Emollients Research Articles

Spa Product Containing Plumeria acuminataand and Pandanus amaryllifolius Absolute for Antioxidant and Anti-wrinkle Activity: In vitro and In vivo Testing

This study investigated the biological activities of Plumeria acuminata absolute (PLA), Pandan amaryllifolius absolute (PDA), and the essential oil blends (EOB2, EOB5) combining PLA, PDA, and other essential oils. It also aimed to identify the selected EOB for GC-MS analysis, develop this EOB into a cream, and determine its stability. Additionally, clinical evaluations were conducted to evaluate the cream’s efficacy on skin moisture, wrinkles, and irritation. PLA, PDA, and EOB2 exhibited potent anti-oxidants and anti-aging effects. They effectively showed free radicals scavenging (DPPH, ABTS), inhibiting lipid peroxidation, and suppressing hyaluronidase and collagenase activities. Due to its superior stability, EOB2 was selected for subsequent analysis. It demonstrated a potent inhibitory activity against MMP-2 enzymes. From GC-MS analysis, limonene was identified as the main component in EOB2. The 1.5%EOB cream maintained excellent stability under accelerated conditions. From the clinical study tested in 20 healthy volunteers after 8 weeks of twice diary application, it was found that the cream containing 1.5%EOB2 did not cause any skin irritation and significantly improved skin hydration. It also showed statistically significant decreases in wrinkle area, wrinkle depth, and skin roughness compared to the baseline. In conclusion, cream containing EOB could be a promising cosmeceutical or spa product for anti-aging purposes.

A FORMULATION OF HAND BODY LOTIO FORMULATION OF HAND BODY LOTION EXTRACT ethanol from lily leaves (Crinum asiaticum L.) AS A SKIN MOISTURIZER

Lily leaves (Crinum asiaticum L.) have bioactivity as antioxidants and contain chemical compounds such as glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and triterpenoids. This study aims to formulate daffodil leaf extract into a hand body lotion dosage form and observe the effectiveness on volunteer skin for 4 weeks. This research was conducted experimentally. Samples were taken from daffodil leaves (Crinum asiaticum L.), then extracted by maceration with 96% ethanol and concentrated using a rotary evaporator. The ethanol extract of daffodil leaves was formulated with concentrations of 5%, 8% and 11%. The preparation evaluation test includes homogeneity, organoleptic, pH, emulsion type, irritation test, and effectiveness test of the preparation to moisturize the skin. The results showed that the ethanol extract of daffodil leaves could be used to make homogeneous grated emulsion preparations which were stable during 4 weeks of storage, pH 7.52-7.25, oil-in-water emulsion type and did not disappear. Any hand cream product that contains narcissus leaf ethanol can increase skin moisture. The composition of the most effective hand and body cream in the treatment of dry skin is a preparation with a concentration of 11% ethanol extract of lily leaves, which increases skin healing by 40.35% and is applied to the skin within 1 month.

Going Beyond Ceramides in Moisturizers: The Role of Natural Moisturizing Factors.

Xerosis is experienced by almost everyone at some time in their lives and the foundation of management of dry skin (both consumer- and healthcare professional--directed) rests on the use of moisturizers. Given the wide range of available moisturizers, counseling patients about selecting the optimum moisturizer for their individual situation relies on knowledge of ingredients and formulations. Traditionally, the main focus for many moisturizers centered on the core functional and structural role of ceramides within the epidermal barrier.  However, while a key aspect of transepidermal water loss and other skin barrier functions, components other than ceramides are equally essential in increasing moisturization. The skin's natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) are a complex mixture of water-attracting compounds such as amino acids, urea, lactate, pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), and electrolytes which play a fundamental role in preserving physiologic function by regulating the water content of the stratum corneum. By facilitating water retention, NMFs contribute significantly to the suppleness, elasticity, normal desquamation, and overall integrity of the skin barrier. Incorporation of NMFs into moisturizers addresses critical deficiencies in the skin's moisture balance that exist in xerotic and atopic skin, and in many skin disorders, mitigating signs and symptoms associated with xerosis and promoting optimal skin health. The biochemical composition of NMFs and the intricate interplay with epidermal homeostasis translate to a central role in moisturizers used for prophylactic and therapeutic management of various dry skin conditions, beyond ceramides alone. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(6):466-471.     doi:10.36849/JDD.8358.

Niosome gels encapsulate green mangosteen peel extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) as an anti-acne-inducing bacterial and anti-inflammatory activity

This research aims to develop a niosome gel from green mangosteen peel extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) by maceration with an ethanol solvent. The result of the yield percentage was 14.35 ± 0.90. The result of analyzing the phytochemicals by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was that tannin and xanthone were equal to 0.7483 ± 0.0825 mg per 100 mg of extract and 0.02964 ± 0.0088 mg per 100 mg of extract, respectively. The results of the determination of the effect include anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial (Cutibacterium acnes) as anti-inflammatory with nitric oxide from LPS-induced macrophage cells up to a maximum equal to 29.10 ± 4.78% as a concentration at 1 mg mL–1 as acetonide can inhibit nitric oxide equal to 33.12 ± 3.62% as a concentration at 1 mg mL–1. and anti-bacterial (Cutibacterium acnes) by broth microdilution and drop plate methods, it was found that clindamycin has a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 0.08 μg mL–1 and 0.31 μg mL–1, respectively. The development of niosomes consisting of cholesterol, tween 60, and mangosteen peel extract at 1% w w–1 and 2% w w–1 in every formula showed good stability. The reduction of particle size in the formula by an ultrasonic bath at 30 minutes and measurement of particle size with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) were found to be equal to 1,265 and 123 – 219 nm, respectively. The polydispersity index (PDI) was in the range of 0.1 – 0.2, and the zeta potential value was in the range of –26.15 to –28.61 mV. The result of hydration and trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) was found to be that after 4 weeks of use, the formula containing the niosomes of mangosteen peel extract concentrated at 2% w w–1 maximizes skin moisture. It has a value of 346 ± 39.27 and has the least surface water loss. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT HIGHLIGHTS The green mangosteen peel extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) can inhibiting nitric oxide production from LPS-induced macrophage cells up to 29.10 ± 4.78% at a concentration of 1 mg ml-1, the lowest inhibitory (MIC) and kill (MBC) concentration of C. acnes bacteria less than 0.24 mg ml-1. The particle size of niosomes encapsulate extracts before reducing particle size equal to 1,265 nm. and after reducing particle size in the range of 123 - 219 nm. The skin hydration value after using product for 4 weeks as niosome gel encapsulate extract 2%w w-1 of extract was maximum moisture and minimal water loss.

Formulation of Skin Moisturizing Body Scrub with Kedondong Leaf Extract (Spondias dulcis)

Background: Body scrub is a skincare preparation that effectively removes dead skin cells caused by free radicals. Kedondong leaves are a plant with extraordinary wealth, especially its vitamins, namely A, B1, and C, and have a high antioxidant content, so they can be used as a natural moisturizer for the skin. Objective: This research aims to formulate a body scrub containing Kedondong leaf extract. Method: Kedondong leaf extract was formulated with a concentration of 10.0; 15.0; and 20.0%. Evaluation of the body scrub formulation includes organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, irritation and moisture using a skin analysis tool. Results: Research shows that the body scrub formulation with Kedondong leaf extract is homogeneous and has a shape, colour and pH value corresponding to skin pH standards. This formulation also does not irritate and provides adequate moisture for the skin. The formulation with a concentration of 20% (F4) shows the best effectiveness, being able to moisturize the skin up to 47.8%. Conclusion: Kedondong leaves can be formulated into an effective body scrub to improve the condition of dull skin to make it brighter, cleaner and smoother.

Differentiating Pressure Ulcer Risk Levels through Interpretable Classification Models Based on Readily Measurable Indicators.

Pressure ulcers carry a significant risk in clinical practice. This paper proposes a practical and interpretable approach to estimate the risk levels of pressure ulcers using decision tree models. In order to address the common problem of imbalanced learning in nursing classification datasets, various oversampling configurations are analyzed to improve the data quality prior to modeling. The decision trees built are based on three easily identifiable and clinically relevant pressure ulcer risk indicators: mobility, activity, and skin moisture. Additionally, this research introduces a novel tabular visualization method to enhance the usability of the decision trees in clinical practice. Thus, the primary aim of this approach is to provide nursing professionals with valuable insights for assessing the potential risk levels of pressure ulcers, which could support their decision-making and allow, for example, the application of suitable preventive measures tailored to each patient's requirements. The interpretability of the models proposed and their performance, evaluated through stratified cross-validation, make them a helpful tool for nursing care in estimating the pressure ulcer risk level.

Skin Examination Analysis System Using Ayurvedic Interpretation

A human skin moisture measuring device having an interdigitated resistive sensor formed on a plate-like transparent Support is described, with a face designed to be placed into contact with the skin to be subjected to the moisture degree measurement. We can estimate/measure Skin Colour Index , Skin Texture Index, Skin Allergies Index , Skin Radical Index, Means for processing the signal coming from the interdigitated resistive sensor and from the image sensing means give as output a value of the measured moisture degree that is normalized with respect to the actual Surface of contact between skin and sensor. KeyWords: AI/MI,SKIN INDEX

Amino Acids Oral Treatment for the Amelioration of Skin, Hair, and Nails Conditions: An Open-Label Study

This study aimed at investigating the effect of a food supplement in ameliorating the skin, hair, and nails conditions. An open-label study on 21 women with mild-to-moderate aging all over the face (including wrinkles/fine lines, loss of skin firmness/elasticity, and normal to dry skin), acute telogen effluvium, and brittle/fragile nails was conducted. Skin (moisturization, elasticity, profilometry, and skin thickness), hair (pull test and phototricogram), and nails (clinical analysis of nail plate status) parameters were measured at baseline, and after 28 and 84 days of intake. The clinical analysis carried out by a board-certified dermatologist and the self-evaluation integrated the instrumental measurements. After 28 (D28) and 84 (D84) days of product intake the skin moisturization (superficial moisturization: +6.0% at D28 and +9.2% at D84; deep moisturization: +4.2% at D28 and +7.6 at D84), elasticity (R0 parameter: -11.5% at D28 and -19.3% at D84; R2 parameter: +7.8% at D28 and +11.9 at D84), profilometry (wrinkle depth: -9.5% at D28 and -14.5% at D84; skin smoothness: -4.9% at D28 and -7.7% at D84) and thickness (+0.11 mm at D28 and +0.24 mm at D84) were improved. At D84 the density of telogen hair was reduced by 9.5%; while at day 28 pull test was not indicative for telogen effluvium. The nail status was improved in most of the enrolled subjects. The instrumental measured effects were perceived by both the dermatologist and the enrolled subjects. Our results highlight the test product efficacy in improving the skin, hair, and nails conditions.

Microemulsions and Nanoemulsions for Topical Delivery of Tripeptide-3: From Design of Experiment to Anti-Sebum Efficacy on Facial Skin.

The targeted delivery of a hydrophilic Tripeptide-3 to the skin using microemulsions or nanoemulsions for facial oil reduction was the focus of this study. The impact factors affecting oil/water transparent dispersion formation, such as the surfactant system, HLB value, and co-solvent, were identified through the water titration method and pseudoternary phase diagram plots. The interfacial tension between caprylic/capric triglyceride (CCT oil) and water was significantly reduced by the surfactant/co-surfactant combination (Smix) of Cremophore® RH40 and a double-tails co-surfactant, polyglycerol-3-diisostearate, at an HLB of 13 together with a water-to-co-solvent (PG) ratio of 1:1. A two-level full factorial design of experiment (FFD-DoE) emphasized the independent variables of the HLB value, co-solvent, and CCT oil contents affecting the optimal compositions for micro- or nanoemulsion formation. The low-energy spontaneous emulsification of the optimized combination at a low Smix content (10%) yielded the translucent oil-in-water Tripeptide-3 nanoemulsions with an internal droplet size of 25.7 ± 1.20 nm, a narrow polydispersity index of 0.237 ± 0.129, and 70.6 ± 0.58% transmittance. The in vitro skin permeation study revealed a significantly higher skin penetration and retention of the Tripeptide-3 nanoemulsions compared to the high surfactant microemulsions and coarse emulsions. Skin irritation and oil control efficacy were evaluated in healthy volunteers before and after product application for 28 days. The obtained nanoemulsions not only decreased sebum production but also enhanced skin moisture levels. In conclusion, the meticulously designed nanoemulsions, incorporating suitable excipients, show a promising delivery system for hydrophilic peptides to control sebum overproduction in oily facial skin.

Kegiatan Penapisan Kadar Air Dan Minyak Kulit Pada Populasi Dewasa Di SMP Kalam Kudus Jakarta

The skin, as the body's largest organ, can function as an important barrier against dangers from outside the body. Insufficient water and oil levels in the skin can cause dry skin conditions. This can be caused by various factors, including age, sun exposure, and accompanying chronic diseases. Dry skin tends to cause itching, thereby increasing the risk of scratching and injury. A good level of skin hydration will improve an individual's quality of life. This screening activity for the adult population at Kalam Kudus Middle School was attended by 127 participants with an average age of 39 years. The mean water and oil content in the left hand were 39.3% and 17.6%, respectively. Meanwhile, the average water and oil content in the right hand was 41.2% and 18.5%, respectively. Through this activity, participants are expected to increase awareness of the importance of maintaining body and skin moisture.

LAMA PENGGUNAAN MASKER TIDAK MEMENGARUHI TIMBULNYA JERAWAT PADA PEREMPUAN USIA 15-60 TAHUN

Acne is an inflammatory dermatosis of the pilosebaceous follicular unit. Many factors influence the onset of acne, including facial skin hygiene and skin moisture. The use of masks can have an impact on increasing facial skin moisture and pressure on the skin. This study aims to determine relationship between length use of masks and appearance of acne and factor influencing in women age 15-60 years old. A cross sectional design was conducted on respondents with inclusion criteria of women aged as mentioned previously. Data was collected using a google form questionnaire. The relationship between variables were analyzed statistically with Spearman test with p <0,05 and Chi Square test with p <0,05 significantly different. Total of 225 respondents participated in this study. Respondents used masks for 3 hours and more are 190 (84.5%) respondents. Respondents reported the occurrence of acne after using the mask are 143 (63.5%). Statistical analysis did not find a significant relationship between the duration of using a mask and the onset of acne (p=0.391). Factors that showed a significant relationship with the onset of acne were age, menstrual cycle, education level, facial care, and washing face more often. The duration of using a mask is not related to the appearance of acne in women of reproductive age. Factors influencing with the appearance of acne are age, menstrual cycle, education level, facial care, and washing face more often.

In vitro and split-faced placebo-controlled in vivo study on the skin rejuvenating effects of cream loaded with bioactive extract of Indigofera argentea Burm.f.

The bioactive extracts of traditional medicinal plants are rich in polyphenols and help to rejuvenate skin. The study was designed to assess the skin rejuvenating effects of a stable cream enriched with 4% I. argentea (IaMe) extract. The quantity of polyphenols by spectrophotometric methods was TPC, 101.55 ± 0.03mg GAE/g and total flavonoid content; 77.14 ± 0.13mg QE/g, while HPLC-PDA revealed gallic acid; 4.91, chlorogenic acid 48.12, p-coumaric acid 0.43, and rutin 14.23μg/g. The significant results of biological activities were observed as DPPH; 81.81% ± 0.05%, tyrosinase; 72% ± 0.23% compared to ascorbic acid (92.43% ± 0.03%), and kojic acid (78.80% ± 0.19%) respectively. Moreover, the promising sun protection effects Sun protection factor of extract (20.53) and formulation (10.59) were observed. The active cream formulation (w/o emulsion) was developed with liquid paraffin, beeswax, IaMe extract, and ABIL EM 90, which was stable for 90 days as shown by various stability parameters. The rheological results demonstrated the active formulation's non-Newtonian and pseudo-plastic characteristics and nearly spherical globules by SEM. The IaMe loaded cream was further investigated on human trial subjects for skin rejuvenating effects and visualized in 3D skin images. Herein, the results were significant compared to placebo. IaMe formulation causes a substantial drop in skin melanin from -1.70% (2 weeks) to -10.8% (12 weeks). Furthermore, it showed a significant increase in skin moisture and elasticity index from 7.7% to 39.15% and 2%-30%, respectively. According to the findings, Indigofera argentea extract has promising bioactivities and skin rejuvenating properties, rationalizing the traditional use and encouraging its exploitation for effective and economical cosmeceuticals.

Efficacy of an aloe vera, chamomile, and thyme cosmetic cream for the prophylaxis and treatment of mild dermatitis induced by radiation therapy in breast cancer patients (the Alantel study)

ObjectivesRadiation-induced dermatitis (RD) is one of the most common toxicities in radiation therapy (RT) patients. Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and natural products (NPs) have been used as treatment. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of a NPs-based cream (Alantel®) to reduce the incidence of RD in women with breast cancer undergoing RT treatment. DesignWe conducted a controlled, randomized, double-blind clinical trial. SettingRadiation Oncology Unit of the Reina Sofía Hospital and 5 Primary Care centers of the Cordoba and Guadalquivir Health District (Spain). InterventionsPatients assigned to the experimental group (GTA) were treated with Alantel, while those in the control group (GTE) were treated with a moisturizer and emollient cream. Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome variable was the incidence of RD. RD-free time, duration of RD, quality of life, and product safety were also assessed. ResultsSeventy patients were included in the study, 35 in the GTA and 35 in the GTE. The incidence of RD was lower in the GTA (71.4%) than in the GTE (91.4%) after 4 weeks of follow-up (RR = 0.78; NNT = 5; p < 0.031). The Skindex-29 questionnaire showed differences in the statement: “My skin condition makes it hard to work or do hobbies” (17.1% in the GTE vs. 2.9% in GTA; p = 0.024). ConclusionsThe higher efficacy of Alantel® compared to the control cream in reducing the incidence of RD in women with breast cancer has been demonstrated.

Photobiomodulation in the treatment of palmar–plantar erythrodysesthesia: a randomised controlled clinical study protocol

IntroductionHand–foot syndrome, also known as palmar–plantar erythrodysesthesia (PPE), is a complication caused by chemotherapy. Clinically, it manifests as erythema and oedema on the palms of the hands and feet, dry...

Effects on keratinocytes of the traditional combination of herb extract (Royal Oji Complex) implicated the improvement of young children's skin moisture and barrier.

Natural products are often friendly and can be used on children's skin after systematic and careful research. Therefore, in this study, the Royal Oji Complex (ROC), a product with natural ingredients, was used to study their effectiveness on keratinocytes taken from the skin of children from 0 to 3 years old. Normal human epidermal keratinocytes and tissue-isolated keratinocytes (TIKC) from young donors were treated with three different concentrations of ROC: 0.1, 1, and 10ppm. The mRNA expression of the epidermal barrier's essential genes, such as hyaluronic acid synthase 3 (Has3), involucrin (IVL), loricrin (LOR), and claudin-1 (CLD1) was investigated using qRT-PCR. Ceramide content was measured by ELISA, with retinoic acid (R.A.) and amarogentin (AMA) serving as positive controls. ROC significantly elevated HAS3 gene expression in HEKn cells, especially at 10ppm, indicating potential advantages for skin hydration in young infants. IVL increased at first but decreased as ROC concentrations increased. LOR was upregulated at lower ROC concentrations but reduced at higher doses. CLD1 gene expression increased considerably in HEKn but reduced with increasing ROC doses. Ceramide concentration increased somewhat but not significantly at 10ppm. ROC shows potential in altering keratinocyte gene expression, with unique responses in HEKn and TIKC from young donors. While changes in ceramide content were insignificant, these results help to comprehend ROC's multiple effects on young children's skin.

The effectiveness of ceramide moisturizing cream in pruritic papular eruption treatment of HIV/AIDS patients

Background: Pruritic papular eruption (PPE) is one of the most common skin manifestations in HIV/AIDS patients. Pruritic papular eruptions are due to immune dysregulation, causing dominance of interleukin-4, which causes a decrease in ceramide synthesis (CER) and impaired skin barrier function. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of CER over non-CER moisturizing cream in HIV/AIDS patients with PPE. Methods: Double-blind experimental design. The research subjects are PPE patients at Dr. Sardjito General Hospital. CER and non-CER moisturizing cream are applied for three weeks, respectively. Analysis of the trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, and itching were analyzed using an unpaired T-test or the Mann-Whitney test with a significance of p&lt;0.05. Results: Ceramide synthesis moisturizing cream decreased the TEWL value by 3.56 ± 2.38 g/m2/hour; increased the value of skin hydration by 16.39±7.19 a.u.; decreased skin lesions by 0.79 ± 4.95; reduced itching by 1.54 ± 0.78 and without causing side effects. Non-CER moisturizing cream decreased the TEWL value by 1.57 ± 2.00 g/m2/hour; increased the value of skin hydration by 12.03 ± 6.88 a.u.; decreased skin lesions by 1.42 ± 3.00; reduced itching by 1.17 ± 0.70 and also without causing side effects. Conclusion: Ceramide cream is more effective than non-CER moisturizing cream in reducing TEWL and increasing skin hydration. Ceramide and non-CER moisturizing creams have the same effectiveness in reducing the number of lesions and reducing itching. Ceramide and non-CER moisturizing creams do not cause side effects.

Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Marine Collagen: A Scientific Exploration for Delaying Skin Aging.

Aging is closely associated with collagen degradation, impacting the structure and strength of the muscles, joints, bones, and skin. The continuous aging of the skin is a natural process that is influenced by extrinsic factors such as UV exposure, dietary patterns, smoking habits, and cosmetic supplements. Supplements that contain collagen can act as remedies that help restore vitality and youth to the skin, helping combat aging. Notably, collagen supplements enriched with essential amino acids such as proline and glycine, along with marine fish collagen, have become popular for their safety and effectiveness in mitigating the aging process. To compile the relevant literature on the anti-aging applications of marine collagen, a search and analysis of peer-reviewed papers was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase, covering publications from 1991 to 2024. From in vitro to in vivo experiments, the reviewed studies elucidate the anti-aging benefits of marine collagen, emphasizing its role in combating skin aging by minimizing oxidative stress, photodamage, and the appearance of wrinkles. Various bioactive marine peptides exhibit diverse anti-aging properties, including free radical scavenging, apoptosis inhibition, lifespan extension in various organisms, and protective effects in aging humans. Furthermore, the topical application of hyaluronic acid is discussed as a mechanism to increase collagen production and skin moisture, contributing to the anti-aging effects of collagen supplementation. The integration of bio-tissue engineering in marine collagen applications is also explored, highlighting its proven utility in skin healing and bone regeneration applications. However, limitations to the scope of its application exist. Thus, by delving into these nuanced considerations, this review contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the potential and challenges associated with marine collagen in the realm of anti-aging applications.

Effectiveness of various cast covers in the pediatric population

BackgroundKeeping casts dry is a challenge in pediatric orthopedics. A wet cast risks skin complications, and generally requires a cast change resulting in unplanned visits and increased healthcare costs in patients undergoing cast immobilization. Previous research on the effectiveness of cast covers has only reviewed adult models. We evaluated the efficacy of different commercially available cast covers and do-it-yourself (DIY) methods for keeping casts dry in different sized pediatric arm models and compared relative costs of using each method. MethodsShort arm casts were applied to plastic mannequin arms representing pediatric patients ages 3, 6 and 12 years old. Different cast covers or DIY methods were applied over each cast and the limbs were then submerged in water for 1 minute. Water absorption was calculated by comparing the mass before and after submersion as measured with a digital scale. Each test group had 6 trials as determined by a power analysis. Statistical analysis was done using a non-parametric test with additional post-hoc analysis. Cost effectiveness was estimated for typical materials needed for use over a 6-week period. ResultsA plastic bag and duct tape was the most effective in keeping a cast dry. Other DIY methods (plastic bag and rubber bands, adhesive film) were not effective. There were several highly effective commercial cast covers across age groups, including Bloccs, Seal-Tight, and DryPro. Other commercial cast covers tested had inferior performance. Of the effective methods, a single plastic bag and duct tape was most cost-effective. Discussion / ConclusionA plastic bag and duct tape was overall the most clinically and cost effective method of avoiding a wet cast, with good to excellent results across arm size/age groups. Findings from this study may better inform patients about ways to keep casts dry, avoid unnecessary visits for cast changes, and decrease associated costs and risk of complications.

Synergetic Effects of Aloe Vera Extract with Trimethylglycine for Targeted Aquaporin 3 Regulation and Long-Term Skin Hydration.

Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) channels are tetrameric membrane-bound channels that facilitate the transport of water and other small solutes across cell membranes in the skin. Decreased AQP3 expression is associated with skin dryness, skin aging, psoriasis, and delayed wound healing. Thus, our study focused on a novel combination based on Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine for targeted AQP3 regulation in skin keratinocytes and deep skin moisturization. Firstly, a dose-finding cytotoxicity assay of the selected substances was performed with a 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) indicator on HaCaT cells. The substances' ability to increase the amount of AQP3 in keratinocytes was evaluated in a keratinocyte cell culture by means of ELISA. Additionally, the deep skin hydration effect was confirmed in clinical research with healthy volunteers. According to the results, the maximum tolerated doses providing viability at 70% (MTDs) values for Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine were 24.50% and 39.00%, respectively. Following the research and development, a complex based on Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine in a 1:1 mass ratio exhibited a good cytotoxicity profile, with an MTDs value of 37.90%. Furthermore, it was shown that the combination had a clear synergetic effect and significantly increased AQP3 by up to 380% compared to the negative control and glyceryl glucoside (p < 0.001). It was clinically confirmed that the developed shower gel containing Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine safely improved skin hydration after one use and over 28 days. Thus, this novel plant-based combination has promising potential for AQP3 regulation in the skin epidermis and a role in the development of dermatological drugs for the treatment of skin xerosis and atopic-related conditions.

Impact of modified ventilation strategies on water evaporation rate and thermal comfort in an indoor swimming pool by numerical study

The evaporation rate from a pool surface and the thermal comfort of bathers were evaluated numerically in a swimming pool enclosure in Canada while modifying the ventilation strategies, aiming to reduce trichloramine (NCl3) concentrations in the breathing zone. Air movement is required near the pool surface to remove NCl3 emanating from the water, but this airflow may cause unwanted thermal discomfort and water evaporation increase. A reference case based on the existing conditions and four simulated cases with varied ventilation strategies were evaluated to assess the impact on the water evaporation rate and thermal comfort. We implemented a water evaporation model in the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) code to study how the modified airflow patterns may impact the evaporation rate. We also determined with a PMV modified index how thermal comfort of bathers with wet and dry skin is affected by the modified airflow of each case. Our findings show that adding deck level air extraction vents allow 41% NCl3 reduction without negatively impacting thermal comfort and with only a 4% water evaporation increase. Conversely, with commonly used dilution ventilation strategy and remaining within ASHRAE's recommendations for the airflow rate, we obtain only a 3% NCl3 reduction but up to 51% of dissatisfied bathers (with a local peak of 99%) for a “cool” environment. Water evaporation rate is also increased by 16%. Numerical airflow simulation is recommended as a tool to plan an optimal ventilation strategy balancing air quality, energy expenditure and thermal comfort in indoor aquatic environments.