Common Ingredients Research Articles

A Systematic Literature Review on the Composition, Health Impacts, and Regulatory Dynamics of Vaping.

This comprehensive review deals with the multifaceted aspects of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), examining their composition, health implications, regulatory challenges, and market dynamics. E-cigarettes, also known as vaping devices, function by warming a solution of liquid containing flavors, nicotine, and various other compounds to produce an aerosol for users to inhale. This review underscores the evolution and widespread adoption of e-cigarettes since their introduction in 2003, highlighting their appeal as alternatives to traditional tobacco smoking. The essential parts of e-cigarettes are the battery, heating element, e-liquid (or e-juice), and mouthpiece. Propylene glycoland vegetable glycerinare common ingredients in e-liquids, along with nicotine and other flavors. Concerns over the health impacts of e-cigarettes have grown, particularly in light of incidents like the e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injuryoutbreak in 2019 linked to vaping-associated lung injuries. Evidence suggests that while e-cigarettes may pose fewer risks than conventional cigarettes, they are not without health consequences, including potential respiratory and cardiovascular effects. Regulatory efforts worldwide have struggled to keep pace with the rapid evolution of e-cigarettes, exacerbated by their diverse flavors and marketing strategies that appeal to youth. The review discusses global regulatory responses, including bans and restrictions, to curb youth uptake and address public health concerns. Furthermore, the rise of a black market for e-cigarettes poses additional challenges to effective regulation and tobacco control efforts. In conclusion, while e-cigarettes offer potential harm reduction benefits for adult smokers seeking alternatives to traditional tobacco products, their widespread availability and evolving landscape necessitate vigilant regulatory oversight to protect public health, especially among youth. Future research should continue to explore the long-term health impacts and efficacy of e-cigarettes as smoking elimination aids, informing evidence-based policies and interventions.

Advanced Application of Polymer Nanocarriers in Delivery of Active Ingredients from Traditional Chinese Medicines.

Active ingredients from Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) have been a cornerstone of healthcare for millennia, offering a rich source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. However, the clinical application of TCMs is often limited by challenges such as poor solubility, low bioavailability, and variable pharmacokinetics. To address these issues, the development of advanced polymer nanocarriers has emerged as a promising strategy for the delivery of TCMs. This review focuses on the introduction of common active ingredients from TCMs and the recent advancements in the design and application of polymer nanocarriers for enhancing the efficacy and safety of TCMs. We begin by discussing the unique properties of TCMs and the inherent challenges associated with their delivery. We then delve into the types of polymeric nanocarriers, including polymer micelles, polymer vesicles, polymer hydrogels, and polymer drug conjugates, highlighting their application in the delivery of active ingredients from TCMs. The main body of the review presents a comprehensive analysis of the state-of-the-art nanocarrier systems and introduces the impact of these nanocarriers on the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of TCM components. On the basis of this, we provide an outlook on the future directions of polymer nanocarriers in TCM delivery. This review underscores the transformative potential of polymer nanocarriers in revolutionizing TCM delivery, offering a pathway to harness the full therapeutic potential of TCMs while ensuring safety and efficacy in a modern medical context.

Profitability Analysis of Long Coriander Crop Share by Small-Scale Producers in Battambang, Cambodia

This paper is intended to introduce Long Coriander, the best-known leafy vegetable in Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Coriander family. It has a strong coriander scent and adds flavor to common ingredients in Central and Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in soups, curries, and noodle dishes. Beyond its culinary uses, Long Coriander also has many benefits in medicine. To meet the criteria of this study, researchers seek to investigate the profitability of the Long Coriander crop for small-scale producers in Cambodia's Battambang Province. It weighs the revenue from producing Long Coriander against the costs of planting and harvesting its crop. The study also illustrates the estimated total revenue and costs for each planting. Producing Long Coriander may beneficially result in large sums of earnings for farmers, with a profit margin of approximately 57%. Furthermore, according to an economic efficiency (EE) analysis, the cost-to-revenue ratio is higher than 1. This proves that the total amount of revenue made from the sale of Long Coriander outweighs the costs of planting and harvesting, so small-scale producers are convincingly supposed to earn more money from this crop. This research study, through dedication and commitment, aims to address the profitability potential of Long Coriander production by integrating the fundamental economic analysis methods to gather rich data that may enhance and influence further agricultural research.

Effects of processed oats and pinto beans on the composition of human gut microbiome: An in vitro study

Oats and pinto beans, which are rich in dietary fibers and plant proteins, are two common ingredients for many processed food products, such as puffed snacks and canned foods. The objective of this study was to investigate the gut microbiome response to processed oats and pinto beans food products. Raw oats and pinto beans were canned, boiled, and extruded at selected temperatures to simulate the commercial food processing practices. The processed oat and pinto bean samples were digested in an in vitro digestion system, and were subjected to in vitro fermentation by gut bacteria from human feces, which simulated the reactions between the undigested food components and the gut microbiome. The resulting metabolites were quantitatively and qualitatively measured, the compositions of the gut microbiome were determined by 16S rRNA sequencing, and the microbiota were classified and clustered based on their amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) and co-abundancies. The results showed that pinto beans generated more gas and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) than oats. Boiled oats had a good retention of non-digestible fermentable contents (NDFCs) for the gut microbiota to act on, resulting in greater gas and acid production than other processed oat samples. However, for processed pinto beans, high-temperature extrusion and canning resulted in more NDFCs through starch gelatinization and retrogradation. Guild-based analysis was applied to microbiome analysis to identify key bacteria contributing to microbial shift. Bacteria such as Escherichia-Shigella, Streptococcus, Anaerostipes were promoted in extruded oats, while Lachnospiraceae, Eubacterium hallii, Butyricicoccus were significantly promoted in boiled and low-temperature extruded pinto beans.

African Popular Protest and Political Change

Abstract: In the twenty-first century, African countries have hosted more mass movements than any other region in the world. In the last decade, one in every three nonviolent revolutionary campaigns has taken place in Africa. The region also has the highest short-term success rate for people power. But is this success predicated on the mobilizational force of "protest democracy" to hold elites accountable? Or are African social movements' remarkable successes an environmental artefact, the result of ordinary protests in contexts of extraordinary instability? The evidence suggests that African social movements are uniquely effective and that political and military elites are increasingly trying to harness their power. Ordinary people—marshalled in massive demonstrations and persistent civil society organizing—have played a necessary, often decisive role in agitating for democracy. However, eliciting successful breakthroughs requires the alignment of protester demands with the abandonment of the status quo by elite blocs. Recent cascades of irregular power transfers in African politics illustrate these distinctive dynamics, where diverse domestic political contexts share an important common ingredient: the combination of mass movements pushing for change and military power players who are willing to help them.

Optimization of the levels of ginger extract, palm oil and glucose syrup on the sensory quality of ginger yema

Ginger yema is a product of Guio-ang MPC cooperative of Guindolman, Bohol, Philippines. Yema may also be called a custard candy as it is mainly made of egg yolk, sugar and milk. The yema product made by Guio-ang MPC cooperative uses these same common ingredients with added ginger extract and glucose. To improve and enhance the sensory quality of the aforesaid product, an optimization study on the ingredients namely ginger extract, palm oil and glucose syrup was conducted. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to determine the effect of the different levels of ingredients on the product’s sensory quality. Statistical analysis revealed that the linear and quadratic term of palm oil and glucose syrup levels significantly affect the color, hardness, chewiness and general acceptability of ginger yema. The quadratic term of ginger extract and palm oil significantly decreased the oiliness acceptability. Significant reduction in toothpacking acceptability was observed in the linear term of the glucose syrup level. The interaction of palm oil and ginger extract had a negative significant effect on the color, while the interaction of glucose syrup level and ginger extract significantly affected the hardness and toothpack. The interaction of the glucose syrup level and palm oil significantly affected the product’s hardness, chewiness and general acceptability as well. The superimposed contour plots of all responses revealed the optimum result for color, hardness, chewiness and general acceptability at 14.75% w/w ginger extract, 12.00% w/w palm oil, and 12.20% w/w of glucose syrup.

Glycerol Metabolism Contributes to Competition by Oral Streptococci through Production of Hydrogen Peroxide.

Glycerol is an abundant carbohydrate found in oral cavity, both due to biological activities of humans and microbes, and as a common ingredient of foods and health care products. However, very little is understood regarding the metabolism of glycerol by some of the most abundant oral bacteria, commensal streptococci. This was in part because most streptococci cannot grow on glycerol as the sole carbon source. Here we show that Streptococcus sanguinis , an oral commensal associated with dental health, can degrade glycerol for persistence and competition through two independent pathways, one of which generates hydrogen peroxide at levels capable of inhibiting a dental pathobiont, Streptococcus mutans . Preliminary studies suggest that several other commensal streptococci are also able to catabolize glycerol, and glycerol-related genes are being actively expressed in human dental plaque samples. Our findings reveal the potential of glycerol to significantly impact microbial homeostasis which warrants further exploration.

Sensitivity Differences in Testing of Polyurethane Condoms’ Lubricant Compatibility

Abstract Over-the-counter (OTC) personal lubricants (PLs) generally have less potent effects on condoms’ mechanical properties than do appropriate positive controls. Therefore, to assess the compatibility of OTC PLs with condoms, a test method must be more sensitive than those employed to capture the effect of a strong positive control. Using various percent compositions of selected common ingredients in commercial PLs, we attempted to differentiate between the sensitivities of different methods for testing lubricant effects on polyurethane (PU) condoms. After discrete applications of each composition, we studied induced stresses and stress-to-strain ratios at various strain rates, and stress reduction at a constant stretch, in PU condom coupons at 37°C. Swelling was studied at room temperature (RmT). Changes in the induced stress and stress-to-strain ratio because of low percent composition of a potent surrogate component were detectable only at low strain rates. A few low percent compositions of potent ingredients – though they induced insignificant changes in the material as detected by tensile testing and did not swell the PU material – noticeably reduced the percent stress at a constant stretch. Slower strain rates in tensile testing were necessary to detect the effects of low potency combinations, whereas stress reduction was the most efficient detector of change at a constant physiologically relevant strain. Absence of swelling and insignificant changes in tensile properties at high strain rates did not guarantee an absence of interactions. Manufacturers now have a more sensitive method for capturing the interactions of PU condoms with OTC PLs, which are generally less potent than appropriate positive controls.

Flower Species Ingredient Verification Using Orthogonal Molecular Methods.

Flowers are gaining considerable interest among consumers as ingredients in food, beverages, cosmetics, and natural health products. The supply chain trades in multiple forms of botanicals, including fresh whole flowers, which are easier to identify than dried flowers or flowers processed as powdered or liquid extracts. There is a gap in the scientific methods available for the verification of flower species ingredients traded in the supply chains of multiple markets. The objective of this paper is to develop methods for flower species ingredient verification using two orthogonal methods. More specifically, the objectives of this study employed both (1) DNA-based molecular diagnostic methods and (2) NMR metabolite fingerprint methods in the identification of 23 common flower species ingredients. NMR data analysis reveals considerable information on the variation in metabolites present in different flower species, including color variants within species. This study provides a comprehensive comparison of two orthogonal methods for verifying flower species ingredient supply chains to ensure the highest quality products. By thoroughly analyzing the benefits and limitations of each approach, this research offers valuable insights to support quality assurance and improve consumer confidence.

Luminescent lanthanide hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks for rapid detection of benzophenone-3

2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (BP-3) is a common ingredient in sunscreens that can protect human hair and skin from ultraviolet rays. However, it is poisonous to a number of marine organisms, such as algae and corals. Herein, we constructed a new hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF) by assembling melamine with pyridine 2,6-dicarboxylic acid (MA-DPA). Subsequently, lanthanide HOF (Ln@MA-DPA) was obtained by anchoring lanthanide ions to the HOF via the coordination of surface carboxylic acid and nitrogen atom. Significantly, Tb@MA-DPA exhibits exceptional luminescent sensing behavior towards BP-3 in aqueous condition, with a limit of detection (LOD) as low as 0.72 μM, and possesses the advantages of high selectivity, fast response and recyclability. We believe that the reported sensor will undoubtedly expand the application scope of HOFs and offers a novel avenue for utilizing HOFs in marine pollution monitoring.

Development of Oleogel-Based Fat Replacer and Its Application in Pan Bread Making.

In recent years, the bakery industry has been exploring alternative fats to replace traditional solid fats. Shortening, a common baking ingredient, is produced through the hydrogenation of vegetable oils, resulting in high levels of saturated and trans fatty acids, despite its vegetable oil origin. The excessive consumption of these fats has been associated with negative health effects, including dyslipidemia and cardiovascular issues. Oleogels, incorporating hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), xanthan gum (XG), and olive oil, were utilized to replace shortening in the production of white pan bread. The substitution of shortening with oleogel in the white pan bread preparation demonstrated potential reductions in saturated fat, trans fat, and the ratio of saturated fat to unsaturated fatty acids. Specifically, with the complete substitution of shortening with oleogel, saturated fatty acids decreased by 52.46% and trans fatty acids by 75.72%, with unsaturated fatty acids increasing by 57.18%. Our findings revealed no significant difference in volume between bread made with shortening and bread with up to 50% shortening substitution. Moreover, when compared to bread made with shortening and 50% oleogel substitution, no adverse effects on the quality characteristics of volume and expansion properties were observed, and the retrogradation rate was delayed. This study suggests that incorporating oleogels, formed with hydrocolloids such as HPMC and XG, to replace shortening in bread, in conjunction with traditional solid fats, provides positive effects on the quality and nutritional aspects of the bread compared to using oleogel alone. Through this study, we demonstrate the use of oleogels as a healthier alternative to shortening, without reducing the bread's quality, thus offering a practical solution to reduce unhealthy fats in bakery products.

Association between mustard oil consumption and thrombocytopenia: a case-control study in Bangladesh

Background and objectives: Mustard oil, a common ingredient in South Asian cuisine, has been associated with both culinary appeal and potential health benefits. While studies suggest its role in reducing the risk of ischemic heart disease, concerns arise due to the presence of erucic acid, which has been linked to adverse cardiovascular effects and thrombocytopenia. This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between mustard oil consumption and thrombocytopenia in the Bangladeshi population. Materials and methods: Consecutive patients diagnosed with thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 150000/µL) were enrolled as cases, while controls were selected as the next consecutive patients with normal platelet counts, regardless of demographic characteristics or disease status. Data on demography, clinical variables and mustard oil consumption were collected from medical records and face-to-face interviews. Results: Seventy-six participants were included in the study of which 38 belonged to case and 38 to control groups. The mean age of the individuals in control and case groups was 57.5 and 58.2 years respectively (p = 0.808). Notably, 83.3% of cases reported using mustard oil compared to 28.3% of controls (p<0.001). Cases exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) lower platelet counts (114,789 ± 24,453 /µL) compared to controls (278,211 ± 84,595 /µL). Male gender and the use of mustard oil in cooking were identified as predictors of thrombocytopenia. No bleeding symptoms were observed, raising questions about the clinical significance of mustard oil-associated thrombocytopenia. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for further research to elucidate the complex relationship between mustard oil consumption, erucic acid, and thrombocytopenia, emphasizing the importance of dietary habits in health outcomes. July 2024; Vol. 18(2):005 DOI: https://doi.org/10.55010/imcjms.18.017 *Correspondence: Wasim Md Mohosin Ul Haque, Department of Nephrology, BIRDEM General Hospital, 122 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh. Email: wmmhaque@live.com

Dynamic responses of blood metabolites to nutrient depletion and repletion in broiler chicken nutrition

A total of 720 male Cobb 500 broiler chicks were used in a 5 treatment and 8 replicate experiment to explore dynamic changes in blood metabolites in response to short-term nutrient depletion and repletion. Day old chicks were offered a corn and soybean meal-based common starter diet from d1 to 14 that was formulated to meet all nutrient requirements of the birds. From d15 to 17, the experimental diets were offered, before returning all groups to a common diet from d18 to 20, at which point the experiment was terminated. A total of 5 experimental diets were designed. A standard grower diet served as a control and was offered to 1 of the 5 groups of chicks. The additional 4 experimental groups comprised diets that were low in digestible phosphorus (P), total calcium (Ca), crude protein and digestible amino acids (AA) or apparent metabolizable energy (AME). The common grower diet that was offered from d18-20 was designed to be nutritionally complete and was intended to explore dynamic response to nutrient repletion. Blood was drawn from 8 chicks per treatment at time 0 (immediately prior to introduction of the experimental diets) and then again 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48h after introduction of the nutrient depleted diets. Additionally, blood was drawn 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48h after the introduction of the nutritionally complete common grower diet. Chicks were not sampled more than once. Feed intake, body weight and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were assessed on d14, 17, and 20. Blood metabolites were analyzed using the iSTAT Alinity V handheld blood analyzer, the Vetscan VS2 Chemistry Analyzer and the iCheck Carotene Photometer. Live performance metrics were not affected by the short-term nutrient depletion and all chicks grew normally throughout the experiment. The diet with low digestible P generated a rapid temporary decrease in plasma P and an increase in plasma Ca, that were returned to baseline following the re-introduction of the common grower feed. Introduction of the diet with low total Ca resulted in a significant increase in plasma P, effects which were also mitigated during the nutrient repletion phase. Total plasma protein, albumin and uric acid (UA) were decreased, and plasma glucose increased, in the chicks that received the diet with low crude protein and digestible AA. There was a delayed increase in aspartate amino transaminase (AST) associated with the diets with low digestible P and low AME. These results demonstrate the capacity of blood biochemistry to adapt to quantitative and qualitative changes in nutrient intake. Point-of-care analysis of blood biomarkers offers nutritionists a valuable opportunity to calibrate nutritional matrices for common dietary ingredients, zootechnical feed additives and to optimize diet phase changes. It can be concluded that many blood biomarkers are plastic to changes in diet nutrient density and offer an objective index for optimization of nutritional programs for commercial broiler production.

Development of a Flavor Ingredient Wheel Linking E-Liquid Additives to the Labeled Flavor of Vaping Products

E-liquids contain combinations of chemicals, with many enhancing the sensory attractiveness of the product. Studies are needed to understand and characterize e-liquid ingredients, particularly flavorings, to inform future research and regulations of these products. We identified common flavor ingredients in a convenience sample of commercial e-liquids using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. E-liquid flavors were categorized by flavor descriptors provided on the product packaging. A Flavor Ingredient Wheel was developed to link e-liquid flavor ingredients with flavor categories. An analysis of 109 samples identified 48 flavor ingredients. Consistency between the labeled flavor and ingredients used to produce such flavor was found. Our novel Flavor Ingredient Wheel organizes e-liquids by flavor and ingredients, enabling efficient analysis of the link between ingredients and their flavor profiles and allowing for quick assessment of an e-liquid ingredient’s flavor profile. Investigating ingredient profiles and identifying and classifying commonly used chemicals in e-liquids may assist with future studies and improve the ability to regulate these products.

The presence of microplastics in personal care and cosmetic products (PCCPs) commonly used in Ho Chi Minh City

Microplastics pollution poses a global environmental challenge due to its well-documented effects on marine ecosystems and the food chain for humans. Personal care and cosmetic products (PCCPs), have the potential to be a source of microplastics, which directly contribute to aquatic microplastics pollution. This study investigated the presence of microplastics in widely used PCCPs in Ho Chi Minh City. The microplastics concentration in 21 samples of toothpaste, exfoliating products, facial cleansers, shower gels, and hand sanitizers were examined. The PCCPs samples were dissolved in boiling water and then filtered to separate microplastics. The chemical composition of polymers of extracted microplastics was determined using a Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) with ATR. We found that 14 PCCPs samples contained microplastics as an ingredient. Granular form microplastics were predominant in PCCPs. The largest size of microplastics was found in an exfoliating product (40-2,085μm), while the smallest size was observed in toothpaste (10-380μm). Acrylates copolymers were a common ingredient in the 14 PCCPs samples. Carbomer, polyethylene, and polyethylene glycol were only found in toothpaste samples. The research aims to regulate the components in different types of PCCPs in Vietnam to minimize microplastics discharge into the environment.

Characterisation of vacuum dried honey-sugar powder as affected by drying temperature and sugar carrier ratio for further application in chocolate

The present work aimed to characterise oven-dried honey-sugar powders at vacuum temperatures (30 and 40°C) with dextrose, maltodextrin, and sucrose as the sugar carrier (incorporated at 50, 60, and 70%) for application in chocolate. Honey has high water content, and therefore, its direct use in chocolate will negatively affect the rheological properties of chocolate. Dextrose can produce a honey powder with the least heat degradation, hence maintaining the good health functionality of honey. Maltodextrin is the most common carrier used in honey-powder processing, while sucrose is the most common ingredient used in chocolate. The physical appearance and other physicochemical properties such as moisture content, hygroscopicity, glass transition temperature, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content, and diastase activity were assessed for characterisation. Results showed that the honey-sugar powder that was dried at 40°C with 70% sugar carrier exhibited better properties in terms of physical appearance, moisture content, and hygroscopicity, with the HMF content and diastase activity not significantly affected by both factors. Therefore, honey-sugar powders dried at 40°C with 70% sugar carrier incorporation could have further application in chocolate. The impact of honey-sugar powder on chocolate rheological properties and their functionality in promoting health benefits is crucial for their potential application in the future.

Molecular Toxicity of Popular Toothpaste Formulations on Post-Juveniles of Clarias gariepinus

The widespread use of toothpaste containing various chemical formulations has raised concern regarding their potential impact on aquatic ecosystems. This research examines the molecular toxicity of popular toothpaste brands on post-juveniles of Clarias gariepinus from a commercial fish farm in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. Specifically assessing the impact of these toothpaste brands on the mRNA expression levels of the heat shock protein (HSP70), interleukin (IL-1β), melatonin receptors (MEL1C), and growth hormone in comparison to a control group. The results revealed a significant upregulation of HSP70, IL-1β, and MEL1C genes in the exposed group, indicating a potential stress response and immune system activation. Intriguingly, the growth hormone mRNA expression remained unaffected in the treated group compared to the control. These findings underscore the need for further exploration into the potential molecular consequences of common toothpaste ingredients on aquatic organisms, raising important questions about environmental safety and consumer product development.

Extreme escape attempts: Investigating suicide in contemporary Hindi fiction

Suicide is a serious global public health problem and India’s suicide death rates are among the highest in the world. In recent decades, the depiction of voluntary deaths (Hindi ātmahatyā) has become a quite common ingredient of Hindi fiction. Yatish in Ṭ-ṭā profesar, Anisa in Dāstān-e-lāptā, Sapam in Pīlī chatrī vālī laṛkī, and Jharna in Ek naukrānī kī ḍāyrī, to mention a few examples, are some of the characters who decide to escape from their lives. Who are these people, and what role do suicides play in the narratives? Why are they so common? The paper attempts to answer these questions by linking some recent works of Hindi fiction with media reporting and data provided by the National Crime Records Bureau.

Target Cell Extraction and Spectrum-Effect Relationship Coupled with BP Neural Network Classification for Screening Potential Bioactive Components in Ginseng Extract with a Protective Effect against Myocardial Damage.

Cardiovascular disease has become a common ailment that endangers human health, having garnered widespread attention due to its high prevalence, recurrence rate, and sudden death risk. Ginseng possesses functions such as invigorating vital energy, enhancing vein recovery, promoting body fluid and blood nourishment, calming the nerves, and improving cognitive function. It is widely utilized in the treatment of various heart conditions, including palpitations, chest pain, heart failure, and other ailments. Although numerous research reports have investigated the cardiovascular activity of single ginsenoside, there remains a lack of systematic research on the specific components group that predominantly contribute to cardiovascular efficacy in ginseng medicinal materials. In this research, the spectrum-effect relationship, target cell extraction, and BP neural network classification were used to establish a rapid screening system for potential active substances. The results show that red ginseng extract (RGE) can improve the decrease in cell viability and ATP content and inhibit the increase in ROS production and LDH release in OGD-induced H9c2 cells. A total of 70 ginsenosides were identified in RGE using HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis. Chromatographic fingerprints were established for 12 batches of RGE by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A total of 36 common ingredients were found in 12 batches of RGE. The cell viability, ATP, ROS, and LDH of 12 batches RGE were tested to establish gray relationship analysis (GRA) and partial least squares discrimination analysis (PLS-DA). BP neural network classification and target cell extraction were used to narrow down the scope of Spectral efficiency analysis and screen the potential active components. According to the cell experiments, RGE can improve the cell viability and ATP content and reduce the oxidative damage. Then, seven active ingredients, namely, Ginsenoside Rg1, Rg2, Rg3, Rb1, Rd, Re, and Ro, were screened out, and their cardiovascular activity was confirmed in the OGD model. The seven ginsenosides were the main active substances of red ginseng in treating myocardial injury. This study offers a reference for quality control in red ginseng and preparations containing red ginseng for the management of cardiovascular diseases. It also provides ideas for screening active ingredients of the same type of multi-pharmacologically active traditional Chinese medicines.

A comparative study of the in vitro dermal absorption of radiolabeled benzophenone through human skin

Octocrylene is a common sun filter ingredient used to protect the skin from damaging UV rays. Benzophenone is an impurity found in formulations containing octocrylene. [14C]-Benzophenone was spiked (0.1 g/L) into 2 commercial sunscreen formulations; Neutrogena® Beach Defense Sunscreen Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 70 Aerosol, Neutrogena® Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Aerosol, and an acetone vehicle. The formulations were applied (ca 2 μL/cm2) to dermatomed human skin mounted in static diffusion cells in vitro. Receptor fluid was collected up to 24 h post dose. All samples were analyzed by liquid scintillation counting. The dermal delivery of [14C]-Benzophenone was 10.02, 9.04 and 5.19% for the 3 formulations. However, the [14C]-Benzophenone mass balances were low; 81.5, 85.3 and 8.02%, respectively. A volatility test was performed replacing skin with aluminum foil for the sunscreen formulations only. The [14C]-Benzophenone mass balance at dosing was 99% but fell to 56.9 and 60.6% at 24 h post dose, confirming the losses were due to [14C]-Benzophenone volatility. A conservative dermal absorption value of 12.42% was proposed to cover [14C]-Benzophenone containing formulations.