Advances in Drug Targeting, Drug Delivery, and Nanotechnology Applications: Therapeutic Significance in Cancer Treatment.

In the 21st century, thanks to advances in biotechnology and developing pharmaceutical technology, significant progress is being made in effective drug design. Drug targeting aims to ensure that the drug acts only in the pathological area; it is defined as the ability to accumulate selectively and quantitatively in the target tissue or organ, regardless of the chemical structure of the active drug substance and the method of administration. With drug targeting, conventional, biotechnological and gene-derived drugs target the body's organs, tissues, and cells that can be selectively transported to specific regions.

Stability of Ternary Drug-Drug-Drug Coamorphous Systems Obtained Through Mechanochemistry.

This study investigates the preparation of coamorphous systems composed entirely of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), namely praziquantel, niclosamide, and mebendazole. The objective was to formulate and characterize binary and ternary coamorphous systems to evaluate their structural, thermal, and stability properties. Ten different mixtures (binary and ternary) were designed through a mixture design approach and prepared using a sustainable, one-step neat grinding process in a lab-scale vibrational mill.

Design of the Multi-Bioactive Graphene-Oxide/Gelatin/Alginate Scaffolds as Dual ECM-Mimetic and Specific Wound Healing Phase-Target Therapeutic Concept for Advanced Wound Healing.

To develop and evaluate graphene oxide/gelatin/alginate scaffolds for advanced wound therapy capable of mimicking the native extracellular matrix (ECM) and bio-stimulating all specific phases of the wound healing process, from inflammation and proliferation to the remodeling of damaged skin tissue in three dimensions. The scaffolds were engineered as interpenetrating polymeric networks by the crosslinking reaction of gelatin in the presence of alginate and characterized by structural, morphological, mechanical, swelling properties, porosity, adhesion to the skin tissue, wettability, and in vitro simultaneous release of the active agents. Biocompatibility of the scaffolds were evaluated in vitro by MTT test on fibroblasts (MRC5 cells) and in vivo using assay.

Production of Hydrophobic Microparticles at Safe-To-Inject Sizes for Intravascular Administration.

Hydrophobic microparticles are one of the most versatile structures in drug delivery and tissue engineering. These constructs offer a protective environment for hydrophobic or water-sensitive compounds (e.g.

Ashwagandha: Optimizing the Extraction and Electrospun Nanofiber Production.

This study explores the development of electrospun nanofibers incorporating bioactive compounds from (Ashwagandha) root extract, focusing on optimizing extraction conditions and nanofiber composition to maximize biological activity and application potential. Using the Design of Experiment (DoE) approach, optimal extraction parameters were identified as 80% methanol, 70 °C, and 60 min, yielding high levels of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Methanol concentration emerged as the critical factor influencing phytochemical properties.

Peptide Aptamer-Paclitaxel Conjugates for Tumor Targeted Therapy.

: Traditional paclitaxel therapy often results in significant side effects due to its non-specific targeting of cancer cells. Peptide aptamer-paclitaxel conjugates present a promising alternative by covalently attaching paclitaxel to a versatile peptide aptamer via a linker. Compared to antibody-paclitaxel conjugates, peptide aptamer-paclitaxel conjugates offer several advantages, including a smaller size, lower immunogenicity, improved tissue penetration, and easier engineering.

Application of the Box-Behnken Design in the Development of Amorphous PVP K30-Phosphatidylcholine Dispersions for the Co-Delivery of Curcumin and Hesperetin Prepared by Hot-Melt Extrusion.

Curcumin and hesperetin are plant polyphenols known for their poor solubility. To address this limitation, we prepared amorphous PVP K30-phosphatidylcholine dispersions via hot-melt extrusion. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the amounts of active ingredients and phosphatidylcholine, as well as the process temperature, on the performance of the dispersions.

Development and Optimization of Nano-Hydroxyapatite Encapsulating Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction Formulation Using Response Surface Methodology.

: The tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) is a lipid-soluble vitamin that has good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The TRF is widely studied as a potential treatment for various diseases, including bone diseases. However, its application is limited due to its poor oral bioavailability profile, warranting an innovative approach to overcome its pharmacokinetic limitations.

Effects of Seed Processing with Cold Plasma on Growth and Biochemical Traits of Bertoni Under Different Cultivation Conditions: In Soil Versus Aeroponics.

This study compared the effects of seed treatment with low-pressure cold plasma (CP) and atmospheric dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma on morpho-biochemical traits in Bertoni plants cultivated by two methods: in soil and aeroponics. We investigated the impact of the treatments on the germination, plant growth, and content of secondary metabolites, namely steviol glycosides (SGs), rebaudioside A (RebA), and stevioside (Stev), as well as phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Seeds were treated for 2, 5, and 7 min with CP or DBD and 5 min with vacuum six days before sowing.

Spatial and Temporal Variability Management for All Farmers: A Cell-Size Approach to Enhance Coffee Yields and Optimize Inputs.

Coffee yield exhibits plant-level variability; however, due to operational issues, especially in smaller operations, the scouting and management of coffee yields are often hindered. Thus, a cell-size approach at the field level is proposed as a simple and efficient solution to overcome these constraints. This study aimed to present the feasibility of a cell-size approach to characterize spatio-temporal coffee production based on soil and plant attributes and yield (biennial effects) and to assess strategies for enhanced soil fertilization recommendations and economic results.

Effect of Hydrolysate Derived from Subcritical Seawater Treatment of Buckwheat Waste on the Growth of Lettuce ( L.).

This study explores the effects of a subcritical seawater treatment (SST) on buckwheat waste (BW), and the use of the hydrolysate as a liquid fertilizer to improve the growth of lettuce ( L.). Three temperature treatments (110 °C, 170 °C, 230 °C) were used for the SST, and the ionic composition in the seawater achieved the depolymerization and degradation of BW.

Spatial Distribution of Genetic, Ploidy, and Morphological Variation of the Edaphic Steno-Endemic (Brassicaceae) from the Western Balkans.

Polyploidy is a powerful mechanism driving genetic, physiological, and phenotypic changes among cytotypes of the same species across both large and small geographic scales. These changes can significantly shape population structure and increase the evolutionary and adaptation potential of cytotypes. , an edaphic steno-endemic species with a narrow distribution in the Balkan Peninsula, serves as an intriguing case study.

Exploring Dietary Assessment Methods Used to Measure Individual Dietary Intakes in Low- and Middle-Income Countries and Under-Served Populations in High-Income Countries.

Background/objectives: For low- and middle- income country (LMIC) settings, a global nutrition transition is rapidly emerging as diets shift, resulting in a dual burden of malnutrition. High quality dietary intake data for these populations is essential to understand dietary patterns contributing to these nutrition issues. New technology is emerging to address dietary assessment challenges; however, it is unknown how researchers conducting studies with LMIC populations or under-served groups in high-income countries adopt technology-assisted methods.

Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential of Mulberry Fruit Extract in High-Fat Diet-Induced Male Reproductive Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Review.

High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity represents a significant challenge to male reproductive health, affecting approximately 13% of the global adult population. This comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence regarding mulberry ( L.) fruit extract's therapeutic potential for HFD-induced male reproductive dysfunction.

Prescribed Hospital Diet Influence on Dietary Intake of Hospitalised Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: The dietary intake of hospitalised patients is often compromised during hospitalisation, which can be a causal factor for hospital malnutrition. This is considered a public health problem worldwide and is associated with an increased risk of other complications.

Objectives: Our objective was to determine the dietary intake of hospitalised individuals and if the prescribed diet influences it.

The Application of Olive-Derived Polyphenols on Exercise-Induced Inflammation: A Scoping Review.

Background/objectives: There is current scientific interest pertaining to the therapeutic effects of olive-derived polyphenols (ODPs), in particular their associated anti-inflammatory properties, following the wealth of research surrounding the physiological impact of the Mediterranean Diet (MD). Despite this association, the majority of the current literature investigates ODPs in conjunction with metabolic diseases. There is limited research focusing on ODPs and acute inflammation following exercise, regardless of the knowledge surrounding the elevated inflammatory response during this time.

Plant-Based Functional Foods from Borneo.

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is shared between Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), Indonesia (Kalimantan) and Brunei. As a biodiversity hotspot, it is home to about 15,000 flowering plants and 3000 tree species, of which many are endemic to the region. Locally derived plant-based foods are gaining popularity due to their lower environmental impact, contribution to food sustainability and health benefits.

Experimental Investigation of Durability Properties of Polymer Coated Pumice Aggregate Lightweight Concretes.

Pumice aggregates with low density and high porosity are widely used in lightweight concrete. The high water retention ability of pumice aggregates adversely affects the properties of fresh concrete. Additionally, pumice aggregates' inadequate mechanical strength and durability hinder concrete performance.

An Overview of Potential Applications of Environmentally Friendly Hybrid Polymeric Materials.

The applications of polymeric materials are being constantly reviewed and improved. In the present world, the word hybrid, and the general idea of combining two or more inherently different approaches, designs, and materials is gaining significant attention. The area of sustainable materials with a low environmental impact is also rapidly evolving with many new discoveries, including the use of materials of a natural origin and countless combinations thereof.

Antimicrobial Activity of UV-Activated and Cysteamine-Grafted Polymer Foils Against Bacteria and Algae.

Surface modification of various polymer foils was achieved by UV activation and chemical grafting with cysteamine to improve surface properties and antimicrobial efficacy. UVC activation at 254 nm led to changes in surface wettability and charge density, which allowed the introduction of amino and thiol functional groups by cysteamine grafting. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed increased nitrogen and sulfur content on the modified surfaces.

Production and Characterization of Oil-Loaded, Semi-Resorbable, Tri-Layered Hernia Mesh.

Hernia repair is the most common surgical operation applied worldwide. Mesh prostheses are used to support weakened or damaged tissue to decrease the risk of hernia recurrence. However, the patches currently used in clinic applications have significant short-term and long-term risks.

Impact of Thermal Treatment and Aging on Lignin Properties in Spruce Wood: Pathways to Value-Added Applications.

Thermal modification is an environmentally friendly process that does not utilize chemical agents to enhance the stability and durability of wood. The use of thermally modified wood results in a significantly extended lifespan compared with untreated wood, with minimal maintenance requirements, thereby reducing the carbon footprint. This study examines the impact of varying modification temperatures (160, 180, and 210 °C) on the lignin of spruce wood using the ThermoWood process and following the accelerated aging of thermally modified wood.

Zero Waste Concept in Production of PLA Biocomposites Reinforced with Fibers Derived from Wild Plant ( L.) and Energy Crop ( (L.) Rusby).

This research follows the principles of circular economy through the zero waste concept and cascade approach performed in two steps. Our paper focuses on the first step and explores the characteristics of developed biocomposite materials made from a biodegradable poly(lactic acid) polymer (PLA) reinforced with natural fibers isolated from the second generation of biomass (agricultural biomass and weeds). Two plants, L.

Antioxidant Particleboards Produced from Forest By-Products with Application in the Food Packaging Industry.

The food packaging industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of our economy, with a large contribution to environmental concerns due to the extensive use of fossil-derived materials. Combining wood-based materials, such as particleboards, with bio-adhesives may offer a great opportunity to develop sustainable packaging solutions with active antioxidant properties. In the present work, a phenolic extract of poplar bark was produced and bio-adhesives were formulated using citric acid as a cross-linker.

Development of Thermoplastic Bi-Component Electrodes for Triboelectric Impact Detection in Smart Textile Applications.

Smart textiles provide a significant technological advancement, but their development must balance traditional textile properties with electronic features. To address this challenge, this study introduces a flexible, electrically conductive composite material that can be fabricated using a continuous bi-component extrusion process, making it ideal for sensor electrodes. The primary aim was to create a composite for the filament's core, combining multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), polypropylene (PP), and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), optimised for conductivity and flexibility.