Polyethylene Glycol Research Articles

Dissolving alginate-based blend microneedles with enhanced mechanical performance for transdermal delivery of vitamin B12

Transdermal delivery of vitamin B12 (Vit-B12) is challenging due to its high hydrophilicity and molecular weight that limit permeation through the skin. Polymeric microneedles (MNs) have been demonstrated to facilitate enhanced transdermal delivery of various drugs with different properties, by piercing the outermost layer of the skin barrier in a minimally-invasive manner. Although sodium alginate (SA) has been widely investigated and used for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications, MNs made of pure SA, exhibit poor mechanical properties. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of incorporating different excipients into SA MNs, to enhance their insertion ability and mechanical performance, by a modified vacuum deposition micromolding method. Among these, poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-containing SA MNs at a ratio of 1:8 show improved mechanical strength with minimal height reduction (< 10%) at all tested forces, and higher insertion capabilities into a skin-simulant parafilm model (> 65% in the second layer), compared to control SA MNs. Consequently, Vit-B12 was successfully loaded and concentrated into the MN shafts of the lead formulations, by the addition of hydroxypropyl cellulose to the baseplate. Vit-B12 MNs were characterized by means of fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements, drug loading and dissolution kinetics. The MNs exhibited adequate mechanical properties and a complete drug release within 30 min, while a considerable fraction was released after few minutes. The present study shows promising findings regarding the potential use of SA in the preparation of dissolving MNs with enhanced mechanical performance for transdermal delivery of Vit-B12. However, further preclinical investigations are necessary to comprehensively evaluate their therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, this work suggests that alginate-based blend MNs may have a potential application in the delivery of other hydrophilic and large compounds for improved therapeutic outcomes.

Developing novel hybrid bilayer nanofibers based on polylactic acid with impregnation of chamomile essential oil and gallic acid-stabilized silver nanoparticles

This study presents fabrication and characterization of novel chamomile essential oil (CMO)/gallic acid-stabilized silver nanoparticles (gallic acid-nanosilver, GNS), embedded into polylactic acid (PLA)-based hybrid bilayer nanofibers (NFs). Where CMO was impregnated into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution and electrospun simultaneously with PLA to obtain PLA/PVA-PEG-CMO NFs (PLA/CMO A2). Meanwhile, GNS were added to PVA-PEG-CMO and electrospun to obtain PLA/PVA-PEG-CMO-GNS NFs (PLA/CMO-GNS A3). Where pure PLA/PVA-PEG NFs were coded pure PLA/A1. Physicochemical properties of fabricated bilayer-NFs were performed using various approaches. Besides, porosity%, swelling, biodegradability, CMO release pattern, antioxidant, antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity were investigated. Study investigation revealed PLA-based bilayer NFs exhibited a biphasic release profile for impregnated CMO. Due to presence of GA, antioxidant property and biocompatibility of PLA/CMO-GNS A3 was superior compared to pure PLA/A1 and PLA/CMO A2. Antibacterial activity was enhanced in presence of CMO in PLA/CMO A2 than pure PLA/A1. Furthermore, addition of GNS in PLA/CMO-GNS A3 displayed highest antibacterial activity due to synergy of CMO/GNS. Finally, MTT assay with HFB4 fibroblasts demonstrated absence of cytotoxicity of bilayer-based NFs. Thus, study suggests that developed PLA/PVA-PEG NFs could be a promising candidate for tissue regeneration and food edible packaging in particular when impregnated with both CMO/GNS.

Advances in the study of LNPs for mRNA delivery and clinical applications.

Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was discovered in 1961 as an intermediary for transferring genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis. The COVID-19 pandemic brought worldwide attention to mRNA vaccines. The emergency use authorization of two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273, were major achievements in the history of vaccine development. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), one of the most superior non-viral delivery vectors available, have made many exciting advances in clinical translation as part of the COVID-19 vaccine and therefore has the potential to accelerate the clinical translation of many gene drugs. In addition, due to these small size, biocompatibility and excellent biodegradability, LNPs can efficiently deliver nucleic acids into cells, which is particularly important for current mRNA therapeutic regimens. LNPs are composed cationic or pH-dependent ionizable lipid bilayer, polyethylene glycol (PEG), phospholipids, and cholesterol, represents an advanced system for the delivery of mRNA vaccines. Furthermore, optimization of these four components constituting the LNPs have demonstrated enhanced vaccine efficacy and diminished adverse effects. The incorporation of biodegradable lipids enhance the biocompatibility of LNPs, thereby improving its potential as an efficacious therapeutic approach for a wide range of challenging and intricate diseases, encompassing infectious diseases, liver disorders, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular conditions, among others. Consequently, this review aims to furnish the scientific community with the most up-to-date information regarding mRNA vaccines and LNP delivery systems.

Development of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Polyethylene Glycol Copolymer-based Orodispersible Films Loaded with Entecavir: Formulation and In vitro Characterization.

The aim of the study is to prepare entecavir (ETV)-loaded orodispersible films (ODFs) using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyethylene glycol (PEG) graft copolymer (Kollicoat® IR) as a film-forming agent, and further to evaluate the dissolution rate, mechanical and physicochemical properties of films. ETV-ODFs were prepared by a solvent casting method. The amount of film-forming agent, plasticizer, and disintegrating agent was optimized in terms of the appearance, thickness, disintegration time and mechanical properties of ODFs. The compatibility between the drug and each excipient was conducted under high temperature (60 °C), high humidity (RH 92.5%), and strong light (4500 Lx) for 10 days. The dissolution study of optimal ODFs compared with the original commercial tablet (Baraclude®) was performed using a paddle method in pH 1.0, pH 4.5, pH 6.8, and pH 7.4 media at 37 °C. The morphology of ODFs was observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical properties such as tensile strength (TS), elastic modulus (EM), and percentage elongation (E%) of ODFs were evaluated using the universal testing machine. The physicochemical properties of ODFs were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The related substances were less than 0.5% under high temperature, high humidity, and strong light for 10 days when ETV was mixed with excipients. The optimal formulation of ODFs was set as the quality ratio of Kollicoat® IR, glycerol, sodium alginate (ALG-Na): TiO2: MCC+CMC-Na: ETV was 60:9:12:1:1:1. The drug-loaded ODFs were white and translucent with excellent stripping property. The thickness, disintegration time, EM, TS, and E% were 103.33±7.02 μm, 25.31±1.95 s, 25.34±8.69 Mpa, 2.14±0.26 Mpa, and 65.45±19.41 %, respectively. The cumulative drug release from ODFs was more than 90% in four different media at 10 min. The SEM showed that the drug was highly dispersible in ODFs, and the XRD, DSC, and FT-IR results showed that there occurred some interactions between the drug and excipients. In conclusion, the developed ETV-loaded ODFs showed relatively short disintegration time, rapid drug dissolution, and excellent mechanical properties. This might be an alternative to conventional ETV Tablets for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B.

Self-driven photoelectrochemical sensor based on Z-type perovskite heterojunction for profenofos detection in milk and cabbage

With growing public concern about the accumulation of pesticide residues in food and their potential impacts on health and the environment, the demand for advanced detection technologies has become more critical. To address this need, we have developed an innovative self-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor, utilizing a Z-type heterojunction structure. This sensor exploited the synergistic interactions between the carbonyl groups in polyvinylpyrrolidone and the Pb2+ ions in the perovskite, and was further enhanced by the strong hydrogen bonds formed between polyethylene glycol and MA+. To optimize the sensor's performance, we incorporated perylene tetracarboxylic acid, which enhanced interface adhesion and promotes charge separation, elements crucial for the visible light-driven PEC process. This strategic design resulted in a sensor with high sensitivity and stability, which was capable of detecting profenofos residues in complex food matrices such as milk and cabbage. The sensor demonstrated a linear detection range from 0.1 to 107ngL-1 and an exceptional detection limit of 0.033ngL-1. When applied to real samples, the sensor achieved recovery rates ranging from 96.68% to 107.2%, with relative standard deviations between 1.08% and 4.54%. In light of these results, the sensor not only showed high efficiency in real-time monitoring of pesticide contamination, but also highlights its significant potential for broader application in the field of food safety.

Formulation and Development of Clove and Coriander Combination Herbal Dental Anticaries Gel and Evaluation of its Antimicrobial Activity

Background:: Dental caries is one of the Periodontal diseases that has been recognized as a major public health problem for decades throughout the world. It occurs in all groups, ethnicities, races, and genders at all socioeconomic levels. Natural remedies are more acceptable in the belief that they are safer with fewer side effects than synthetic ones. Clove and coriander oil are established herbal drugs for periodontal diseases. Objective:: This research work was intended to formulate a dental gel containing clove and Coriander as the major constituents and evaluate it for dental caries treatment. Both of the herbal oils have a vast range of antimicrobial activity against a great number of periodontal pathogens; therefore, they are used for periodontitis treatment. Methods:: The combination gel was prepared using carbopol 934 as a gelling agent, clove oil and coriander oil as therapeutic constituents, polyethylene glycol as a co-solvent, methyl paraben and propyl paraben as a preservative and a required quantity of distilled water as vehicle. Results:: The gel was analyzed for various properties like antimicrobial activity, pH, spreadability, extrudability, drug content etc., and it was shown that the combination gel is a satisfactory dosage form that is used in periodontitis treatment. The combination gel revealed the ZI (zone of inhibition) of about 22.05±0.04 mm. Conclusion:: The present study concluded that the combination gel preparations of clove oil and coriander oil reported satisfactory physicochemical properties along with good drug content compared to the single gel preparation.

Inhibition of the growth rate of ZnS anode crystal plane: boosting photocatalytic hydrogen production performance

The catalyst's particle size plays a crucial role in enhancing photocatalytic performance. However, it is still unclear to analyse the mechanism by which surfactants affect the particle size of photocatalysts from the perspective of crystal growth. Herein, ZnS nanomaterials with different particle sizes were synthesized using a simple solid-state chemical synthesis method, and the intrinsic influence mechanism between surfactant and catalyst particle size was analyzed from the perspective of crystal growth. It was discovered that the particle size of ZnS kept getting smaller due to changes in polyethylene glycol, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, and sodium dodecyl sulfate. Analyzing the reasons revealed that the catalyst's particle size was related to the type of surfactant: anionic surfactants could reduce the catalyst size. Correspondingly, the catalyst with a smaller particle size has the optimal performance for photocatalytic hydrogen production. Photocatalysts Z-SDS exhibited outstanding photocatalytic performance, yielding 11.47 mmol/g of hydrogen after a five-hour illumination. Furthermore, the intrinsic influence mechanism between anionic and cationic surfactants, photocatalyst particle size, and catalytic performance was investigated. This investigation provides a new idea for synthesizing small-size and high-performance photocatalysts.

Role of crosslinkers in advancing chitosan-based biocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering: A comprehensive review.

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) aims to repair and regenerate damaged bone tissue by combining cells, scaffolds, and signaling molecules. Various macromolecules, including natural polymers like chitosan (CS), collagen, hyaluronic acid, and alginate, as well as synthetic polymers such as polyethylene glycol and polylactic acid, are used in scaffold fabrication. Among these, CS holds significant potential in BTE due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and other features. The inherent mechanical weaknesses of CS-based scaffolds require the implementation of crosslinking strategies to improve their stability and overall performance. Physical crosslinkers like ultra-violet irradiation and freeze-thaw cycles are biocompatible but offer limited mechanical strength. Chemical crosslinkers like glutaraldehyde significantly improve mechanical strength, but they may induce cytotoxicity. We briefly outline here the critical role of physical and chemical crosslinkers in improving the physicochemical properties, mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and biological functions of CS-based scaffolds, including effective bone regeneration. The influence of crosslinking on the CS-based scaffolds' bioactivity, including the controlled release of bioactive molecules, is also discussed. A thorough understanding of crosslinker chemistry and application in CS-based scaffolds is essential for advancing bone regeneration therapies.

Modulating Drug Retention and Release via Surface Anchors Using Hyperthermia and Photothermal Effects of Fe3O4-SiO2 Core-shell Mesoporous Nanoparticles

Core-shell nanocarriers (Fe3O4-MSN-TESPA-PEG/DOX) with a core-shell structure were created as possible materials for controlled drug retention and release. With a notable increase in pore volume and surface area, the 3-(Trimethylsilyl)propionic acid (TESPA) anchors on the pore walls of SiO2 nanoparticles (MSN). The doxorubicin (DOX) is controlled and stored by a network of polyethylene glycol (PEG) layers that cover the MSN pore by TESPA anchor as a result of interactions between the layers and the high density of functional groups at the pore mouth. Rather than the Brownian motion contribution, magnetic hysteresis losses account for the magnetic hyperthermia contribution to the heating efficiency of the investigated core-shell configuration. Fe3O4 NPs' magnetism and capacity for photothermal conversion make its core an appealing choice for photothermal treatment. By appropriately adjusting the following variables, the combination of magnetic field and NIR irradiation can control localized heating: i. NIR irradiation density; ii. magnetic field intensity; iii. time of use; and iv. concentration of Fe3O4-MSN-TESPA-PEG/DOX core-shell solution. This combination is ideal for bioapplications and clinical trials. The two-step NIR irradiation procedure or magnetic field intensity control allows for the rapid delivery of roughly seven times the maximum amount of stored doxorubicin in only five minutes. Fe3O4-MSN-TESPA-PEG nanocarriers with their core-shell structure have great potential as therapeutic agents with controllable drug delivery and targetability.

Development and biopharmaceutical evaluation of aqueous micelle based corticosteroid formulations for topical treatment of oral lichen planus.

The dearth of approved products to treat oral lichen planus (OLP) compels off-label use of dermatological corticosteroid formulations not optimized for indications in the oral cavity. The aims of this study were to develop aqueous micelle based formulations of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and fluocinonide (FLU), using D-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate, and to investigate corticosteroid delivery to the epithelium-lamina propria junction region - the anatomical target for OLP treatment - in comparison to that from marketed products. Total mucosal deposition of TA after application of Kenacort® A Orabase® (0.1 % TA) and micellar hydrogel (0.1 %) was 242.1 ± 68.5 and 5936.7 ± 1269.6 ng/cm2, respectively. For FLU, deposition after application of Novoter (0.05 % FLU) and micellar hydrogel (0.05 %) was 617.1 ± 126.5 and 2580.0 ± 285.5 ng/cm2, respectively. A buccal biodistribution study showed that application of micelle hydrogels under occlusion for 30 min delivered 117.0 ± 15.6 ng/cm2 and 225.6 ± 36.7 ng/cm2, of TA and FLU, respectively, to the epithelium-lamina propria junction region. In contrast, the amounts deposited after applying Kenacort® A Orabase® and Novoter, were < LOQ. The results demonstrated that TPGS-based micelles improved mucosal bioavailability of TA and FLU in the epithelium-lamina propria junction region and might serve to improve topical OLP therapy.

Hansen parameters and GastroPlus assisted optimized topical elastic liposomes to treat breast cancer using a novel isatin derivative

Breast cancer treatment is a global health challenge using conventional toxic chemotherapeutic agents. A novel isatin could be a promising alternative. An isatin derivative (TM-19) was synthesized and characterized using NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). HSPiP and GastroPlus predictive software were used to predict suitable solvents for solubility and in vivo oral pharmacokinetics in humans (fasted condition), respectively. Based on predictive findings, topical elastic liposomes (phosphatidylcholine as PC and span 80 by film hydration method) was prepared, characterized, and optimized using QbD (quality by design). QbD identified the impact of composition on response variables (Y1 for size, Y2 for polydispersity index, Y3 for zeta potential, and Y4 for %EE). In vitro cytotoxicity study was carried out against MCF-7 cell lines. Low molecular weight and lipophilic TM-19 was crystalline in nature (255 g/mol). GastroPlus program predicted limited in vivo dissolution and poor oral absorption (10.4 %). Results confirmed the highest TM-19 solubility in DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) ˃ chloroform ˃ PEG 400 (polyethylene glycol 400). Considering experimental and predicted data, topical delivery of TM-19 using optimized (desirability parameter value = 0.97) elastic liposomes (TF1) was quite promising due to optimal size (344 nm), high %EE (61.7 %), low PDI (0.45), and optimal zeta potential (− 12.34 mV). TM-19 loaded TF1 elicited concentration dependent cytotoxic effect (˃ 90 % at 10 µM) against MCF-7 as compared to TM-19 suspension.

Insights into the photosensitivity and photobleaching of dissolved organic matter from microplastics: Structure-activity relationship and transformation mechanism

Revealing the structure-activity relationship between physicochemical properties and photoactivities of microplastic dissolved organic matter (MPDOM) is significant for understanding the environmental fate of MPs. Here, we systematically analyzed the physicochemical properties and molecular composition of DOM derived from MPs including polystyrene (PS), polyethylene glycol terephthalate (PET), polyadipate/butylene terephthalate (PBAT), polylactic acid (PLA), polypropylene (PP), and compared their photosensitivity and photobleaching behaviors. Results indicated that PSDOM and PETDOM had more similar properties and compositions, and showed stronger photosensitivity and photobleaching effects than PBATDOM, PLADOM and PPDOM. The [3DOM∗]SS and [1O2]SS varied in the range of 0.31-13.03 × 10-14 and 1.71-5.49 × 10-13M, respectively, which were within the reported range of DOM from other sources. The SUVA254, HIX, AImodwa, Xcwa and lignin/CRAM-like component showed positive correlation with the [3DOM∗]SS, [1O2]SS and Φ3DOM*. The negative correlation between E2/E3 and [3DOM∗]SS was due to the higher proportion of low-molecular weight components in MPDOM. The lignin/CRAM-like component was identified to be the crucial photobleaching-component. The lignin/CRAM-like in PSDOM showed a deepened oxidation degree, while its change trend in PETDOM was from unsaturated to saturated. These findings provide new insights into the relevant photochemical fate of MPDOM.

Germination and Seedling Performance of Watermelon as Affected by Chemo-priming

Seed priming is a very important operation for healthy germination and seedling growth. Though a growing body of literature, the report on seed priming on watermelon is hardly available. Thus an experiment was conducted to study the germination and seedling performance of three watermelon cultivars viz. Asian 2, Pakorea F1 and Black Red with six seed priming treatments such as hydropriming with distilled water, halopriming with 1.5N NaCl and 3% KNO3, osmopriming with 3% PEG (Polyethylene Glycol), oxidative priming with 0.1N HCl solution and control i.e. no priming. The seeds were primed overnight with the aforesaid liquids and were allowed to grow both in petridishes in dark condition within laboratory and in pot soil under natural condition in an open grill house. All three watermelon cultivars showed significant difference due to seed priming with aforesaid primers. Germination Index (GI) was found higher in Asian 2 and Black Red cultivars due to HCl priming and in Pakorea F1 due to NaCl priming, while priming with PEG and KNO3 inhibited the GI of respective cultivars. Seedling Vigor Index (SVI) was found higher in Pakorea F1 with HCl priming whereas lower in Asian 2 and Black Red cultivars with PEG priming. Both in dark (Lab) and light (open field) conditions, total seedling dry matter was found higher in Asian 2 and Black Red cultivars due to HCl priming and lower in Pakorea F1 due to PEG priming. Results showed that low concentrated (0.1N) HCl solution can be used as priming medium to enhance germination and seedling growth of watermelon seeds.

Heterometallic [2]Catenane-Crosslinked Supramolecular Networks with Improved Antibacterial Activity.

The construction of supramolecular networks with novel crosslinks is of great significance in expanding their chemical structures and exploring their advanced functions. Herein, we prepare a type of [2]catenane-cored supramolecular networks based on the crosslinking of polyethylene glycol (PEG) using a heterometallic [2]catenane unit. By adjusting the molecular weight of PEG, the solubility of the networks can be tuned and gels are formed using low molecular weight PEG. The introduction of heterometallic [2]catenane offers the networks good antibacterial properties owing to the synergistic antimicrobial activity of Pt(II) and Cu(I) ions in the [2]catenane. This study provides a simple and efficient strategy for constructing supramolecular networks with topological crosslinks as antibacterial materials, which will promote the structural design and biological applications of supramolecular networks.

Comparative efficacy of Knema retusa extract delivery via PEG-b-PCL, niosome, and their combination against Acanthamoeba triangularis genotype T4: characterization, inhibition, anti-adhesion, and cytotoxic activity

Background Acanthamoeba spp. is a waterborne, opportunistic protozoan that can cause amebic keratitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis. Knema retusa is a native tree in Malaysia, and its extracts possess a broad range of biological activities. Niosomes are non-ionic surfactant-based vesicle formations and suggest a future targeted drug delivery system. Copolymer micelle (poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(ɛ-caprolactone); PEG-b-PCL) is also a key constituent of niosome and supports high stability and drug efficacy. To establish Knema retusa extract (KRe) loading in diverse nanocarriers via niosome, PEG-b-PCL micelle, and their combination and to study the effect of all types of nanoparticles (NPs) on Acanthamoeba viability, adherent ability, elimination of adherence, and cytotoxicity. Methods In this study, we characterized niosomes, PEG-b-PCL, and their combination loaded with KRe and tested the effect of these NPs on Acanthamoeba triangularis stages. KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL, KRe-loaded niosome, and KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL plus niosome were synthesized and characterized regarding particle size and charge, yield, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and drug loading content (DLC). The effect of these KRe-loaded NPs on trophozoite and cystic forms of A. triangularis was assessed through assays of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), using trypan blue exclusion to determine the viability. The effect of KRe-loaded NPs was also determined on A. triangularis trophozoite for 24–72 h. Additionally, the anti-adhesion activity of the KRe-loaded niosome on trophozoites was also performed on a 96-well plate. Cytotoxicity activity of KRe-loaded NPs was assessed on VERO and HaCaT cells using MTT assay. Results KRe-loaded niosome demonstrated a higher yielded (87.93 ± 6.03%) at 286 nm UV-Vis detection and exhibited a larger size (199.3 ± 29.98 nm) and DLC (19.63 ± 1.84%) compared to KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL (45.2 ± 10.07 nm and 2.15 ± 0.25%). The EE (%) of KRe-loaded niosome was 63.67 ± 4.04, which was significantly lower than that of the combination of PEG-b-PCL and niosome (79.67 ± 2.08). However, the particle charge of these NPs was similar (−28.2 ± 3.68 mV and −28.5 ± 4.88, respectively). Additionally, KRe-loaded niosome and KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL plus niosome exhibited a lower MIC at 24 h (0.25 mg/mL), inhibiting 90–100% of Acanthamoeba trophozoites which lasted 72 h. KRe-loaded niosome affected adherence by around 40–60% at 0.125–0.25 mg/mL and removed Acanthamoeba adhesion on the surface by about 90% at 0.5 mg/mL. Cell viability of VERO and HaCaT cells treated with 0.125 mg/mL of KRe-loaded niosome and KRe-loaded PEG-b-PCL plus niosome exceeded 80%. Conclusion Indeed, niosome and niosome plus PEG-b-PCL were suitable nanocarrier-loaded KRe, and they had a greater nanoparticle property to test with high activities against A. triangularis on the reduction of adherence ability and demonstration of its low toxicity to VERO and HaCaT cells.

Development of a Water-Soluble Nanomicellar Formulation Loaded with Trans-Resveratrol Using Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate for the Treatment of Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background/Objectives: Trans-resveratrol (Res) has been reported to possess many biological activities, including neuroprotective effects, owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, Res has very low water solubility, which limits its therapeutic application. In this work, we formulated water-soluble micellar formulations incorporating Res using polyethylene glycol monostearate (stPEG). Methods: These formulations (stPEG/Res) were developed using five types of stPEG containing 10, 25, 40, 55 and 140 PEG repeat units. The formulations were characterized for Res content, water solubility, particle size, zeta potential, precipitation, biodistribution, and efficacy against neuronal and motor dysfunction in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Results: Intravenous administration of stPEG40/Res, which demonstrated particle size, water solubility, and biodistribution properties suitable for intravenous administration, suppressed neurological and motor dysfunction following in a collagenase-induced ICH mouse model. These effects were inhibited by zinc protoporphyrin-9, an inhibitor of the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1, suggesting that Res contributes to antioxidant enzyme expression and anti-inflammatory activity. Conclusions: The stPEG/Res micellar formulation developed in this study may offer a promising therapeutic approach for ICH treatment.

Roles and influencing mechanisms of guar gum and polyethylene glycol in copper electrodeposition

ABSTRACT In this paper, the effects of the organics guar gum and polyethylene glycol (PEG) additives on Cu electrodeposition cell voltage, energy consumption and surface morphology were evaluated. Furthermore, the influences of guar gum and PEG on the kinetics of Cu electrodeposition were investigated using electrochemical tests such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and Tafel linear fitting. The results indicated that adding 0.5 mg/L guar gum promoted the Cu electrodeposition. While indicating the lowest overpotential (10 and 100 mA cm−2 were −462 and −561 mV, respectively) and smaller Tafel slope of 50.37 mV dec−1. However, higher concentrations of guar gum and PEG increased cell voltage and energy consumption, with 900 mg/L PEG leading to a 61 kWh energy increase. Elevated organic levels in the electrolyte raised overpotential, inhibiting Cu deposition and causing surface roughness on Cu sheets.

Preparation and characterization of poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(tert-butyl methacrylate) micelles as potential nanocarriers for donepezil

Polymeric micelles were prepared for the delivery of donepezil, a leading Alzheimer’s disease drug, to enhance its transport across the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(tert-butyl methacrylate) amphiphilic block copolymers were synthesized via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The polymers were characterized by gel permeation chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Empty and donepezil loaded polymer micelles were formed using the dialysis method and characterized by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Drug loading efficiency and release behavior were monitored using UV/Vis spectroscopy, and cytotoxicity was evaluated via colorimetric tests and impedance measurements. Additionally, the permeability of the nanocarriers across an in vitro BBB culture model was assessed. Drug-loaded micelles demonstrated similar permeability to free donepezil but offered sustained release and improved stability. This micellar delivery system holds significant potential for improving therapeutic outcomes in Alzheimer’s treatment by enhancing donepezil’s delivery across the BBB. Improved BBB permeability and sustained drug release could lead to more effective concentration of the drug in the brain, potentially reducing peripheral cholinergic side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, often observed with traditional donepezil administration. This could result in better patient compliance and improved cognitive outcomes, making this nanocarrier system a promising alternative for Alzheimer’s therapy.

Scrutinizing harsh habitats endophytic fungi and their prospective effect on water-stressed maize seedlings.

Drought constitutes a significant abiotic stressor that hinders plant growth and productivity in many countries. Habitat-adapted endophytic fungi offer an environmentally sustainable approach to address this issue by promoting plant development and enhancing resilience against abiotic stresses. In this study, 30 endophytic fungal isolates were recovered from some wild plants in the extreme habitats of Port Said Governorate, Egypt, and evaluated for their drought tolerance using polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000). Only eight isolates demonstrated drought tolerance properties and were further evaluated for their plant growth-promoting biochemical activities and ability to improve maize germination under simulated drought conditions. All eight isolates exhibited enzyme activity for endo-1,4-β-glucanase, amylase, and pectinase, and most displayed significant nutrient mobilization, with siderophores production ranging from 4 to 89%, ammonia production from 1 to 7μmol/ml, and phosphate solubilization from 129to 256µg/ml. Additionally, all isolates showed strong antioxidant activity and high total phenolic content, with some also producing notable levels of indole acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA3) as plant growth hormones. Coating maize grains with spore suspensions of the eight fungal isolates, in general, significantly increased their germination parameters and seedling vigor in vitro under 8% PEG-6000. This enhancement was particularly pronounced with Neurospora sitophila (P8L4M1) and Penicillium tardochrysogenum (P15L4M1), which increased the vigor of maize seedlings by approximately 308% compared to untreated control. Molecular identification of P8L4M1 and P15L4M1 was performed by amplifying the 28S rRNA gene. This study disclosed unique endophytic fungal isolates with promising potential for enhancing drought resistance in maize.

Aeration‐Free Photo‐Fenton‐Like Reaction Mediated by Heterojunction Photocatalyst toward Efficient Degradation of Organic Pollutants

The regulation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation by photo‐assisted heterogeneous catalysis is under in‐depth investigation with potential as a replaceable advanced oxidation process in water purification, yet it remains a significant challenge. Herein, we demonstrate a strategy to construct polyethylene glycol (PEG) well‐coupled dual‐defect VO‐M‐Co3O4@CNx S‐scheme heterojunction to degrade organic pollutants without aeration, which dramatically provides abundant active sites, excellent photo‐thermal property, and distinct charge transport pathway for PMS activation. The degradation rate of VO‐M‐Co3O4@CNx in anaerobic conditions shows a higher efficient rate (4.58 min‐1 g‐2) than in aerobic conditions (1.67 min‐1 g‐2). Experimental evidence reveals that VO‐M‐Co3O4@CNx promotes more rapid redox conversion of photoexcited electrons induced by defects with PMS under anaerobic conditions compared to aerobic conditions. Additionally, in situ experiments and DFT provide mechanistic insights into the regulation pathway of PMS activation via synergistic defect‐induced electron, revealing the competitive effect between O2 and PMS over VO‐M‐Co3O4@CNx during the reaction process. The continuous flow reactor and flow cytometry results demonstrated that the VO‐M‐Co3O4@CNx/PMS/Vis system has remarkably enhanced stability and purification capability for removing organic pollutants. This work provides valuable insights into regulating the heterologous catalysis oxidation process without aeration through the photoexcitation synergistic PMS activation.