Hand Rub Research Articles

Simple colorimetric paper-based test strip for point-of-use quality testing of ethanol-based hand sanitizers.

A novel, simple, affordable, and reliable colorimetric paper-based analytical device (PAD) was developed for the point-of-use quality testing of ethanol-based hand sanitizers, mainly against adulteration by water. The principle was based on the novel solvatochromism of methylparaben (MPB)-Fe3+ complex, where water is essential for complex formation and ethanol is necessary for MPB solubility. The intensity of the formed violet color, measured at 528 nm, showed a good correlation (R2 = 0.996) with the percentage water in the reaction media over a range from 40% to 100% (0-60% ethanol), with excellent accuracy and precision as indicated by the percent recovery within 100.00% ± 2% and %RSD of <2%. A PAD was prepared by the sequential immobilization of Fe3+ ions and MPB on chitosan-modified filter paper. The developed PAD was successfully applied for the quality testing of ethanol-based hand sanitizers using an established color index, where clearly distinct colors were observed as a function of the percentage ethanol (0-100%). The developed test strips could achieve on-site lab-quality results without expensive or sophisticated instruments using a few milligrams of FeCl3 and MPB in addition to regular filter paper. Accordingly, it can be used as a test strip for the quality checking of ethanol-based hand sanitizers by end users.

Electrochemical Analysis of Methanol with Nafion-Coated Copper Oxide Nanoparticles.

This work introduces a Nafion-coated copper(I) oxide nanoparticle electrode (Nafion/Cu2O/GC) designed for the electrochemical detection of methanol (CH3OH). The responses of the composite material toward CH3OH were enhanced by the selective permeation of CH3OH through the hydrophilic channels of the Nafion membrane in combination with the electroactivity of Cu2O nanoparticles. The sensor displayed a linear detection range of 0.33-100 mM CH3OH with a sensitivity of 0.17 μA·mM-1 and a detection limit (3 s/m) of 0.10 mM. It exhibited excellent reproducibility with a relative standard deviation of <5%. The sensor's practical applicability was demonstrated through recovery studies on hand sanitizer samples, achieving ca. 100% recovery. The sensor was further used to elucidate CH3OH adsorption on activated carbon, revealing that the process conforms to the Langmuir isotherm model.

TFOS lifestyle report: Effects of contact lenses on the ocular surface and adnexa

This presentation summarizes the evidence‐based findings of the Contact Lens Subcommittee of the recent Workshop of the Tear Film &amp; Ocular Surface Society, entitled “A Lifestyle Epidemic: Ocular Surface Disease” (www.tearfilm.org).Several risk factors can increase the potential for complications associated with contact lens wear, such as ignoring appropriate contact lens care, disregarding an ocular or systemic disease (especially if associated with an unhealthy ocular surface), reduced clinical surveillance and the simultaneous use of excessive alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs. The recent pandemic has introduced novel challenges to the wear of contact lenses, including mask associated dry eye, discomfort and fatigue with digital devices, accidental exposure to hand sanitizers and a decreased duration of contact lens wear. Adverse environments for lens wearers, such as pollution, dust, smoke, and sport or work accidents determining ocular trauma, can represent challenges for the use of contact lens, though protective in some cases. To ensure the best outcomes for contact lens wearers in adverse situations, prescription choice should consider several factors, including night driving, sports, wear at high altitude, military application, and outer space environments.This presentation synthetises the lifestyle‐related choices made by both clinicians and contact lens wearers, and underlines that, if appropriately undertaken, these can positively impact contact lens wearers quality of life. A systematic review and meta‐analysis highlight the need to better understand the influence of lifestyle factors on contact lens dropout.

Comportamento preventivo contra covid-19 e sua relação com as condições sociais e de saúde de pessoas idosas

Abstract Objective To delineate the profile of preventive behavior against covid-19 adopted by older adults and investigate its correlation with social and health conditions. Method A cross-sectional and analytical study conducted with 72 individuals (≥ 60 years) enrolled in an Open University for Older Adults in the municipality of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were contacted via telephone from November 2020 to June 2021. A total of 11 preventive measures were scrutinized to identify the behaviors adopted by older adults against covid-19. Data analysis employed principal component analysis, Pearson's chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact tests, with a confidence level of 95%. Results The adoption of preventive behaviors was assessed through activities such as hand hygiene with soap and water, use of hand sanitizer, wearing facial masks, and practicing social distancing. The majority of individuals reported the adoption of preventive behaviors (79.2%), and it was observed that those with incomes below four minimum wages exhibited higher proportions of compliance (87.5%) compared to individuals with incomes exceeding 10 minimum wages (46.2%) (p=0.038). Conclusion Preventive measures against covid-19 were embraced by the older adults, influenced by income. The findings underscore the significance of educational strategies for fostering health preventive behaviors, taking into account the social context.

Prevalence of Hand Eczema Owing to Hand Hygiene Practices among Healthcare Workers Managing COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-sectional Study Haryana, India

Introduction: Healthcare Workers (HCWs) have borne the major brunt of the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, being at the forefront. With the disease being enigmatic and no proven treatment or vaccine available during the initial stages, personal protection in general, and hand hygiene, in particular, have been the mainstays for protection against the disease, exposing HCWs to more wet work. Wet work exposure is considered a major risk factor for the occurrence of Hand Eczema (HE). Aim: To estimate the prevalence of hand dermatitis and ascertain the risk factors among HCWs exposed to wet work while caring for COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs managing COVID-19 patients in a dedicated COVID-19 hospital from July to December 2020. The diagnosis of HE was based on medical history and clinical examination. Clinical features like itching, redness, scaling, clustered papulovesicles, hyperkeratosis, or fissuring largely confined to the hands, with none or only minor involvement of other areas, were used in diagnosing HE. An association of various wet work exposures with HE among study participants was analysed. Categorical variables were analysed using the Chi-square test, and a p-value &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 390 HCWs, of which 203 (52.1%) were females, participated in the study. The majority, i.e., 329 (84.4%) of participants, were in the age range of 21-35 years. A total of 244 (62.6%) HCWs were performing duties for 30-40 hours per week. Among all 390 HCWs studied, 102 (26.2%) were found to have features of HE. High frequency of alcoholic hand disinfectant use (&gt;20 times daily) was significantly associated with the occurrence of HE. Similarly, the high frequency of hand washing with soap at work (&gt;20 times) significantly increased the risk of developing HE. A prior history of atopic diathesis was found to be a significant risk factor for fresh episodes of HE. Conclusion: The present study concludes that intensive hand hygiene during the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic leads to the occurrence of HE among HCWs.

Antibacterial Activity of Terminalia mantaly Stem Ethanol Extract as Hand Sanitizer Gel

Background: Hand sanitizers generally contain alcohol. However, it can cause dry and irritated skin. Therefore, it is necessary to find antibacterial alternatives that are safe for the skin. One of the plants that has antibacterial activity is Terminalia mantaly (T. mantaly). This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity of ethanol extract and hand sanitizer gel of T. mantaly.Methods: The antibacterial activity test against gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes) and gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Shigella dysenteriae) was carried out using the liquid micro dilution method. The phytochemical tests were also performed. This study was conducted at the Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Sains and Informatics, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani in April-June 2022.Results: The ethanol extract of T. mantaly stem contained secondary metabolites of alkaloids, tannins, quinones, saponins, steroids, and flavonoids. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of T. mantaly stem ethanol extract against Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes were 0.63%, 0.63%, 0.16%, and 0.16%, whereas the hand sanitizer gel gave MIC values of 0.63%; 0.31%; 0.16%; and 0.16% respectively. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of T. mantaly stem ethanol extract and hand sanitizer gel had the same results, namely 2.50%, 0.16%, 1.25%, and 1.25%. The physical stability of the hand sanitizer gel from the ethanol extract of T. mantaly stem met the physical stability standards of the gel. Conclusions: The ethanol extract of the T. mantaly stems has stronger antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria than against gram- negative bacteria.

Acceptance and Attitudes towards Covid-19 Vaccines: A Cross-Sectional Study from India

ABSTRACT: COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 – 2 that caused a devastating impact and has affected human population globally. The mitigation measures to impede and contain the spread of the COVID-19 disease included lockdowns, social distancing, and use of masks, hand sanitization &amp; other basic hygiene practices. Administration of vaccines was considered the most effective strategy to reduce the risk of the disease. Several vaccines developed against multiple variants of Coronavirus to combat the dreadful disease. The project was taken with the objective to know the perceptions of people about the COVID-19 vaccines and was intended to evaluate the awareness, attitude, and factors determining their acceptance or hesitancy towards the vaccine among the Indian population. This study was conducted using a snowball sampling technique employing a cross-sectional and web-based online survey. A self-administered questionnaire was prepared and circulated among the general Indian population and feedback was collected and analyzed on knowledge and awareness, attitudes, and perceptions about COVID-19 vaccines. A total of 1,507 respondents from different states of India have participated in the survey. A considerable percentage of the population approximately 90% was fully vaccinated due to concerted efforts of Government authorities and health officials. The majority of the people were hesitant and unsure to administer booster doses of vaccines. The results suggested that the majority of the Indian population had good knowledge and awareness about Covid 19 vaccines and had a very positive attitude and acceptance towards vaccines but showed a lack of interest towards booster doses. Hence, various strategies need to be formulated to update the information to the public through awareness programs and their effective implementation.

국내 손 세정제 용기 디자인 분석에 관한 연구

국내 손 세정제 용기 디자인 분석에 관한 연구

EFFECT OF LIQUID SMOKE FROM PYROLYSIS OF DURIAN SKIN AND ETANOL EXTRACT OF ORANGE PEEL AS BIO HAND SANITIZER

Liquid smoke resulting from pyrolysis of durian skin has antibacterial potential which is used as a basic ingredient for making bio hand sanitizer. Durian skin is difficult to degrade because it contains high levels of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose compounds, so with the use of durian skin, it is expert that it will be able to reduce durian skin waste. Bio hand sanitizer is formulated with essential oils to reduce the pungent aroma of smoke. This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity and characteristics of the durian skin liquid smoke bio hand sanitizer. This study used the Completely Randomized Design (CRD) method, with a comparison between durian peel liquid smoke and orange peel extract and the addition of 10 mL NaOH (1:3, 1:1,57, 1:1, and 3:1). The results of research based on characteristic tests obtained pH values of 4.81-7.36, viscosity 1392-3664 cps. Formula E (3:1) emerged as the best sample through organoleptic tests on each bio hand sanitizer preparation formula. It exhibited a yellow color, a runny texture, and a smoky aroma with the mixture. The antibacterial test demonstrated that the bio hand sanitizer preparation possessed antibacterial activity, and the resistance diameter for the test bacteria S. Aureus and E. Coli ranged from 21.51 to 31.14 mm

Development and Evaluation of an Eco-Friendly Hand Sanitizer Formulation Valorized from Fruit Peels.

Hand sanitizer usage has proven to be a common and practical method for reducing the spread of infectious diseases which can be caused by many harmful pathogens. There is a need for alcohol-free hand sanitizers because most hand sanitizers on the market are alcohol-based, and regular use of them can damage the skin and can be hazardous. India is the world's largest producer of fruits and one of the major problems after fruit consumption is their peels, causing waste management problems and contributing to the formation of greenhouse gases leading to air pollution and adding to the problem of climate change. Valorization of such wastes into other value-added products and their incorporation into formulations of eco-friendly alcohol-free hand sanitizers would solve these issues, save the environment, benefit the society, and help in achieving the sustainable development goals. Thus, this research focuses on formulating an effective natural alcohol-free hand sanitizer that harnesses the antimicrobial properties of the various types of bioactive components found in fruit peels of pomegranate, sweet lime, and lemon. The peel extracts and the formulated sanitizer proved considerable antimicrobial activity against the pathogenic Escherichia coli and hand microflora. Molecular docking was also applied to examine ligand-protein interaction patterns and predict binding conformers and affinity of the sanitizer phytocompounds towards target proteins in COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia viruses. The binding affinities and the protein-ligand interactions virtual studies revealed that the sanitizer phytocompounds bind with the amino acids in the target proteins' active sites via hydrogen bonding interactions. As a result, it is possible to formulate a natural, alcohol-free hand sanitizer from fruit peels that is effective against pathogenic germs and viruses using the basic structure of these potential findings.

A simple and rapid colorimetric detection of methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol and its application toward alcohol-based hand sanitizer quality control

ABSTRACT A practical colorimetric analysis for alcohol determination was devised using a composite of food colorants, specifically a green solution of brilliant blue FCF and tartrazine at a ratio of 1:5 v/v. This colorimetric method was characterized by its simplicity, user-friendliness, environmental compatibility, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for self-measurement through visual examination. The colorimetric procedure entails admixture 1 mL of the alcohol sample with 50 µL of the green test solution and 250 µL of a 30% NaOH solution at ambient temperature. The ensuing color changes were visually assessed within 5 min. Through color sensing, methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol were identified by the manifestation of lemon yellow, orange, and biphasic solutions, respectively. Ethanol was semi-quantified based on color sensing from green to orange, with corresponding concentration ranges. The limit of detection for both methanol and ethanol was determined to be 30% v/v. The developed method demonstrated an accuracy of 93%, with the error range of 1 − 10% v/v and standard deviation of 3.9% v/v, as confirmed by the analysis of 100 commercially available alcohol-based hand sanitizers. This methodology has the potential for further expansion to encompass a wide range of rapid colorimetric analyses of products containing alcohol, including food items, alcohol raw materials, and cosmetics.

The Magnitude and associated factors of Helicobacter Pylori Infection among Dyspeptic Patients at the Arba Minch General Hospital in Southern Ethiopia

Background: Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a major public health problem, with a higher prevalence reported in developing countries, including Ethiopia. Persistent H. pylori infection could result in chronic gastritis, duodenal ulcers, and subsequently gastric carcinoma. However, the burden of the infection varies within and between countries. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 422 adult dyspeptic patients attended at Arba Minch General Hospital from March 1st to June 30th, 2022. Pretested structured questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic characteristics, clinical information, and other related factors for H. pylori infection. Stool samples were analyzed using the H. pylori fecal antigen rapid test kit. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. The p-value &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The overall magnitude of H. pylori was found to be 32.2% (136/422), with a 95% CI = (27.7-36.5). The highest proportion of H. pylori occurred in male study participants (55.1%) and in participants aged 31-40 years (42.6%). H. pylori stool antigen positivity was significantly associated with alcohol consumption [AOR = 1.87, 95% CI: (1.06-3.29)], smoking cigarettes [AOR = 2.75, 95% CI: (1.43-5.27)], and hand washing practice after the toilet [AOR = 3.02, 95% CI: (1.41-6.48)]. Conclusion: Overall, a considerable magnitude of H. pylori was identified in the setting. Alcohol consumption, smoking cigarettes, and hand washing practice after using the toilet were found to be statistically significantly associated with H. pylori infection. Health education is therefore essential, particularly regarding societal lifestyle changes and knowledge of the potential sources of infection and H. pylori transmission.

Design and application of a hand sanitiser bottle with timer

Design and application of a hand sanitiser bottle with timer

Leviticus 13:1-8 and The Handling of Pandemic Victims Among Priests in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria

Leviticus 13:1-8 presents God’s instruction to his people, Israel, on how to combat the health pandemic. The hermeneutical propagations will help the priests and church leaders fight the virus, especially among priests in Nsukka, Enugu State. According to this text, the priest is to act as a health instructor in a situation of overwhelming health challenges. It describes health challenges and the role of the priest in overcoming them. Therefore, this text can serve as a model for combating contagious diseases like Covid-19. It is on record that the emergency of the Corona virus pandemic overwhelmed the health workers. This opened a gap, which necessitated that other people, like the priests, could come in and fill it. A rhetorical-exegetical method of biblical interpretation was used. Again, observations and interviews sufficed to ascertain the extent to which the priest helped enforce precautionary measures for Covid-19 as advanced by the World Health Organization and the National Center for Disease Control. It was discovered that the priests and other ordained men of God in Nsukka, Enugu State, are not totally committed to the extra services of helping the health workers in their fight against Covid-19. This is because it does not reflect on their sermon. Also, social distancing was not observed in the churches visited, and no testing kits, not even infrared thermometers, were found in most of the churches visited. Worse still, some laity were observed entering and worshiping without a facemask and no sanction. Washing of hands with soap and use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer were noticed not to be in place in most of the remote places of worship centers that were visited. Therefore, this paper engages the priests and religious leaders within the study area to preach health protocols, provide testing materials, and establish isolation centers to assuage Covid-19 pandemic.

Current status of drug treatment for hand foot mouth disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is an infectious disease caused by the intestinal RNA virus. Hand, foot, and mouth disease can occur every season, with no significant difference in specificity. However, the more frequent season of onset is spring and summer, with April to September as the main month of onset. Coastal areas are relatively popular areas of incidence. HFMD is mainly characterized by herpes with different sizes and clinical manifestations, such as in the hands, feet, and mouth. This article categorizes drugs into two categories: antiviral drugs and antiviral prevention. In describing antiviral drugs, they are classified them into traditional Chinese medicine and non-traditional Chinese medicine. At the same time, the two most effective and commonly used drugs or methods are summarized for preventing HFMD, namely the EV-71 virus vaccine for HFMD, and the washable hand sanitizer that prevents HFMD by blocking the transmission path of the virus. A comprehensive description and summary of the current treatment methods and drugs for combating and treating HFMD. This article provides a comprehensive description of different drugs by elaborating on their advantages and therapeutic principles, combined with their related pharmacological effects.

Quality of New Domestic Hand Sanitizer Drug Product Manufacturers During COVID-19.

The FDA initiated a cross-sectional, statistically based sampling and testing study to characterize the quality of marketed alcohol-based hand sanitizer (ABHS) by evaluating the alcohol content and impurities present in ABHS products manufactured by establishments that registered with the FDA during March-April 2020. A stratified sampling design divided the population of manufacturers into independent groups based on each establishment's level of experience with FDA oversight and its geographic location. ABHS products were collected and analyzed by spatially offset Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The GC-MS results for 310 products, from 196 newly registered domestic manufacturers, showed that 71.6% (± 5.7%) of these manufacturers had violative products. In 104 (33.5%) cases, the alcohol content did not meet label claim assay specifications but still fell within CDC efficacy ranges. Ethanol ABHS products failed more often overall (assay and impurities) (84.3%) and for impurities (84.3%), than isopropanol ABHS products (11.2% and 6.2%, respectively). Differences in test results across active ingredients were statistically significant. Ethanol ABHS products often (63.5% of cases) failed due to the presence of acetal or acetaldehyde, particularly in products with pH ≤ 6. Other impurities were also detected in several ABHS products, suggesting the use of low-grade alcohol in the manufacture of these products. Evidence was insufficient to conclude that having experience manufacturing FDA-regulated products, or lack thereof, influenced product-level violative results. This study highlights the importance of sourcing and testing active pharmaceutical ingredients to produce quality drug products.

Dietary diversity, hygiene, and lifestyle practices among adult residents during COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study from Bangladesh

BackgroundCOVID-19 is an international emergency public health concern that poses significant challenges. Intake of adequate immune-boosting nutrients from natural sources, proper hygiene practices, and ideal lifestyle practices must be adhered to during this condition, along with the discovery of protective vaccines. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the dietary, hygiene, and lifestyle practices among adult residents during the COVID-19 pandemic situation in the Jashore district, Bangladesh. MethodologyThis cross-sectional study was conducted through face-to-face interviews with 500 adult respondents of both genders (age ≥ 18 years). A structured and validated questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic information, dietary diversity, hygiene, and lifestyle practices. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to evaluate and predict factors that influence the study variables. ResultsThe study found that about 44.60% had medium, 27% had low, and 28.40% had high dietary diversity. Regarding the dietary practices, age (p = 0.001), education (p = 0.005), occupation (p = 0.015), and COVID-19 experience (p = 0.001) of respondents were significantly associated with both residential. Hygiene practices such as using a face mask, hand sanitizer use, covering the face during coughing, and hand shaking were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with respondents in both residential areas. In logistic regression analysis, factors associated with poor hygiene practices were being male, illiterate, > 40 years of age, smokers, malnourished respondents in rural areas, obese, > 40 years of age, and having income < 10000 BDT in urban areas. About 40.4% of urban and 45.6% of rural respondents were found to be engaged in physical activity. ConclusionThe study found that the respondents mostly had access to medium dietary diversity, and rural residents maintained a better lifestyle while urban respondents practiced better hygiene. Based on the findings, the study suggests increasing public awareness regarding dietary diversity, hygiene, and lifestyle practices in both rural and urban areas to mitigate the consequences of COVID-19.

Targeted Infection Control Practices in Japanese Hospitals for Multidrug-Resistant Organisms: Guidance From the Public Health Center.

Introduction The study conducted by the Kawaguchi City Public Health Center (PHC) in 2023 on hospital infection control (IC) programs revealed that hospitals can improve their IC programs if the PHC provides training sessions (TSs) that have numerical effects. In this study, we expected that we could help hospitals develop their IC practices by providing targeted guidance. This study aimed to clarify targeted guidance on IC practices and TS programs to develop hospitals'hospitals' IC programs on multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) by examining hospitals'hospitals' IC programs in reference to the study conducted in 2023 and other case reports. Methods In June 2022, the Kawaguchi City PHC conducted TSs for 19 hospitals and eight affiliated (AFs) clinics with beds, providing guidelines and practices on infection control (IC) for MDROs. After the TSs, we sent a questionnaire to these hospitals and affiliated clinics. The questionnaire inquired about current and planned IC policies, hand hygiene compliance programs (HHCPs), the usefulness of the TSs conducted by the PHC, and IC programs that the facilities intended to implement or develop in the future. This study examined the relationship between the perceived usefulness of the information provided and the IC programs planned for development, referencing a study conducted in 2023 and other case reports. Results Seventeen hospitals and six AFs with beds responded to the survey, yielding an 85.2% response rate. IC policies for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were prepared by 21 hospitals (91.3%), whereas only five hospitals (21.7%) had prepared IC policies for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. Regarding HHCPs, an increase in the availability of alcohol-based hand sanitizer was identified by 17 hospitals (73.9%), while 13 hospitals (56.5%) reported using posters or symbols, 12 hospitals (52.2%) reported using TS and hand sanitizers, and nine hospitals (39.1%) assessed HH compliance and provided feedback. Furthermore, nine hospitals (39.1%) identified HHCPs and Environmental Cleaning (EC) for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) as useful information. There was a statistically significant association between TSs on HHCPs and the development of new HHCPs (p = 0.027). Additionally, information on EC for CPE was significantly associated with the development of staff cohorting strategies (p = 0.007). However, TS programs were not significantly connected to EC, nor were TSs to be developed. Conclusion The PHC should advise hospitals to assess if their HHCPs effectively contribute to improving HH compliance. It is essential for the PHC to furnish hospitals with resources and information that aid in the development of EC training. Additionally, the PHC should support the creation of specific and effective TS programs focused on EC or TS development. Conducting surveys to identify barriers to implementing staff cohorting strategies is also recommended. We propose that TS programs should include quantifiable data on HHCPs and EC, such as.

A Novel Handrub Tablet Loaded with Pre- and Post-Biotic Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Combining Virucidal Activity and Maintenance of the Skin Barrier and Microbiome.

This study aimed to develop a holobiont tablet with rapid dispersibility to provide regulation of the microbiota, virucidal activity, and skin barrier protection. A 23 factorial experiment was planned to define the best formulation for the development of the base tablet, using average weight, hardness, dimensions, swelling rate, and disintegration time as parameters to be analyzed. To produce holobiont tablets, the chosen base formulation was fabricated by direct compression of prebiotics, postbiotics, and excipients. The tablets also incorporated solid lipid nanoparticles containing postbiotics that were obtained by high-pressure homogenization and freeze-drying. The in vitro virucidal activity against alpha-coronavirus particles (CCoV-VR809) was determined in VERO cell culture. In vitro analysis, using monolayer cells and human equivalent skin, was performed by rRTq-PCR to determine the expression of interleukins 1, 6, 8, and 17, aquaporin-3, involucrin, filaggrin, FoxO3, and SIRT-1. Antioxidant activity and collagen-1 synthesis were also performed in fibroblast cells. Metagenomic analysis of the skin microbiome was determined in vivo before and after application of the holobiont tablet, during one week of continuous use, and compared to the use of alcohol gel. Samples were analyzed by sequencing the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. A handrub tablet with rapid dispersibility was developed for topical use and rinse off. After being defined as safe, the virucidal activity was found to be equal to or greater than that of 70% alcohol, with a reduction in interleukins and maintenance or improvement of skin barrier gene markers, in addition to the reestablishment of the skin microbiota after use. The holobiont tablets were able to improve the genetic markers related to the skin barrier and also its microbiota, thereby being more favorable for use as a hand sanitizer than 70% alcohol.

Assessment of inhalation exposure to microplastic particles when disposable masks are repeatedly used

Wearing masks to prevent infectious diseases, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, is common. However, concerns arise about inhalation exposure to microplastics (MPs) when disposable masks are improperly reused. In this study, we assessed whether disposable masks release inhalable MPs when reused in simulated wearing conditions. All experiments were conducted using a controlled test chamber setup with a constant inspiratory flow. Commercially available medical masks with a three-layer material, composition comprising polypropylene (PP in the outer and middle layers) and polyethylene (PE in the inner layer), were used as the test material. Brand-new masks with and without hand rubbing, as well as reused medical masks, were tested. Physical properties (number, size, and shape) and chemical composition (polymers) were identified using various analytical techniques such as fluorescence staining, fluorescence microscopy, and micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (μFTIR). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to scrutinize the surface structure of reused masks across different layers, elucidating the mechanism behind the MP generation. The findings revealed that brand-new masks subjected to hand rubbing exhibited a higher cumulative count of MPs, averaging approximately 1.5 times more than those without hand rubbing. Fragments remained the predominant shape across all selected size classes among the released MPs from reused masks, primarily through a physical abrasion mechanism, accounting for >90 % of the total MPs. The numbers of PE particles were higher than PP particles, indicating that the inner layer of the mask contributed more inhalable MPs than the middle and outer layers combined. The released MPs from reused masks reached their peak after 8 h of wearing. This implies that regularly replacing masks serves as a preventive measure and mitigates associated health risks of inhalation exposure to MPs.