The journal retracts the article cited above, titled “Design and Evaluation of S-Protected Thiolated-Based Itopride Hydrochloride Polymeric Nanocrystals for Functional Dyspepsia: QbD-Driven Optimization, In Situ, In Vitro, and In Vivo Investigation” [...]

Black phosphorus (BP), a layered two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor, exhibits a tunable direct bandgap (0.3-2.0 eV), high carrier mobility, and pronounced anisotropy, making it highly attractive for photocatalytic and photoelectronic applications. However, its chemical instability and rapid charge recombination hinder largescale utilization. To address these challenges, hetero-structure engineering coupling BP with semiconducting oxides, sulfides, and carbides has emerged as an effective strategy to enhance charge separation, interfacial stability, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. This review highlights recent advances in BP-based hetero-structures, focusing on their band alignment architectures (Type-II, Z-scheme, S-scheme), interfacial charge dynamics, and ROS-mediated photocatalytic mechanisms. Integration with materials such as TiO2, BiVO4, MoS2, CdS, and MXenes (Ti3C2Tx) has significantly improved pollutant degradation, hydrogen evolution, CO2 reduction, and antibacterial phototherapy. The review also emphasizes current stability, synthesis, and interface engineering challenges, providing guidance for advancing robust BP hetero-structures toward efficient ROS generation and sustainable photocatalytic energy applications.

Remodeling damaged tissues and managing infection are two crucial steps in the intricate process of the healing of chronic wounds. The present work aims to develop and enhance a rosuvastatin-loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system utilizing an active oil blend (i.e., tea tree oil, baobab oil, and sesame oil) and hyaluronic acid (RSV-HY-NE). The RSV-HY-NE was created and optimized utilizing the Box‒Behnken statistical pattern. The formulations’ stability index and their droplet size were evaluated. The ideal formulation’s capacities to heal wounds, fight bacteria and fungi, release RSV, and exhibit ex-vivo penetration were also investigated. The droplet size of the generated nanoemulsion ranged from 25 to 327 nm. The results of the trial validated the significant synergistic effect of RSV, HY, and the active oil mixture on induced wound healing; the combination had better antibacterial and antifungal properties than earlier systems, as well as improved wound closure. The optimal formulation demonstrated an 8-fold reduction in mean wound width in comparison with a plain HY aqueous dispersion, a 5.55-fold increase in RSV penetration compared with an RSV aqueous dispersion, and a 3.4- and 3.5-fold increase in the inhibitory zone against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, compared with an oil phase containing oleic acid without the active oil mixture. The developed nanoemulsions containing RSV, HY, tea tree oil, baobab oil, and sesame oil may prove to be effective paradigms for treating injuries, with enhanced antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae has significantly limited the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics, necessitating the development of alternative antimicrobial strategies. In this study, an eco-friendly approach was used to synthesize bimetallic iron oxide-zinc oxide (Fe/ZnO) nanocomposites using Salvadora persica root extract, followed by functionalization with thymoquinone (TQ), the principal bioactive compound of Nigella sativa. Physicochemical characterization, including UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy, X-ray Diffractometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy, confirmed successful synthesis and crystalline nature of the particles with size in the range of 90-240 nm. The synthesized Fe/ZnO NCs TQ-functionalized Fe/ZnO nanocomposites were evaluated for antimicrobial activity using standardized assays, including disc diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). TQ-Fe/ZnO NCs demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial activity compared to pure nanoparticles and free thymoquinone. The maximum zones of inhibition were observed against Gram-positive strains (S. pyogenes and S. epidermidis, 27 mm) and Gram-negative E. coli and P. aeruginosa (25 mm) at 100 mu g/disc. MIC values of TQ-Fe/ZnO NCs ranged between 57 and 138 mu g/mL for highly susceptible strains (S. pyogenes, S. epidermidis, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. The enhanced activity is attributed to synergistic effects involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, membrane disruption, and thymoquinone-mediated intracellular interference. This research holds promise for contributing significantly to the development of less-toxic, environmentally friendly antimicrobial agents that can alleviate the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance worldwide.

This study explores the potential of crude lignin, extracted from coir fibers, an agricultural byproduct, as a sustainable filler in Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) biodegradable blends. To enhance compatibility with the PHBV matrix, lignin was chemically modified using acetic anhydride (AL) and propionic anhydride (PL). These modifications were confirmed through FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, and TGA analyses. The blends were prepared via melt compounding in a twin-screw extruder, followed by compression molding, with lignin microfillers incorporated at 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt% of dried PHBV. The addition of modified lignins improved the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the blends, with the optimal performance observed at 5 wt%, attributed to enhanced interfacial bonding. Two-way ANOVA with Tukey tests (p ≤ 0.05) confirmed statistical significance. However, at 7 wt%, all blends exhibited reduced performance due to lignin agglomeration, confirmed by morphology and tensile tests. Both modifications provided desirable multi-functional properties, but propionylated lignin-based blends outperformed those with acetylated and raw lignins, due to more effective substitution of non-polar groups, which improved filler-matrix miscibility. Fracture surface analysis, topography, and thermal evaluations validated these observations. These findings highlight chemically modified lignins, as effective, sustainable fillers for eco-friendly biopolymer composites suitable for packaging applications.

A number of in-depth studies on the application of essential oil-based nanoemulsions (NEs) have focused on how NEs might treat numerous disorders affecting the oral cavity. NEs are delivery systems that have the potential to prolong the release and penetration of hydrophilic medications. Aloe perryi and olive oil have antibacterial and antifungal qualities. These agents, along with the saliva-inducing agent cevimeline hydrochloride, were employed in self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (Cev-OO-SNEDDS) designed to safeguard oral health against ailments such as dry mouth. Using an L-optimal coordinate exchange design, different concentrations of olive oil (8 % and 22 %), Nonoxynol-10 (43 % and 65 %), and Transcutol (15 % and 35 %) were employed to generate the Cev-OO-SNEDDS. The Cev-OO-SNEDDS exhibited a drug-loading effectiveness of up to 94 % and droplet sizes of less than 400 nm. The optimal formulation, which included 21.1 % olive oil, 61.8 % Nonoxynol10, and 17.1 % Transcutol, was created using the approved design and exhibited loading efficiency and droplet size close to those predicted by software. An A. perryi-based gel containing the optimal Cev-OO-SNEDDS formulation showed about 4.4 folds enhancement in trans-buccal permeability ex-vivo and prolonged the release of Cev in-vitro (66 +/- 3 %). Additionally, the optimized loaded emulgel reduced ulcer index upon estimation to a greater extent than other formulations. This work showed that the Cev-OO-SNEDDS may be a promising strategy for managing xerostomia.

In this study, we present a facile and sustainable approach to developing sodium alginate/phytic acid bioaerogels, aiming to enhance their thermal insulation and flame-retardant properties. The results reveal that a 1% phytic acid concentration is optimal, resulting in a significant reduction in thermal conductivity to 0.040 W/mK, while also improving specific heat capacity and thermal diffusivity. Mechanical tests indicate that at this concentration, the aerogels achieve superior structural integrity, evidenced by enhanced hardness, resilience, and cohesiveness, which are critical for maintaining performance under mechanical stress. Furthermore, the 1% phytic acid bioaerogel exhibited excellent flame retardance, achieving a UL-94 V-0 rating and a Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of 35%, demonstrating its capacity to resist ignition and slow down flame propagation. In contrast, aerogels with higher concentrations of phytic acid, particularly at 2.5%, displayed structural instability, leading to incomplete gelation and failure to maintain a coherent aerogel matrix. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing phytic acid concentration to balance thermal, mechanical, and fire-retardant properties, thereby enhancing the practical applications of sodium alginate/phytic acid bioaerogels as eco-friendly insulation materials. Highlights Optimized 1% phytic acid boosts bioaerogel thermal insulation to 0.040 W/mK. Sodium alginate bioaerogels enhanced with phytic acid achieve UL-94 V-0 rating. Phytic acid at 1% concentration ensures mechanical stability and high resilience. High phytic acid (>1%) leads to reduced porosity and structural instability. Eco-friendly sodium alginate/phytic acid bioaerogels show superior flame resistance.

This study investigates the potential of utilizing green chemically treated spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as micro biofiller reinforcement in Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) biopolymer composites. The aim is to assess the impact of varying SCG concentrations (1 %, 3 %, 5 %, and 7 %) on the functional, thermal, mechanical properties and biodegradability of the resulting composites with a PHBV matrix. The samples were produced through melt compounding using a twin-screw extruder and compression molding. The findings indicate successful dispersion and distribution of SCGs microfiller into PHBV. Chemical treatment of SCG microfiller enhanced the interfacial bonding between the SCG and PHBV, evidenced by higher water contact angles of the biopolymer composites. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) confirmed the successful interaction of treated SCG microfiller, contributing to enhanced mechanical characteristics. A two-way ANOVA was conducted for statistical analysis. Mass losses observed after burying the materials in natural soil indicated that the composites degraded faster than the pure PHBV polymer suggesting that both composites are biodegradable, particularly at high levels of spent coffee grounds (SCG). Despite the possibility of agglomeration at higher concentrations, SCG incorporation resulted in improved functional properties, positioning the green biopolymer composite as a promising material for sustainable packaging and diverse applications.

In the original publication, there was a mistake in Figure 4 as published [...]

Low bioavailability is a major challenge in the development of new pharmacological formulations for oral administration. The vasoselective calcium channel blocker lercanidipine HCl (LER) has a bioavailability of only 10% owing to its first-pass metabolism and poor solubility. To address the bioavailability issue, the intranasal route was frequently adopted for medications. Therefore, this research’s objective was to develop an intranasal chitosan coated nanospanlastics-loaded with LER to improve its bioavailability and diffusion. LER spanlastic nanovesicles (LER-SNVs) were developed and optimized using a factorial design employing the thin-film hydration technique. The researchers studied the influence of the type of Span surfactant, type of edge activator (EA), and ratio of Span to EA on encapsulation efficiency (EE%); the particle size of the spanlastic; the percentage of drug release; and the cumulative LER diffused per unit area after 24 hours, or Q24 (g/cm2). Following optimal formulation development, chitosan was utilized to modify its surface. Subsequently, the pharmacokinetics and biocompatibility of optimal chitosan-coated preparation were ascertained in rats. The results of the SNV analysis showed that their mean size was below 400 nm and that the EE% reached 94%. In contrast to the LER dispersion, the designed LER-SNVs boosted drug transmucosal permeation. The pharmacokinetic studies showed a fourfold (p < .05) increase in the relative bioavailability of LER after the nasal delivery of LER-loaded surface-modified SNVs compared with an oral LER dispersion. Optimal CS-coated formulation was found biocompatible with studied animals. In conclusion, the use of SNVs for the nasal delivery of LER has shown promise, and the results could lead to better management of hypertension.

Cancer stands as a leading cause of global mortality, with chemotherapy being a pivotal treatment approach, either alone or in conjunction with other therapies. The primary goal of these therapies is to inhibit the growth of cancer cells specifically, while minimizing harm to healthy dividing cells. Conventional treatments, often causing patient discomfort due to side effects, have led researchers to explore innovative, targeted cancer cell therapies. Thus, biopolymer-based aerogels emerge as innovative platforms, showcasing unique properties that respond intelligently to diverse stimuli. This responsiveness enables precise control over the release of anticancer drugs, enhancing therapeutic outcomes. The significance of these aerogels lies in their ability to offer targeted drug delivery with increased efficacy, biocompatibility, and a high drug payload. In this comprehensive review, the author discuss the role of biopolymer-based aerogels as an emerging functionalized platforms in anticancer drug delivery. The review addresses the unique properties of biopolymer-based aerogels showing their smart behavior in responding to different stimuli including temperature, pH, magnetic and redox potential to control anticancer drug release. Finally, the review discusses the application of different biopolymer-based aerogel in delivering different anticancer drugs and also discusses the potential of these platforms in gene delivery applications.

IntroductionThe study aimed to systematically enhance the fabrication process of flurbiprofen-loaded bilosomes (FSB) using Quality by Design (QbD) principles and Design of Experiments (DOE). The objective was to develop an optimized formulation with improved entrapment efficiency and targeted drug delivery capabilities.MethodsThe optimization process involved applying QbD principles and DOE to achieve the desired formulation characteristics. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) were incorporated to impart magnetic responsiveness. The size, entrapment efficiency, morphology, and in vitro release patterns of the FSB formulation were evaluated. Additionally, an in situ forming hydrogel incorporating FSB was developed, with its gelation time and drug release kinetics assessed. In vivo studies were conducted on osteoarthritic rats to evaluate the efficacy of the FSB-loaded hydrogel.ResultsThe optimized FSB formulation yielded particles with a size of 453.60 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 91.57%. The incorporation of SPIONs enhanced magnetic responsiveness. Morphological evaluations and in vitro release studies confirmed the structural integrity and sustained release characteristics of the FSB formulation. The in situ forming hydrogel exhibited a rapid gelation time of approximately 40 ± 1.8 s and controlled drug release kinetics. In vivo studies demonstrated a 27.83% reduction in joint inflammation and an 85% improvement in locomotor activity in osteoarthritic rats treated with FSB-loaded hydrogel.DiscussionThis comprehensive investigation highlights the potential of FSB as a promising targeted drug delivery system for the effective management of osteoarthritis. The use of QbD and DOE in the formulation process, along with the integration of SPIONs, resulted in an optimized FSB formulation with enhanced entrapment efficiency and targeted delivery capabilities. The in situ forming hydrogel further supported the formulation’s applicability for injectable applications, providing rapid gelation and sustained drug release. The in vivo results corroborate the formulation’s efficacy, underscoring its potential for improving the treatment of osteoarthritis.

In this work, an acid invertase isolated from Lathyrus aphaca seedlings is purified, and its thermal properties are investigated. Acid invertase was purified through salt fractionation, CM-cellulose, and Ultrogel ACA-44 chromatography. Using SDS-PAGE, the consistency of the isolated enzyme was verified. The enzyme weighs 29 kDa at the molecular level. Acid invertase functions best at a pH of 3.0 and a temperature of 45 degrees C. Activation energy of 29.5 kJ mol(-1) and K-m and V-max values of 0.5 mM and 119.7 mu mol. min(-1). mg(-1) of protein was found for the isolated enzyme. It was shown that the mercaptide-forming agent p-chloromercuribenzoic acid (PCMB; 0.5 mM) and the enzyme's activity were both modestly increased by Ca2+, Mn2+, and Mg2+ ions but inhibited by Hg2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+ ions. At elevated temperatures, the invertase exhibited an increase in thermostability due to an increase in activation entropies (triangle S degrees) and a decrease in activation enthalpies (triangle H degrees). The interactions between 4 M urea and alpha-chymotrypsin were tetraphasic, causing periodic increases and decreases in invertase activity. It also suggests a potential explanation for acid-invertase thermal inactivation at high temperatures. This enzyme might be a catabolite-resistant invertase to produce high-gravity ethanol or fructose syrup.

The growing need for sustainable materials in various industries has driven research towards eco-friendly biopolymer composites. In this study, lignin microfillers were integrated into PHBV/modified bast fiber matrices, offering a promising solution for sustainable material innovation with improved performance and functionality. Nonwoven bast fiber mats were initially treated with propionic, succinic, and maleic anhydrides, evaluated through weight gain analysis, chemical characterization, thermal stability, and wettability assessments. These modified bast fibers were then reinforced with poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) biopolymer at 30 % loading using specialized molding techniques. The resulting biocomposites were subjected to comprehensive characterization, including moisture related properties, mechanical strength, thermal behavior, and fracturographical properties. In a final stage, lignin microparticles (LMPs) as biofillers were integrated at 1 %, 3 %, 5 %, and 7 % concentrations to enhance biocomposite properties. Experimental findings highlighted succinylated bast fibers as offering the greatest improvements in mechanical strength, thermal stability, and morphological integrity among the modified fibers. At an optimal 5 % lignin microfiller content, the biocomposites exhibited superior wettability and improved stiffness. However, excessive lignin loading led to particle agglomeration, diminishing overall performance. Fracturographical analysis provided insights into the fracture behavior of the biocomposites, highlighting the cohesive and interfacial characteristics of the materials under stress conditions. This research highlights the efficacy of sequential modification strategies in developing high-performance sustainable materials tailored for diverse industrial applications.

Over the last decade, the landscape of drug delivery has witnessed a profound transformation with the advent of 3D printing technology. This revolutionary approach has not only altered the traditional paradigms but has also introduced novel possibilities in the pharmaceutical domain. In this context, our comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted realm of 3D printing technologies, emphasizing their crucial role in reshaping drug delivery systems. The journey begins with a meticulous exploration of the historical trajectory and chronological development of 3D printing, gradually unfolding into a detailed examination of various methodologies. As we traverse this evolutionary path, we dissect their diverse applications, ranging from crafting personalized medicines to engineering advanced release systems and implantable devices. Within this narrative, we critically evaluate the spectrum of materials intricately intertwined with 3D printing, focusing on hydrogels, aerogels, patches, and composites instrumental in drug-loaded formulations. Furthermore, our review addresses the recent applications of 3D printing technologies in printing different types of drugs including tablets, capsules, implants, orodispersible films, patches and other forms of loaded drugs. Highlighting the formidable challenges posed by regulatory concerns, scalability, and reproducibility, offering insights into prospective future directions and emerging trends.

Current alcohol-based sanitizers present safety concerns and are not suitable for all applications. To address the issue, biopolymer hydrogels offer a safer, sustainable alternative due to biocompatibility, biodegradability, and customizable properties. In present study, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was prepared from Durian fruit rind, a tropical fruit byproduct rich in polysaccharides and combined with the synthetic polymer Carbopol to form a hydrogel with homogenization technique. Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) leaf extract (RLE) as an antibacterial agent was analyzed for functional, morphological, antibacterial, and structural properties. Phytochemical analysis of RLE confirmed the presence of antibacterial compounds, while Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) were 33.3 μg/mL for Escherichia coli and 28.5 μg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, Scanning Electron Microscopy showed significant disruptions in bacterial cell walls. Hydrogel incorporated RLE was produced with improved properties confirmed through viscosity, FT-IR, Disc-diffusion assay and spread plate method analysis. In general, Rambutan leaf extract significantly improves the antibacterial properties of biopolymer-based hydrogels, hence offering a promising, eco-friendly alternative to alcohol-based sanitizers.

Introduction: Essential oil‒based nanoemulsions (NEs) are the subjects of extensive investigation due to their potential to address a variety of oral health issues. NEs are delivery systems that improve lipid medicine solubility and distribution to intended sites. The goal of the current study was to create and enhance a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery paradigm based on calendula oil (CO) and decorated with chitosan (CS) that could deliver posaconazole (PSZ) for the treatment of gingivitis.Method: Employing a response-surface Box‒Behnken design, PSZ-CO-CS NEs were created with varying amounts of PSZ (10, 15, and 20 mg), percentages of CO (6%, 12%, and 18%), and percentages of CS (0.5%, 1.5%, and 2.5%).Results and conclusion: The optimized formulation resulted in a 22-mm bacterial growth suppression zone, 25-mm fungal growth inhibition zone, droplet sizes of 110 nm, and a viscosity of 750 centipoise (cP). Using the appropriate design, the ideal formulation was produced; it contained 20 mg of PSZ, 18% of CO, and 1.35% of CS. Furthermore, the optimal formulation had a more controlled drug release, larger inhibition zones of bacterial and fungal growth, and desirable rheologic properties. Additionally, the optimized formulation substantially lowered the ulcer index in rats when tested against other formulations. Thus, this investigation showed that PSZ-CO-CS NEs could provide efficient protection against microbially induced gingivitis.

Here, we evaluate the feasibility of co-loading plain ranitidine hydrochloride (RHCl) and microencapsulated flurbiprofen (FBP) in a Lycoat® RS780-based oral fast disintegrating film (ODF). These films were developed by the solvent casting method to minimize the adverse effects of FBP and reduce the dosage form burden on patients. Optimized FBP microparticles (M3) with an average size of 21.2 ± 9.2 µm were loaded alone (F1) and in combination with plain RHCl (F2) in the composite ODF. All films were evaluated physicomechanically and physicochemically. These films were resilient, flexible, and disintegrated within thirty seconds. SEM images showed intact FBP microparticles in both formulations and, moreover, did not observe an interaction between the drug and film components. Microencapsulated FBP was released in a controlled manner over 48 h from the proposed formulations, while RHCl was released within 5 min from F2. After in vitro evaluation, formulations were also tested for in vivo anti-inflammatory activity, cytokine (TNF-α and IL-6) levels, and gastroprotective effects in rats. The anti-inflammatory activity and gastroprotective effect of F2 were markedly higher than pure FBP and other synthesized formulations (M3 and F1). The average score of gastric lesions was in the order of pure FBP (15.5 ± 1.32) > M3 (8 ± 2) > F1 (1 ± 0.5) > F2 (0.5 ± 0) > control (0). Additionally, F2 showed a sustained anti-inflammatory effect up to 10 h in the rat paw edema model. Furthermore, F2 also markedly reduced TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Conclusively, the Lycoat® RS780-based composite film could be a promising carrier for the co-loading of microencapsulated FBP with RHCl. In the future, an optimized formulation (F2) could be capable of countering the issues related to multiple drug administration in geriatric patients and evading the gastric irritation associated with FBP.