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Abstract Research on individuals’ attitudes toward corporate social responsibility (CSR) from a micro level has increasingly emerged in recent years, yet the role of spiritual values and principles has been ignored as its antecedents in extant literature. To fill the research gap, we examine the relationship between spirituality and individual CSR attitudes and further analyze this relationship by revealing the mediating role of idealism and the moderating role of relativism. Data were gathered from a two-wave survey conducted in Pakistan and 147 questionnaires were collected. The results indicate that spirituality is positively related to CSR attitudes, and this relationship is mediated by idealism. Relativism strengthens not only the positive relationship between spirituality and idealism but also the indirect relationship between spirituality and CSR attitudes via idealism. The findings contribute to the research on the micro-foundations of CSR by taking spirituality into account. Theoretical and practical implications for future research are also discussed.

Abstract Background Empathy is described as one’s ability to perceive and apprehend another person’s feelings, situation, emotions, and problems as their own. Empathetic behavior increases patients’ satisfaction, reduces discomfort, and helps with patient’s satisfaction. Objective To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Jefferson Empathy Scale and compare the measure of invariance within genders and amongst the public and private sector dental students. Method This cross-sectional study utilized JSE-HPS version for research purpose. An exploratory factor analysis was performed to detect underlying factors. Reliability of the study tool was evaluated using Cronbach alpha test. Mann Whitney U test was used to compare the differences in scores between genders and among public and private university students while Student’s t analysis compared the scores according to different domains. The level of significance was ≤ 0.05. Results Females demonstrated higher empathy levels (88.52 ± 14.19) along with private institute students (88.46 ± 13.98). Perspective taking and compassionate care domain was also scored highest by the females (31.73 ± 6.49 & 29.31 ± 6.22) and among second year students (33.30 ± 7.11 & 30.50 ± 7.16). PCA analysis extracted 4 factors namely (i) Health-care-provider’s sense of humor contributed to improved outcome (ii) Health-care provider’s understanding of patients’ feelings and of their families influences treatment outcomes (iii) Understanding body language is as important as verbal communication and (iv) Patients feel better when their feelings are understood, which accounted for the 59.51% of the total variance. Conclusion The findings revealed that students from private institute and females demonstrated higher empathy score. Moreover, the Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE) was found to be a reliable and validated tool for assessment of empathy in our sample population.

2D materials have garnered significant attention as potential solutions to various environmental challenges. Graphene, molybdenum disulfide, MXenes, and boron nitride have emerged as the most popular candidates among these materials. This article presents a comprehensive review and discussion on the emerging applications of MXenes in environmental engineering. MXenes have demonstrated immense potential as future materials for adsorption purposes. They have proven to be highly effective in removing emerging pollutants (heavy metals and organic pollutants) through the adsorption phenomenon. The effectiveness of MXenes in removing lead (Pb2+), chromium (Cr6+), copper (Cu2+), uranium (U6+), and mercury (Hg2+) has been confirmed, with a sorption capacity ranging from 100 to 250 mg g−1. Furthermore, MXenes have effectively removed several radionuclides, including uranium, europium, strontium, barium, and thorium. MXenes have proven to be highly efficient in treating water through adsorption in emerging organic pollutants, even for various organic dyes such as methylene blue, acid blue, congo red, methyl orange, and rhodamine B (RhB). Additionally, MXenes exhibit high treatment performance in adsorbing several pharmaceuticals like cloxacillin (CLX), ampicillin (AMP), amoxicillin (AMX), ciprofloxacin (CPX), amitriptyline (AMT), verapamil (VRP), carbamazepine (CBM), 17 α-ethinyl estradiol, ibuprofen (IBP), and diclofenac (DCF). Overall, MXenes offer several advantages, such as good conductivity, thermal performance, high surface area, and selectivity of intermolecular interactions. However, their application requires thoroughly evaluating their environmental impact and life cycle assessment.

This research project expands on previous studies to analyze the institutional image from the perspective of higher education students in Singapore. The work builds on extensive prior research and examines the impact of the recent pandemic and lockdowns in Asia, which have increased Singapore's popularity as a study destination for Asian students, particularly from China. Known as the Garden City and one of Asia's wealthiest cities, Singapore has grown significantly due to foreign direct investment and its strategic location near Malaysia and Indonesia. This study aims to identify institutional and city image dimensions in higher education, focusing on three of Singapore's six publicly funded universities. The critical factors examined include Institutional Image, Economic Image, Social Image, Environmental Image, Perceived Educational Quality, and Satisfaction and Loyalty. These factors are crucial for Singapore's goal to become an innovation and talent powerhouse by 2030, aligning with national scientific and technological advancement plans. The research also explores how Singapore competes with traditional study destinations like the USA, Britain, and Australia.

Background: The growth of a topical vehicle microemulsions has been more enhanced compared to the normal skin applications such as creams, gels among others. These micro-structured vehicles showed enhanced solubilization of drug and improved skin permeation as compared to conventional topical systems. Objective: This study was aimed to formulate and evaluate the topical diclofenac sodium microemulsion spray claimed to be having better bioavailability, greater drug solubility, enhanced skin permeation, and lesser side effects. Method: Diclofenac sodium microemulsion was prepared by constructing pseudo ternary phase diagram followed by water titration method. The oil phase IPM 10%(v/v) was selected on the basis of drug solubility whereas the surfactant:cosurfactant mixture (tween80 : polyethylene glycol 400) 50%(v/v) was on the basis of their oil solubilization and efficiency to form ME from pseudo-ternary phase diagrams and then 40%(v/v) aqueous phase and 4%(w/v) drug was added. Results: This optimized micro emulsion spray was evaluated by some preliminary tests and confirmatory tests. Results of tests indicated that the formulation was optimized as it was transparent on visual inspection having 6.8 pH, 113nm droplet size, and 36.70cP viscosity. Dye solubility testing confirmed that micro emulsion was W/O. FTIR and DSC studies showed that micro emulsion was compatible with excipients. Drug content and release was more than 90%. The kinetics studies revealed that diclofenac sodium micro emulsion followed Korsmeyer Peppas Model, Higuchi Model, and first order kinetics. Conclusion: This study made a good effort to develop a unique drug delivery system that had increased drug solubility and skin penetration with lesser side effects.

Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmed Nahvi focused more on Iqbal and Iqbaliyat in Occupied Kashmir. That is why he is famous as a scholar on Iqbal in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Even though the conditions regarding Iqbaliyat in Occupied Kashmir are not so favorable, his attraction towards Iqbaliyat and continuously working on it indicate that he has a special affinity and passion for Iqbaliyat. Bashir Nahvi has presented the vision of Iqbal regarding Sufism in a proper way, because even a slight modification or contradiction in the vision of Iqbal, as a result of Nahvi's services regarding Iqbaliyat, may lead to ideological annihilation in the occupied valley. Ignoring Urdu literature and journalism and other academic and literary achievements, Bashir Ahmed Nahvi's thought on Iqbaliyat has been limited to research and criticism in the literary context of occupied Kashmir. While avoiding unnecessary expansion and exposure, as a teacher of Iqbaliyat, his character and writings were directly examined in the light of Iqbal's writings, verses and enclosures and an attempt was made to draw concrete conclusions. A Historical and documentary method of research has been adopted and conclusions have been drawn honestly through comparison, analysis and dissection adopting an objective approach. Only the primary sources were used. In the literary context of Occupied Kashmir, Bashir Ahmed's Iqbalistic thought on "Sufism" has been discussed. It is a landmark achievement by Bashir Ahmed Nahvi to promote and proselytize the teachings of such an ideological thinker and writer as Iqbal which distinguishes him as a researcher of literature on Iqbal.

Design/methodology/approach.This article employs qualitative thematic modeling to gather insights from 30 informants. The study explores various aspects related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AI ChatGPT technologies. Purpose: The purpose of this research is to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the increased usage and adoption of AI ChatGPT. It aims to explore the pandemic's impact on AI ChatGPT and its applications in specific domains, as well as the challenges and opportunities it presents. Findings: The findings highlight that the pandemic has led to a surge in online activities, resulting in a heightened demand for AI ChatGPT. It has been widely used in areas such as healthcare, mental health support, remote collaboration, and personalized customer experiences. The article showcases examples of AI ChatGPT's application during the pandemic. Strength of study: This qualitative framework enables the study to delve deeply into the multifaceted dimensions of AI ChatGPT's role during the pandemic, capturing the diverse experiences and insights of users, practitioners, and experts. By embracing the qualitative nature of inquiry and this research offers a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations associated with the adoption and utilization of AI ChatGPT in crisis contexts. Practical implications: The insights from this research have practical implications for policymakers, developers, and researchers. This reserach emphasize the need for responsible and ethical implementation of AI ChatGPT to fully harness its potential in addressing societal needs during and beyond the pandemic. Social implications: The increased reliance on AI ChatGPT during the pandemic has led to changes in user behavior, expectations, and interactions. However, it has also unveiled ethical considerations and potential risks. Addressing societal and ethical concerns, such as user impact and autonomy, privacy and security, bias and fairness, and transparency and accountability, is crucial for the responsible deployment of AI ChatGPT. Originality/value: This research contributes to the understanding of the novel role of AI ChatGPT in times of crisis, particularly in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the necessity of responsible and ethical implementation of AI ChatGPT and provides valuable insights for the development and application of AI technology in the future.

The primary focus of this study is to explore stakeholders’ perspectives on how social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter influence land management practices and community engagement. Employing a qualitative methodology, this research delves into the complex interactions facilitated by social media, using thematic analysis to identify key themes related to communication, collaboration, empowerment, and awareness-raising among stakeholders such as local authorities, community members, environmental activists, and urban planners. The findings reveal that social media significantly enhances transparent communication channels, fosters collaboration among stakeholders, empowers local communities, and raises awareness about the importance of urban green spaces. However, challenges such as connectivity and literacy barriers persist, alongside opportunities for greater involvement and innovation. This study emphasizes the critical role of digital platforms in advancing sustainable land management practices, offering valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and community stakeholders. Future research should explore specific communication strategies, the impact of social influencers, and the integration of emerging technologies in urban planning. Ultimately, this research contributes to the understanding of how social media can support the development of environmentally friendly and resilient communities.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is regarded as the most aggressive form of brain tumor delineated by high cellular heterogeneity; it is resistant to conventional therapeutic regimens. In this study, the anti-cancer potential of garcinol, a naturally derived benzophenone, was assessed against GBM. During the analysis, we observed a reduction in the viability of rat glioblastoma C6 cells at a concentration of 30 µM of the extract (p < 0.001). Exposure to garcinol also induced nuclear fragmentation and condensation, as evidenced by DAPI-stained photomicrographs of C6 cells. The dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential in a dose-dependent fashion was linked to the activation of caspases. Furthermore, it was observed that garcinol mediated the inhibition of NF-κB (p < 0.001) and decreased the expression of genes associated with cell survival (Bcl-XL, Bcl-2, and survivin) and proliferation (cyclin D1). Moreover, garcinol showed interaction with NF-κB through some important amino acid residues, such as Pro275, Trp258, Glu225, and Gly259 during molecular docking analysis. Comparative analysis with positive control (temozolomide) was also performed. We found that garcinol induced apoptotic cell death via inhibiting NF-κB activity in C6 cells, thus implicating it as a plausible therapeutic agent for GBM.

Purpose: This research article aims to assess the behavior of tourists in sustainable rural mountain tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the role of social media usage. It investigates the key social media features that influence tourist behavior and introduces the concept of perceived risk as a novel variable within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to deepen our understanding of the relationship between social media use and tourist behavior. Design/methodology/approach: The study conducts an extensive literature review and utilizes survey analysis. Three parameters—perception of risk, perception of value, and trust in social media—are employed to measure the impact of influential social media features. Statistical tests are applied to validate the new variable of perceived risk within the TAM. Findings: The study unveils that tourists' perception of risk associated with social media has the most significant influence on their behavior in rural mountain tourism during the pandemic. Additionally, it identifies that active engagement of tourists in online discussions positively affects both tourist behavior and social media usage, emphasizing the importance of community participation. Research limitations/implications: The research acknowledges limitations, including the need for further validation of the perceived risk variable and the consideration of contextual influences. Future studies should explore additional variables and encompass diverse tourist populations to expand the understanding of social media usage and tourist behavior in rural mountain regions. Contribution of research: This research significantly advances the understanding of tourist behavior in sustainable rural mountain tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic by introducing the novel variable of “perceived risk” within the Technology Acceptance Model. The study identifies influential social media features and underscores the positive effects of participatory habits, providing valuable insights for promoting sustainable tourism through targeted social media interventions. Practical implications: This research holds significant practical implications for practitioners and policymakers seeking to promote sustainable tourism in rural mountain regions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The identification of influential social media features and the emphasis on participatory habits among tourists offer actionable insights. Practitioners can leverage these findings to design targeted social media interventions that foster community engagement and enhance tourists' perception of value while mitigating perceived risks. Policymakers can use this information to shape strategies that encourage interactive online platforms, creating a sense of community participation to boost sustainable tourism.

Background Caries risk (CR) assessment tools are used to properly identify individuals with caries risk and to improve preventive procedures and programs. A tool such as CAMBRA determines the precise protective factors of caries and identifies an individual’s specific therapeutic intervention. The purpose of this study was to assess the caries risk using the CAMBRA protocol among the general population of Pakistan. Methods This multicentre analytical study was conducted in ten dental hospitals in different provinces of Pakistan and the caries risk assessment was carried out using a questionnaire that was designed using the Caries Management by Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) protocol. All 521 participants were intra-orally examined to assess oral hygiene status and the presence of disease. Multiple logistic regression test was performed for analysis. Results A higher number of participants (61.2%) were found to be in the moderate risk category of caries risk assessment. The males are 51% less likely to have caries compared to the females (AOR = 0.49, P = 0.081). The majority of participants (71.3%) had one or more disease indicators, with white spots and visible cavities. Those with visible, heavy plaque were 13.9 times more likely to have caries compared to those without (AOR = 13.92, P < 0.001). Those using calcium and phosphate during the last 6 months were 90% less likely to have caries compared to those not using them (AOR = 0.10, P < 0.001). There was no significant interaction between all eight risk factors retained in the final model (P > 0.05), the Hosmer and Lemeshow Test P < 0.001, classification accuracy = 87.1%, and AUC = 91.2%. Conclusion The caries risk among the general population of Pakistan is moderate, with significant variation among age groups, education levels, and socioeconomic status.

At the molecular level, several developmental signaling pathways, such as Wnt/β-catenin, have been associated with the initiation and subsequent progression of prostate carcinomas. The present report elucidated the anti-cancerous attributes of an anthraquinone, aloe-emodin (AE), against androgen-independent human prostate cancer DU145 cells. The cytotoxicity profiling of AE showed that it exerted significant cytotoxic effects and increased lactose dehydrogenase levels in DU145 cells (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). AE also induced considerable reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated oxidative stress, which escalated at higher AE concentrations of 20 and 25 μM. AE also efficiently instigated nuclear fragmentation and condensation concomitantly, followed by the activation of caspase-3 and -9 within DU145 cells. AE further reduced the viability of mitochondria with increased cytosolic cytochrome-c levels (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) in DU145 cells. Importantly, AE exposure was also correlated with reduced Wnt2 and β-catenin mRNA levels along with their target genes, including cyclin D1 and c-myc. Furthermore, the molecular mechanism of AE was evaluated by performing molecular docking studies with Wnt2 and β-catenin. Evidently, AE exhibited good binding energy scores toward Wnt2 and β-catenin comparable with their respective standards, CCT036477 (Wnt2 inhibitor) and FH535 (β-catenin inhibitor). Thus, it may be considered that AE was competent in exerting anti-growth effects against DU145 androgen-independent prostate cancer cells plausibly by modulating the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Objective: Lidocaine needs to be administered frequently as it has poor oral bioavailability and it lacks prolong duration of action thus the study was aimed at to devise, develop, and analyze a matrix system transdermal formulation with Lidocaine HCl to give a sustained release effect of drug for chronic pains with a goal to enhance the bioavailability, avoid multiple administration thus improving the patient compliance. Materials and Methods: The different concentrations of different polymers of different grades such as HPMC K15, HPMC K100, Oleic acid, Eudragit RS100 and Patchouli oil were used in different conjuction to get optimized preparation of transdermal patches. Different hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymeric ratios resulted in plasticization with PEG 400 by the solvent casting method. The designed patches were then tested for their physico-chemical properties, including thickness, clarity, uniform drug content in patches and folding endurance. The improved formulation was then assessed by drug-excipient compatibility, in-vitro release study and kinetic modeling. Results: Folding endurance and clarity of al patches was satisfied. Spectroscopic techniques using the Fourier transform in the infrared and ultraviolet spectrum were used to rule out the interference of the polymers. In vitro release studies of Lidocaine were performed using a modified diffusion cell and phosphate buffer with a pH of 7.4, HCl loaded patches and it followed Higuchi and Korsmeyer Peppas model. In vivo drug release studies demonstrated the release up to 24h with release of 90.97% to 97.57%. Conclusion: The findings concluded that transdermal patches of Lidocaine HCl prepared by different grades of polymer were capable of exhibiting sustained release or controlled release of drug with defined stability. The developed patches had produced encouraging outcomes.

Aim and Objective: The study aimed to manufacture Bucco-adhesive tablets of Risperidone and characterize the effectiveness of the drug by incorporating it into the mucoadhesive drug delivery system. The sustained release tablets reduced the dose frequency by increasing residence time. Methods: For this study, five tablet formulations were synthesized by the wet granulation technique. Polymers like Carbopol, HPMC, CMC, Chitosan, and Xanthan gum, with varying concentrations, were used in each formulation. The effectiveness of the mucoadhesive tablets was ascertained by performing various tests like analysis of physicochemical parameters like friability, hardness, content uniformity, weight variation, and swelling studies. The DSC and FTIR analysis gave validation about the compatibility between drug and excipients. Furthermore, in vitro release analysis and stability studies were performed that suggested good bio-adhesive strength of prepared tablets. Results: All formulations showed good results for the physical characterization tests, post-formulation tests, and stability and compatibility studies, but Fs had shown the optimum results in in vitro release studies and stability. solver software was used, and different models were applied to in-vitro release data. Kinetic modeling studies showed that these formulations followed Korsmeyer-Peppas mode of release, with Fs showing non-Fickian release. Stability studies showed not more than 5to10% change in the drug concentration which indicated the stability of formulations. No incompatibilities of polymer and drugs were proved by the results of DSC and FTIR. Conclusion: Conclusively, the results demonstrated that optimum mucoadhesive tablets of risperidone will be proved as a promising delivery system with reduced dosing frequency for the treatment of psychotic disorders. Keywords: Buccoadhesive tablets, Risperidone, Kinetic studies, Sustained release, Mucoadhesion.

This qualitative study explores the utilization of social media among Pakistani pilgrims during spiritual journeys and investigates its impact on their pilgrimage experiences. Thirty Pakistani pilgrims who had embarked on spiritual journeys to various religious sites were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the interview transcripts, revealing five main stages of social media usage: pre-trip preparation, real-time updates and guidance, community building and support, sharing experiences and insights, and post-trip reflection and engagement. At each stage, social media played diverse roles, including providing information and support, fostering connections with fellow pilgrims, sharing personal experiences, and facilitating spiritual dialogue. This explorative study underscores the significance of social media in enhancing the pilgrimage experience for Pakistani pilgrims, serving as a valuable tool for information dissemination, community building, spiritual support, and personal reflection throughout the pilgrimage journey. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how social media shapes pilgrims’ experiences and fosters their spiritual growth, emphasizing the need for further research to explore the nuanced dynamics of social media usage in the context of pilgrimage. Overall, this study sheds light on the unique role of social media in the spiritual journeys of Pakistani pilgrims and highlights its implications for pilgrimage practices and the broader discourse on religious tourism.

This study aims to investigate the role of virtual society in generating social capital, taking into account the challenges associated with new technologies and social arrangements. The study utilizes descriptive analysis and partial least squares path modeling to analyze participant data. The technology acceptance model is employed to assess perceptions of virtual society platforms, specifically Facebook and WhatsApp, in terms of ease of use and value. he study reveals a significant positive relationship between virtual society and the development of social capital. Positive attitudes toward virtual society platforms are associated with increased social capital, particularly in terms of bridging and bonding. The relationship is moderated by the amount of time spent on social networking sites. Limitations of the study include its focus on specific platforms and reliance on self-reported data. Future research can explore additional platforms and employ diverse data collection methods to enhance the understanding of virtual society and social capital formation. This study emphasizes the importance of online attachment and connection for the formation of social capital. The findings inform policy-making and decision-making in organizations by highlighting the role of virtual society platforms in fostering social capital. This research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between virtual society and social capital, shedding light on collaboration patterns and technology reliance in virtual environments. The study’s originality lies in its examination of Facebook and WhatsApp as platforms and the exploration of the moderation effect of time spent on social networking sites. The findings offer valuable insights for academia and practical applications.

This study employs a qualitative research methodology to comprehensively investigate the psychological resilience of athletes impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through purposeful sampling, a diverse group of athletes representing various sports, competitive levels, and geographic locations was selected, ensuring a holistic exploration of their experiences. Data collection centered on in-depth interviews, utilizing a semi-structured approach guided by predetermined open-ended questions. Ethical standards were meticulously upheld, with informed consent obtained from all participants, and strict measures in place to safeguard their confidentiality and anonymity. Prior to data collection, pilot testing of interview questions was conducted to enhance their clarity and appropriateness. Subsequently, data analysis involved the meticulous transcription of field-notes and audio-recordings into protocols and transcripts, followed by systematic coding facilitated by qualitative data management software. To enhance research rigor, strategies including reflexivity, member-checking, and collaborative coding were embraced. This comprehensive methodology facilitated a deep and nuanced exploration of athletes' experiences, perceptions, and coping strategies during the pandemic, ultimately contributing valuable insights to the study of psychological resilience in sports. The findings shed light on the challenges athletes faced, the support systems and personal attributes that fostered resilience, and the role of well-being practices like mindfulness and self-care in enhancing psychological resilience. The implications of this research extend to proactive strategies for sports organizations and stakeholders, fostering a culture of resilience, and empowering athletes to thrive in the face of adversity, ultimately promoting their long-term psychological well-being.

Colon cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer worldwide, followed by lung and breast cancer. Conventional treatment methods are associated with numerous side effects and compliance issues. Thus, colon targeted drug delivery has gained much attention due to its evident advantages. Although many technologies have been explored, the use of pH-sensitive polymers, especially biodegradable polymers, holds exceptional promise. This review aims to collate research articles concerning recent advances in this area. A systematic search using multiple databases (Google Scholar, EMBASE, PubMed, MEDLINE and Scopus) was carried out following the preferred reported items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines with an aim to explore the use of pH-sensitive carbohydrate polymers in developing colon targeted pharmaceutical formulations. Following screening and quality assessment for eligibility, 42 studies were included, exploring either single or a combination of carbohydrate polymers to develop targeted formulations for colon cancer therapy. Pectin (11) is the most widely used of these biopolymers, followed by chitosan (09), alginate (09) and guar gum (08). This systematic review has successfully gathered experimental evidence highlighting the importance of employing carbohydrate polymers in developing targeting formulations to manage colon cancer.

Objective: Metformin hydrochloride possesses a shorter sort of biological half-life of 1.5–1.6 h with having the absolute type of bioavailability that ranges between 50-60%, the moment it is administered orally. Reduced GIT disturbances and low bioavailability can be optimized by developing microencapsulation of metformin that could prove beneficial. Method: Paraffin oil had been used in obtaining specific types of primary emulsions, whereas the material that was used in the coating of microencapsulation had been identified as sodium alginate. In the process of complex coacervation, a substance known as Tween 20 was used as a surfactant in enhancing the stability of W/O/W double emulsion. Five different formulations with different concentrations of sodium alginate were tested. Result: Metformin's microencapsulation inside certain types of optimized atmosphere tends to ensure the specific size of 1 μm of microcapsules in a combined form, and encapsulation efficiency reaches up to 84%. FTIR measurements have been used to determine the interaction between drug and polymer. The qualitative analysis result from FTIR ensures that the quality and effectiveness of the drug have been preserved. A calibration curve was used to estimate drug conc. from dissolution samples and kinetic analysis demonstrated anomalous release pattern. The test for drug content yielded ˃95% of concentration. Conclusion: Results extracted tend to tell us that specific complex coacervation that is using sodium alginate in wall material was a viable method that is used in the microencapsulation process of metformin hydrochloride.

Background: Piroxicam is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic drug. Piroxicam is widely used in the management of chronic pain. The objective of this work was to develop and analyze topical Piroxicam microemulgel to improve drug solubility, enhance permeation, reduce GIT side effects reduce the frequency of the drug. Method: The Piroxicam microemulgel was prepared by drawing the pseudo ternary phase picture and water titration procedure. Formulation was prepared by using isopropyl myristate as an oil, Tween 80 as an surfactant, n-butanol as Co-surfactant and water. It was converted to gel by using 1% Carbopol 940 and few drops of ethanolamine. The prepared formulation was characterized for thermodynamic stability, pH, droplet size, viscosity, FTIR,DSC, electrical conductivity, dye solubility drug content, and in-vitro release using a Franz diffusion cell. Result: Microemulgel formulation was thermodynamically stable on visual inspection after being treated with a freeze-thaw cycle and centrifugation. pH of formulation was 6.5. The mean droplet size for ME gel was 100±0.472nm. The viscosity of the microemulgel was 90.4±0.01 cps which showed Newtonian flow. FTIR and DSC studies showed that microemulgel was compatible with its excipients. Electrical conductivity and dye solubility testing confirmed that the microemulgel was O/W. Piroxicam microemulsion gel showed 89.89% drug content and the release rate of piroxicam was 98±8.63% after 48h. It followed the Korsmeyer Pappas model which means it was a hydrogel-based system. Conclusion: Microemulsion gel formulation obtained remarkably inflated skin retention for piroxicam over the piroxicam gel. It might act as a promising vehicle for the topical delivery of poor water-soluble drugs.

Objective: Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal agent, and is used to treat fungal infections but because of frequent dosing and undesirable side effects it affects patient compliance. There came the need for a delivery system that can skip first pass metabolism and adhere long enough to treat the infection effectively, that was the aim for this study. Mucoadhesive drug delivery system adheres to mucous membrane and provide prolonged and sustained drug release. Method: Five formulations were formed by granulation method. The granules were then compressed and tablets were formed each of 250mg. Different evaluation parameters were determined like hardness, friability, weight variation, content uniformity, mucoadhesive strength, swelling index, dissolution and compatibility analysis. Results: The hardness (7.2-8.9kg), friability (0.02-0.05%), weight variation (0.1-0.4%), content uniformity (96.9-103%), were all in the pharmacopeial range. Dissolution was determined using rotating paddle apparatus with a phosphate buffer of 6.8 pH. Release kinetics showed that F1, F2, F3 showed Fickian release while F4 showed both Fickian and non Fickian release and F5 showed non Fickian release. Mucoadhesive strength was found to be the highest (46g) in formulation F5. The highest swelling index (70.34%) was shown by formulation F3 at 12h. Differential scanning calorimeter and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that there is no interaction between excipients. Conclusion: Hence, results showed that fluconazole vaginal tablets can be formed by using these ingredients and formulation F5 was the most optimum formulation.

Introduction: Among numerous triterpenoids of the Cucurbitaceae family, Cucurbitacin-B (Cur-B) is being explored for its pharmacological attributes. Reports from previous studies have explicitly shown that Cur-B possesses substantial anticancer effects. The present report focuses on exploring the anticancer attributes of Cur-B against androgen-dependent PCa LNCaP cells.Methods: LNCaP cells were exposed to commercially available purified Cur-B at varying concentrations that were selected as 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 µM for some time of 24 h to perform various experimental studies.Results: Cytotoxicity evaluation revealed that Cur-B impeded the LNCaP cell’s viability at 5 µM (p

Hesperidin methyl chalcone (HMC) is a methylation product of the flavanone hesperidin, a flavonoid derived from citrus fruits. Many reports have emphasized the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of HMC. However, the anticancer potential of HMC has not been fully elucidated. The objective of this study was to assess the possible anticancer potential of HMC. MTT assay was carried out to assess the in vitro cytotoxicity of HMC against using A549 cancer cell line. In addition, the in vivo antitumor activity of HMC was screened against murine Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) model, in terms of tumor volume, tumor weight, life span, hematological and biochemical parameters, and compared with that of the anticancer agent, hesperetin. HMC was efficient to suppress the cell viability of A549 cancer cells with an IC50 value of 51.12 µM, which was comparable to that of the anticancer agent hesperetin (IC50 = 49.12 µM). Similarly, in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma model, HMC significantly inhibited the growth of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma with mutual increase in the life span of HMC-treated mice, compared to EAC control. Most importantly, HMC showed a good safety profile as evidenced by restoring hematological profile count of RBCs, WBCs, and hemoglobin to the normal levels. HMC also efficiently reduced the oxidative stress in EAC-bearing mice via increasing the levels of GSH, SOD and Catalase. Collectively, HMC exerted a potent anticancer activity and data presented in this work suggest the usefulness of HMC as a promising candidate in cancer therapy.

Purpose: The aim of this research was to prepare adhesive nanoparticles for the topical application of Minoxidil (MXD). Methods: Thiolated β-CDs were prepared via conjugation of cysteamine with oxidized CDs. MXD was encapsulated within thiolated and unmodified β-CDs. Ionic gelation method was used to prepare nanoparticles (Thio-NP and blank NP) of CDs with chitosan. Nanoparticles were analyzed for size and zetapotential. Inclusion complexes were characterized via FTIR. Drug dissolution studies were carried out. An in vitro adhesion study over human hair was performed. An in vivo skin irritation study was performed. Ex vivo drug uptake was evaluated by using a Franz diffusion cell. Results: Thiolated β-CDs presented 1804.68 ± 25 μmol/g thiol groups and 902.34 ± 25 μmol/g disulfide bonds. Nanoparticles displayed particle sizes within a range of 231 ± 07 nm to 354 ± 13 nm. The zeta potential was in the range of −8.1 ± 02 mV, +16.0 ± 05 mV. FTIR analyses confirmed no interaction between the excipients and drug. Delayed drug release was observed from Thio-NP. Thio-NP retained over hair surfaces for a significantly longer time. Similarly, drug retention was significantly improved. Thio-NP displayed no irritation over rabbit skin. Conclusion: Owing to the above results, nanoparticles developed with MXD-loaded thiolated β-CDs might be a potential drug delivery system for topical scalp diseases.

Abstract Background Regardless of attaining adequate knowledge regarding oral hygiene, physical activity, and healthy eating habits, dental students still face oral health problems. This study was aimed to assess the association of oral hygiene habits, physical activity, and eating habits with the BMI in the dental students. Method This multi centric cross-sectional study was conducted from January to May 2021 in Pakistan. Three hundred and eighty-six study participants enrolled as undergraduate dental students, both males and females, were included in the study. A questionnaire used to gather data, was modified from a study conducted by Jouhar et al. Chi-square testing was used in order to assess the relationship between two categorical variables. Linear regression was performed to assess the association with putative confounders. Statistical significance was considered for p value

Objectives: Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) has a long history of providing predictable clinical outcomes in dental applications especially in endodontic procedures. This bibliometric analysis aimed at evaluating the advancements of research in mineral trioxide aggregate and its use in the field of dentistry, together with the detection of most significant authors, organizations, countries, journals, papers, and the exploration of commonly used keywords using a structured approach. Materials and method: The search was conducted using the Elsevier’s Scopus database, gathering publication information related to MTA published from 1993 and 2021 July. Metadata comprising of titles, abstracts, keywords, authors, organizations, and countries were obtained. Bibliometric evaluators with respect to authors, articles published, journals, keywords, and top countries were scrutinized. Data was analyzed using VOS viewer. Results: Between 1993 and 2021, an uptrend in the research performed on MTA was identified. Researchers from United States, Brazil, and Iran actively contributed on MTA, while papers from USA were highly cited. The Journal of Endodontics along with International Endodontic Journal were the top contributing academic journals. Hacettepe University, Turkey and Cardiff University from United Kingdom were the top most contributing organizations. Mahmoud Torabinejad was the most cited author. Most commonly used keywords included Mineral trioxide aggregate, silicate, oxide, root canal filling material. Conclusion: The global rise in the number of publications on mineral trioxide aggregate, tremendous networking and citations have been identified amongst various organizations, authors, and nations through this bibliometric analysis.

Abstract Pregabalin, a GABA analogue is used to treat epilepsy and neuropathic pain. The drug poses problems in analytical quantification when estimated at a shorter UV wavelength. The expensive and non-repetitive reported analytical methods necessitate the utility and development of an accurate, precise, repetitive, simple and highly sensitive colorimetric method for pregabalin in solution as well as sustained release mini matrices. Pregabalin (having primary amino group) was derivatized at alkaline pH of mixture with optimized ninhydrin solution at ambient temperature (25oC). The ninhydrin-pregabalin derivatized complex (Ruhemann’s Purple) was analyzed for drug concentration at absorption maximum (λmax) of 570nm. The linearity was observed in the concentration range of 5-150 µg/mL with coefficient of correlation, 0.998. The developed analytical method was validated according to ICH guidelines and proved to be highly sensitive (LOD 0.917µg/mL, LOQ 3.055µg/mL), with good inter-day as well as intra-day accuracy and precision as 4.65% and 3.75%, respectively. The proposed method was proved to be a simple, sensitive, precise and accurate for the estimation of the minute concentrations of pregabalin in pure form and the developed formulations. Results verified that the proposed method could determine pregabalin at the ambient temperature without requiring high temperatures used in the existing methods. It was concluded that developed method was easier and more suitable for analysis of pregabalin in quality control of commercial preparations.

Objective: Microemulgel is composed of aqueous phase, lipophilic phase, along with surfactant and co-surfactant, a suitable gelling agent is also incorporated. The drug Ibuprofen is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Its oral administration associated with many GIT, hepatic and renal problems. The main objective of the study was to formulate a stable topical microemulgel of ibuprofen in order to achieve the highest bioavailability with least side effects. Method: Pseudo ternary phase diagram was constructed in order to get the suitable concentrations of lipophilic phase, surfactant and co-surfactant. Phase titration method was used to prepare microemulsion, with surfactant and co-surfactant in a ratio of 2:1 respectively, along with gelling agent to form microemulgel. Formulations were evaluated to check appearance, pH, flowability, particle size, drug content, spreadability, drug release and skin irritation. Results: The globule size of microemulsion was 400 nm and zeta potential was -14 mV showing acceptable stability. Formulated emulgel showed good physical characteristics, suitable pH of 6.4 for skin. The drug content was 98.474%. The stability study showed that the ibuprofen was stable in phosphate buffer pH of 6.8. The carbopol 940 as a gelling agent showed high release rate values. The release rate of the optimized formulation, F1 was 94% and it followed Korsmeyer Peppas model (n=0.467). Conclusion: The prepared formulation was cost-effective because of promising highest bioavailability. The results suggest the potential use of developed microemulgel is mainly for topical delivery of ibuprofen, ensuring the safe use.

Objective: Transdermal route of drug delivery is superior than oral route because it avoids first pass effect, ensures better patient compliance, reduce dosing frequency especially in extended-release formulation and is easy to use. Domperidone HCl is DA2 receptor antagonistic and is used to prevent nausea and vomiting. The objective was to formulate a domperidone HCl extended-release transdermal drug delivery system to treat motion sickness. Methods: Five different formulations were formed using different solvents (methanol and dichloromethane) and polymers (HPMC and Eudragitl-100) by solvent evaporation method. 500mg of domperidone HCl was added in each patch and dibutyl phthalate was added as plasticizer. A 3% w/v PVA layer was used as backing. All these formulations were evaluated for their physicochemical properties (weight variation, thickness, folding endurance and tensile strength), in-vitro drug release, drug contents determination, any incompatibility between drug and excipients by FTIR and DSC and skin irritation. Results: All formulations exhibited good physicochemical properties and percentage drug release during 24 hours was 79.3%, 97.1%, 96.8%, 74.7% and 59.7% respectively. F-YM showed maximum in-vitro drug release. The optimized formulation (F-YM) followed Korsmeyer Peppas release model with n=0.383 showing that the system was following dissolution dependent drug release. No interaction between drug and excipients was detected by DSC and FTIR. No skin irritation was detected. Conclusion: The extended release transdermal patches of domperidone HCl to treat motion sickness were prepared and formulation F-YM showed optimized behavior with maximum in vitro drug release.

Objective: As most of the drugs disintegrate and dissolve in stomach before reaching the target site and to substitute intravenous (IV) route based chrono modulated chemotherapy, oral colon target drug delivery system was formed. The aim of this study was to design, develop, and evaluate a colon targeted tablet containing 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) to give a controlled release effect of drug for colonic cancer with a goal to increase the bioavailability and improve the patient compliance. Methods: Varied concentration of different polymers such as Xanthan gum and Eudragit were used to get an optimized formulation of 5-FU tablet. The prepared formulation was evaluated for pre compression and post compression parameters such as hardness, weight, friability and drug content uniformity. The optimized formulation was further evaluated by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), in-vitro dissolution studies, dissolution kinetic modeling and stability analysis. Results: All pre-formulation tests were within range of USP standards. Friability of all tablets was satisfied. The interference of the polymers was ruled out by FTIR. In-vitro release studies of 5-FU tablets in phosphate buffer of pH 7.0 were performed using a modified diffusion cell that resulted sustained release (90.99% to 92.69% after 12h) and kinetic models depicted the combined diffusion and dissolution mechanism of release. The optimized tablets were found having only physical interactions based on DSC. The product was found stable when evaluated using accelerated stability studies. Conclusion: It was concluded from the studies that the colon target tablet of 5-FU prepared by different concentration of polymers were optimized and can be efficiently used to control the rate of drug release to the colon in the belief of improved therapeutic efficacy and tolerability. Therefore, it is a better alternative for intravenous route based chrono modulated chemotherapy.

Objective: To determine the mean distance of mandibular incisive canal from the mental foramen in patients reporting to a tertiary care centre using Cone Beam Computerized Tomography for placement of dental implants in the anterior/interforaminal region. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Prosthodontics, Foundation University College of Dentistry Rawalpindi, Jun to Nov 2019. Methodology: A total of 70 patients participated between the age of 20-45 years. Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (the investigation was carried out and measurements of the mandibular incisive canal from mental foramen were recorded with the help of measuring tools in the software and noted down on the proforma. Data were analyzed using SPSS-20. Results: The number of patients selected for this study was 70. Out of these 70 patients, 33 (47.1%) were males and 37 (52.9%) were females. The mean age of patients in this study was 36.31 ± 6.38 years. The mean distance/extension of the mandibular incisive canal from left mental foramen and right mental foramen in all patients was recorded to be 14.49 ± 6.31 mm and 14.97 ± 7.10 mm respectively. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it is concluded that a maximum distance of 22mm of the incisive canal from the mental foramen was observed using cone-beam computerized tomography.

Chronic stable angina pectoris is the primary indication for ranolazine (RZ), an anti-anginal drug. The drug has an anti-ischemic action that is unaffected by either blood pressure or heart rate. Due to the first-pass effect, the drug has a reduced bioavailability of 35 to 50%. The study emphasized developing a novel transdermal drug delivery system of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for delivering RZ. Many pharmaceutical companies employ lipid nanoparticles as biocompatible carriers for medicinal, cosmetic, and biochemical uses. These carriers are appropriate for many applications, such as topical, transdermal, parenteral, pulmonary, and oral administration, because of the large variety of lipids and surfactants that are readily available for manufacturing. RZ NLCs were made using high-pressure homogenization. Statistical analysis was utilized to find the best formula by varying the concentrations of Precirol ATO 5 (X1), oleic acid (X2), and Tween 80 (X3). Variables such as entrapment effectiveness (EE) (Y1), particle size (Y2), polydispersity index (PDI) (Y3), and zeta potential (Y4) were tested. A variety of tests were performed on the new formulation to ascertain how well it would be absorbed in the body. These tests included in vivo absorption studies, skin permeability assessments, in vitro drug release assessments, and physicochemical analyses. The particle size of RZ-NLCs was shown to be very small (118.4 ± 5.94 nm), with improved EE (88.39 ± 3.1%) and low ZP and PDI (−41.91 ± 0.38 and 0.118 ± 0.028). SEM and TEM analysis confirmed the structure of the NLCs and showed a smooth, spherical surface. Improved RZ-NLCs were used to create NLC gel, which was then tested for elasticity both physically and rheologically. The formulation’s elasticity was investigated. Optimized RZ-NLCs and NLCG were found to have transdermal fluxes of 48.369 g/cm2/h and 38.383 g/cm2/h, respectively. These results showed that the transdermal delivery of RZ distribution through NLC’s transdermal gel had more significant potential. According to in vivo experiments, the drug’s bioavailability in Wistar rats increased when it was delivered through NLCs. The findings demonstrated that NLCs loaded with RZ successfully transported the RZ to the designated site with no interruptions and that a quadratic connection existed between the independent and dependent variables.

Prostate cancer (PCa) is addressed as the second most common form of onco-threat worldwide and is usually considered as the major cause of mortality in men. Recent times have seen a surge in exploration of plant-derived components for alternative therapeutical interventions against different oncological malignancies. Dammarolic acid or Asiatic acid (AsA) is an aglycone asiaticoside that has been reported for its efficacy in several ailments including cancer. The current study aimed to investigate the anti-proliferative potency of AsA against human prostate cancer PC-3 cells. Purified AsA was diluted and PC-3 cells were exposed to 20, 40, and 80 µM concentration and incubated for 24 h. Post-exposure, PC-3 cells showcased a substantial loss of their viability at 20 µM (p < 0.05), moreover, this reduction in cell viability escalated proportionally with an increase in AsA at concentrations of 40 and 80 µM (p < 0.01; p < 0.001) respectively. AsA-impelled loss of cellular viability was also evident from the acridine orange-stained photomicrographs, which was also used to quantify the viable and apoptotic cells using Image J software. Additionally, quantification of ROS within PC-3 cells also exhibited an increase in DCF-DA-mediated fluorescence intensity post-exposure to AsA in a dose-dependent manner. AsA-induced apoptosis in PC-3 cells was shown to be associated with augmented activity of caspase-3 proportionally to the AsA concentrations. Thus, initially, this exploratory study explicated that AsA treatment leads to anti-proliferative effects in PC-3 cells by enhancing oxidative stress and inciting apoptosis en route to onset of nuclear fragmentation.

A series of 6-aryl substituted pyrimidine azodyes were synthesized by coupling of phenyl pyrimidine 2-amine with different aromatic amines. The synthetic compounds were screened for their in-vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The characterization of the synthesized compounds was carried out by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Mass spectrophotometry. Computational study of designed compounds was done by OCHEM, Molinspiration cheminformatics, Datawarrior, and Swiss ADME. DPPH assay was used to determine the antioxidant activity and heat hemolysis method for anti-inflammatory activity.

BackgroundThe uptake of modern contraceptive methods (MCMs) remains low, with 25% of women reporting their use in Pakistan. The overarching interventions covering service delivery platforms at facility and community levels necessitate the integration of family planning (FP) with maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) services. ObjectiveThe main aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of an integrated FP-MNCH service delivery model to increase coverage of MCMs in rural Pakistan. Moreover, we aim to measure the level of effectiveness of interventions regarding the uptake of MCMs. MethodsA quasi-experimental, sequential, mixed methods study design with pre- and postevaluation will be adopted to evaluate the impact of integration of FP with MNCH services. The interventions include the following: (1) capacity strengthening of health care providers, including technical trainings; training in counseling of women who attend immunization centers, antenatal care (ANC) clinics, and postnatal care (PNC) clinics; and provision of job aids; (2) counseling of women and girls attending ANC, PNC, and pediatric clinics; (3) ensuring sustained provision of supplies and commodities; (4) community engagement, including establishing adolescent-friendly spaces; and (5) use of District Health Information System data in decision-making. Descriptive statistics will be used to estimate prevalence (ie, proportions) and frequencies of outcome indicators. A univariate difference-in-difference analytical approach will be used to estimate the effect of the interventions. In addition, a Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition analysis will be conducted to identify and quantify determinants of the modern contraceptive prevalence rate. ResultsThe intervention phase began in July 2021 and will run until June 2022. The impact assessment will be conducted from July to September 2022. ConclusionsThis project will evaluate the impact of integrating FP with MNCH services. Furthermore, this study will identify the drivers and barriers in uptake of MCMs and will simultaneously help in modifying the interventional strategies that can be scaled up through existing service delivery platforms within the public and private sectors, according to the local sociocultural and health system context. Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05045599; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05045599 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/35291

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease associated with severe joint pain. Herein, we report lornoxicam loaded cellulosic microsponge gel formulation with sustained anti-inflammatory effects that are required to manage arthritic pain. The microsponges were formulated using quasi emulsion-solvent diffusion method employing four different surfactant systems, namely polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Tween80, Gelucire 48/16 and Gelucire 50/13. All the lornoxicam loaded microsponge formulations were extensively characterized with a variety of analytical tools. The optimized microsponge formulation was then converted into gel formulation. The lornoxicam loaded microsponge gel formulation had adequate viscosity and sufficient pharmaceutical properties as confirmed by the texture analysis and the drug release followed Super case II transport. It is noteworthy that we described the preparation of a new cellulosic polymers based microsponge system for delivery of lornoxicam to provide quick as well as lasting (sustained) anti-inflammatory effects in rats using carrageenan induced rat paw edema model. We were able to demonstrate a 72% reduction in inflammation within 4 h using the optimize transdermal gel formulation utilizing Transcutol P as permeation enhancer and with the aid of skin micro-piercing by microneedles, hence, demonstrating the potential of this microsponge gel formulation in arthritis management.

Among the various types of cancer, lung cancer accounts for the highest number of fatalities across the globe. A combination of different cancer chemotherapeutics is regarded as an effective strategy for clinical management of different cancers. Ganetespib (GAN) is a well-established hsp90 inhibitor with enhanced pharmacological properties in comparison with its first-generation counterparts. Previous preclinical studies have shown that GAN exerts significant effects against cancer cells; however, its therapeutic effects against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cells, achieved by modulating the expression of the NF-κB/p65 signaling pathway, remains unexplored. In this study, the combinatorial effect of GAN and methotrexate (MTX) against lung carcinomas was investigated through both in silico and in vitro studies. A combinatorial treatment regimen of GAN/MTX exerted more significant cytotoxic effects (p < 0.001) against A549 cells than individual treatments. The GAN/MTX combination also instigated nuclear fragmentation followed by augmentation in intracellular ROS levels (p < 0.001). The elevated ROS in A549 cells upon exposure to GAN/MTX combinatorial regimen was concomitantly accompanied with a remarkable reduction in mitochondrial viability. In addition, it was observed that the GAN/MTX combination succeeded in elevating caspase-3 activity and downregulating the expression levels of anti-apoptotic mediators Bcl2 and survivin in NSCLC A549 cells. Most importantly, the GAN/MTX combinatorial regimen impeded the activation of the NF-kB/p65 signaling pathway via repression of the expression of E-cadherin and N-cadherin, which was confirmed by molecular docking studies. Collectively, these findings demonstrated the synergistic effect of the GAN/MTX combinatorial regimen in suppressing the growth of A549 cells by modulating the NF-κB/p65 signaling pathway.

The advent of new antibiotics has helped clinicians to control severe bacterial infections. Despite this, inappropriate and redundant use of antibiotics, inadequate diagnosis, and smart resistant mechanisms developed by pathogens sometimes lead to the failure of treatment strategies. The genotypic analysis of clinical samples revealed that the rapid spread of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) genes is one of the most common approaches acquired by bacterial pathogens to become resistant. The scenario compelled the researchers to prioritize the design and development of novel and effective therapeutic options. Nanotechnology has emerged as a plausible groundbreaking tool against resistant infectious pathogens. Numerous reports suggested that inorganic nanomaterials, specifically gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have converted unresponsive antibiotics into potent ones against multi-drug resistant pathogenic strains. Interestingly, after almost two decades of exhaustive preclinical evaluations, AuNPs are gradually progressively moving ahead toward clinical evaluations. However, the mechanistic aspects of the antibacterial action of AuNPs remain an unsolved puzzle for the scientific fraternity. Thus, the review covers state-of-the-art investigations pertaining to the efficacy of AuNPs as a tool to overcome ESBLs acquired resistance, their applicability and toxicity perspectives, and the revelation of the most appropriate proposed mechanism of action. Conclusively, the trend suggested that antibiotic-loaded AuNPs could be developed into a promising interventional strategy to limit and overcome the concerns of antibiotic-resistance.

Infections caused by resistant bacterial pathogens have increased the complications of clinicians worldwide. The quest for effective antibacterial agents against resistant pathogens has prompted researchers to develop new classes of antibiotics. Unfortunately, pathogens have acted more smartly by developing resistance to even the newest class of antibiotics with time. The culture sensitivity analysis of the clinical samples revealed that pathogens are gaining resistance toward the new generations of cephalosporins at a very fast rate globally. The current study developed gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that could efficiently deliver the 2nd (cefotetan-CT) and 3rd (cefixime-CX) generation cephalosporins to resistant clinical pathogens. In fact, both CT and CX were used to reduce and stabilize AuNPs by applying a one-pot synthesis approach, and their characterization was performed via spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy. Moreover, the synthesized AuNPs were tested against uro-pathogenic resistant clinical strains of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. CT-AuNPs characteristic SPR peak was observed at 542 nm, and CX-AuNPs showed the same at 522 nm. The stability measurement showed ζ potential as −24.9 mV and −25.2 mV for CT-AuNPs and CX-AuNPs, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the spherical shape of both the AuNPs, whereas, the size by transmission electron microscopy for CT-AuNPs and CX-AuNPs were estimated to be 45 ± 19 nm and 35 ± 17 nm, respectively. Importantly, once loaded onto AuNPs, both the cephalosporin antibiotics become extremely potent against the resistant strains of E. coli and K. pneumoniae with MIC50 in the range of 0.5 to 0.8 μg/mL. The findings propose that old-generation unresponsive antibiotics could be revived into potent nano-antibiotics via AuNPs. Thus, investing efforts, intellect, time and funds for a nano-antibiotic strategy might be a better approach to overcome resistance than investing the same in the development of newer antibiotic molecule(s).

Objectives: Health-care professionals (HCPs) are at very high risk for accidental exposure to hepatitis B virus (HBV) from infected patients; as such, this study aimed to investigate the knowledge, awareness, attitude, and practice of HCPs toward hepatitis B vaccination. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with a pre-tested, validated questionnaire in seven major cities in Saudi Arabia from January to April 2015. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: demographics, knowledge, awareness of hepatitis B infection, and attitude of HCPs toward HBV. We analyzed the data collected from study participants using SAS® V9.2. Results: Approximately 16.5% of participants reported that they had not received the hepatitis B vaccine; however, the majority of participants believed that hepatitis B is common (73.2%) and that vaccination is an effective strategy to reduce disease incidence (75%). Availability of the vaccine was a major barrier to vaccination (48.7%), together with safety concerns surrounding the vaccine (37%). Approximately 31.2% of non-vaccinated participants believed the hepatitis B vaccine is not safe, while only 8% possessed this belief in the vaccinated group. Additionally, 36.4% of non-vaccinated participants were unsure of the effectiveness of the vaccine, compared to 24.3% in the vaccinated group. Inability to afford the vaccine was reported by 18.2% of the non-vaccinated group compared to only 4% of vaccinated participants. Conclusion: There is notable hepatitis B vaccination coverage among HCPs, but observed levels are below global standards. We believe the hurdles preventing non-vaccinated HCPs from being immunized must be addressed.

Food preservation and safety is drawing more attention globally due to the increasing prevalence of food-borne diseases. The natural methods of food preservation are considered safer compared to methods using synthetic preservatives. The essential oils with natural preservative properties could be useful for food safety and preservation. The objective of this study was to analyze the chemical composition of commercially available Allium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum essential oils by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The antimicrobial activities of Allium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum essential oils were determined by agar well diffusion technique. The GC-MS analysis of Garlic essential oil (GEO) revealed that, Allyl methyl trisulfide (13.10%), Di-allyl sulfide (9.47%) and Di-allyl tetrasulfide (4.38%) were the major components, while methanolic extract of Fenugreek essential oil (FEO) showed limonene (12.92%), Silane trimethylphenyl (10.71%), carvone (4.57%) and Trigolline (0.38%) as major components. The results of our study showed a significant antimicrobial activity of GEO and FEO against the tested microbial strains, which indicates the presence of broad-spectrum antimicrobial constituents in GEO and FEO. However, further studies are needed for individual bioactive components and safety aspects for their application in food preservation.

In the current study, the reversed-phased high-pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method was proposed for the estimation of lignocaine hydrochloride (LIG), hydrocortisone (HYD) and Ketoprofen (KET) according to International Conference for Harmonization (ICH) Q2 R1 guidelines, in a gel formulation. The chromatographic evaluation was executed using Shimadzu RP-HPLC, equipped with a C8 column and detected using UV at 254 nm wavelength, using acetonitrile and buffer (50:50) as a mobile phase and diluent, at flow rate 1 mL/min and n injection volume of 20 μL. The retention time for LIG, HYD, and KET were 1.54, 2.57, and 5.78 min, correspondingly. The resultant values of analytical recovery demonstrate accuracy and precision of the method and was found specific in identification of the drugs from dosage form and marketed products. The limit of detection (LOD) for LIG, HYD, and KET were calculated to be 0.563, 0.611, and 0.669 ppm, while the limit of quantification (LOQ) was estimated almost at 1.690, 1.833, and 0.223 ppm, respectively. The AGREE software was utilized to evaluate the greenness score of the proposed method, and it was found greener in score (0.76). This study concluded that the proposed method was simple, accurate, precise, robust, economical, reproducible, and suitable for the estimation of drugs in transdermal gels.

Breast cancer represents the most frequently occurring cancer globally among women. As per the recent report of the World Health Organization (WHO), it was documented that by the end of the year 2020, approximately 7.8 million females were positively diagnosed with breast cancer and in 2020 alone, 685,000 casualties were documented due to breast cancer. The use of standard chemotherapeutics includes the frontline treatment option for patients; however, the concomitant side effects represent a major obstacle for their usage. Carbazole alkaloids are one such group of naturally-occurring bioactive compounds belonging to the Rutaceae family. Among the various carbazole alkaloids, 3-Methoxy carbazole or C13H11NO (MHC) is obtained from Clausena heptaphylla as well as from Clausena indica. In this study, MHC was investigated for its anti-breast cancer activity based on molecular interactions with specific proteins related to breast cancer, where the MHC had predicted binding affinities for NF-κB with −8.3 kcal/mol. Furthermore, to evaluate the biological activity of MHC, we studied its in vitro cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 cells. This alkaloid showed significant inhibitory effects and induced apoptosis, as evidenced by enhanced caspase activities and the cellular generation of ROS. It was observed that a treatment with MHC inhibited the gene expression of NF-kB in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. These results suggest that MHC could be a promising medical plant for breast cancer treatment. Further studies are needed to understand the molecular mechanisms behind the anticancer action of MHC.

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is one of the most belligerent types of breast cancer. While various modalities exist in managing/treating IBC, drug delivery using microneedles (MNs) is considered to be the most innovative method of localized delivery of anti-cancer agents. Localized drug delivery helps to treat IBC could limit their adverse reactions. MNs are nothing but small needle like structures that cause little or no pain at the site of administration for drug delivery via layers of the skin. The polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) based MNs were fabricated by using three dimensional (3D) technology called Projection Micro-Stereo Lithography (PµSL). The fabricated microneedle patches (MNPs) were characterized and coated with a coating formulation comprising of gemcitabine and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose by a novel and inventive screen plate method. The drug coated MNPs were characterized by various instrumental methods of analysis and release profile studies were carried out using Franz diffusion cell. Coat-and-poke strategy was employed in administering the drug coated MNPs. Overall, the methods employed in the present study not only help in obtaining MNPs with accurate dimensions but also help in obtaining uniformly drug coated MNPs of gemcitabine for treatment of IBC. Most importantly, 100% drug release was achieved within the first one hour only.

Cucurbitacin-B (Cur-B) is an analogue triterpenoid belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Previous reports have explicitly outlined various biological activities of Cucurbitaceae family members, including the anticancer activity of Cur-B. In the present study, we tried to elucidate the anticancer efficacy of Cur-B against prostate cancer PC3 cells. PC3 cells were exposed to purified Cur-B at 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 µM for 24. Cur-B exposure reduced cell viability of PC3 cells at 5 µM (p < 0.05), with further reduction with increased Cur-B concentration (15 µM, p < 0.01 and 25 µM, p < 0.001). Cur-B also succeeded in instigating nuclear fragmentation and condensation, followed by activation of caspase-8, -9 and -3 proportionally with increasing concentrations of Cur-B. Treatment with Cur-B also instigated ROS-mediated oxidative stress both qualitatively and quantitatively at 5 µM, p < 0.05; 15 µM, p < 0.01 and 25 µM, p < 0.001. Increased ROS after Cur-B treatment also led to dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby resulting in considerable apoptosis (p < 0.001), which, again, was proportionally dependent on Cur-B concentration. Cur-B exposure to PC3 cells was concomitantly followed by reduced cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) expression and augmented mRNA expression of CDK inhibitor p21Cip1. Intriguingly, Cur-B exposure also led to considerable downregulation of the JAK/STAT signaling cascade, which may be the reason behind Cur-B-mediated apoptosis and cell cycle arrest within PC3 cells. Therefore, these observations explicitly establish that Cur-B could serve in the prevention of prostate cancer.

Background. Bacterial infections are an important cause of serious health issues worldwide. Various antibacterial drugs have been developed but they have numerous side effects. Development of drug loaded magnetic nanoparticles will help to achieve targeted drug delivery while sustaining the release of drug. It will also enhance its antibacterial activity by using iron oxide. Method. Drug loaded iron oxide nanoparticles were developed to sustain and enhance the antibacterial activity of drug. Chitosan was used as a polymer. The method adopted to prepare magnetic nanoparticles was co-precipitation. Formulated magnetic nanoparticles were tested for drug release, surface morphology, antibacterial activity and FTIR. Results. It was observed from the findings that both formulations were effectively loaded with drugs. The SEM results showed the semi spherical nanoparticles effectively loaded with drug. FTIR spectrum revealed characteristic peaks related to functional groups. Raman spectroscopy showed characteristic bands of both drugs and drug loaded iron oxide nanoparticles. Antibacterial assay results showed an enhanced antibacterial activity by using iron oxide nanoparticles. Conclusion. It was concluded from the study that magnetic nanoparticles could be one of the best approaches to load antibacterial drugs while sustaining and enhancing their antibacterial activity

Experiments were carried out to observe the variation in microstructure and mechanical properties of gray cast iron by adding pearlite promoting alloying elements such as Ti, Sn and W. Results show that adding Sn, Ti, and W with different concentrations improve the microstructure, Brinell hardness and tensile strength of gray cast iron. With the increase of alloying element concentration, the average graphite length and graphite content increase linearly. At the same time, average cell size and the maximum graphite length also decrease linearly. Brinell hardness and tensile strength of gray cast iron also increase with an increase in alloying elements contents, and attain the maximum when Ti = 0.561%, Sn = 0.561% and W = 0.945%. However, at higher concentrations of Ti = 0.810%, Sn = 0.631% and W = 1.351%, the tensile strength decreases from 333 MPa to 297 MPa and the Brinell hardness decreases from 248 HB to 225 HB. The decrease in tensile strength and Brinell hardness at the higher concentration level is attributed to the formation of coarse and thick graphite flakes.

A simple, specific, accurate and economic reverse phase liquid chromatographic method was developed for the estimation of Sofosbuvir in all polymorphic form. Mobile phase contain acetonitrile and 0.05M ammonium acetate (pH 7.6) in ratio of 50:50 (v/v). A logarithmic calibration curve was plotted from 10 µg/mL to 60 µg/mL (r = 0.9989) for sofosbuvir, with the limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.245 μg/mL and 0.816 μg/mL, respectively. The developed method was highly validated and practiced for the assurance of sofosbuvir raw materials with acceptable and non-objectionable accuracy and precision results (recovery 99–102%, RSD

The aim of this work was to develop, optimize and characterize a silymarin-laden polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymeric composite to resolve low aqueous solubility and dissolution rate problem of the drug. A number of silymarin-laden polymeric formulations were fabricated with different quantities of PVP K-30 and PEG 6000 by the solvent-evaporation method. The effect of PVP K-30 and PEG 6000 on the aqueous solubility and dissolution rate was investigated. The optimized formulation and its constituents were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. Both the PEG 6000 and PVP K-30 positively affected the aqueous solubility and dissolution rate of the drug. In particular, a formulation consisting of silymarin, PVP K-30 and PEG 6000 (0.25/1.5/1.5, w/w/w) furnished the highest solubility (24.39±2.95 mg/mL) and an excellent dissolution profile (~100% in 40 min). The solubility enhancement with this formulation was ~1150-fold as compared to plain silymarin powder. Moreover, all the constituents existed in the amorphous state in this silymarin-laden PVP-PEG polymeric composite. Accordingly, this formulation might be a promising tool to administer silymarin with an enhanced effect via the oral route. Keywords: Silymarin, Hydrophilic polymers, Inclusion, Solid dispersion, Aqueous solubility, Dissolution rate