Preparation of oral solid dosage forms based on homogenized spot melting technique

Given the benefits of high printing precision and capability, the selective laser sintering technique has been used to manufacture medicines and implants with unique engineering and functional properties. Using homogenized beams with a reduced thermal gradient and a larger diameter as an alternative energy source, the thermal stability and production efficiency of powder bed fusion would be improved. Herein, a novel homogenized spot melting (HSM) technology for pharmaceutical preparation was developed in this study. The melting behavior of typical pharmaceutical polymers under a homogenized spot was determined. A crystalline polymer with a low melting point was used as a solid binder, and the HSM printability and formation of drug-loaded formulations were explored. Oral solid dosage forms with different morphological and dissolution designs were prepared and evaluated under optimal formulation and process conditions. It was observed that HSM reduced the surface temperature distribution of the powder bed and improved the printability of drugs and excipients. Crystalline PEG 8000 with suitable flowability and heat conduction efficiency in the molten state was preferable for HSM printing. Incorporating 40% PEG 8000 as a solid binder was an effective strategy for HSM processing of unfused or unstable powders. Solid preparations with different structures and dissolution behaviors were successfully printed, suggesting that HSM is a promisingtechnique for personalized medicine.

[Molluscicidal effect of 25% wettable powder of pyriclobenzuron sulphate in hilly schistosomiasis-endemic regions]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the molluscicidal effect of 25% wettable powder of pyriclobenzuron sulphate (WPPS) against Oncomelania snails in hilly schistosomiasis-endemic regions and test its toxicity to fish.

METHODS

In October 2020, a snail-infested setting which had been cleared was selected in Nanjian County, Yunnan Province and divided into several blocks, and the natural snail mortality was estimated. 25% WPPS was prepared into solutions at concentrations of 1 and 2 g/L, and 25% wettable powder of niclosamide ethanolamine salt (WPNES) was prepared into solutions at a concentration of 2 g/L. The different concentrations of drugs were sprayed evenly, and the same amount of water was used as blank control. Snails were surveyed using the systematic sampling method 1, 3 and 7 days post-treatment, and snail survival was observed. A fish pond was selected in Nanjian County, and 2 kg 25% WPPS was evenly sprayed on the water surface to allow the effective concentration of 20 g/L. Fish mortality was estimated 8, 24, 48 and 72 h post-treatment.

RESULTS

One-day treatment with 1 and 2 g/L WPPS and 2 g/L WPNES resulted in 97.99%, 97.99% and 94.11% adjusted snail mortality rates (χ² = 3.509 and 3.509, both P values > 0.05), and the adjusted snail mortality was all 100% 3 d post-treatment with 1 and 2 g/L WPPS and 2 g/L WPNES, while 7-day treatment with 1 and 2 g/L WPPS and 2 g/L WPNES resulted in 91.75%, 86.57% and 57.76% adjusted snail mortality rates (χ² = 14.893 and 42.284, both P values < 0.05). Treatment with 2 g/L WPPS for 72 h resulted in a 0.67% cumulative mortality rate of fish.

CONCLUSIONS

25% WPPS is effective for snail control and highly safe for fish, which is feasible for use in hilly schistosomiasis-endemic regions.

Efficacy, dose-response, and aerosol delivery of dry powder synthetic lung surfactant treatment in surfactant-deficient rabbits and premature lambs

BACKGROUND

Dry powder (DP) synthetic lung surfactant may be an effective means of noninvasive delivery of surfactant therapy to premature infants supported with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) in low-resource settings.

METHODS

Four experimental DP surfactant formulations consisting of 70% of phospholipids (DPPC:POPG 7:3), 3% Super Mini-B (SMB) or its sulfur-free derivate B-YL as SP-B peptide mimic, 25% of lactose or trehalose as excipient, and 2% of NaCl were formulated using spray drying. In vitro surface activity was confirmed with captive bubble surfactometry. Surfactant particle size was determined with a cascade impactor and inhaled dose was quantified using a spontaneously breathing premature lamb lung model supported with CPAP. In vivo surfactant efficacy was demonstrated in three studies. First, oxygenation and lung compliance were monitored after intratracheal instillation of resuspended DP surfactant in intubated, ventilated, lavaged, surfactant-deficient juvenile rabbits. In dose-response studies, ventilated, lavaged, surfactant-deficient rabbits received 30, 60, 120 or 240 mg/kg of DP B-YL:Lactose or B-YL:Trehalose surfactant by aerosol delivery with a low flow aerosol chamber via their endotracheal tube. Noninvasive aerosolization of DP B-YL:Trehalose surfactant via nasal prongs was tested in spontaneous breathing premature lambs supported with nCPAP. Intratracheal administration of 200 mg/kg of Curosurf®, a liquid porcine surfactant, was used as a positive control.

RESULTS

Mass median aerosol diameter was 3.6 μm with a geometric standard deviation of 1.8. All four experimental surfactants demonstrated high surface efficacy of intratracheal instillation of a bolus of ~ 100 mg/kg of surfactant with improvement of oxygenation and lung compliance. In the dose-response studies, rabbits received incremental doses of DP B-YL:Lactose or B-YL:Trehalose surfactant intratracheally and showed an optimal response in oxygenation and lung function at a dose of 120-240 mg/kg. Aerosol delivery via nasal prongs of 1 or 2 doses of ~ 100 mg/kg of B-YL:Trehalose surfactant to premature lambs supported with nCPAP resulted in stabilization of spontaneous breathing and oxygenation and lung volumes comparable to the positive control.

CONCLUSION

These studies confirm the clinical potential of DP synthetic lung surfactant with B-YL peptide as a SP-B mimic to alleviate surfactant deficiency when delivered as a liquid bolus or as an aerosol.

A Bioinspired Hemostatic Powder Derived from the Skin Secretion of Andrias davidianus for Rapid Hemostasis and Intraoral Wound Healing

High-performance hemostasis has become increasingly essential in treating various traumas. However, available topical hemostats still have various drawbacks and side-effects. Herein, hemostatic powders derived from the skin secretion of Andrias davidianus (SSAD) with controllable particle size are prepared using feasible frozen-ball milling following lyophilization for hemorrhage-control. Scanning electron microscopy, rheometry, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller test are used to characterize the coagulation-promoting surface topography, rheological properties, and porous structure of the SSAD particles. The blood-coagulation assays showed that the SSAD powders can induce blood-absorption in a particle size-dependent manner. Particle sizes of the SSAD powders larger than 200 µm and smaller than 800 µm greatly affect the blood-clotting rate. Associated with the thromboelastography (TEG) and amino acid/protein composition analyses, the accessibility and diffusion of blood are mainly dependent on the wettability, adhesivity, and clotting factors of the SSAD particles. Rapid hemostasis in vivo further involves three hemorrhage models (liver, femoral artery, and tail) as well as an oral wound model, which suggest favorable hemostatic and simultaneous regenerative effects of the SSAD hemostatic powder. Considering its degradability and good biocompatibility, SSAD can be an optimal candidate for a new class of inexpensive, natural, and promising hemostatic and wound-dressing agent.

[Molluscicidal effect of immersion with 50% wettable powder of niclosamide ethanolamine salt against Oncomelania hupensis on the soil surface and inside the soil layer in winter]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the molluscicidal effect of 50% wettable powder of niclosamide ethanolamine salt (WPNES) against Oncomelania hupensis on the soil surface and inside the soil layer by immersion method in winter.

METHODS

O. hupensis snails were placed on the soil surface and 2, 5 cm and 10 cm under the soil layer outdoors in winter, and then immersed in 50% WPNES at concentrations of 1 mg/L and 2 mg/L for 1, 3 d and 7 d, while dechlorinated water served as controls. Snail mortality was observed following immersion with 50% WPNES on the soil surface and inside the soil layer.

RESULTS

Following immersion with 50% WPNES at concentrations of 2 mg/L and 1 mg/L outdoors in winter, the 3-day corrected snail mortality rates were 98.0% and 76.0% on the soil surface, and the 7-day corrected snail mortality rate was both 100.0%. Following immersion with 50% WPNES at concentrations of 2 mg/L and 1 mg/L outdoors in winter, the 7-day corrected snail mortality rates were 95.5% and 85.6% 2 cm below the soil layer, 66.0% and 6.4% 5 cm below the soil layer. However, the 7-day snail mortality rate swere comparable between the 50% WPNES treatment group (at 2 mg/L and 1 mg/L) and controls 10 cm below the soil layer (both P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Immersion of 50% WPNES at a concentration of 2 mg/L for 7 days presents a high molluscicidal efficacy against O. hupensis on the soil surface and 5 cm within the soil layers in winter.

Chicken eggshell powder more effectively alleviates bone loss comparted to inorganic calcium carbonate: an animal study performed on ovariectomized rats

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chicken eggshell powder rich in calcium and the inorganic form of calcium carbonate on osteoporotic bone structure using an animal model of ovariectomized rats. Animals were divided into four groups: sham-operated rats (SHAM group); ovariectomized rats untreated (OVX group); OVX rats treated with eggshell powder (Biomin H® OVX + ECa group; total Ca content 1.5%); and OVX rats receiving inorganic calcium carbonate (calcium carbonate precipitated, total Ca content 1.5%; OVX + ICa group) during 8 weeks. Ovariectomy increased total body weight, plasma alkaline phosphatase activity, cortical bone thickness, periosteal bone apposition, and considerably worsened the trabecular bone microarchitecture. Calcium supplementation in both OVX + ECa and OVX + ICa groups elevated blood supply in the cortical bone when compared to OVX rats. Treatment with eggshell powder, unlike the OVX + ICa group, significantly lowered bone resorption, increased plasma calcium level, relative volume of trabecular bone, and secondary osteon population density, which together contributes to the enhanced bone strength. In addition, sizes of Haversian canals and secondary osteons in OVX + ECa group reached the values of SHAM group. Our results suggest that chicken eggshell powder more effectively ameliorates bone loss in ovariectomized rats than precipitated calcium carbonate.

Application of Blue Honeysuckle Powder Obtained by an Innovative Method of Low-Temperature Drying in Skincare Face Masks

Traditional technologies applied for obtaining plant raw materials for cosmetic production are based primarily on high-level processing, which is reflected in the qualitative composition of the resulting materials. By using low-temperature drying, it is possible to retain in the raw materials a range of valuable ingredients. In this study, blue honeysuckle powder was used as an ingredient of cosmetic face masks. The stability of the masks was evaluated. Dynamic viscosity, yield point and texture analysis of the cosmetics was performed. The color of the emulsions and the level of skin hydration after face mask application was determined. Emulsions were found to be stable. A decrease in dynamic viscosity of the emulsions as a function of increasing concentrations of the additive and under the conditions of rising rotational speed were observed. Similarly, an increase in the concentration of blue honeysuckle in the emulsions resulted in a decrease in the value of the yield point. Based on the results, it can be stated that the addition of blue honeysuckle caused a decrease in hardness of the masks, while the opposite trend was observed for adhesive force. It was found that an increase in the concentration of blue honeysuckle gave a reddish-yellow color to the samples. Corneometric assessment confirmed proper skin hydration after the application of the emulsions.

Flaxseed Powder Attenuates Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis via Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Bile Acid Metabolism through Gut-Liver Axis

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is gradually becoming one of the most common and health-endangering diseases; therefore, it is very important to prevent the occurrence of NASH and prevent simple non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) from further developing into NASH. We fed mice a high-fat diet (HFD, 60% fat) for 14 weeks to induce NAFL and then fed different doses of flaxseed powder (low (10%), middle (20%), and high (30%)) to the mice for 28 weeks. After the animal experiment, we analyzed fecal bile acid (BA) profiles of the HFD mice, flaxseed-fed (FLA-fed) mice, and control mice with a normal diet (10% fat) using a targeted metabolomics approach, and we analyzed the gut microbiota at the same time. We also investigated the mechanistic role of BAs in NASH and identified whether the altered BAs strongly bind to colonic FXR or TGR5. In the present study, we found that 28-week FLA treatment notably alleviated NASH development in NAFL model mice fed with an HFD, and the beneficial effects may be attributed to the regulation of and improvement in the gut flora- and microbiota-related BAs, which then activate the intestinal FXR-FGF15 and TGR5-NF-κB pathways. Our data indicate that FLA might be a promising functional food for preventing NASH through regulating microbiomes and BAs.

Inflammatory responses to metal oxide ceramic nanopowders

Ceramic orthopaedic implants are increasingly popular due to the need for robust total joint replacement implants that have a high success rate long-term and do not induce biological responses in patients. This study was designed to investigate the biological effects of ceramic nanopowders containing aluminium oxide or zirconium oxide to activate the human macrophage THP-1 cell line. In vitro investigation of pro-inflammatory gene expression and chemokine secretion was performed studied using RT-qPCR and ELISA, respectively. TLR4 inhibition, using a small-molecule inhibitor, was used to determine whether ceramic-mediated inflammation occurs in a similar manner to that of metals such as cobalt. THP-1 macrophages were primed with ceramics or LPS and then treated with ATP or ceramics, respectively, to determine whether these nanopowders are involved in the priming or activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome through IL-1β secretion. Cells treated with ceramics significantly increased pro-inflammatory gene expression and protein secretion which was attenuated through TLR4 blockade. Addition of ATP to cells following ceramic treatment significantly increased IL-1β secretion. Therefore, we identify the ability of ceramic metal oxides to cause a pro-inflammatory phenotype in THP-1 macrophages and propose the mechanism by which this occurs is primarily via the TLR4 pathway which contributes to inflammasome signalling.

Toxic Effects of Fine Plant Powder Impregnated With Avermectins on Mosquito Larvae and Nontarget Aquatic Invertebrates

The toxic effects of an avermectin-impregnated fine plant powder (AIFP) against larval Aedes aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae), Culex modestus Ficalbi (Diptera: Culicidae), and Anopheles messeae Falleroni (Diptera: Culicidae), as well as selected nontarget aquatic invertebrates, were studied under laboratory conditions. The possibility of trophic transfer of avermectins (AVMs) through the food chain and their toxic effects on predaceous species fed AIFP-treated mosquito larvae was also evaluated. Among mosquitoes, Anopheles messeae were the most sensitive to AIFP, while Cx. modestus exhibited the least sensitivity to this formulation. Among nontarget aquatic invertebrates, the greatest toxicity of AIFP was observed for benthic species (larval Chironomus sp. Meigen (Diptera: Chironomidae), whereas predators (dragonflies, water beetles, and water bugs) exhibited the lowest AIFP sensitivity. AIFP sensitivity of the clam shrimp Lynceus brachyurus O. F. Muller (Diplostraca: Lynceidae), the phantom midge Chaoborus crystallinus De Geer (Diptera: Chaoboridae), and the mayfly Caenis robusta Eaton (Ephemeroptera: Caenidae) was intermediate and similar to the sensitivity of the mosquito Cx. modestus. However, these nontarget species were more resistant than An. messeae and Ae. aegypti. Solid-phase extraction of mosquito larvae treated with AIFP and subsequent high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the extracts revealed an AVM concentration of up to 2.1 ± 0.3 μg/g. Feeding the creeping water bug Ilyocoris cimicoides L. (Hemiptera: Naucoridae) on the AIFP-treated mosquito larvae resulted in 51% mortality of the predaceous species. But no toxicity was observed for Aeshna mixta Latreille (Odonata: Aeshnidae) dragonfly larvae fed those mosquito larvae. The results of this work showed that this AVM formulation can be effective against mosquito larvae.

Persea americana seeds improve glycosylation and dyslipidemia in fructose-fed streptozotocin-injected type 2 diabetic male rats

This work explored the in-vitro phytochemical contents and antidiabetic activity of crude seeds powder of Persea americana (CSSPa) and their in-vivo biochemical effects on glycated hemoglobin, lipid profile and other parameters in type 2 diabetic rats (fructose-STZ model). There were 2 groups of over night fasted rats, control (normal diet) and diabetic (35% Fructose for 6 weeks followed with injection (i.p.) of streptozotocin (STZ) (40mg/kg bw). Diabetic group was further divided into diabetic control, positive control (pioglitazone 15mg) and test (CSSPa 500mg) groups. After the appropriate treatments in each group for 2 weeks fasting glucose level (FGL), serum lipids, insulin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine Kinase (CK) & uric acid were determined. CSPPa showed presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols etc and potent antidiabetic activity with IC₅₀ 13.23±0.76µM. CSPPa treatment showed a significant (p<0.01) decline in lipid profile, while HDL showed significant increase (p<0.01) in test group as compared with positive and diabetic control groups. The serum ALT, CK, uric acid, bilirubin & fasting glucose (fbg) showed significant improvements in test group (p<0.01). Coronary risk index (CRI), Fasting insulin resistance index (FIRI), Percent glycemic change (PGC) and HbA1c values also significantly (p<0.01) improved.

Effect in white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei of Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb. Powder on immune genes expression and resistance against Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection

This study investigated the influence of Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb. on the immune responses, bacterial population in the intestines, and resistance of white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, against infection with Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Shrimp were fed with three dosages of powder, at 6.25 g kg-1 (P6.25), 12.5 g kg-1 (P12.5), and 25 g kg-1 (P25). One dosage of the crude extract was provided, 1.25 g kg-1 (E1.25), and the controls without administration of E. bulbosa consisted of a positive control (PC) and a negative control (NC). Feed supplementation was carried out for 30 days; then shrimp from all treatments were challenged by intramuscular injection with V. parahaemolyticus (10⁶ cfu/mL), except for the NC. The results showed that supplementation with the powder and extract of E. bulbosa for 30 days resulted in significantly higher (P < 0.05) immune responses (total hemocyte count (THC), phenoloxidase activity (PO), respiratory bursts (RBs)), gene expression (prophenoloxidase (proPO), lipopolysaccharide- and β-1,3-glucan-binding protein (LGBP)), and total bacterial count (TBC) compared to PC/NC. In post challenge testing, there were significantly higher levels for THC, PO, RBs, proPO, LGBP, and PE (peroxinetin), and the treatments were able to suppress V. parahaemolyticus in the intestines, hepatopancreas, and muscles and to reduce damage to the muscles and hepatopancreas. The survival rate with P12.5 was significantly higher compared to the other treatments. It was concluded that the shrimp receiving supplementation with the powder and extract of E. bulbosa had increased immunity and resistance against V. parahaemolyticus infection, with the best dosage being the P12.5 treatment.

Antidepressant-Like Effects of Chaihu Shugan Powder () on Rats Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress through Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Induced Apoptosis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antidepressant-like effects of Chaihu Shugan Powder (CSP, ) and to explore its underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Thirty-two Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control (CON), chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), fluoxetine (FLU), and CSP groups, 8 rats in each group. All of the rats except for those in the control group were subjected to 3 consecutive weeks of CUMS to establish the depression model. The open field test (OFT), forced swimming test (FST), and sucrose preference test were used to assess the anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects of CSP. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling was used to determine the apoptosis rate in the hippocampal tissues. The mRNA and protein levels of glucose-regulated protein (GRP) 78, spliced X-box-binding protein (XBP)-1, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), caspase-12, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in the hippocampus of rats were evaluated by real-time PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

Administration of CSP alleviated anxiety and depression-like behavior in CUMS rats, as revealed by enhanced time and distance in the center of the OFT (P<0.05), an increased preference for sucrose, and longer swimming time and shorter immobility time during the FST (all P<0.05). In addition, CSP treatment significantly reduced the rate of apoptosis in rat hippocampal neurons (P<0.05). The mRNA and protein expression levels of GRP78, spliced XBP-1, and CHOP were down-regulated along with the expression of caspase-12 and cleaved caspase-12 proteins (all P<0.05), whereas total and phosphorylated JNK1 protein levels did not differ significantly between control and CSP-treated rats.

CONCLUSION

CSP can improve depression-like behavior in rats exposed to CUMS, possibly by suppressing CHOP and caspase-12 mediated apoptosis in the rat hippocampus.

Influence of onion skin powder on nutritional and quality attributes of wheat pasta

Onion skin is a waste produced during onion bulb processing. Recent studies have reported that it contains large amounts of bioaccessible and bioavailable compounds thus it can be used to design of novel food products. The objective of the study was an attempt to substitute semolina with onion skin (OS) powder in pasta at 2.5, 5 and 7.5 g/100 g levels. The effects on the chemical composition, antioxidant potential, technological and sensory properties of the fortified pasta samples were evaluated compared with a control sample. Fortification with OS resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) improvement in nutritional properties, which was demonstrated by an increase in the content of dietary fibre, ash, total phenolic compounds, flavonoids content and antioxidant activity (FRAP and DPPH). Cooking loss increased with increasing levels of OS, however, all pasta samples were in the acceptable range (8 g/100 g). Onion skin incorporation decreased optimal cooking time, water solubility index and increase redness (a*), compared to the control sample. Results of sensory evaluation suggest that pasta, in which 2.5% of the flour was replaced by this plant component, showed the highest value of the “overall quality”. Our study indicates that onion skin powder can be a potential alternative for the food industry to provide nutritional enriched pasta.

Effects of powdered activated carbon on the coagulation-flocculation process in humic acid and humic acid-kaolin water treatment

The addition of powdered activated carbon (PAC) to remove micropollutants is a commonly used technology to improve drinking water quality. However, the effects of PAC dosing strategy on the coagulation-flocculation process of water treatment have not been well understood, especially for water with low amounts of inorganic particles. Therefore, the current research aimed to comprehensively study the effects of simultaneous addition of PAC and aluminum sulfate (AS) coagulants (denoted as PAC-AS) or adding PAC 2 h before coagulation (denoted as PAC2h-AS) on the coagulation behavior in humic acid (HA) and HA-kaolin water treatment. The results showed that the floc size, growth rate, breakage factor, and fractal dimension were all enhanced by PAC-AS and PAC2h-AS for HA but not for HA-kaolin water treatment. In HA water treatment, PAC-AS reached a larger floc size and faster growth rate, while PAC2h-AS achieved a larger floc breakage factor and fractal dimension value. For PAC2h-AS, the pre-adsorption of HA onto PAC would lower the initial particle concentration and reduce the collision probability during HA water coagulation process; thus, the DOC removal efficiency, floc size, and growth rate of PAC2h-AS were relatively smaller than those of PAC-AS. For the floc strength and floc fractal dimension, the pre-adsorption of HA onto PAC contributed to formation of stronger inter-particle bonds; thus, stronger and more compact flocs were formed by PAC2h-AS compared with those of PAC-AS. The addition of PAC had a smaller impact on the floc properties in HA-kaolin water treatment owing to its higher initial particle concentration.

Oregano powder reduces Streptococcus and increases SCFA concentration in a mixed bacterial culture assay

Food borne illnesses have a world-wide economic impact and industries are continuously developing technologies to reduce the spread of disease caused by microorganisms. Antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs) have been used to decrease microbiological infections in animals and their potential transfer to humans. In recent years there has been a global trend to remove AGPs from animal feed in an attempt to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistant genes into the human population. Phytobiotics, such as oregano powder, are one of the potential replacements for AGPs due to their well-established antimicrobial components. 16S rRNA gene amplicons were used to determine the effect of oregano powder (1% w/v) on the microbiota of mixed bacterial cell cultures, which were obtained from the ceca of traditionally grown meat chickens (broilers). Oregano powder had a mild effect on the microbial cell cultures increasing Enterococcus faecium, rearranging ratios of members in the genus Lactobacillus and significantly reducing the genus Streptococcus (p = 1.6e-3). Beneficial short chain fatty acids (SCFA), acetic and butyric acid, were also significantly increased in oregano powder supplemented cultures. These results suggest that oregano powder at a concentration of 1% (w/v) may have beneficial influences on mixed microbial communities and SCFA production.

Formulation development of sugar free antacid chewable tablets for diabetes induced acidity in patients

Sugar free chewable tablets are considered to be desired medication for diabetic population having acid reflex problems. The main objective of this study is to develop a patient complaint tablet dosage form which is sugar free, chewable and easy to use. The formulation is designed for hyperglycemic and dysphasic patients along acidity or stomach ulcer. For manufacturing Aluminum Hydroxide (Kyowa Japan), Magnesium Hydroxide (Taurus chemicals India) Simethicone, Povidone (JRS pharma) Sorbitol powder, Magnesium stearate, Dilcalcium phosphate anhydrous, SSG (JRS pharma) and Aspartame were used. The granules formed by wet granulation method and tablets are compressed by rotary compression machine. The pre-formulation studies of granules (Angle of repose, Bulk/Tapped density, Carr's compressibility index and Hausner's ratio), uniformity of content (assay), acid neutralizing capacity, Identification by FTIR spectroscopy all are found within the limits as per USP specifications. All three formulation batches are stable under accelerated and ambient stability conditions for 6 months and 24 months respectively. The formulation development of sugar free oral chewable antacid tablet is pharmaceutically stable and can further analyze for safety and efficacy studies.

Preparation, characterization and in vivo evaluation of pharmacological activity of different crystal forms of ibuprofen

Different polymorphic forms can affect the performance of the drug product. In addition, isomorphic crystals show different chemical and physical properties due to the changes in the crystal habit. However, it is unclear whether the crystal habit results in different pharmacological activity. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the pharmacological effect of ibuprofen could be affected due to the variety of the crystal habit. Solvent change technique and conventional fusion method were carried out to modify the characteristics of ibuprofen. The physicochemical properties of each were investigated using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques. Results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed differences in the surface characteristics of the crystals obtained. Further study revealed that the samples crystallized exhibited the remarkable variation on the dissolution profiles in different dissolution medium. Moreover, in vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory findings demonstrated that the crystal habit modifications resulted in the different therapeutic efficacy. Taken together, these results indicate that the modification of the crystal habit had a great influence on the in vivo pharmacological activity of ibuprofen crystals.

Synthesis of ZnO/Fe3O4/rGO nanocomposites and evaluation of antibacterial activities towards E. coli and S. aureus

Antibacterial activity of nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocomposites (NCs) has received wide spread attention in biomedical applications. In this direction, the authors prepared zinc oxide (ZnO), iron oxide (Fe3O4), and their composite including reduced graphene oxide (rGO) by hydrothermal method. The structural and microstructural properties of the synthesised NPs and NCs were investigated by XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis, TGA, and TEM analysis. PEG-coated ZnO and Fe3O4 form in hexagonal wurtzite and inverse spinel structures, respectively. ZnO forms in rod-shaped (aspect ratio of ∼3) morphology, whereas well-dispersed spherical-shaped morphology of ∼10 nm is observed in Fe3O4 NPs. The ZnO/Fe3O4 composite possesses a homogeneous distribution of above two phases and shows a very good colloidal stability in aqueous solvent. These synthesised particles exhibited varying antibacterial activity against gram-positive strain Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and gram-negative strain Escherichia coli (E. coli). The nanocomposite exhibits a better cidal effect on E. coli when compared to S. aureus when treated with 1 mg/ml concentration. Further, the addition of rGO has intensified the anti-bacterial effect to a much higher extent due to synergistic influence of individual components.

Effect of green tea and mulberry leaf powders on the gut microbiota of chicken

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiota is closely correlated with host health and is strongly influenced by food composition. Chinese herbs are usually used as natural feed additives in livestock production. Therefore, the present study assessed the influence of diet supplementation with green tea and mulberry leaf powders on the chicken gut microbiota. The gut microbiota compositions were determined using 16S rDNA sequencing.

RESULTS

Enhanced relative abundances of Bacteroides, Prevotella, and Megamonas were found in the chicken gut when mulberry leaf powder was added to diet. Conversely, a higher abundance of potentially pathogenic Gallibacterium was found in the chicken gut when the diet was supplemented with green tea powder. These results indicated that green tea powder and mulberry leaf powder can greatly affect the gut microbiota of chickens by changing their compositions.

CONCLUSIONS

It is imperative to examine and evaluate the effects of Chinese herbs on animal health before they are introduced as feed additives in animal production.

Supplementation of Cannabis sativa L. leaf powder accelerates functional recovery and ameliorates haemoglobin level following an induced injury to sciatic nerve in mouse model

Peripheral nerve injury is a common condition with a multitude of signs and symptoms. The major consequence of injury is limited physical activity. Presently, we are lacking effective therapies for PNI and it is need of the hour is to explore potential remedies for the recovery of functional loss. Here, we have investigated the role of crude Cannabis sativa L. leaf powder in promoting functions recovery, in mouse model subjected to a traumatic sciatic nerve injury. A dose of 200mg/kg of the body weight per day was administered orally from the day of nerve crush till the end of the experiment. The motor functions were evaluated by measuring sciatic functional index, muscle grip strength and muscle mass; whereas the sensory functions were assessed by hotplate test. The haematology and serum analyses were carried out to estimate the effect of treatment on the systemic index and oxidative stress. The gain of motor functions was significantly improved and was early noticed in the treated mice. Restoration of muscle mass and elevated haemoglobin level were statistically significant in the treatment group. This study indicates that Cannabis sativa L. supplementation accelerates the motor functions recovery after nerve compression injury.

Synergistic effects of wheat straw powder and persulfate/Fe(II) on enhancing sludge dewaterability

The effects of wheat straw powder (WSP) used as physical conditioner on sludge dewatering was investigated under sodium persulfate (SPS)/Fe(II) oxidation. Sludge dewatering performance in terms of capillary suction time (CST), specific resistance to filtration (SRF) and moisture content (MC) was enhanced with increasing WSP and SPS dosages. The results showed presence of synergistic effect in WSP and SPS conditioning system, with sludge CST and SRF reduced by 43.9% and 65.6%, respectively, after dosing 0.75 g/g DS (dry solid) WSP, 120 mg/g DS SPS and 33 mg/g DS Fe(II), indicating that sludge dewatering became more easily. Correspondingly, bound water was released and decreased from 5.75 g/g DS to 1.5 g/g DS and deep dewatered sludge MC reached to 58.2% under 2 MPa pressure. Mechanically, tightly bound extracellular polymeric substances (TB-EPS) with larger molecular weights were oxidized and degraded into loosely bound-EPS (LB-EPS) and soluble organic matter with smaller molecular weights by SPS/Fe(II). Additionally, the organic matters released from or still in WSP was also oxidized resulting in more channels and less fine particles.

Effects of olive leaf powder supplemented to fish feed on muscle protein of red sea bream

Olive leaf is known to have the high polyphenol content of 6-9% in dry weight. We investigated the effects of olive leaf powder (OLP) supplemented to fish feed on muscle protein of red sea bream (Pagrus major). Fish reared with feed containing 8% OLP for 40 days had 1.4 times higher myofibril content and 2.2 times higher acid-soluble collagen content than fish reared with control feed for the same period. On the other hand, sarcoplasmic protein content and collagenase activity of the muscle were almost the same between the control fish and OLP-diet fish. Microstructure observation of fish muscle showed that OLP-diet fish has more rigid endomysium structure than that of the control-diet fish. Since collagen fiber in endomysium is responsible for the texture of the muscle, feeding OLP to aquaculture fish will lead to a harder muscle texture. The present study suggests that OLP is a useful feed additive to enhance the texture of aquaculture red sea bream muscle through strengthening of the collagen structure in the muscle.

Processed eggshell membrane powder regulates cellular functions and increase MMP-activity important in early wound healing processes

Avian eggshell membrane (ESM) is a natural biomaterial that has been used as an alternative natural bandage to cure wounds, and is available in large quantities from egg industries. We have previously demonstrated that processed eggshell membrane powder (PEP), aiming to be used in a low cost wound healing product, possesses anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we further investigated effects of PEP on MMP activities in vitro (a dermal fibroblast cell culture system) and in vivo (a mouse skin wound healing model). Three days incubation with PEP in cell culture led to rearrangement of the actin-cytoskeleton and vinculin in focal adhesions and increased syndecan-4 shedding. In addition, we observed increased matrix metalloproteinase type 2 (MMP-2) enzyme activation, without effects on protein levels of MMP-2 or its regulators (membrane type 1 (MT1)-MMP and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase type 2 (TIMP-2). Longer incubation (10 days) led to increased protein levels of MMP-2 and its regulators. We also observed an increased alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) production, suggesting an effect of PEP on myofibroblast differentiation. In vivo, using the mouse skin wound healing model, PEP treatment (3 days) increased MMP activity at the wound edges, along with increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein levels, and increased keratinocyte cell proliferation. Altogether, our data suggest PEP stimulates MMP activity, and with a positive effect on early cellular events during wound healing.

Material properties determining the insecticidal activity of highly divided porous materials on the pharaoh ant (Monomorium pharaonis)

BACKGROUND

Historically, inert insecticidal powders such as diatomaceous earth were researched for pest management applications, and it was revealed that these types of powders killed insects by desiccation. However, data on the critical material properties that affect their efficacy are sparse. The present study investigated the insecticidal effect of powdered materials on the pharaoh ant, a notorious domestic pest.

RESULTS

The insecticidal activity of 24 porous materials was tested. Eight of these materials performed better than the benchmark, diatomaceous earth. Zeolite Y and carbon black II performed best, inducing 50% mortality within 40 and 55 minutes, respectively. Statistical analysis of seven material properties revealed that macroporous surface area and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area were most predictive of insecticidal activity. For zeolites and ordered mesoporous silica materials, the most important parameters were, respectively, BET and large mesopore surface area. Finally, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis confirmed the adsorption of epicuticular hydrocarbons onto the zeolite powders.

CONCLUSION

This study shows clear potential for the use of environmentally friendly, inert porous materials as insecticides against the pharaoh ant and identified the key material properties influencing insecticidal activity. The GC-MS data support the hypothesis that the mortality was caused by the removal of the protective epicuticular hydrocarbons. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.