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Multi-channeled nerve guidance conduit is a prospective way to repair peripheral nerve injury, which is still difficult to be fabricated. A novel extrusion-stretching method was utilized in this study to produce multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) loaded multi-channeled nerve conduits with improved flexibility and versatility. The channels and geography of the conduits were tunable. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the multi-channeled nerve conduits were suitable for peripheral nerve restoration. MWCNTs increased the biocompatibility of the multi-channeled nerve conduits. This study proved that the MWCNTs loaded multi-channeled produced by extrusion-stretching method have great potential to repair peripheral nerve injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible devices have been rapidly developed and applied in various applications. However, there have been few reports on printable graphene-based sensors with customized structures and properties capable of respiratory and airflow monitoring. In this study, a graphene-based flexible sensor with a conical microdot array (GSCA) made by the direct-ink writing 3D printing method for real-time personal signals and air-coupled detection is reported. GSCA 3D structures with microdot features on the sensing layer can deliver a fast response of below 60 ms and improve the sensitivity by 32.4% (26–78 kPa), 800% (78–102 kPa), and 600% (102–160 kPa) by adjusting the printing parameters. The sensor exhibits a low detection limit of 11.4 Pa and a large detection range with a linear sensitivity of 1.4–509 kPa. The spider leg-like micro-/nanofibers between two adjacent microdots contribute to electron transport and airflow sensing. The results show the feasibility of the graphene-based sensor with dots to recognize air strength and direction for respiration and airflow. Further validation of the GSCA in real-time personal monitoring demonstrates the potential for multitasking wearable sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed to fabricate tetanus toxoid laden microneedle patches by using a polymeric blend comprising of polyvinyl pyrrolidone and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as base materials and sorbitol as a plasticizer. The tetanus toxoid was mixed with polymeric blend and patches were prepared by using vacuum micromolding technique. Microneedle patches were evaluated for physical attributes such as uniformity of thickness, folding endurance, and swelling profile. Morphological features were assessed by optical and scanning electron microscopy. In vitro performance of fabricated patches was studied by using bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA). Insertion ability of microstructures was studied in vitro on model skin parafilm and in vivo in albino rat. In vivo immunogenic activity of the formulation was assessed by recording immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels, interferon gamma (IFN-γ) levels, and T-cell (CD4+ and CD8+) count following the application of dosage forms. Prepared patches, displaying sharp-tipped and smooth-surfaced microstructures, remained intact after 350 ± 36 foldings. Optimized microneedle patch formulation showed ~ 74% swelling and ~ 85.6% vaccine release within an hour. The microneedles successfully pierced parafilm. Histological examination of microneedle-treated rat skin confirmed disruption of epidermis without damaging the underneath vasculature. A significant increase in IgG levels (~ 21%), IFN-γ levels (~ 30%), CD4+ (~ 41.5%), and CD8+ (~ 48.5%) cell count was observed in tetanus vaccine-loaded microneedle patches treated albino rats with respect to control (untreated) group at 42nd day of immunization. In conclusion, tetanus toxoid-loaded microneedle patches can be considered as an efficient choice for transdermal delivery of vaccine without inducing pain commonly experienced with hypodermic needles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corneal abrasion is a common traumatic emergency, which can cause eyelid photophobia, tearing, and obvious foreign body sensation and pain. Herein, the 3D contact lens‐like chloramphenicol‐loaded patches composed of well‐organized micrometer fibers are prepared via electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing to treat corneal abrasions. The main material of these patches is cellulose acetate (CA), and chloramphenicol (CAM) is loaded in the patches. EHD printing can realize micrometer fibers stacked layer by layer to form a customizable shape suitable for eye wear. Herein, the surface morphology, chemical as well as physical properties, transparency, drug release behaviors, and biocompatibility of the patches loading various concentrations of CAM are studied. It is found that the CAM‐loaded patches have 3D hemispherical shape similar to contact lens and smooth surface morphology. Moreover, patches loaded with different concentrations of CAM all maintain good water absorption, hydrophilicity, light transmittance, and biocompatibility. The drug release curves of CAM‐loaded patches show that the contact lens‐like patches have high loading efficiency and can achieve sustained release of CAM, indicating clinical potential in the treatment of corneal abrasions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personalised drug delivery systems with the ability to offer real-time imaging and control release are an advancement in diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This allows for a tailored drug dosage specific to the patient with a release profile that offers the optimum therapeutic effect. Coupling this application with medical imaging capabilities, real-time contrast can be viewed to display the interaction with the host. Current approaches towards such novelty produce a drug burst release profile and contrasting agents associated with side effects as a result of poor encapsulation of these components. In this study, a 3D-printed drug delivery matrix with real-time imaging is engineered. Polycaprolactone (PCL) forms the bulk structure and encapsulates tetracycline hydrochloride (TH), an antibiotic drug and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (IONP, Fe3O4), a superparamagnetic contrasting agent. Hot melt extrusion (HME) coupled with fused deposition modelling (FDM) is utilised to promote the encapsulation of TH and IONP. The effect of additives on the formation of micropores (10–20 µm) on the 3D-printed surface was investigated. The high-resolution process demonstrated successful encapsulation of both bioactive and nano components to present promising applications in drug delivery systems, medical imaging and targeted therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) is a member of the family (or class) B G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). The receptor is a regulator of insulin and a key target in treating Type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this investigation, computational chemistry techniques such as molecular docking were combined with in silico ADME/Tox predictions to determine the position and structure of the allosteric binding site, as well as to examine how the allosteric modulators bind to the binding site. In silico evaluation was used to evaluate the ADME/Tox properties of the allosteric modulators. The findings of the ligand docking studies suggest that the allosteric binding site is situated around the transmembrane (TM) domain TM 6 of the receptor in the active state. ADME/Tox characterisation of the allosteric modulators demonstrate that compounds 1–3 (2,6,7-trichloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)quinoxaline, 1-(5-(4-(tert-butyl)phenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-6,6-dimethyl-3-(methylsulfonyl)-6,7-dihydrobenzo[c]thiophen-4(5H)-one, 2-((4-chlorophenyl)thio)-3-(trifluoromethyl)quinoxaline, respectively) complied with the traditional method of evaluating drug-likeness; Lipinski's rule of 5. The allosteric modulator compound 4 (3-(8-chloro-6-(trifluoromethyl)imidazo[1,2-a]pyridin-2-yl)phenyl cyclohexanecarboxylate) failed to comply with Lipinski's rule of five as a result of having a logP value of over 5.6. Moreover, molecular docking studies provide insights into potential allosteric binding sites and possible interactions. Finally, the in silico ADME/Tox study results are described as relevant to developing a viable drug candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles (MSNs) have received increasing attention in biomedical applications due to their tuneable pore size, surface area, size, surface chemistry, and thermal stability. The biocompatibility of MSNs, although generally believed to be satisfactory, is unclear. Physicochemical properties of MSNs, such as diameter size, morphology, and surface charge, control their biological interactions and toxicity. Experimental conditions also play an essential role in influencing toxicological results. Therefore, the present study includes studies from the last five years to statistically analyse the effect of various physicochemical features on MSN-induced in-vitro cytotoxicity profiles. Due to non-normally distributed data and the presence of outliers, a Kruskal–Wallis H test was conducted on different physicochemical characteristics, including diameter sizes, zeta-potential measurements, and functionalisation of MSNs, based on the viability results, and statistical differences were obtained. Subsequently, pairwise comparisons were performed using Dunn's procedure with a Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Other experimental parameters, such as type of cell line used, cell viability measurement assay, and incubation time, were also explored and analysed for statistically significant results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three dimensional printing (3DP), or additive manufacturing, is an exponentially growing process in the fabrication of various technologies with applications in sectors such as electronics, biomedical, pharmaceutical and tissue engineering. Micro and nano scale printing is encouraging the innovation of the aforementioned sectors, due to the ability to control design, material and chemical properties at a highly precise level, which is advantageous in creating a high surface area to volume ratio and altering the overall products' mechanical and physical properties. In this review, micro/-nano printing technology, mainly related to lithography, inkjet and electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing and their biomedical and electronic applications will be discussed. The current limitations to micro/-nano printing methods will be examined, covering the difficulty in achieving controlled structures at the miniscule micro and nano scale required for specific applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The use of benchtop metabolic profiling technology based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was evaluated in a small cohort of cats with a view to applying this as a viable and rapid metabolic tool to support clinical decision making. Results: Urinary metabolites were analysed from four subjects consisting of two healthy controls and two chronic kidney disease (CKD) IRIS stage 2 cases. The study identified 15 metabolites in cats with CKD that were different from the controls. Among them were acetate, creatinine, citrate, taurine, glycine, serine and threonine. Benchtop NMR technology is capable of distinguishing between chronic kidney disease case and control samples in a pilot feline cohort based on metabolic profile. We offer perspectives on the further development of this pilot work and the potential of the technology, when combined with sample databases and computational intelligence techniques to offer a clinical decision support tool not only for cases of renal disease but other metabolic conditions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a renal dysfunction that can lead to high rates of mortality and morbidity, particularly when coupled with late diagnosis. CKD has become a major health problem due to its challenging detection at early stages when clear symptoms are yet to be presented. Thus, CKD is likely to be identified when the substantive conditions of the disease are manifest. In order to address the development of the disease and provide necessary treatments at the initial stage, the investigation of new biomarkers and metabolites associated with early detection of CKD are needed. Identified metabolites could be used to confirm the presence of the disease, obtain information on its mechanism and facilitate the development of novel pharmaceutical treatments. Such metabolites may be detected from biofluids and tissues using a range of analytical techniques. There are a number of metabolites that have been identified by mass spectrometry at high sensitivities, whilst the detection of metabolites directly from biofluids using NMR could present a more rapid way to expand our understanding of this disease. This review is focused on NMR-based metabolomics associated with CKD in humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop heparin sodium loaded microneedle patches using different compositions of polyvinyl alcohol polymer and sorbitol. A vacuum micromolding technique was used to fabricate microneedle patches while heparin sodium was loaded into needle tips. Physical features of patches were evaluated by measuring thickness, width, folding endurance and swelling percentage. Patches were also characterised by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to determine the microneedle length and surface morphologies. A preliminary assessment of the microneedle performance was studied by examining the in-vitro insertion to the parafilm and recording the in-vitro drug release profile. In-vivo activity of patches was confirmed by measuring activated partial thromboplastin time and histological examination of the micropierced skin tissues. Prepared patches were clear, smooth; uniform in appearance; with sharp pointed microprojections and remained intact after 1000 folding. The microneedles were stiffer in nature, as they reproduce microcavities in the parafilm membrane following hand pushing without any structural loss. Insertion study results showed successful insertion of microneedles into the parafilm. Disrupted stratum corneum evident from histological examination confirmed successful insertion of the microneedle without affecting the vasculature. In-vitro release study confirmed ∼92% release of the loaded drug within 120 min. A significant prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time (4 folds as compared to negative control) was recorded following the application of heparin sodium loaded microneedle patch onto rabbit skin. In conclusion microneedles are a valuable drug delivery system, benefiting the patients with minimal skin invasion and also allowing self-administration of heparin sodium in a sustained release manner for the management of chronic ailments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) are two active pharmaceutical ingredients, derived from cannabis plant. In the present study, CBD and CBG were formulated with polyvinyl(pyrrolidone) (PVP) and Eudragit L-100, using electrohydrodynamic atomization (electrospinning). The produced fibers were smooth and uniform in shape, with average fiber diameters in the range of 700–900 nm for PVP fibers and 1–5 μm for Eudragit L-100 fibers. The encapsulation efficiency for both CB and CBG was high (over 90%) for all formulations tested. Both in vitro release and disintegration tests of the formulations in simulated gastric fluids (SGF) and simulated intestinal fluids (SIF) indicated the rapid disintegration and dissolution of the fibers and the subsequent rapid release of the drugs. The study concluded that the electrospinning process is a fast and efficient method to produce drug-loaded fibers suitable for the per os administration of cannabinoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to fabricate polymeric microneedles, loaded with macrolides (erythromycin, azithromycin), using hyaluronic acid and polyvinyl pyrollidone. Methods: These microneedles were fabricated using a vacuum micromolding technique. The integrity of the microneedle patches was studied by recording their morphologic features, folding endurance, swelling and micro-piercing. Physicochemical characteristics were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In-vitro drug release, antibiofilm and effect of microneedle patch on wound healing were also studied to confirm the efficacy of the formulations. Results: Formulated patches displayed acceptable folding endurance (>100) and uniform distribution of microneedles (10 × 10) that can penetrate parafilm. Differential scanning calorimetry results depict a decrease in the crystallinity of macrolides following their incorporation in to a polymer matrix. Percentage release of azithromycin and erythromycin from the polymeric patch formulations (over 30 min) was 90% and 63% respectively. Broadly, the zone of bacterial growth inhibition follows the same order for Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica. After 5 days of treatment with azithromycin patches, the wound healing was complete and skin structure (e.g. hair follicles and dermis) was regenerated. Conclusion: It was concluded that azithromycin loaded microneedle patches can be used to treat biofilms in the infected wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cyanide is a highly toxic compound, and the consumption of products containing cyanide is a significant public health concern. Conversely, β-carotene possesses essential nutritional attributes for human health, therefore the characterisation and quantification of both compounds in food products is fundamental. Herein, cyanide and β-carotene levels in two flours produced from the roots of two varieties of cassava (Manihot esculenta crantz), namely UMUCASS-38(TMS 01/1371) and NR-8082, and their associated food products were detected and quantified. Results: The cyanide content of NR-8082 and UMUCASS-38 flours was determined at 18.01 ± 0.01 ppm and 17.02 ± 0.02 ppm (mean ± SD), respectively. These flours contained significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the residual cyanide levels determined in the cookies and cake produced therefrom with levels of 10.00 ± 0.00 ppm and 7.10 ± 0.14 ppm (mean ± SD), respectively. The levels of β-carotene determined in both the cake and cookie samples varied significantly (p < 0.05). The highest levels of β-carotene at 6.53 ± 0.02 µg/g (mean ± SD) were determined in raw roots of UMUCASS-38. While NR-8082 levels of β-carotene were less than UMUCASS-38 at 1.12 ± 0.02 µg/g (mean ± SD). Processing the roots into flour reduced the β-carotene content to 4.78 ± 0.01 µg/g and 0.76 ± 0.02 µg/g (mean ± SD) in UMUCASS-38 and NR-8082 flours, respectively. Cookies and cake produced from flour derived from the UMUCASS-38 variety had (mean ± SD) 2.15 ± 0.01 µg/g and 2.84 ± 0.04 µg/g of β-carotene, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to fabricate Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG)-loaded microneedle patches using micromould casting technique and compare their efficacy with the injectable counterparts. The microneedle patches were formulated using sodium alginate (10% w/v) and trehalose (20% of polymer). The patches were characterised using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and folding endurance. Serum IgG, TLC, granulocyte count, lymphocyte count and CRP were assessed and results were compared to that of intradermal injections alongside controls. The results showed that polymeric patches had a thickness of 0.8 mm, microneedle projections of 272 ± 12 µm and folding endurance of more than 300. Based on haematological and IgG ELISA assays, microneedle-based BCG administration significantly activated the immune cells and induced production of lymphocytes, granulocytes and peptide-specific IgG in immunised rats that were comparable to injectable counterparts. There was an increase in IgG antibodies from 3 g/L to 5.98 g/L and an increase in leucocytes from 2.6 × 109/L to 18.45 × 109/L. There was also an increase in granulocytes from 14.4% to 29.15% and lymphocyte count from 58.75% to 85.3%. It was concluded that BCG-coated polymeric microneedle patches are suitable for the transdermal delivery of vaccine without inducing discomfort usually observed with injections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of drug products from natural sources enable advantageous treatment and therapy options. Bioactive compounds in Ganoderma lucidum spore powder (GLSP) are known for vast antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. Herein, we studied the use of dual-probe ultrasound to extract triterpenoids from GLSP and further investigated the bioactivity of resulting products. FTIR results confirm the presence of key peaks although dual-probe ultrasound varied extraction efficacy. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize extraction conditions (55:28 for solvent to solid ratio, 10.38 s of ultrasound time and 94% v/v of ethanol concentration). HPLC-Q-TOF-MS confirmed the presence of nine different compounds and in vitro tests confirm good biocompatibility. Extracts are shown to inhibit DPPH radicals, reaching a maximum (61.09 ± 1.38%) at triterpenoid concentrations of 600 µg/mL. Dual-mode assisted extraction provides an enhanced approach for active embedded fiber production on a scale favorable to industry when using optimized process parameters. Furthermore, triterpenoid extracts show antibacterial properties on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli with potential in antibacterial and anticancer applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When ingested as a dietary supplement, Ganoderma lucidum spore powders (GLSP) provide various health benefits such as enhanced immunity, liver protection and anti-cancer effects. In this study, triterpenoid extraction from GLSP was achieved using an ultrasound-assisted process which was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was also compared to the most conventional chemical extraction method. For UAE, optimum extraction conditions were found to be ethanol concentration = 95% v/v; solvent to solid ratio = 50:1 mL/g; ultrasound time = 5.4 min; ultrasound power = 564.7 w, and ultrasound probe distance = 8.2 cm. At optimal UAE conditions, no significant differences were found between experimental (0.97 ± 0.04 %) and predicted values (99%); which indicates appreciable correlation at the 97% confidence interval. The findings show the application of Box–Behnken design (BBD) to predict and optimize triterpenoid yield for UAE of triterpenoid from GLSP. Furthermore, glucose consumption was 2.68 times that of control samples when tested with insulin-resistant HepG2 cell, showing potential use in type 2 diabetes. In addition, triterpenoid extracts show good biocompatibility and inhibition of antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to design and characterize microneedle patch formulation containing cetirizine hydrochloride. Methods: Chitosan was co-formulated with cetirizine hydrochloride. Transdermal patches were prepared by casting this solution to microneedle molds. Control patches were formulated by casting this solution to a plain cuvet of same area as mold but lacking microneedles. An array of methods namely; differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed for the characterization of the films and the microneedles accordingly whereas in vitro permeation studies were conducted across rat skin. Light microscopy was performed to assess any histological changes upon microneedles application onto the rat skin. Results: The patches had a reproducible thickness (0.86 ± 0.06 mm) and folding endurance. Both the blank and drug loaded patches had 100 microneedles each of 300 micrometre length. In addition, the microneedle patches were ascribed with a two-fold increase in drug permeation across rat skin in the presence of microneedles as compared to the control formulations. Histological examination confirms a minimal invasion of the skin conferred by the microneedles. Conclusion: The microneedle patches serve as an alternate route of drug administration in patients with nausea and swelling difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a dual rotation centrifugal electrospinning system (DRCES) is designed, developed, and used to prepare medicated fabrics. Through simultaneous rotation of both spinneret and collector, multi-directional blended fiber matrices (PVP and TPU) were deposited directly on the rotating collector. To detail the process, key stages of the centrifugal electrospinning process are elaborated, and the influence of gas infusion and collector rotation speed on resulting fiber morphologies was explored. Multi-directional fibrous structures show in vitro biocompatibility (fibroblast). Regulation of drug release rate was achieved using polymer composition and filament alignment. This study demonstrates a rapid fabrication method (~ 50 g/h) to engineer layered fibrous structures using DRCES, which provides a foundation for preparing complex drug matrices (single and multi-directional) for tailored active component release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) is an emerging technique for the production of micron and nano-scaled particles. The process often involves Taylor cone enablement, which results in a fine spray yielding formulated droplets, which then undergo drying during deposition. In this work, novel multi-tip emitter (MTE) devices were designed, engineered and utilized for potential up-scaled EHDA, by comparison with a conventional single-needle system. To demonstrate this, the active ketoprofen (KETO) was formulated using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymer as the matrix material. Here, PVP polymer (5% w/v) solution was prepared using ethanol and distilled water (80:20) as the vehicle. KETO was incorporated as 5% w/w of PVP. Physical properties of resulting solutions (viscosity, electrical conductivity, density and surface tension) were obtained. Formulations were electrosprayed through both single and novel MTEs under EHDA conditions at various flow rates (5-300 μl/min) and applied voltages (0-30 kV). The atomization process using MTEs and single nozzle was monitored at using various process parameters via a digital optical camera. Resulting particles were collected 200 mm below processing heads and were analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Digital recordings confirmed stable MTE jetting at higher flow rates. Electron micrographs confirmed particle size variation arising due to nozzle head design and evidenced stable jetting derived greater near-uniform particles. DSC, XRD and TGA confirm KETO molecules were encapsulated and dispersed into PVP polymer particles. In conclusion, novel MTE devices enabled stable atomization even at higher flow rates when compared to conventional single-needle device. This indicates an exciting approach for scaling up (EHDA) in contrast to current efforts focusing on multiple-nozzle and pore-based processing outlets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing is an emerging additive manufacturing process which provides several opportunities for advanced fiber patterning and alignment. In this study, stacked-ring netted tubular constructs were printed using controlled EHD fiber deposition. To achieve this, a modified EHD system was developed which integrated air and heating moduli, in addition to a 3D cylindrical collector. The impact of additional peripheral components was evident through enhanced solidification of as-formed polycaprolactone (PCL) polymer fiber prints, which further enabled fabrication of stacked PCL fiber rings. Subsequently, stacked-ring netted tubular constructs (via x-axis deposition manipulation) were fabricated. Electric field simulations were used to elucidate construct formation mechanism. The modified printing system provides much needed control on fiber deposition and solidification, enabling integration of essential bio-interface features and morphologies (e.g., tissue structure and surface mimicry) for advanced 3D biomaterial engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Food Science (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ABSTRACT Aligned, uniform fiber matrixes are highly desirable in numerous engineering and physical science applications. Here, modified electrospinning (ES) deposition substrates (paired and in parallel) are explored to achieve rapid preparation of multiple topographies. Three ES substrates with well-defined geometries (rectangular, concave, and E-shaped) were investigated (arranged in parallel) for their impact on fiber size, morphology, orientation, and cell behavior. The results indicate fiber alignment and orientation can be improved and modulated based on the substrate geometry. In addition, altering the interdistance space between various parallel substrates has a clear impact on fiber diameter size and alignment (random, aligned, and perpendicular orientation). Electric field simulations based on substrate geometries show greater probable regions of aligned electric field vectors and distribution, which indicates the most likely deposition attributes of electrospun PCL fibers. Fibrous PCL membranes were biocompatible, and cell growth and guidance were along the fiber path, with evidence of branching at intersecting fibers for multiaxial fibrous topographies. These findings show that the substrate geometry can be optimized to effectively assemble multiaxial layered and well-aligned fibers in a controlled fashion, which is ideal to support several application developments dependent on fiber topography, integrity, and morphology. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44823. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films were grown on glass substrates by direct current (DC) reactive magnetron sputtering at room temperature. Annealing at the optimal temperature can considerably improve the composition, structure, optical properties, and electrical properties of the ITO film. An ITO sample with a favorable crystalline structure was obtained by annealing in fixed oxygen/argon ratio of 0.03 at 400°C for 30 min. The carrier concentration, mobility, resistivity, band gap, transmission in the visible-light region, and transmission in the near-IR regions of the ITO sample were -1.6E+20 cm−3, 2.7E+01 cm2/Vs, 1.4E-03 Ohm-cm, 3.2 eV, 89.1%, and 94.7%, respectively. Thus, annealing improved the average transmissions (400–1200 nm) of the ITO film by 16.36%. Moreover, annealing a copper-indium-gallium-diselenide (CIGS) solar cell at 400°C for 30 min in air improved its efficiency by 18.75%. The characteristics of annealing ITO films importantly affect the structural, morphological, electrical, and optical properties of ITO films that are used in solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Food Science (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) is the property of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Delivery systems that facilitate non-invasive, real-time control of drug release have enormous potential in a wide range of therapeutic applications. This study investigates the potential of a new type of core–shell particle for ultrasound-mediated drug delivery. The capsules were prepared using coaxial electrohydrodynamic atomization and consist of a biocompatible polymer (polymethylsilsesquioxane) shell encapsulating a core containing a volatile liquid (perfluorohexane PFH) and a dye (Evans Blue) simulating a drug. The effect of low frequency (20 kHz) ultrasound upon the rate of dye release and capsule surface morphology was investigated for a range of exposure conditions (ultrasound intensity 0.7–26 W cm−2, duty cycle 30–90% and exposure time 0–600 s). The relative proportions of the core liquids were also varied. Incorporation of PFH was found to increase the rate of dye release compared with that from capsules containing dye only. The rate of release was found to be positively correlated with intensity, duty cycle and exposure time; whilst the proportion of PFH did not appear to affect it. Changes in particle surface morphology were only discernible at the higher ultrasound intensities, with pore formation followed by surface cracking and finally shell disintegration being observed with increasing intensity. The presence of the pores was indicative of cavitation activity as was the fact that enhanced release was still observed when the exposure chamber was immersed in an ice bath to minimize heating. It was concluded that the incorporation of PFH into the particles did provide an effective means of producing ultrasound sensitivity which could be exploited in stimuli responsive drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Making complex decisions in real world problems often involves assigning values to sets of interdependent variables where an expressive dependency structure among these can influence, or even dictate, what assignments are possible. Commonly used models typically ignore expressive dependencies since the traditional way of incorporating non-local dependencies is inefficient and hence leads to expensive training and inference. The contribution of this paper is two-fold. First, this paper presents Constrained Conditional Models (CCMs), a framework that augments linear models with declarative constraints as a way to support decisions in an expressive output space while maintaining modularity and tractability of training. The paper develops, analyzes and compares novel algorithms for CCMs based on Hidden Markov Models and Structured Perceptron. The proposed CCM framework is also compared to task-tailored models, such as semi-CRFs. Second, we propose CoDL, a constraint-driven learning algorithm, which makes use of constraints to guide semi-supervised learning. We provide theoretical justification for CoDL along with empirical results which show the advantage of using declarative constraints in the context of semi-supervised training of probabilistic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute airway obstruction caused by goiter hemorrhage is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. We report a case of nodular goiter in which spontaneous rupture with active bleeding developed suddenly, presenting as a large neck mass with dyspnea. Sonographic examination revealed a large inhomogeneous soft tissue mass in the left thyroid lobe containing some hypoechoic areas. Color Doppler and spectral Doppler analysis were consistent with a large hematoma and pseudoaneurysm, which was subsequently confirmed at surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 has affected people from all age groups, races and ethnicities. Given that many infected individuals are asymptomatic, they transmit the disease to others unknowingly, which has resulted in the spread of infection at an alarming rate. This review aims to provide an overview of the pathophysiology, preventive measures to reduce the disease spread, therapies currently in use, an update on vaccine development and opportunities for vaccine delivery. The World Health Organization has advised several precautions including social distancing, hand washing and the use of PPE including gloves and face masks for minimizing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. At present, several antiviral therapies previously approved for other infections are being repositioned to study their efficacy against SARS-CoV-2. In addition, some medicines (i.e., remdesivir, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine) have received emergency use authorisation from the FDA. Plasma therapy has also been authorised for emergency use for the treatment of COVID-19 on a smaller scale. However, no vaccine has been approved so far against this virus. Nevertheless, several potential vaccine targets have been reported, and development of different types of vaccines including DNA, mRNA, viral vector, inactivated, subunit and vaccine-like particles is in process. It is concluded that a suitable candidate delivered through an advanced drug delivery approach would effectively boost the immune system against this coronavirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child-appropriate dosage forms are critical in promoting adherence and effective pharmacotherapy in pediatric patients, especially those undergoing long-term treatment in low-resource settings. The present study aimed to develop orodispersible films (ODFs) for isoniazid administration to children exposed to tuberculosis. The ODFs were produced from the aqueous solutions of natural and semi-synthetic polymer blends using electrospinning. The spinning solutions and the resulting fibers were physicochemically characterized, and the disintegration time and isoniazid release from the ODFs were assessed in simulated salivary fluid. The ODFs comprised of nanofibers with adequate thermal stability and possible drug amorphization. Film disintegration occurred instantly upon contact with simulated salivary fluid within less than 15 s, and isoniazid release from the ODFs in the same medium followed after the disintegration profiles, achieving rapid and total drug release within less than 60 s. The ease of administration and favorable drug loading and release properties of the ODFs may provide a dosage form able to facilitate proper adherence to treatment within the pediatric patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to apply the Quality by Design (QbD) approach to the electrospinning of fibres loaded with the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) indomethacin (INDO) and diclofenac sodium (DICLO). A Quality Target Product Profile (QTPP) was made, and risk assessments (preliminary hazard analysis) were conducted to identify the impact of material attributes and process parameters on the critical quality attributes (CQAs) of the fibres. A full factorial design of experiments (DoE) of 20 runs was built, which was used to carry out experiments. The following factors were assessed: Drugs, voltage, flow rate, and the distance between the processing needle and collector. Release studies exhibited INDO fibres had greater total release of active drug compared to DICLO fibres. Voltage and distance were found to be the most significant factors of the experiment. Multivariate statistical analytical software helped to build six feasible design spaces and two flexible, universal design spaces for both drugs, at distances of 5 cm and 12.5 cm, along with a flexible control strategy. The current findings and their analysis confirm that QbD is a viable and invaluable tool to enhance product and process understanding of electrospinning for the assurance of high-quality fibres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is an extremely valuable polysaccharide and usually obtained from crustacean byproduct. In this work, a new non‐animal source chitosan is obtained from fungal precursors (Ganoderma lucidum spore powders, GLSP) using ultrasound‐assisted deacetylation (USAD), and the effects of processing parameters (irradiation time, solid‐to‐liquid ratio, NaOH concentration, and irradiation power) on the DD (degree of deacetylation) of chitosan were investigated. The highest DD value was obtained at irradiation parameters of 20 min, 10% (g:ml) NaOH, 1:25 (g:ml), and 80 W. In addition, the difference in surface morphology, chemical groups, thermal stability, and crystallinity of the resulting chitosan with the treatment of various irradiation times was examined using the SEM, FTIR, TG, and XRD. The results show a new promising herbal source of edible chitosan and the potential material for biomedical applications. Practical applications: The chitosan obtained from Ganoderma lucidum spore powders (GLSP) possessed many priorities over the chitosan from shells of crustaceans, which involves a multi‐faceted procedure with several economical and consumer related aspects. In the current work, chitosan is obtained from an herbal source GLSP using ultrasound treatment and the effect of processing parameters on chitosan was investigated. The findings show the development of chitosan from an herbal source with potential in functional food applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing is utilized to produce well‐ordered, dual‐drug loaded‐magnetic core–shell matrices with high resolution. Coaxial EHD printing is used to load anesthetic lidocaine hydrochloride (LH) and antibiotic tetracycline hydrochloride (TH) in polycaprolactone (PCL) shell formulation and poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) core formulation, respectively. It is found that when the concentration of PEO is 5% w/w, the fibers exhibit optimum morphology, which is applied in the fabrication of two drug‐loaded core–shell fibers. In addition, adding iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) and varying the concentration of TH within the PCL shell layer influence mechanical properties, release behaviors, and cell behaviors of coaxial EHD printing matrices. The addition of Fe3O4 NPs and increasing TH amount in the fibers enhance the mechanical properties of the matrices. Results show rapid release of LH located in the PEO core fibers, while TH loaded in the shell PCL fibers is released sustainably from the coaxial printing matrices. In addition, the sustainable release period for PCL shell layer can be adjusted using Fe3O4 NPs under auxiliary magnetic field. The coaxial drug‐loaded matrices also have good bioactivity, indicating the potential of the printed fibers in wound dressings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, the development of mucoadhesive tablets for buccal delivery of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug was investigated. Binary complexes with piroxicam and cyclodextrins (β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), methylated-β-cyclodextrin (Me-β-CD), and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD)) were prepared by the co-evaporation method. All formulations were characterized by means of differential scanning calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffractometry. Mucoadhesive tablets of binary systems were formulated by direct compression using chitosan as mucoadhesive polymer. The in vitro release profiles of tablets were conducted in simulated saliva and, the drug permeation studies, across porcine buccal mucosa. The results suggest that the rank order effect of cyclodextrins for the drug release was Me-β-CD > HP-β-CD > β-CD, whereas the ex vivo studies showed that the tablets containing chitosan significantly increased the transport of the drug compared to their free complexes. Finally, histological assessment revealed loss of the superficial cell layers, which might be attributed to the presence of cyclodextrins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an emerging noninvasive imaging modality. In this study, highly aligned, uniform, nanoporous, hollow polycaprolactone fibers were successfully synthesized in a single step to mimic the axon bundle structure in human white matter. Their porous nature, morphology, and physicochemical properties were carefully studied with respect to their suitability as a phantom material for brain imaging. The aligned fibrous bundles were then arranged into specific angles (30 and 90°), scanned, and evaluated with high‐resolution MRI fiber tractography. Diffusion tensor imaging and the tractography of fibers of five different structures at three temperatures were acquired and compared. Furthermore, an integrated brain phantom created from a combination of agar gel and aligned fibrous bundles was also fabricated and analyzed. The results demonstrate the excellent ability of the fibers to mimic the axonal bundles of brain white matter. The fibrous bundles were well mixed in the common agar phantom while retaining their fibrous configuration; this demonstrated their potential as brain white matter phantoms. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47617. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is an extremely valuable biopolymer and is usually obtained as a byproduct from the shells of crustaceans. In the current work, chitosan is obtained from an herbal source (Ganoderma lucidum spore powder (GLSP)) for the first time. To show this, both standard (thermochemical deacetylation, (TCD)) and emerging (ultrasound-assisted deacetylation (USAD)) methods of chitosan preparation were used. The obtained chitosan was characterized by elemental analysis, XRD (X-ray diffraction), FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and thermogravimetric measurements. The process resulted in chitosan possessing comparable values of DD, [η] and Mv¯ to the commercial product. Chitosan obtained via both processes (TCD and USAD) displayed excellent biocompatibility; although the USAD prepared biopolymer exhibited significantly improved fibroblast (L929 cell) viability and enhanced antibacterial zones for both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The findings of new herbal chitosan mark key developments of natural biomaterials; marking a potential shift from conventional sea-based organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]