Sustained-release Capsules Research Articles

Comparative Study of Itopride Hydrochloride in-Vitro Drug Release in Various Brands of Sustained Release Capsules By RP-HPLC

Background: The World Health Organisation has advocated the use of generic medicines to make them accessible and affordable but studies have revealed that marketed products do not produce same therapeutic effects and hence are not interchangeable. Dissolution testing of generic solid dosage forms serves as a valuable tool for acquiring dissolution profiles and for assessing the similarity or dissimilarity between the formulations under examination. Objectives: To evaluate the in-vitro drug release profiles of different generic brands of Itopride Sustained release capsules that are commercially available in Indian market and compare them with the innovator product using model dependant and as well as model independent methods. To determine whether same medicine manufactured by different brands are interchangeable. Materials & Methods: In this study Eight generic brands of Itopride 150mg sustained release capsules available in the Indian market were evaluated using dissolution test with the aim to assess their bioequivalence with the innovator product (Ganaton OD). Dissolution studies were performed using USP type II apparatus at 100 rpm in 900 ml 0.1N HCl while maintaining a temperature of 37±0.5 ºC. The samples were estimated by a validated HPLC method. Dissolution test results were statistically evaluated by employing both model dependant and model independent methods. In model dependant experimental data obtained for each dissolution profile were transformed by applying the equations of different kinetic models and the best-fit model was selected whereas in model independent approach fit factors, dissolution efficiency and mean dissolution times were calculated. Results: The Weibull model best explained the release of drugs from all the brands. Upon statistical evaluation of dissolution test results its was found that while similarity factor f2 was within the limits for all generic brands, difference factor f1 of two brands was out of acceptable range thus questioning their bioequivalency with the innovator product. Also the dissolution efficiency of four out of the brands was out of acceptable limits. Keywords: bioequivalence, difference factor (f1), similarity factor (f2), dissolution profile, comparison and evaluation..

Chitosan/Sodium Alginate Hydrogel for the Release of Berberine as an Algae Suppressant: RSM Optimization and Analysis of Sustained Release Characteristics.

In this study, we used chitosan/sodium alginate hydrogel as a carrier to prepare berberine sustained-release capsule materials that can inhibit algae for a long time and safely. The preparation conditions of the material were optimized by the response surface method, and the optimized capsule material was characterized and the sustained release characteristics were analyzed to study the change of the algae inhibition effect of the material within 30 days. The results showed that the optimum preparation parameters of the material were 0.54% chitosan content, 2.46% sodium alginate content and 1.09% anhydrous calcium chloride content by response surface optimization design, which was consistent with the parameters set by each factor at the central point. The algae inhibition rate of the material under this preparation condition was 93.75 ± 1.01%, which was similar to the predicted value. The release characteristics analysis showed that the material continuously released up to 90% of berberine within 24 days, and its release characteristics were sustained release after burst release, with good sustained release effect. The results of material characterization showed that chitosan/sodium alginate hydrogel could effectively load berberine and was beneficial to the loading and release of berberine. The results of algae inhibition experiments showed that low concentration materials could control the outbreak of cyanobacterial blooms in a short time, while under high concentration conditions, the materials could inhibit Microcystis aeruginosa efficiently and for a long time.

Construction and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of menantine hydrochloride oral liquid sustained-release drug delivery system

Objective The purpose of the present study was to formulate a menantine hydrochloride (MH) sustained-release suspension. Methods Menantine hydrochloride drug resin complex (MH-DRC) was prepared with strong acid cation exchange resin as carrier using water bath method. The MH-DRC was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. The MH-coated microcapsule (MH-CM) with optimized formulation was further dispersed in a suitable medium to obtain a sustained-release suspension. The rats were given both the MH sustained-release suspension and the commercial MH sustained-release capsule by intragastric administration. The plasma concentration-time curves and related pharmacokinetic parameters were also investigated using a non-atrioventricular model. Results MH and ion-exchange resin were ionically bonded. AmberliteIRP®69 had a higher affinity for MH at the initial concentration of 5 mg·mL−1 and a reaction temperature of 25.0 ± 0.5 °C. In vitro drug release profile showed that both the drug resin complex and the coated microcapsules had a certain level of sustained-release effect. The t1/2 of MH sustained-release suspension was extended from 68.44 h to 72.79 h with the peak blood concentration being decreased to 3.56 μg·mL−1 and the Tmax extended to 12 h compared with the commercial MH sustained-release capsule. The concentration-time curve of the self-made MH sustained-release suspension was flattened and the average relative bioavailability (Fr ) was 116.65% compared with the commercial MH sustained-release capsules. Conclusions The findings showed that the MH sustained-release suspension was successfully formulated with acceptable pharmacokinetic indices for effective treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Recurrent syncope due to ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease: a case report

BackgroundIschemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease is a prevalent form of ischemic heart disease. The majority of ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease cases are attributed to underlying factors such as coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) and/or coronary artery spasm. Ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease can present with various clinical manifestations. Recurrent syncope is an atypical complaint in patients with ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease.Case presentationThis case report describes the presentation of a 58-year-old Chinese male patient who experienced repeated episodes of syncope. The syncope was found to be caused by concomitant coronary artery spasm and presumptive coronary microvascular dysfunctionc suggested by “slow flow” on coronary angiography. The patient was prescribed diltiazem sustained-release capsules, nicorandil, and atorvastatin. During the three-month follow-up conducted on our outpatient basis, the patient did not experience a recurrence of syncope.ConclusionThis study highlights the importance of considering ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease as a potential cause of syncope in the differential diagnosis. It emphasizes the need for early diagnosis of ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease to facilitate more effective management strategies.

Method Development for Simultaneously Determining Indomethacin and Nicotinamide in New Combination in Oral Dosage Formulations and Co-Amorphous Systems Using Three UV Spectrophotometric Techniques.

This research aims to develop methods for simultaneously determining indomethacin (IND) and nicotinamide (NCT) in binary mixtures, immediate-release capsules, sustained-release capsules, and co-amorphous systems, which were designed in 2021 to improve the solubility, dissolution rate, and stability of the amorphous state of indomethacin. Moreover, this new combination may have also other possible medical benefits. Therefore, there is a need to have simple, sensitive, and precise developed methods for simultaneous quantification analysis of IND/NCT in several different ratios. Three UV-spectrophotometry techniques were deployed: zero-crossing point in the second-order derivative, dual-wavelength in the first-order derivative, and ratio subtraction coupled with spectrum subtraction. The limit of detection and the limit of quantifications (LOD and LOQ) for IND were 0.41 and 1.25, 0.55 and 1.66, and 0.53 and 1.62 μg/mL, respectively, while for NCT were 0.53 and 1.59, 0.38 and 1.14, and 0.36 and 1.08 μg/mL, respectively. All methods were linear at least in the range of 2.5-40.0 μg/mL. All proposed methods were validated according to ICH guidelines and their application on the dosage formulations was carried out. Finally, the proposed methods were compared to a reference method for each IND and NCT, and no significant statistical variance was found.

Exploring the Efficacy of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Compound Formulas Qianlong Shutong Formula in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Objective: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the compound formula Qianlong Shutong Formula (QLSTF) in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and its impact on hepatic and renal function. This assessment was conducted through randomized controlled trials and animal experimentation. Methods: A total of 160 BPH patients aged between 50 and 70 years were randomly allocated into two groups: The tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules group (n=80) and the QLSTF + tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules group (n=80). Both groups received a 12-week treatment regimen. In the animal experiments, 12 Sprague Dawley rats were categorized into three groups: The control group (n=4), the model group (n=4), and the QLSTF group (n=4). The latter group received herbal treatment for a duration of 28 days. Results: The current results showed, substantial improvements were observed in the clinical symptoms and signs of BPH within both drug groups. Additionally, no adverse effects on hepatic or renal function were detected. The QLSTF group exhibited a total effective rate of 90.41%, while the control group recorded 77.33%. During the course of treatment, three patients experienced dizziness, and two patients reported nausea and reduced appetite. However, these adverse reactions subsided after a rest period of 4-6h. Conclusion: Our findings underscore the advantages and safety of orally administered QLSTF. In the treatment of BPH, the combined treatment approach using QLSTF demonstrated a higher clinical efficacy rate when compared to the use of tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules alone.

Smart-responsive sustained-release capsule design enables superior air storage stability and reinforced electrochemical performance of cobalt-free nickel-rich layered cathodes for lithium-ion batteries

Nickel-rich layered oxide stands as one of the most promising cathodes in demand for higher energy density of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in next generation. While increasing nickel content brings more capacity, it also makes this kind of cathode more vulnerable to the ambient, both the air outside the cell and the electrolyte inside, causing aggravated storage, structural and thermal instability. The cathode surface, as the first line of defense against the ambient attack, is the essential place to address these issues. Enlightened by the mechanism of “sustained-release capsule”, here we decorate the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a skin with exceptional moisture-resistance and chemical stability, onto the surface of LiNi0.9Mn0.1O2. This PDMS skin demonstrated the smart response to the surrounding environment that the hydrophobic surface guarantees the ambient air storage stability by cutting off residual alkali accumulation and the protective role of coating could be relayed as another functional mechanism once entering the battery. The detrimental HF species generated from water-induced electrolyte decomposition are effectively captured and eliminated to defend cathode corrosion and enhance interfacial stability during long-term cycling. Attributed to the seamless protection from the outside to the inside of the battery, this well-capsuled Ni-rich cathode exhibits negligible capacity fading compared with fresh state even after long ambient exposure, and realizes superior cycling and thermal stability. This work demonstrates new guidelines to design smart-responsive coatings for cathode materials to reduce their susceptibility to the surrounding environment, towards improving both ambient storage stability and cycling stability.

No evidence of coronary plaque stabilization by allopurinol in patients with acute coronary syndrome

BackgroundAllopurinol, a xanthine inhibitor that lowers uric acid concentration, has been proven to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with cardiovascular disease. However, it is unknown whether these beneficial effects translate into favorable plaque modification in acute coronary syndromes (ACS). This study aimed to investigate whether allopurinol could improve coronary plaque stabilization using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). MethodsThis was a prospective, single-center, randomized, double-blind clinical trial began in March 2019. A total of 162 ACS patients aged 18–80 years with a blood level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) ​> ​2 ​mg/L were included. The subjects were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either allopurinol sustained-release capsules (at a dose of 0.25 ​g once daily) or placebo for 12 months. The plaque analysis was performed at CCTA. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in low-attenuation plaque volume (LAPV) from baseline to the 12-month follow-up. ResultsAmong 162 patients, 54 in allopurinol group and 51 in placebo group completed the study. The median follow-up duration was 14 months in both groups. Compared with placebo, allopurinol therapy did not significantly alter LAPV (−13.4 ​± ​3.7 ​% vs. −17.8 ​± ​3.6 ​%, p ​= ​0.390), intermediate attenuation plaque volume (−16.1 ​± ​3.0 ​% vs. −16.2 ​± ​2.9 ​%, p ​= ​0.992), dense calcified plaque volume (12.2 ​± ​13.7 ​% vs. 9.7 ​± ​13.0 ​%, p ​= ​0.894), total atheroma volume (−15.2 ​± ​3.2 ​% vs. −16.4 ​± ​3.1 ​%, p ​= ​0.785), remodeling index (2.0 ​± ​3.9 ​% vs. 5.4 ​± ​3.8 ​%, p ​= ​0.536) or hsCRP levels (−73.6 [−91.6–17.9] % vs. −81.2 [−95.4–47.7] %, p ​= ​0.286). ConclusionsOur findings suggest that allopurinol does not improve atherosclerotic plaque stability or inflammation in ACS.

Combination of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and ibuprofen to reduce pain in femoral head necrosis.

The combinative effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and ibuprofen on pain in patients with femoral head necrosis were discussed and analyzed. This retrospective study analyzed data of 60 patients with femoral head necrosis hospitalized during Oct. 2020 to Oct. 2021. According to different treatment methods, the patients were divided into an observation group and a control group (30 cases in each group). The control group took oral ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and the observation group was treated with neuromuscular electrical stimulation in addition to ibuprofen. Both groups received a 4-week treatment course. The therapeutic efficacy, Harris scale scores, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, MRI hip imaging stage, SF-36 scale score, serum plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), leptin and osteopontin levels before and after treatment were compared between the two groups. After treatment, the overall response rate in the observation group was higher than that in control group (P<0.05). The post-treatment scores of Harris scale were higher in both groups than those pre-treatment (P<0.05), and were higher in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The VAS scores were decreased in both groups (P<0.05), and the decrease was more significant in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, there were more patients with 0-I MRI hip imaging stage in the two groups than before treatment (P<0.05), and more in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The SF-36 scores in both groups were increased (P<0.05), and the increase was more significant in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The serum levels of PAI-1, leptin and osteopontin were decreased in both groups (P<0.05), and the decreases were more significant in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The combinative treatment of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and ibuprofen has a significant effect on patients with femoral head necrosis. The treatment can remarkably reduce patients' pain, improve their hip function and quality of life, and decrease the PAI-1, leptin and osteopontin levels.

Can Tibetan medicine Honghua Ruyi pills relieve endometriosis-associated dysmenorrhea? Protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled trial

ObjectiveTo provide high-quality clinical evidence of the efficacy of Tibetan medicine Honghua Ruyi (HHRY) pills for endometriosis-associated dysmenorrhea. MethodsThis study constitutes a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial encompassing a three-menstrual cycle intervention followed by a three-menstrual cycle follow-up period. A total of 164 eligible females with endometriosis-associated dysmenorrhea were randomly divided into HHRY pills and placebo groups in a 1:1 ratio. The primary outcome included dysmenorrhea symptoms assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and quality of life, whereas the secondary outcome measures included the maximum VAS for non-menstrual pelvic pain, duration of pain episodes (in days), frequency and quantity of the consumption of ibuprofen sustained-release capsules (or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and days off work/study for staff/student due to dysmenorrhea, ovarian cyst, and/or pelvic nodule size. The safety was monitored throughout the treatment period. All the analyses were based on the intention-to-treat principle. For continuous outcomes, simple or multiple linear regressions were used to estimate the differences between the HHRY pills and placebo groups, with categorical data expressed as the number and percentage of occurrences. Differences were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. The predefined analysis was adjusted for concomitant treatment, a variable considered to be associated with outcomes but unaffected by treatment allocation. Estimates of treatment effects were reported with 95% confidence intervals. Two-tailed P values ≤ .05 were considered statistically significant. ConclusionPositive results from this trial, upon completion would provide robust evidence for the efficacy and safety of HHRY pills in treating dysmenorrhea in patients with endometriosis.

Abstract 11734: Allopurinol &amp; Plaque Stabilization in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Allopurinol, a xanthine inhibitor that lowers uric acid (UA) concentration, has been proven to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with cardiovascular disease. However, it is unknown whether these beneficial effects translate into favorable plaque modification in acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Aims: This study aimed to investigate whether allopurinol therapy could improve plaque stabilization in ACS patients using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Methods: This was a prospective, single-center, randomized, double-blind clinical trial began in March 2019 (clinical trial.gov identifier NCT03745729). A total of 162 acute coronary syndromes (ACS) patients aged 18-80 years with a blood level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) &gt; 2 mg/L were included. The subjects were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either allopurinol sustained-release capsules (at a dose of 0.25 g once daily) or placebo for 12 months. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in low-attenuation plaque volume (LAPV) from baseline to the 12-month follow-up. Results: Among 162 patients, 54 in allopurinol group and 51 in placebo group completed the study. There were no significant differences between the allopurinol and placebo groups in terms of baseline data for age (58.5±10.2 years vs. 56.8±10.0 years, P=0.392) and sex (male/female, 40/14 vs. 40/11, P=0.600). The median follow-up duration was 14 months in both groups. Compared with placebo, allopurinol therapy did not significantly alter LAPV (-13.4±3.7% vs. -17.8±3.6%, P=0.390), intermediate attenuation plaque volume (-16.1±3.0% vs. -16.2±2.9%, P=0.992), dense calcified plaque volume (12.2±13.7% vs. 9.7±13.0%, P=0.894), total atheroma volume (-15.2±3.2% vs. -16.4±3.1%, P=0.785), remodeling index (2.0±3.9% vs. 5.4±3.8%, P=0.536) or hsCRP levels (-73.6 [17.9-91.6] % vs. -81.2 [47.7-95.4] %, P=0.286). Conclusions: Our findings suggest, for the first time, that allopurinol therapy does not improve atherosclerotic plaque instability or inflammation in ACS.

Acupuncture Relieves Cervical Spondylosis Radiculopathy by Regulating Spinal Microglia Activation Through MAPK Signaling Pathway in Rats.

Local acupuncture has been found to have a good analgesic effect in rats with cervical spondylosis radiculopathy (CSR), but it lacks a regulatory effect on traditional Chinese medicine syndrome types of CSR. We proposed "Invigorating Qi and activating Blood" (IQAB) acupuncture, compared with Fenbid, and local electroacupuncture (LEA), to observe whether it has advantages in the protection of the CSR rat model and to elucidate its mechanism through the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling pathway. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, sham, model, Fenbid, LEA, and IQAB. The CSR model was induced by inserting nylon sutures to compress the C4-T1 nerve root. The Fenbid group was treated with ibuprofen sustained-release capsules (15 mg/kg·d, ig). The LEA group received electroacupuncture at both C5 and C7 EX-B2 once a day. The IQAB group received acupuncture at both ST36 and BL17 based on the LEA group's intervention. Mechanical allodynia and gait, morphological changes in the spinal cord, IL-6 and TNF-α levels, MAPKs phosphorylation ratio, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels in the spinal cord, and the expression of p-p38 in the spinal cord and its colocalization with neurons and glial cell activation markers were detected. Mechanical allodynia, gait disorder, edema, reduced Nissl-positive cell numbers, and increased IL-6 and TNF-α levels in the spinal cord were observed in CSR rats. IQAB significantly alleviated these changes, and the effects were generally comparable to those of Fenbid. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation ratios of p38 and extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK), co-expression of p-p38 with neuron/microglia, and MCP-1 levels in the spinal cord were markedly down-regulated by IQAB compared with those in CSR model rats. IQAB reduced p38-activation-related microglia activation and MCP-1 levels, thus alleviating pathological changes, inflammation levels in the local spinal cord, and pain behavior of CSR.

The Preparation and In-vitro Evaluation of Sustained Release Capsules of Rivastigmine Tartrate

Rivastigmine tartrate is a cholinesterase inhibitor, used in the treatment of dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease and it is currently available in a capsule form. Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) is the most important hydrophilic carrier material used for the preparation of oral controlled drug delivery systems due to its high swellability and its significant effect on the release kinetics of an incorporated drug. The present study was designed to prepare sustained release granules of Rivastigmine tartrate by using HPMC as matrix former, Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as diluent and Magnesium Stearate as lubricant. Blend of Eudragit co-polymers on different ratio was used to coat the granules. The drug-excipient compatibility studies were carried out by using FT-IR, DSC and XRPD analysis. The results shown that there was no significant interaction between the drug and excipients. Granules were prepared by wet granulation method. The granules were subjected to physico-chemical, drug content and in-vitro drug release studies. The best fit release kinetics was achieved with Higuchi equations followed by first order kinetics from the above results it was concluded that extended release granules of Rivastigmine tartrate can be prepared by using HPMC and also found that coating of granules with Eudragit co-polymers also effective to extend the release of drug.

Determination of tamsulosin in plasma of healthy Chinese male subjects by a novel and simple LC-MS/MS method and its application to pharmacokinetic studies

Tamsulosin, the first highly selective α1-adrenoceptor antagonist, is widely used for urination disorders caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The pharmacokinetics and safety of 0.2 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules were evaluated in 60 healthy Chinese male subjects under fasting and fed conditions in this study. A simple, sensitive, and robust liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the quantification of tamsulosin in human plasma, which has been applied to pharmacokinetic study. The analyte and internal standard (tamsulosin-d5) were extracted by protein precipitation, and separated on a ZORBAX Eclipse XDB-C18 column (4.6 × 50 mm,1.8 µm; Agilent Tech) using a gradient elution with mobile phases methanol and 5 mM ammonium acetate. The linear range was 0.05-15.0 ng/mL. It showed good selectivity in normal, hyperlipidemic, and hemolyzed blank matrices. The CV (%) of intra-batch precision was <4.4% and the RE (%) of accuracy was in the range of −5.0%–6.7%; the CV (%) of inter-batch precision was <−5.8% and the RE (%) of accuracy was in the range of 1.2%-4.0%. The mean extraction recovery for the analyte was 102.1 ± 3.75% and for the IS was 102.2 ± 2.00%. Two formulations were considered bioequivalent under fasting and fed conditions, and the 90% confidence intervals for the geometric mean test/reference ratios were within the predetermined range of 80%-125%. A single oral dose of 0.2 mg tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsule was well-tolerated throughout the clinical trial, and no > Grade 1 adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs occurred during the trial.

Realization of multilocal gradient-doping PCN by alkali metal ion sustained release capsules for enhanced photocatalytic water splitting

The gradient-doping technique has been widely applied to induce an oriented built-in electric-field. However, it is still not efficient enough for charge mobility especially for particulate semiconductors, as the field is primarily in one direction from inner to surface. Here, we propose a multilocal gradient-doping technique that a nano-capsule is designed to store dopants and then release them into semiconductors nonuniformly. As an illustration, scattered pyrochlore-type K2Ta2O6 nanoparticles have been validated the capability of storing and releasing K+, which subsequently diffuse into the substrate PCN. Multi point-radiative gradient in K+ concentration, confined within the K2Ta2O6’s vicinity, will construct several 3D potential wells which can not only accelerate the carrier separation but also offer more migration channels for both photo-induced electrons and holes to the surface. Consequently, the multilocal K+ gradient-doping PCN shows the longest carriers’ lifetime and highest AQY (∼21.8% at 400 nm) compared with the other uniformly doping techniques.

Formulation and Evaluation of Mebeverine Hydrochloride Sustained Release Capsules by Pelletization Technique

The objective of the present study is aimed to formulate and evaluate sustained-release Mebeverine hydrochloride capsules using the Pelletization technique. Mebeverine hydrochloride, an anti-spasmodic drug is highly water soluble with a half-life of 2h and is suitable to develop sustained action for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Mebeverine hydrochloride prolongs medication release in the GIT and, as a result, into the plasma, while reducing the frequency of drug administration, adverse effects, and patient compliance. Mebeverine hydrochloride were prepared by using polymers The drug-polymer and excipient compatibility was defined by the FTIR studies in the pre-formulation study. The calibration curve for the drug is plotted and checked the physicochemical properties. Six formulations (F1-F6) of Mebeverine hydrochloride pellets were prepared using different quantities of Ethylcellulose N 50 and other standard excipients. In vitro, drug release studies were performed for the pellets for 1.2, 4, 6, 8, and 12hrs. The optimized formulation F6 showed 76.8 % drug release after 12h showing that ethyl cellulose N 50 acts as a rate-controlling agent. The drug release of the chosen formulation follows first-order kinetics with a zero-order mechanism, according to absorption kinetics.

Ultralong-lived triplet excitons of room-temperature phosphorescent carbon dots located on g-C3N4 to boost photocatalysis

Semiconductor photocatalysts have recently received growing attention, but still meet the challenges of a weak separation ability of photogenerated electrons and holes, which leads to energy loss. In this work, we utilize ultralong-lived triplet excitons to promote the separation of electron-hole pairs and to realize the efficient transformation from excitons to carriers. Room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) carbon dots (CDs) were selected as a model system, which were highly dispersed onto g-C3N4 and exhibited largely enhanced photocatalytic and electrochemical activities compared with those of typical fluorescent CD systems. Both experimental and density functional theory calculations show that the ultralong-lived triplet excitons from RTP CD@g-C3N4 serve as an “energy sustained-release capsule” and thus effectively regulate the recombination of excitons and boost the intrinsic photocatalytic performances (including water splitting and dye degradation). Therefore, this work provides a new design strategy to use ultralong-lived triplet excitons as high-efficiency photocatalysts.

Clinical Observation on Therapeutic Effect of Electroacupuncture Combined with Diclofenac Sodium in Treatment of Acute Gouty Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Objective To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture (EA) combined with diclofenac sodium (DS) in the treatment of acute gouty arthritis (AGA). Methods Patients with AGA were randomly divided into three groups: the EA + DS treatment group (i.e., EA + DS group), the low-dose DS treatment group (i.e., low-dose DS group), and the conventional-dose DS treatment group (i. e., conventional DS group). Patients in the low-dose DS group took 50 mg of DS sustained-release capsules once a day. Patients in the conventional DS group took 100 mg of DS sustained-release capsules once a day. Patients in the EA + DS group were treated with EA three times in 7 days combined with 50 mg of DS sustained-release capsules once a day. For all the three groups, 7 days were regarded as a course of treatment. Outcome indicators included pain visual analog scale (VAS), joint tenderness, joint swelling and activity limitation, and levels of inflammatory indicators (C-reactive protein (CRP)/white blood cells (WBC)/percentage of neutrophils (NE%)), level of serum uric acid (SUA), gout impact scale (GIS), and frequency of adverse reactions). Results After a course of treatment, indicators regarding the VAS, joint tenderness, joint swelling, activity limitation, GIS, inflammatory indicators (CRP/WBC/NE%), and SUA were all improved (P < 0.05) with no adverse reactions in the EA + DS group. The EA + DS group performed better than the low-dose DS group in improving indicators regarding the VAS, joint tenderness, activity limitation, GIS, inflammatory markers (WBC/NE%), and SUA (P < 0.05). Similarly, the EA + DS group performed better than the conventional DS group in improving indicators regarding GIS, SUA, and adverse reactions (P < 0.05). Conclusion EA combined with DS can improve AGA patients' joint pain and functional status, thus improving their quality of life. Moreover, this combined treatment can reduce the levels of inflammatory markers and SUA, leading to fewer adverse reactions in AGA patients.

The Healing Effects of Piano Practice-Induced Hand Muscle Injury.

Background The muscles related to piano practice are mainly concentrated in the fingers and upper limbs, and the muscles related to other parts of the body are weak. Compared with other sports injuries, the injuries caused by piano practice are mainly chronic injuries caused by long-term strain of the upper limbs, and acute injuries rarely occur. The purpose of this study was to analyze the therapeutic effect of hand muscle injury caused by piano practice. Method A total of 60 patients with hand muscle injury caused by piano practice admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to June 2020 were selected. According to the number random grouping method, they were randomly divided into two groups. There were 30 patients in the observation group, including 20 males and 10 females, aged 24-53 (39.51 ± 7.01) years old, and the course of disease was 1-5 (3.24 ± 1.62) months. In the control group, there were 30 patients, including 18 males and 12 females, aged 24-56 (39.62 ± 7.17) years old, and the course of disease was 1.5-5 (3.14 ± 1.71) months. If the observation group experienced excessive pain, the group took ibuprofen sustained-release capsules. On weekdays, exercise your fingers 2-3 times per day. After the intervention, the wrist joint function score of the observation group was higher than that before the intervention. Results Before treatment, there was no significant difference in pain level scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). After treatment, the limb pain score in the observation group was lower than that in the control group. The effective rate of hand tendon rehabilitation in the observation group was 93.33%. The effective rate of hand tendon rehabilitation in the control group was 70.00%. The comparison results showed that there was statistical significance (P < 0.05). The score of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Conclusion Piano workouts can cause hand muscle difficulties, which can be alleviated by daily finger gymnastics. Daily finger exercises are simple and not limited by time and place. Piano practitioners can use the spare time of daily training and performance to exercise for a long time, so as to prevent or recover finger muscle damage caused by piano practice. It has the potential to help pianists avoid hand muscle injuries when practicing while also allowing music to reach its full potential.

On the Fundamental Efficacy of Thyroid-Hormone Therapy in Eating Disorders: Review of Mechanisms and Case Study

Context: Calorie restriction reduces circulating triiodothyronine (T3) – the most active thyroid hormone – inducing hypothyroidism, constipation, and reduced appetite that inhibit eating, acting to sustain and sometimes precipitate eating disorders. Thyroid-hormone treatment can be effective but is rarely employed. Case description: A 12-year-old girl experienced chronic nausea and constipation after antibiotics for strep throat, resulting in restricted eating. Energy decreased for 2 months as anxiety and depression increased, culminating in withdrawal and school refusal. Blood tests were normal except for below-range free T3. She began a trial of incremental, 1-μg dose increases of T3 every 3 days using sustained-release capsules added to her established triiodothyronine–levothyroxine (T3–T4) protocol for hypothyroidism. Her energy and mood began improving after 10 days and depression resolved after 7 weeks. An 18-day stay in a hospital eating-disorders unit helped her regain some weight and strength. To address nausea and anxiety, the extended medical team then tried two antidepressants and cyproheptadine – each caused increased nausea and reduced eating – and a 5-day prednisone burst for possible neuroinflammation; all were ineffective and discontinued. After 14 weeks without improvement, we resumed adjusting thyroid-hormone dose. Anxiety, energy, food intake, and weight improved for 5 months. She began attending a new school, developed new friendships, and started menses. The major illness lasted 21 months. T3 intake increased from 5 to 27 μg, T4 from 50 to 110 μg, weight from 36.4 to 52.7 kg, and height from 1.63 to 1.71 m. Conclusions: Thyroid hormones should be studied further as fundamentally effective treatment for eating disorders. Keywords: Eating disorder; Low-triiodothyronine syndrome; Hypothyroidism