising of blue LED chips, yellow phosphor Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ (YGA:Ce), red phosphor KMnSF, and SiO2 scattering particle. Via varying the SiO2 concentration during the simulation process, the prepared WLED’s optical performances are obtained. The scattering properties of the phosphor layer as well as the lighting transmission and distribution were simulated with the utilization of both LightTools software and Monte Carlo theory. According to the outcomes, the microfluidic-synthesized K2SiF6:Mn4+ proves to be appropriate for WLED apparatuses. Besides, the proposed phosphor compound with SiO2 scattering particles showed the improvement in luminous flux and angular uniformity of the WLED.

Dosage Evaluation and Antioxidant Activity Test of Lotion of Ethanol Extract of Belimbing Wuluh Leaf (Averrhoa Bilimbi L.)

&lt;div&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="left"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td align="left" valign="top"&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;This study aims to make and evaluate the lotion formula from ethanol extract of star fruit leaves (Averrhoa bilimbi L.) and test the antioxidant activity of the lotion. The research method used is experimental, making lotions and testing antioxidant activity from July to October 2023 at the Semi-Solid Preparation Technology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Poltekkes Kemenkes Medan, and Research Laboratory, University of North Sumatra. In the preparation stage, star fruit leaf simplisia was extracted by maceration using a 95% ethanol solvent. The lotion formula was made with ingredients such as PEG 4000, stearyl alcohol, glycerin, sodium lauryl sulfate, coconut oil, nipagin, and distillate water, with varying concentrations of ethanol extract of star fruit leaves. The formulation was evaluated through organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, and viscosity tests. The results showed that the lotion produced had a homogeneous shape and aroma to the concentration of ethanol extract. In addition, the pH of the lotion is also within the safe range for human skin. The spreadability test showed the lotion's ability to spread on the skin, which met the requirements for lotions with spreadability values between 5 and 7 cm. The viscosity of the lotion was also by the set standards. Stability tests were conducted to monitor the physical and chemical changes of the lotion over four weeks. The results showed that lotions with 1% and 3% ethanol extract concentrations were stable during the study period. However, the 5% concentration experienced inhomogeneity changes in the third week. In conclusion, lotion with ethanol extract of star fruit leaves at 1% and 3% concentration can produce a good and stable formula. However, the antioxidant activity of the lotion is still in the weak to moderate category. This research contributes to developing plant-based natural cosmetic products for skin care.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Keywords: Antioxidant Activity, Belimbing Wuluh, Ethanol Extract, Evaluation, Lotion&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Characterization of morphological structures of Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO composite

The coprecipitation method has been successfully used for the synthesis and characterization of composite Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO. The purpose of this research was to lower the concentrations of heavy metals in the water in an effort to restore natural functioning of the water. Because of its excellent chemical properties and high biocompatibility, silica is an intriguing and renewable material. The mixing magnetic materials Fe3O4 and ZnO can provide efficient separation effects, increase test sensitivity, and reduce detection time. The modification Fe3O4 with %wt ZnO (5; 10; 15;20) uses rice husk ash as a substitute for SiO2 in the application of heavy metal ion wastewater absorption, the aim is to minimize the composition of recyclable metal ion content which is environmentally friendly. The characterization of composite Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO using SEM-EDS for morphological analysis and mapping of the elements that make up the sample The composite Fe3O4/SiO2/ZnO has gaps between its particles and a homogeneous shape, as seen by the SEM images.

Microstructural, antifungal and photocatalytic activity of NiO–ZnO nanocomposite

Abstract In this work, NiO–ZnOnanocomposite (NC)was prepared through a facile, low-temperature,sol–gel route. Zinc acetate dihydrate, nickel chloride hexahydrate, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), and citric acid were used in the synthesis of the material. Then, the sample was kept in the muffle furnace at a temperature of 600°C for 2 h. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV–Visible spectroscopy, and photocatalytic and antifungal investigations were used to characterize the synthesized nanocrystallites. The XRD data showedthe polycrystalline hexagonal ZnO nanoparticles and cubic NiO crystallites. FTIR studies confirmed the presence of Zn-O and Ni-O bonds in the sample. The FESEM analysis showed the morphology of nanocrystallitescharacterized by their homogeneous shape and size. The absorbance curves from the UV–Visible spectroscopy investigation revealed the bandgap of 3.17 eV. The research findings demonstrate that the NiO–ZnO NC possesses the significant level of selected microbial pathogens. Industrial dyesmake water unhealthy for drinking. Among these dyes, methylene blue (MB) is toxic, carcinogenic, and non-biodegradable, and causes a severe threat to human health and environmental safety. Hence, it is necessary to develop efficient and environmentally friendly technology to remove MB from wastewater. The ZnO–NiO NC degraded the MB dye pollutant under visible irradiation (125 W), according to photocatalytic tests. After 120 min of exposure, the photocatalytic investigations demonstrated 75% degradation efficiency.

INCREASED DISSOLUTION RATE OF ACECLOFENAC BY FORMATION OF MULTICOMPONENT CRYSTALS WITH L-GLUTAMINE

Objective: The objectives of this research were to improve the solubility as well as the rate of dissolution of aceclofenac (ACF) through the formation of multicomponent crystals (MCC) with L-glutamine (LGLN) as a coformer and following the liquid-assisted grinding (LAG) technique.&#x0D; Methods: MCC of ACF and LGLN was formed by Liquid Assisted Grinding (LAG) technique. Powder X-ray Diffractometer (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were used for MCC characterization. Solubility and dissolution test were determined using ultraviolet-visible (Uv-Vis( spectrophotometer.&#x0D; Results: The results showed a decrease in the diffraction peak intensity, melting point, and enthalpy of fusion. FT-IR analysis showed a non-significant wavenumber shift compared to intact components. These characterizations showed that MCC formed a eutectic mixture. SEM and particle size analysis showed a homogeneous particle rod shape and decreased particle size. ACF's solubility in MCC increased 2.21 times more than intact form. MCC's dissolution rate increased by 5.34 times and 5.56 times, respectively, after 60 min in phosphate buffer pH 6.8 and CO2-free distilled water.&#x0D; Conclusion: The formation of MCC of ACF and LGLN considerably enhances ACF's solubility and dissolution rate.

USE OF KECOMBRANG FLOWER EXTRACT (ETLINGERA ELATIOR) AS AN ALTERNATIVE FOR DETERGEN SURFACTANT TO MAXIMIZE THE POTENTIAL OF LOCAL PLANTS OF NORTH SUMATRA

Detergent is a chemical compound used to wash clothes. Unfortunately, detergents contain the dangerous substance LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate). Detergent waste containing LAS can pollute rivers, thereby hampering Sustainable Development Goal number 6, namely clean water and sanitation, even though many Indonesians still use river water as a source of clean water. Therefore, an environmentally friendly substitute for LAS is needed, such as the saponin contained in the kecombrang plant, which is a local plant from North Sumatra. Saponin is a nonionic surfactant and has the potential to be used as a cleaning agent. From the formulation of the problem, the objectives of this research are: 1) to find out liquid detergent formulations that are environmentally friendly and in accordance with SNI 06-4075-1996 by minimizing the use of LAS and replacing it with kecombrang flower extract from North Sumatra; 2) prove the potential for the saponin content in kecombrang flowers from North Sumatra to be an ingredient in making liquid detergent that can replace LAS. The research uses quantitative analysis chemical methods, namely carrying out formulations in making detergent products. There are four detergent formulations with varying ratios of kecombrang flower extract and LAS of 1:1 (formula 1), 2:1 (formula 2), 3:0 (formula 3), and 0:3 (control formula). Research stages: 1) extraction of kecombrang flowers; 2) making detergent; 3) testing saponins in combrang extract; 4) detergent quality testing. The research results show that formula 1 is recommended as the best formula because it has a pH value of 11.7; specific gravity 0.99 g/ml; as well as organoleptic test results (homogeneous shape, color and distinctive odor) which are in accordance with SNI (Indonesian National Standardization). Combrang extract has also been proven to contain saponin which forms foam, thereby increasing the detergency power of detergent.

USE OF KECOMBRANG FLOWER EXTRACT (ETLINGERA ELATIOR) AS AN ALTERNATIVE FOR DETERGEN SURFACTANT TO MAXIMIZE THE POTENTIAL OF LOCAL PLANTS OF NORTH SUMATRA

Detergent is a chemical compound used to wash clothes. Unfortunately, detergents contain the dangerous substance LAS (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate). Detergent waste containing LAS can pollute rivers, thereby hampering Sustainable Development Goal number 6, namely clean water and sanitation, even though many Indonesians still use river water as a source of clean water. Therefore, an environmentally friendly substitute for LAS is needed, such as the saponin contained in the kecombrang plant, which is a local plant from North Sumatra. Saponin is a nonionic surfactant and has the potential to be used as a cleaning agent. From the formulation of the problem, the objectives of this research are: 1) to find out liquid detergent formulations that are environmentally friendly and in accordance with SNI 06-4075-1996 by minimizing the use of LAS and replacing it with kecombrang flower extract from North Sumatra; 2) prove the potential for the saponin content in kecombrang flowers from North Sumatra to be an ingredient in making liquid detergent that can replace LAS. The research uses quantitative analysis chemical methods, namely carrying out formulations in making detergent products. There are four detergent formulations with varying ratios of kecombrang flower extract and LAS of 1:1 (formula 1), 2:1 (formula 2), 3:0 (formula 3), and 0:3 (control formula). Research stages: 1) extraction of kecombrang flowers; 2) making detergent; 3) testing saponins in combrang extract; 4) detergent quality testing. The research results show that formula 1 is recommended as the best formula because it has a pH value of 11.7; specific gravity 0.99 g/ml; as well as organoleptic test results (homogeneous shape, color and distinctive odor) which are in accordance with SNI (Indonesian National Standardization). Combrang extract has also been proven to contain saponin which forms foam, thereby increasing the detergency power of detergent.

Enhanced mechanical, electrical, thermal, and optical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)/copper oxide nanocomposites for flexible optoelectronic devices via in‐situ polymerization technique

AbstractPolymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) with varied compositions of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles was synthesized using in‐situ free radical polymerization. UV–visible, FT‐IR, XRD, FE‐SEM, DSC, and TGA were employed to examine their structure, morphology, and thermal properties. The broadening and intensification of UV absorption, as well as the shift in IR peaks of PMMA with the addition of CuO, confirm their interactions. The reduction in optical bandgap values with the reinforcement of nanofillers confirms the existence of intermediate energy bands in nanocomposites. XRD indicated that polymerization with CuO reduced the amorphous nature of PMMA. The FE‐SEM image revealed that the dispersion of CuO altered the nonporous, rough surface of PMMA into a homogeneous shape. The reinforcement of CuO enhanced the thermal stability and glass transition temperature of PMMA. The mechanical strength, modulus, impact strength, and rigidity of PMMA were significantly improved through in‐situ polymerization. The electrical property analysis revealed that the AC conductivity increased with frequency, temperature, and filler content. The reduction in activation energy of AC conductivity with temperature points toward their semiconducting nature. PMMA/CuO nanocomposites with higher tensile strength, lower bandgap energy, higher conductivity, and thermal properties can be used to make flexible optoelectronic devices.Highlights A series of PMMA/CuO nanocomposites were synthesized and characterized. Enhanced optical property, thermal stability, and glass transition temperature. Possess excellent dielectric constant and AC conductivity. Mechanical strength and impact resistance of PMMA were greatly enhanced. A promising material for flexible optoelectronic and power storage applications.