Petrogenic plastics might fragment within the ecosystems into progressively smaller fragments classified by size as “macroplastics”, “mesoplastics”, “microplastics”, and “nanoplastics”. Petrogenic micro and nano plastics (MNPs) are ubiquitous in the ecosystems and form as a result of the ageing or the action of prevailing bio-environmental factors on the plastic materials or direct release of MNPs... more

Although over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are regarded as relatively safe and effective for self-treatment, their growing prevalence and accessibility raise concerns about misuse, addiction, and adverse health consequences. This narrative review provides a current overview of OTC drugs with misuse potential and their associated safety implications. OTC drugs commonly misused include sedative antihistamines, cough mixtures, caffeine-containing... more

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most dangerous and cruel microvascular complications of diabetes, leading to visual impairment and blindness if left untreated. The development of DR is determined by complex multiple pathologic mechanisms, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, retinal vascular dysfunction, and retinal neuronal damage. Aldose reductase (AR) activation in the polyol pathway... more

Hot peppers, belonging to the Capsicum genus, are cultivated worldwide not only as spices and vegetables but also as valuable sources of bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. These plants contain a wide range of biologically active molecules, including capsaicinoids, capsinoids, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamins, and peptides. Such compounds have attracted increasing scientific interest due... more

Lactoferrin is a bioactive ingredient that is sensitive to environmental stresses and needs the use of microencapsulation, notwithstanding all the biological activities and effects it exerts. Pectin is a polysaccharide that acts as an anion for ion–ion interactions. Chitosan is a biodegradable and nontoxic material. In this study, lactoferrin was extracted and purified, pectin and... more

Food packaging performs multiple essential functions: it protects, preserves, contains, markets, stores, and facilitates the transport of food products. Throughout the food supply chain, packaging plays a critical role in maintaining food quality, safety, and shelf life. Growing consumer expectations and evolving market trends have contributed to the emergence of increasingly advanced and innovative wrapping... more