Particle Polydispersity Research Articles

An Overview of Transferosomal Technology

Abstract: Ever since the invention of liposomes by Bangham in 1963, researchers have been fascinated by the vesicular carriers. Liposomes and niosomes have been used extensively by researchers for various routes such as oral and nasal. However, lately, it has been understood that traditional liposomes are not very significant when it comes to penetration. The use of nanovesicles in transdermal drug delivery systems has been enhanced exponentially ever since the discovery of ultra- deformable liposomes known as transfersomes or transferosomes. Transferosomes have numerous advantages, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, flexibility, and deformability, so that they can pass through narrow constrictions. They have good entrapment efficiency and can act as a depot to sustain the release of drugs. The methods of preparation include the rotary film evaporation method, reverse phase evaporation method, vortexing sonication method, ethanol injection method, and freeze-thaw method. Transfersomes are characterized by particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, surface morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. Transferosomes have been successfully exploited for the enhancement of efficacy of many drugs like Hydroquinone, Itraconazole, Ivabradine, lornoxicam, minoxidil etc., via transdermal and nasal routes. The technology is easy to scale up. Consequently, it can be inferred that transfersomes are the future of transdermal drug delivery systems.

Nose to brain delivery of escitalopram-loaded nano-structured lipid carriers thermosensitive gel: Formulation, physiochemical, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics evaluation

The primary focus of the undertaken research was to design and develop poloxamer-based thermosensitive gel system of escitalopram-loaded nano-structured lipid carriers (ESC-NLCs gel) for nose to brain delivery. ESC-NLCs were optimized using Design Expert® (Version 12). The optimized formulation was encompassed in poloxamer-based thermosensitive gel and was characterized accordingly. In vitro release, ex vivo permeation and in vivo brain and plasma pharmacokinetics was investigated. Additionally, behavioral analysis of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced depressed rats was performed followed by immunohistochemistry of the brain hippocampus and cortex regions. Particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of the optimized ESC-NLCs were respectively found as 131 nm, 0.278 and −24.9 mV with excellent entrapment efficiency (96 %). The optimized formulation showed suitable morphology, optimum thermal behavior, amorphous nature and drug-excipient compatibility. ESC-NLCs gel displayed sustained in vitro release profile, whereas permeation was enhanced 27-folds. Brain pharmacokinetics of ESC-NLCs explored 9 folds increased drug concentration in brain. Similarly, improved behavioral changes and reduced neuro inflammatory markers (NF-κB and TNF-α) were observed in LPS induced depressed rats after treatment with ESC-NLCs gel. It can be concluded that ESC-NLCs gel has the potential to sustain the drug release, improve the permeation and bioavailability and reduce the depression after nose to brain delivery in animal model.

Coating methotrexate-PLGA nanoparticles with folic acid-chitosan conjugate for cancer targeting

Background: Loading Methotrexate, a chemotherapeutic agent, in a nanocarrier can improve its efficacy and lower its side effects. Both PLGA and chitosan were used to formulate Methotrexate nanoparticles. Folate acts as a targeting ligand for anticancer medications. Therefore, folate, chitosan, and PLGA were used to deliver methotrexate. Methods: Folic acid and Chitosan (FA-CS) were conjugated and used to coat Methotrexate-PLGA nanoparticles. The conjugate and the nanoparticles were characterized using Zetasizer to test particle size, polydispersity and charge, SEM was used to test particles’ morphology. Both %EE and %LC of MTX in the NPs were measured. Finally, MTX release and the system cytotoxicity were tested in vitro. Results: FTIR, NMR, and XRD proved the successful formation of FA-CS, and the formation of the coated nanoparticles. The particles were spherical with a size ~385 nm, a disparity ~0.27, and a charge ~+15 mV. The %EE and the % LC were 79% and 21.2%, respectively. In vitro release studies revealed nearly complete MTX release after 48 h. In vitro cytotoxicity testing demonstrated that the formulation components are safe and that the incorporation of MTX within the nanoparticles enhanced the drug’s cytotoxic effect in comparison to the free drug. Conclusion: loading of MTX in the NPs enhances its chemotherapeutic effect, hence, this system can be used to target carcinogenic cells.

Effect of surfactants on the degree of polydispersity of a suspension of polystyrene latex spheres

The problem of satisfying the needs of the domestic market of the Russian Federation for creating domestic particle size standard reference materials in liquids to ensure uniformity in measurements of the granulometric composition of aerosols and powdery substances is considered. It is known that, under various conditions, monodisperse suspensions of polystyrene latex spheres can be synthesized, both monodisperse and polydisperse samples being obtainable. The effect of the composition and solubility of surfactants in a styrene-based water emulsion on the particle size of suspensions obtained as a result of emulsion polymerization, and their polydispersity, has been investigated. The metrological characteristics of polystyrene suspensions based on sodium, potassium, and lithium laureths synthesized in this study were determined using dynamic light scattering and laser diffraction techniques. It has been found that the size and degree of polydispersity of particles in suspensions based on lauric acid salts is primarily influenced by the solubility of the surfactant and the surface tension of the interfacial layer formed between styrene and water at the time of particle formation. The effect of the rate of reaction, as well as the concentration of surfactants, on the size and polydispersity of the synthesized particles, has been studied. It has been found that when potassium persulfate is used as the initiator in the reaction, particle size distributions are monodisperse for suspensions based on sodium or potassium laureate. The polydispersity degree of lithium laureate-based suspensions is approximately 1.5 to 2 times higher compared to other suspension samples. When azoisobutyronitrile is used as an initiator, all suspensions samples are monodisperse. It has been experimentally determined that the achievement of monodisperse samples is due to the polymer-monomer particle formation time, which is comparable to the monomer transformation rate. The results obtained will be utilized in the development and establishment of particle size standard reference materials for storage and reproduction of particle size values within a liquid medium.

THE FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF 6-THIOGUANINE AS A NANOSTRUCTURE LIPID CARRIER FOR THE TARGETED DELIVERY OF BREAST CANCER

Objective: The main goal was to avoid all the problems associated with usual breast cancer treatment by using 6-thioguanine as a nanostructure lipid carrier (TG-NLCS). This was accomplished by administering an effective and targeted dose of 6-thioguanine (TG) to the tumour site using a long-lasting and biodegradable delivery system. Methods: A combination of heat homogenization and ultrasonication was used to implement the emulsification process. To obtain the optimal formulation, the prepared formulations were first assessed for particle size, Polydispersity Index (PDI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and drug loading capacity. Additionally, a range of physicochemical characterization techniques were employed, including dissolution studies, melting point determination, Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), as well as cytotoxicity assessment of TG-NLCs in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Results: The selected formula, TG03, showed a zeta potential of-13.5±0.27 mV and a particle size of 149±0.55 nm. This was further examined using a FESEM. In the in vitro drug release study, the formula demonstrated better-controlled drug release for 48 h in comparison to other formulations. In addition, the significant anti-proliferation activity of TG-NLCs against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Conclusion: Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are one type of multifunctional nanoparticle that includes many combinations of lipids and medicines for various delivery routes.

FORMULATION OF NANOPARTICLE CONTAINING KENIKIR LEAF ETHANOL EXTRACTS (COSMOS CAUDATUS KUNTH.) AND ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY IN RATS

Objective: This study aimed to formulate the ethanol extract of kenikir leaf into nanoparticles. The ethanol extract of kenikir leaves loading into nanoparticles can enhanced the stability and effectiveness of antidiabetic activity. Methods: The nanoparticles were prepared using the ionic gelation method with chitosan and variation in sodium tripolyphosphate. The nanoparticle formula was characterized by efficiency encapsulation using spectrophotometry methods and particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index using dynamic light scattering (DLS). An antidiabetic activity test was initiated by inducing a high-fat and fructose diet. The parameters tested were decreasing blood glucose levels in rats. Results: The result of the characterization of the nanoparticle was the percent of efficiency encapsulation, particle size, PDI, zeta potential, and pH were carried out to get the best formula. The best formula obtained was the percent of efficiency encapsulation of 96.20±0.0278%, the particle size of 144.6±7.800 nm, zeta potential of+15.32±0.9550 mEv, PDI of 0.48±0.070, and pH of 4.255±0.0035. The decrease in blood glucose levels in the nanoparticles of kenikir leaves extract was not significantly (p>0.05) different from the positive group (metformin) compared to the kenikir leaves extract, which decreased not really significantly. Conclusion: Nanoparticle containing kenikir leaf ethanol extract successfully prepared into nanoparticles and the potential to increase antidiabetic activity.

Encapsulation of felty germander (Teucrium polium L.) extract using the freeze-drying method.

Extracts with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties are limited in their application in food products due to their inability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and oxygen exposure. Therefore, the present study investigated the nanoencapsulation of Teucrium polium L. extract using the freeze-drying method to facilitate its application and protection against environmental factors. In this regard, an emulsion containing Teucrium polium L. extract at concentrations of 10%, 20%, and 30% and a mixture of maltodextrin/Persian gum in three ratios of 1:2, 1:1, and 2:1 as the coating wall were produced and then dried in a freeze dryer. In the following, the properties of emulsions and produced nanocapsules were studied. According to the results, emulsions with high amounts of Persian gum showed more stability, zeta potential, and viscosity. However, their particle size and polydisparity index were lower than those of other emulsions. As the extract concentration increased, there was a decrease in stability, zeta potential, and viscosity, accompanied by an increase in particle size and polydispersity index. Concurrently, elevated concentrations of maltodextrin, Persian gum, and extract resulted in higher humidity, density, encapsulation efficiency, and antioxidant activity of the capsules. The most optimal properties of emulsions and nanocapsules were achieved at the 10% concentration of Teucrium polium L. extract and the 1:1 ratio of maltodextrin/Persian gum mixture as the wall material. It is noteworthy that the release rate of phenolic compounds reached its maximum value (88%) after 60 days.

Development of Liposomes Loaded with Chloroaluminum Phthalocyanine for Application of Photodynamic Therapy in Breast Cancer

Chloraluminium phthalocyanine (ClAlPc) has potential therapeutic effect for the treatment of cancer; however, the molecule is lipophilic and may present self-aggregation which limits its clinical success. Thus, nanocarriers like liposomes can improve ClAlPc solubility, reduce off-site toxicity and increase circulation time. For this purpose, developing suitable liposomes requires the evaluation of different lipid compositions. Herein, we aimed to develop liposomes containing soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC), 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero- 3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[amino(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPEPEG2000), cholesterol and oleic acid loaded with ClAlPc using the surface response methodology and the Box-Behnken design. Liposomes with particle size from 110.93 to 374.97 nm and PdI from 0.265 to 0.468 were obtained. The optimized formulation resulted in 69.09 % of ClAlPc encapsulated, with particle size and polydispersity index, respectively, at 153.20 nm and 0.309, providing stability and aggregation control. Atomic force microscopy revealed vesicles in a spherical or almost spherical shape, while the analyzes by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) suggested that the drug was adequately incorporated into the lipid bilayer of liposomes, in its amorphous state or molecularly dispersed. In vitro studies conducted in breast cancer cells (4T1) showed that liposome improved phototoxicity compared to the ClAlPc solution. ClAlPc-loaded liposomes also enhanced the production of ROS 3-fold compared to the ClAlPc solution. Finally, confocal microscopy and flow cytometry demonstrated the ability of the liposomes to enter cells and deliver the fluorescent ClAlPc photosensitizer with dose and time-dependent effects. Thus, this work showed that Box-Behnken factorial design was an effective strategy for optimizing formulation development. The obtained ClAlPc liposomes can be applied for photodynamic therapy in breast cancer cells.

Synthesis study of size-controlled rhenium nanoparticle systems using reverse micelle-based methodologies

In this study, rhenium nanoparticles were successfully synthesized with precise size control using a water-in-oil microemulsion method under an ambient atmosphere. Spectroscopic characterization using UV-Vis and ESI-MS techniques was used to study the stability of the rhenium(IV) precursor and verify its reduction into rhenium-based nanoparticles. The morphology and size of the rhenium nanoparticles were examined using HR-TEM. The results indicate formation of amorphous rhenium nanoparticles with an average size of 2.2 nm at a water-to-surfactant concentration ratio (W factor) of 10. These rhenium nanoparticles also have good size-stability compared to rhenium colloids generated in water alone. After one week, the particle diameter increased by only 0.6 nm with no evidence of aggregation. An investigation into the effect of various factors on the size and size distribution of the rhenium nanoparticles indicate that the W factor is the most influential parameter (among the considered factors) for size tuning, given that increases in W led to bigger and more polydisperse particles. Additionally, the microemulsion surfactant (AOT) protects the rhenium nanoparticles from their natural tendency to oxidize to perrhenate ion under an air atmosphere. However, a significant consideration in the use of AOT is the previously unreported presence of a chemical impurity which is able to reduce the rhenium(IV) precursor salt and generate rhenium nanoparticles within these microemulsion systems. Our investigation found that this impurity is the sulfite ion which is most likely introduced during manufacturing.

Development and in vitro antiviral activity of ivermectin liposomes as a potential drug carrier system.

This study aimed to assess and compare diverse formulations of ivermectin-loaded liposomes, employing lipid film hydration and ethanol injection methods. Three lipids (DOPC, SPC, and DSPC) were used in predetermined molar ratios. A total of 18 formulations were created, and a factorial design determined the optimal formulation based on particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The average mean particle size, PDI and zeta potential of the selected formulations (F1, F2, F7, F9, and F11) was, respectively, 196.40 ± 44.60 nm, 0.39 ± 0.09, and -40.24 ± 9.17. The encapsulation efficiency exceeded 80%, with a mean loading capacity of 4.00 ± 1.70%. In vitro studies included transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, drug release, and antiviral activity assessments against SARS-CoV-2. The liposomal formulations demonstrated superior antiviral activity compared to free ivermectin, as indicated by lower IC50 values. The results of this study emphasize the effectiveness of ivermectin-loaded liposomes in inhibiting viral activity, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for antiviral therapy. The findings suggest that the strategic use of liposomes as drug carriers can significantly modulate and improve the antiviral properties of ivermectin, offering a novel approach to harnessing its full therapeutic potential. Collectively, these results provide a robust foundation for further exploration of ivermectin as a viral protection tool and optimization of its delivery mechanisms.

Bile acid/fatty acid integrated nanoemulsomes for nonalcoholic fatty liver targeted lovastatin delivery: stability, in-vitro, ex-vivo, and in-vivo analyses

ABSTRACT Background Controlled and targeted drug delivery to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can benefit from additive attributes of natural formulation ingredients incorporated into the drug delivery vehicles. Methods Lovastatin (LVN) loaded, bile acid (BA) and fatty acid (FA) integrated nanoemulsomes (NES) were formulated by thin layer hydration technique for synergistic and targeted delivery of LVN to treat NAFLD. Organic phase NES was comprised of stearic acid with garlic (GL) and ginger (GR) oils, separately. Ursodeoxycholic acid and linoleic acid were individually incorporated as targeting moieties. Results Stability studies over 90 days showed average NES particle size, surface charge, polydispersity index, and entrapment efficiency values of 270 ± 27.4 nm, −23.8 ± 3.5 mV, 0.2 ± 0.04 and 81.36 ± 3.4%, respectively. Spherical NES were observed under a transmission electron microscope. In-vitro LVN release depicted non-fickian release mechanisms from GL and GR oils-based NES. Ex-vivo permeation of BA/FA integrated NES through isolated rat intestines showed greater flux than non-integrated ones. Conclusion Liver histopathology of experimental rats together with in-vivo lipid profiles and liver function tests illustrated that these NES possess the clinical potential to be promising drug carriers for NAFLD.

Characterization and molecular docking of sustainable wine lees and gelatin-based emulsions: innovative fat substitution.

The present study aimed to determine how various amounts (0.00, 0.58, 1.52 and 4.50 g 100 g-1) of wine lees (WL), which contains numerous essential components, impact the emulsifying properties of fish gelatin (FG) at a low concentration (0.5 g 100 g-1) in the high-fat phase (65 g 100 g-1). This study conducted rheology, physicochemical technical and characterization analyses on the emulsions to provide sustainable and innovative approaches for spreadable oils. The addition of WL to FG emulsions improved oxidative stability, emulsion stability and bioactive compounds. The zeta potential (-101 ± 5.62 mV) of 0.58 g 100 g-1 WL-containing emulsion (PE1) was found to be high, whereas particle size (347.6 ± 5.25 nm) and polydispersity index (0.50) were statistically low. It was also found that the addition of WL improved the intermolecular interactions, crystallinity and microstructural properties of the emulsions. All these results were supported by simulating the molecular configuration between FG and WL. The compounds gallic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin and resveratrol showed a strong affinity to FG, with free binding energies of -5.50, -5.88, -6.53, -6.68 and -6.66 kcal mol-1, respectively. As a result, WL-supported FG has the potential to be used as an alternative to egg proteins to develop sustainable low-cost spreadable emulsions. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Definition of Design Space for Preparation and Stability of Tramadol Hydrochloride Loaded Nanoparticles Using OFAT Experiments for Infusion in Pain Management

This paper presents an experimental study on preparation of tramadol hydrochloride (TrH) loaded nanoparticles, and stability determination in various infusion solutions. In this study, various nanoparticle preparation parameters based on w/o/w emulsification solvent evaporation method, including stabilizer type, stabilizer concentration, polymer concentration, homogenization speed and initial drug amount were systematically tested to verify their versatility for preparing nanoparticles. Initially both particle size and encapsulation efficiency of nanoparticles were changed significantly with the change in surfactant and polymer ratio (p<0.05). However, homogenization speed only changed particle size (average size 339.3±1.8 nm for 15000 rpm, 318.9±6.4 nm for 20000 rpm and 237.2±7.8 nm for 25000 rpm) (p<0.05) and initial drug concentration is only affected the encapsulation efficiency (34.2±0.7% for 4 mg/mL and 33.2±0.9 for 1.6 mg/mL) (p<0.05). Storage at room temperature for 3 months resulted in an increase in particle size and polydispersity index. Prepared nanoparticles showed the best stability after storage at – 20 °C for in 3 months. Finally, storage of nanoparticles in various infusion solutions resulted an undesirable changes for 6% Hydroxyethyl starch in 0.9% sodium chloride injection, 10% Dextran 40 and 4% Succinyl gelatin solutions. It was shown that an appropriate delivery of TrH loaded PLGA nanoparticles as infusion can be prepared only in water for injection, 20% Mannitol, 0.9% Sodium chloride and 5% Dextrose solutions.

Preparation of Ketoconazole-loaded Nanoemulsions for Ophthalmic Delivery: Characterization and In-vitro Antifungal Activity Evaluation

Background: Nanoemulsions (N.E.s) capable of ocular bioavailability elevation can be used for poor water-soluble drugs such as ketoconazole (K.Z.). The current investigation was designed for the purpose of overcoming this issue by developing K.Z. containing N.E.s for ophthalmic drug delivery with appropriate therapeutic efficiency. Methods: The preparation of ketoconazole N.E.s was performed by the low-energy technique. According to the phase diagram, three stable formulations were selected for more physicochemical analyses, including particle size, polydispersity index, pH, refractive index and viscosity. Finally, drug release patterns and in-vitro antifungal activity were assessed for the final selected formulation. Results: The developed N.E. formulations with droplet sizes less than 20 nm showed appropriate physicochemical characteristics for ocular delivery. The selected formulation released 100% of the encapsulated drug during 24 h. Moreover, antifungal assessments showed that prepared N.E. had acceptable in-vitro antifungal activity. Conclusions: Based on our findings, it can be concluded that N.E.s could be applied as effective carriers for the ophthalmic delivery of ketoconazole.

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF NANOEMULSION OF SMILAX CHINA FOR ANTI-PSORIASIS ACTIVITY

Objective: The present investigation aimed to prepare a smilax china loaded nanoemulsion using tween 80 as a surfactant and propylene glycol as a co-surfactant. Formulation of such drugs in nanoparticulate drug delivery will be advantageous for reducing dosing frequency, longer residence time, improved permeation, and patient compliance. Methods: High-speed homogenization method. The smilax china oil was prepared by collecting the extract of smilax china leaves into the coconut oil and then used as a solvent. The authentication studies of smilax china and coconut oil were evaluated for their organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics. The quantitative estimation and pre-formulation study of quercetin was carried out which has major anti-psoriatic properties. Surfactant and co-surfactant were selected and the solubility studies of oil and Surfactants were done. The nanoemulsion was characterized by particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency (%). Results: This nanoemulsion provides the particle size and entrapment efficiency range between 80.52 to 89.78 nm and 68.66 to 70.16 % respectively. Batch SC1 showed the lowest particle size, PDI, and optimized drug entrapment effectiveness (%), indicating good particle size consistency within the remaining formulation batches. The optimized formulation SC 1 was found to be stable for 90 d. Conclusion: The formulated nanoemulsion showed significant antipsoriasis activity due to the presence of quercetin which has a rhetorical yield of 1.066 mg per 5 gm powder of smilax china leaves. Formulated smilax china-loaded nanoemulsion, has the potential as an effective antipsoriasis agent with a good spreading property with faster absorption which is beneficial for reducing drug concentration with maximum therapeutic effect.

Nanosuspension-Loaded Dissolving Microneedle Patches for Enhanced Transdermal Delivery of a Highly Lipophilic Cannabidiol.

Transdermal Drug Delivery System (TDDS) offers a promising alternative for delivering poorly soluble drugs, challenged by the stratum corneum's barrier effect, which restricts the pool of drug candidates suitable for TDDS. This study aims to establish a delivery platform specifically for highly lipophilic drugs requiring high doses (log P > 5, dose > 10 mg/kg/d), to improve their intradermal delivery and enhance solubility. Cannabidiol (CBD, log P = 5.91) served as the model drug. A CBD nanosuspension (CBD-NS) was prepared using a bottom-up method. The particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and concentration of the CBD-NS were characterized. Subsequently, CBD-NS was incorporated into dissolving microneedles (DMNs) through a one-step manufacturing process. The intradermal dissolution abilities, physicochemical properties, mechanical strength, insertion depth, and release behavior of the DMNs were evaluated. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were utilized to assess the efficacy of the DMN patch in treating knee synovitis and to analyze its skin permeation kinetics and pharmacokinetic performance. The CBD-NS, stabilized with Tween 80, exhibited a particle size of 166.83 ± 3.33 nm, a PDI of 0.21 ± 0.07, and a concentration of 46.11 ± 0.52 mg/mL. The DMN loaded with CBD-NS demonstrated favorable intradermal dissolution and mechanical properties. It effectively increased the delivery of CBD into the skin, extended the action's duration in vivo, and enhanced bioavailability. CBD-NS DMN exhibited superior therapeutic efficacy and safety in a rat model of knee synovitis, significantly inhibiting TNF-α and IL-1β compared with the methotrexate subcutaneous injection method. NS technology effectively enhances the solubility of the poorly soluble drug CBD, while DMN facilitates penetration, extends the duration of action in vivo, and improves bioavailability. Furthermore, CBD has shown promising therapeutic outcomes in treating knee synovitis. This innovative drug delivery system is expected to offer a more efficient solution for the administration of highly lipophilic drugs akin to CBD, thereby facilitating high-dose administration.

Interactions of shock waves with polydisperse particle clouds: Effects on mitigation and topological heterogeneity

This study explores the efficiency of employing a particle-spray cloud to mitigate shock wave propagation, which is essential in various industrial applications, especially in preventing potential hydrogen explosions within nuclear reactor containment buildings. Numerical simulations, primarily in one- and two-dimensional configurations, are utilized to examine the interaction between shock waves and a cloud of polydisperse particles, considering both air and hydrogen–air mixtures as carrier gases. A novel reduced-order theoretical model is developed to analyze the dispersion pattern of polydisperse particles, with validation conducted through direct numerical simulations. Results demonstrate that the polydispersion of cloud particles significantly reduces shock wave propagation compared to monodisperse particles. Notably, particles with smaller diameters and higher standard deviations (σ) show increased attenuation effects. Additionally, scenarios with higher particle volume fractions (τv,0) contribute to enhanced shock wave attenuation. A critical incident Mach number is identified, indicating a significant change in shock wave transmission from supersonic to subsonic when Ms&amp;lt;2.8.

Improving the efficacy of phenolic extract from Pimpinella affinis in edible oils through nanoencapsulation: Utilizing chitosan and Salvia macrosiphon gum as coating agents.

In the present study, a phenolic extract derived from the Pimpinella affinis plant underwent nanoencapsulation. The nanoencapsulation process employed chitosan, Salvia macrosiphon gum (SMG), and a chitosan-SMG complex (1:1) (CCS) as coating agents. The evaluation of nanoemulsions encompassed measurements of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), ζ-potential, encapsulation efficiency, and intensity distribution parameters. The overall results of these assessments indicated that the nanoemulsion coated with CCS exhibited the most favorable characteristics when compared to other treatments. Subsequently, this specific nanoencapsulated sample was utilized to enhance the oxidative stability of canola oil at concentrations of 100, 200, and 300 ppm (parts per million). Oxidative stability tests, assessed through the total oxidation value (TOTOX) index, highlighted the superior performance of the nanoencapsulated extract, particularly at a concentration of 300 ppm. This enhancement can be attributed to the increased release of phenolic compounds from the CCS coating into the canola oil. The findings illustrate that the nanoencapsulation process can significantly enhance the efficacy of P. affinis extract in improving the oxidative stability of canola oil.

Enhancement in Dissolution Profile of Cilnidipine by Nanonization Technique: Optimization by Box-Behnken design

Objectives: Cilnidipine has limited 25-30% of bioavailability due to BCS class II category drug. The aim of present work was to improve the solubility followed by dissolution rate of cilnidipine by formulation of nanosuspension. Materials and Methods: The nanosuspensionwas developed usingnanoprecipitation techniqueaidingultra-sonication with solvent (Dimethyl sulfoxide), antisolvent (water) and stabilizer (polyvinyl alcohol). The nano formulation was statistically optimized using Design Expert software by theBox-Behnken design. The concentration of Poly Vinyl Alcohol, Volume of Antisolvent and Stirring Time were considered as independent factors whereas Particle size and polydispersity index were considered as dependent factors. Results: The particle size of nanosuspension was found 178.57nm with narrow polydispersity index of 0.130. The microscopy study confirmed amorphous nature particles with rough surface. The zeta potential of 4.55 ±2.78 for optimized formulation finds stability of formulation during storage. The differential scanning calorimetry study and X-ray diffraction pattern showed the crystalline cilnidipine drug was converted to amorphous form upon precipitation into nanoparticles. Due to the nanonization of cilnidipine, the dissolution profile was noted as 92.41±3.56% which was significantly improved as compared with plain drug release data. The stability data showed satisfactory result for 2 months. Conclusion: It is summarized that the nanoprecipitation technique with ultra-sonication is approaching method for the formulation of homogenous nanosuspension with uniform sized dispersion of cilnidipine. Therefore, it can be assumed that the upon the enhancement in dissolution rate, the cilnidipine loaded nanosuspension may lead to improved absorption of drug from intestine followed by significant improvement in bioavailability.

Agile quality-by-design development of alginate microparticles for encapsulation of hydrophilic drug

The development of alginate microparticles for encapsulation of hydrophilic drug is addressed. The alginate microparticles are produced by the emulsification/gelation process. The objective of this study is to optimize the encapsulation of sunset yellow, a model of small hydrophilic drug, by the means of an agile quality by design (QbD) approach. Five input factors are considered: the alginate concentration (2–7% w/V), the drug/polymer ratio (0.1/1–0.5/1), the cross-linker addition flow rate (1–1.6 mL/min), the cross-linker volume (5–10 mL), and the crosslinking time (15–60 min). Critical quality attributes (and their associated specifications) are the particle size (∈30;150µm) and polydispersity, the encapsulation efficiency (>50%), and the drug loading (>10%). The implemented agile method follows three successive QbD sprints, each based on a specific design of experiments (DoE). First, a screening of the process parameters is performed using a Plackett-Burman design, followed in a second sprint by the implementation of a central composite Hartley’s design to identify the design space and to extract four eligible control operating regions where the probability to meet the CQA specifications is above 95%. In the last sprint, one of these optimal operating conditions has been qualified by testing eight end points of the region through the application of a full factorial design. This operating region corresponds to a combination of three factors: alginate concentration in [6.7;7]%, drug/polymer ratio in [0.29;0.34]w/w and a curing time in [40;60]min.