Oil Formulations Research Articles

Morphological Assessment of Thymol Essential Oil using Different Solvents and Stirring Time

Essential oils (EOs) have been used in numerous industries for ages including pharmaceutical, textile and food. Microencapsulation formulation and techniques are important to enhance the EOs characteristics and stability which could directly influence the yield and quality of EOs. This research paper evaluated the effect of using different solvents and stirring time on thymol EO microcapsules. Ethanol and methanol were used as solvents to encapsulate the core and wall material using a simple coacervation method. The microcapsules were collected at various time intervals which were 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 minutes. It has been noted that the stirring time influenced the size of microcapsules. Using Thymol oil, ethyl cellulose, methanol and polyvinyl alcohol (TM) produces the most microcapsules at 120 minutes of stirring time. The biggest microcapsule diameter was recorded at 90 min stirring time using formulation of thymol oil, ethyl cellulose, ethanol, and polyvinyl alcohol (TE). The encapsulation efficiency (EE) of both samples are 64.55% and 72.16%, respectively.

Phytoconstituents of a Traditional Oil Formulation Inhibits IL-17A and TNF-α involved in Psoriasis: A Molecular Docking Study

Psoriasis is one of the chronic inflammatory conditions with multifactorial aetiology. Even though there are different treatments available, there is no cure for psoriasis. A Siddha polyherbal formulation, Sivanar vembu kuzhi thailam (SVKT), is used to treat various skin diseases. In this study, methanolic extract of SVKT was analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) which showed the presence of 86 compounds. They were further subjected to molecular docking to find the effect of SVKT on inflammatory proteins, IL-17A and TNF-α, involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Four shortlisted compounds from SVKT exhibited their inhibitory potential on IL-17A with binding energy varying between -8.2 to -6.6 kcal/mol and three compounds on TNF-α with binding energy varying between -7.8 to -5.6 kcal/mol. Pharmacokinetic properties (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion and Toxicity-ADMET) were also evaluated in silico which showed favourable features. 2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-octylsulfanyloxane-3,4,5-triol and α-Lactose among the shortlisted constituents, inhibited both proteins through exhibiting multiple interactions. Hence this study provides valuable insights into the inhibitory effect of phytochemicals present in SVKT on IL-17A and TNF-α which may pave way to the discovery of new drugs to treat psoriasis.

Unique formulation of edible blended oil from sesame and mustard seeds grown in Bangladesh

Edible oils are vulnerable to oxidation-induced degradation, leading to off-flavors, carcinogenic products, and reduced nutritional content. This work aimed to prepare a blended oil (BO) from indigenous mustard and sesame seeds to extend the oil’s shelf life and boost its nutritional value. Four blends were formulated with sesame oil (SO) and mustard oil (MO) in the ratios of SO50:MO50, SO60:MO40, SO70:MO30 and SO80:MO20. GCMS analyses showed that the SO80:MO20 blend had an erucic acid content of 4.22 %, which is below the internationally accepted limit of 5 %, and an ideal fatty acid ratio of 1:1.3:1; saturated fatty acid (SFA): monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA): polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), close to the WHO/FAO permissible limit. The blend SO80:MO20 was then assessed and related to single oil. The physicochemical properties of the blended oil were superior to those of the individual oils. BO exhibited higher levels of lignan (48.96 %) and tocopherol (13.58 %) than SO (48.89 % and 12.74 %) and MO (0.24 % and 6.22 %). Additionally, BO’s sterol content was 18.7 %, surpassing SO’s 14.7 % but falling short of MO’s 21.13 %. Moreover, BO’s flash point (318 °C) closely resembled that of SO (320 °C) and MO (316 °C). Aflatoxin and trace metal levels were detected and found to be well below than permitted ranges. The blend had a total antioxidantcapacity of 95 % with an IC50 value of 0.575 mg/mL, which was higher than that of the individual oils andcomparable to standards. Over 180 days of storage at room temperature, the moisture content, refractive index, free fatty acids, peroxide value, p-anisidine value, saponification value, iodine value, and totox value of the BO showed a slower increase compared to the individual oils. The estimated fatty acid ratio and enriched antioxidant in the blended oil enhanced its stability and nutritional potency over the individual oils. The results of this work may represent Bangladesh’s first unique oil blend composition.

Performance of Aromatic Amine-Modified Metallocene Polyalphaolefin Lubricant Base Oil

With the continuous advancement of industrial technology, higher demands have been placed on the properties of gear oils, such as oxidation stability and shear resistance. Herein, the oxidation stability of high-viscosity metallocene poly-α-olefins (mPAOs) was improved by chemical modification via aromatic amine alkylation. The modified mPAO base oils were synthesized separately with diphenylamine (mPAO-DPA) and N-phenyl-α-naphthylamine (mPAO-NPA), and their applicability in industrial gear oil formulations was evaluated. The composition and physicochemical properties of the obtained samples were assessed using 1H NMR spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, and the American Society for Testing and Materials standards (ASTM D445, ASTM D2270, ASTM D92, etc.) confirming the successful completion of the alkylation reaction. The oxidation stability of the samples was also evaluated using pressurized differential scanning calorimetry. The initial oxidation temperature of mPAO-NPA (230 °C) was 53 °C higher than that of mPAO, and the oxidation induction period of mPAO-DPA was nearly twice that of mPAO-NPA. Thermogravimetric analysis in air revealed the increased thermal decomposition temperature and improved thermal stability of modified mPAO. ISO VG 320 industrial gear oils were formulated using mPAO alkylated with N-phenyl-α-naphthylamine(Lub-2) and commercially purchased PAO100 (Lub-1) as base oil components. The antioxidant performance of two industrial gear oils was evaluated through oven oxidation and rotating oxygen bomb tests. The oxidation induction period of Lub-2 was 30% higher than that of Lub-1, with the latter having a lower acid number and a smaller increase in viscosity at 40 °C. Finally, the friction performance of the samples was assessed on a four-ball friction tester, revealing the synergistic effect of the mPAO-NPA base oil with the HiTEC 3339 additive, forming a more stable oil film with a smaller wear scar diameter.

Repellent Activity Testing of an Essential Oil Gel Preparation of Cinnamon (Cinnamomun Burmanii) Bark) And Kaffir Lime Peel (Citrus Hytrix) Against Aedes Aegypti Mosquitoes

Dengue fever is still a disease that dominates, especially in the Papua region. To overcome this, it is necessary to modify preparations based on medicinal plants as mosquito repellents, one of which is gel preparations. This study aims to determine the repellent activity test of essential oil gel preparations of Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum burmannii) and Kaffir Lime Peel (Citrus Hystrix) against the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The method used in this research uses experimental methods. This research was conducted in April - November 2022. This research used two formulations, namely cinnamon bark and kaffir lime peel (FI) formulations which were compared with formulation preparations in the form of a base without active substances (FII). The tests carried out were physical quality tests and repellent tests on the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The research results show that based on physical quality tests, it is known that FI has a distinctive odor, slightly yellowish white color and a thick shape. Meanwhile, FII has the distinctive smell of patchouli oil, milky white color and thick shape. In the homogeneity test on FI and FII it was found to be homogeneous and fulfilled the requirements. In the adhesion and spreadability tests on FI and FII it was found that they met the requirements. In the pH test, the pH of FI and FII has a pH value of 7 and meets the requirements. In the repellent test using arm-in-cage with 3 replications using 20 Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The formulas tested were FI and FII and observations made were by recording the number of mosquitoes that landed after using the repellent for 15, 30, 60, 120, 240 and 360 minutes. The research results showed that in the 15th minute the protection power was 88.3%, in the 30th minute the protection power was 88.3%, in the 60th minute the protection power was 72.3%, in the 120th minute the protection power was 67, 1%, in the 240th minute the protection power was 51.5%, and in the 360th minute the protection power was 47.7%. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that the essential oil formulation of cinnamon bark and Kaffir lime peel is efficacious as a repellent.

Formulation of Handwash Essential Oil and Hydrosol of Lime Peel (Citrus aurantifolia) as Antibacterials

Formulation of Handwash Essential Oil and Hydrosol of Lime Peel (Citrus aurantifolia) as Antibacterials

Novel Beeswax-neat’s-foot oil formulation and its impact on leather finishing

Leather finishing provides an esthetic look to the leather. Oil in combination with wax emulsion in the form of oleogel when applied to leather finishing produces a special class of leather known as crunch leather. Using an optimized ratio of Beeswax emulsion blended with Neat’s-foot oil in the form of oleogel for the making of crunch leather was investigated in this study. The chemical characterizations such as FTIR, dynamic light scattering, and particle size analysis, of the experimental emulsion were carried out. The experimental leathers undergo various tests such as contact angle measurements, optical microscopy imaging, color measurement, light fastness, fastness to dry and wet rub, tensile, tear strength, and elongation at break. The experimental leathers were showing better results than the control leathers. The present work focuses on the finishing of leather, and the interaction of oil and wax oleogel with leather which approaches a sustainable and eco-friendly process.

Formulation and Evaluation of Calendula and Lavender Oil Based Topical Antifungal Gel

Aim: Calendula officinalis and Lavendula angustifolia are traditional medicinal plants that have antifungal activity. A combination of these two plants has not been known for its activity against fungus. The present study deals with the formulation and evaluation of herbal topical Antifungal gel containing essential oils of both plants. Study Design: Proto type research design. Place and Duration of Study: Smt. R. D. Gardi Pharmacy College, Nyara- Rajkot. January 2024 to April 2024. Methodology: As 90% of skin infections are caused by Candida albicans, the antifungal activity of topical gel against this species was assessed. In this investigation, we created an antifungal herbal gel by combining carbopol 940 and other excipients with the essential oils of Calendula officinalis and Lavendula angustifolia in varying concentrations. For compatibility study, FTIR study would be done. Evaluation of Antifungal gel performed by using different tests likes, pH, Stability, Extrudability, Spreadability, Viscosity, Antifungal activity against Candida albicance, and in-vitro drug diffusion study. Results: As a result, the formulation's physiochemical characteristics, in vitro antifungal efficacy, and stability analysis (stable even after 30 days) were assessed. Every herbal gel formulation with a pH of 5–7 had favorable outcomes for physiochemical measures. Out of all the formulations, batch no 4 exhibited superior release characteristics (98 %) and zone of inhibition in comparison to the other formulated batches. The drug release profile of batch 4 showed great results. Conclusion: This is the first study on the scientific evaluation of Calendula officinalis and Lavendula angustifolia essential oil as a gel for antifungal activity. Thus this study reveals both good antifungals and in-vitro drug release; their essential oil may be formulated as Topical Gel Antifungal with satisfactory physicochemical parameters.

A Review Article on the Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Hair Oil

The excellent activity of herbal formulations and their little or nonexistent adverse effects as compared to synthetic medications have always drawn a lot of attention. This study's objective is to make herbal hair oil using amla, hibiscus, Brahmi, and methi. and it will be assessed to see if it promotes healthy hair development, the oil of different concentrations was water soluble, water insoluble, sulphated, total ash, acid insoluble, and moisture content are among the characteristics that make it suitable for proximate analysis. Excellent outcomes for hair development were observed in the formulation made using the boiling method for preparing oils. In order to achieve this goal, the current study will prepare herbal hair oil using substances such as Amlawhich is known as Jatamansi or hibiscus Bhringraj Raw garlic includes methi, mimosa pudica handspringing, papaya leaves, curry-leaf Moringa, guava leaves, and muskmelon seeds.. Based on the aforementioned findings, a combination of unrefined medications was made by boiling and then formed into herbal hair oil. Using various herbal drugs, we have created five different formulas, all of which exhibit anti-hair fall properties along with additional beneficial effects like reducing hair pigmentation, improving the flow of blood to the forehead and roots, reducing dandruff, and reducing hair whitening.

Blended formulations of oregano-sage essential oils: antimicrobial, phytotoxic, and anti-quorum sensing investigations

There is a growing interest in the potential use of essential oils (EOs) as a possible alternative to synthetic pesticides. The formulation of bioinsecticides with different EOs could improve their bioactivities through synergic mechanisms. This study aimed to evaluate the biological activities of three blended oil formulations (BOFs) derived from oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) and sage (Salvia officinalis L.). The chemical composition of the individual EOs was investigated using GC-MS analysis. The BOFs were prepared as follows: i) 25% oregano EO + 25% sage EO (BOF-I); ii) 25% oregano EO + 5% sage EO (BOF-II); iii) 5% oregano EO + 25% sage EO (BOF-III). The BOFs were tested for their phytotoxic effects on Lepidium sativum, Solanum lycopersicum, and Lactuca sativa as well as their antimicrobial activity against some phytopathogens. The tested BOFs were evaluated for their possible anti-quorum sensing activity against Chromobacterium violaceum Schröter. GC-MS analysis revealed that the oregano EO is mainly composed of thymol (76%), p-cymene (5.7%) and carvacrol (3.2%). Whereas, the dominant constituents of sage EO were trans-thujone and camphor. The results demonstrated that all tested BOFs possess an antimicrobial effect higher than each parent EO. In particular, BOF-II showed the highest effect against all tested bacteria and fungi. In addition, the three BOFs showed notable phytotoxic effects against all tested plants, particularly BOF-I. Whereas, the single sage EO at 25% showed the lowest significant phytotoxic effect, indicating its possible use as a natural herbicide. All examined BOFs showed promising quorum quenching activity against C. violaceum, especially at a concentration of 100%.

Evaluation of the Metabolite Profile of Fish Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids (n-3 FAs) in Micellar and Enteric-Coated Forms-A Randomized, Cross-Over Human Study.

This study evaluated the differences in the metabolite profile of three n-3 FA fish oil formulations in 12 healthy participants: (1) standard softgels (STD) providing 600 mg n-3 FA; (2) enteric-coated softgels (ENT) providing 600 mg n-3 FA; (3) a new micellar formulation (LMF) providing 374 mg n-3 FA. The pharmacokinetics (PKs), such as the area under the plot of plasma concentration (AUC), and the peak blood concentration (Cmax) of the different FA metabolites including HDHAs, HETEs, HEPEs, RvD1, RvD5, RvE1, and RvE2, were determined over a total period of 24 h. Blood concentrations of EPA (26,920.0 ± 10,021.0 ng/mL·h) were significantly higher with respect to AUC0-24 following LMF treatment vs STD and ENT; when measured incrementally, blood concentrations of total n-3 FAs (EPA/DHA/DPA3) up to 11 times higher were observed for LMF vs STD (iAUC 0-24: 16,150.0 ± 5454.0 vs 1498.9 ± 443.0; p ≤ 0.0001). Significant differences in n-3 metabolites including oxylipins were found between STD and LMF with respect to 12-HEPE, 9-HEPE, 12-HETE, and RvD1; 9-HEPE levels were significantly higher following the STD vs. ENT treatment. Furthermore, within the scope of this study, changes in blood lipid levels (i.e., cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL) were monitored in participants for up to 120 h post-treatment; a significant decrease in serum triglycerides was detected in participants (~20%) following the LMF treatment; no significant deviations from the baseline were detected for all the other lipid biomarkers in any of the treatment groups. Despite a lower administered dose, LMF provided higher blood concentrations of n-3 FAs and certain anti-inflammatory n-3 metabolites in human participants-potentially leading to better health outcomes.

A randomized double-blind active-controlled clinical trial on the efficacy of topical basil (Ocimum basilicum) oil in knee osteoarthritis.

Basil is a widely used herb in Persian medicine and is gaining recognition as a functional food worldwide. This trial aimed to assess the effectiveness of a traditional formulation of basil oil in comparison with diclofenac gel in treating knee osteoarthritis, considering its established anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-oxidative properties. One hundred eligible patients were equally randomized to the traditional basil oil (containing sesame oil) and diclofenac gel groups. They used their respective topical treatments thrice daily for 4weeks. Various measurements were taken at the beginning of the study, 2, and 4 weeks after starting the intervention, including the 8-m walk test, knee pain (based on visual analog scale), flexion angle of the knee joint, analgesic consumption, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire. No significant differences were observed between the basil oil and diclofenac gel groups in any of the measured outcomes. However, significant improvements were noted within each group for most variables. Topical application of the traditional formulation of basil oil appears to improve clinical symptoms and certain functional indicators of knee osteoarthritis to a similar extent as diclofenac gel. This suggests that basil oil could be considered an effective management option for this condition. Clinical Trial Registration: https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/, identifier IRCT2017081711341N7.

Efficacy of Essential Oil Formulations in Rice Seed Treatment Against <i>Magnaporthe oryzae </i>B.C Couch, a Rice Blast Pathogen

Rice is one of the most widely produced cereals in Burkina Faso. However, the fungi transmitted by rice seeds, <i>Oryza sativa</i> L, cause enormous production losses in rice fields. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of powdery formulations of essential oils against <i>Magnaporthe oryzae </i>in rice. Thus, rice seeds of the FKR64 variety were disinfected with 15% sodium hypochlorite for 10 minutes and soaked in the suspension of 10<sup>4</sup> conidia/ml for 24 hours. These contaminated rice seeds were coated into powdery formulations of essential oils of <i>L. multiflora,</i> <i>C. schoenanthus</i> and their combination at a dose of 10g/kg of seed. A contaminated control was used. The experimental set-up was a completely randomised block with four treatments in three replicates, one of which was an absolute control. These treatments were carried out on <i>L. multiflora </i>essential oil, <i>C. schoenanthus essential oil</i> and their combination at a proportion of 50%. The results showed that the essential oil of <i>L. multiflora</i> recorded the highest percentage emergence, average height and average number of tillers of the plants, with values of 97.33%, 47.67 cm and 7.89 tillers respectively. This same formulation recorded the lowest percentage of seedling melt and foliar incidence, at 1.33% and 11.67% respectively. These essential oil formulations can be recommended for seed treatment against <i>Magnaporthe oryzae</i>.

Nanostructured lipid carrier loaded with Zingiber officinale oil to enhance transdermal bioactive delivery for topical formulation

This study reported on the enhancement of Zingiber officinale (Z. officinale) oil delivery, a bioactive with poor water solubility, by incorporating it into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for transdermal bioactive delivery in topical formulations using the ultrasonication technique with a D–optimal mixture design approach. The independent factors in the process included the percentage of Z. officinale oil, solid lipid (glyceryl monostearate (GMS)), and liquid lipid (virgin coconut oil (VCO)). The study characterized the NLC– Z. officinale oil formulation based on particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), and encapsulation efficiency (EE) as the dependent variables. Besides, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflection (FTIR–ATR), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) were also employed. The optimized NLC–Z. officinale oil formulation, comprising 0.36 % Z. officinale oil, 0.14 % solid lipid (GMS), and 0.50 % liquid lipid (VCO). The study's results demonstrated that the finely tuned NLC– Z. officinale oil formulation, with an average diameter of 90.71 ± 9.48 nm, a PDI of 0.147 ± 0.01, a ZP of –45.7 ± 0.67 mV, and an EE of 88.80 ± 11.18 %, exhibited a controlled and sustained release profile following the Korsmeyer–Peppas model. The in vitro penetration studies on excised Sprague–Dawley rat skin and Strat–M® showcased the heightened penetration flux of NLC–Z. officinale oil compared to Z. officinale oil. Furthermore, in vivo distribution studies in female Sprague–Dawley rats underscored the deep penetration of NLCs into the dermal layer after 12 h of application. Notably, a 3–hour treatment with NLC–Z. officinale oil triggered the release of free fatty acids (FFA). The 90 days storage stability study revealed no significant changes in NLC– Z. officinale oil concerning PS and PDI, affirming its stability over time. These findings illuminated the potential applications of NLC– Z. officinale oil as a robust transdermal bioactive delivery system for Z. officinale oil. This underscored its significance in pharmaceutical formulations, providing a novel avenue for therapeutic purposes.

Formulation and evaluation of virgin coconut oil (VCO) lotion: Effect of variation in emulsifier type and concentration

Indonesia is a tropical country rich in agricultural commodities, such as coconut. One of the derived products from coconut is virgin coconut oil (VCO), which widely used as ingredient in cosmetic lotion products. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of variations in the addition of emulsifiers to VCO cream lotion. Two emulsifiers were used, including Tween 80 and Span 80 with concentrations of 5% without essential oil, 5%, 4%, 3%, and 2%. Quality parameters analyzed were homogeneity, specific gravity, stability, pH, and organoleptic. The data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskall-Wallis test. The results showed that Tween 80 and Span 80 emulsifiers significantly affected physicochemical and organoleptic characteristics, except pH value. The selected best formulation was cream lotion with the addition of 2% emulsifier formulation. This VCO lotion had a quality value according to SNI 16-4399-1996 and had organoleptic characteristics most preferred by the panelists.

Physicochemical characterization of commercially available Dhanwantharam Mezhupakam - An Ayurvedic oil formulation

As a neuroprotective and nervine tonic, Dhanwantharam Mezhupakam (DM) is a medicated polyherbal oil formulation made using an Ayurvedic method. It is made by steeping herbs in significant water while simmering Taliam oil for a long time with a paste-like herb mixture. The purpose of the current study was to establish its standard criteria in accordance with the monograph to preserve the product's safety, consistency and quality manufacturing while also determining its heavy metal concentration. Organoleptic assessment, physicochemical evaluation, phytochemical evaluation, chromatographic analysis for active ingredients and heavy metal analysis are some of the formulation-related criteria that are assessed. According to pharmacopeia standards, every metric was examined. According to the study's findings, the formulation was well-standardized in terms of its physical consistency, chemical profile, phytoconstituents and antibacterial properties. Additionally, it was discovered that the sample's heavy metal contents were within WHO and API-acceptable standards.

Conventional dendritic cells 2, the targeted antigen-presenting-cell, induces enhanced type 1 immune responses in mice immunized with CVC1302 in oil formulation

Multifunctional CD4+ T helper 1 (Th1) cells, producing IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2, define a correlate of vaccine-mediated protection against intracellular infection. In our previous study, we found that CVC1302 in oil formulation promoted the differentiation of IFN-γ+/TNF-α+/IL-2+Th1 cells. In order to extend the application of CVC1302 in oil formulation, this study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of action in improving the Th1 immune response. Considering the signals required for the differentiation of CD4+ T cells to Th1 cells, we detected the distribution of innate immune cells and the model antigen OVA-FITC in lymph node (LN), as well as the quantity of cytokines produced by the innate immune cells. The results of these experiments show that, cDC2 and OVA-FITC localized to interfollicular region (IFR) of the draining lymph nodes, inflammatory monocytes localized to both IFR and T cell zone, which mainly infiltrate from the blood. In this inflammatory niche within LN, CD4+ T cells were attracted into IFR by CXCL10, secreted by inflammatory monocytes, then activated by cDC2, secreting IL-12. Above all, CVC1302 in oil formulation, on the one hand, targeted antigen and inflammatory monocytes into the LN IFR in order to attract CD4+ T cells, on the other hand, targeted cDC2 to produce IL-12 in order to promote optimal Th1 differentiation. The new finding will provide a blueprint for application of immunopotentiators in optimal formulations.

Formulation Development and Evaluation of Microemulsion Loaded Hydrogel Systems with Plant Bioactives in Combination for Treatment of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune, long-lasting skin disorder affecting about 1 to 3% of the world’s population. Plant bio-actives like flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, phenolic acids, peptides, tannins, etc., are considered as the best alternative over synthetic drugs, especially for the topical treatment of such chronic skin ailments to avoid side effects of such synthetic agents. The present study aims at the formulation and characterization of novel topical carrier systems for the incorporation of plant bioactive molecules from the class of alkaloids and flavonoids so as to enhance the therapeutic efficacy, bypass the side effects of synthetic drugs, and improve drug localization in the diseased skin to achieve site-specific action. This work created oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant formulations of plant bio-actives using oleic acid, polysorbate 80, and propylene glycol. Different batches of microemulsions with surfactant: Cosurfactant composition ranging from 25 to 34.8% were prepared and were embedded in a hydrogel system containing gelling agents like sodium alginate and carbapol 940 to get ease of topical application in the treatment of psoriasis. These developed micro-emulates (microemulsion loaded hydrogels) were evaluated for various parameters like viscosity, spreadability, content uniformity, microscopic examination, globule size, zeta potential, polydispersibility index, centrifugation test, dilution test, dye test, percent transmittance, conductivity test, etc. The developed formulations were pharmaceutically stable and efficient.

A semi-analytical rate-transient analysis model for fractured horizontal well in tight reservoirs under multiphase flow conditions

Abstract Rate-transient analysis (RTA) has been widely applied to extract reservoir/fracture properties using analytical and semi-analytical methods with simplifying assumptions. However, current RTA models may lead to misdiagnosis of flow regimes and incorrect estimates of reservoir/fracture information when complex fracture network, multiphase flow, and pressure-dependent properties occur in tight reservoirs simultaneously. A semi-analytical model is developed to account for multiphase flow, complex fracture network, and pressure-dependent properties. The technique uses the black oil formulation and butterfly model to determine three nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) that describe the flow of oil, gas, and water in the reservoir with complex fracture network. A modified Boltzmann variable considering the heterogeneity of complex fracture network is proposed to convert the fluid flow PDEs to a set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that can be solved through the Runge-Kutta method. A new rate-transient analysis workflow is also developed to improve flow regime identification (ID) and the accuracy for tight oil reservoirs with complex fracture network. It is applied to a synthetic case with equivalently modeled complex fracture network and multiphase flow. The estimated fracture properties are in excellent agreement with model inputs.

Stimuli-Responsive Polymers for Engineered Emulsions.

Emulsions are complex. Dispersing two immiscible phases, thus expanding an interface, requires effort to achieve and the resultant dispersion is thermodynamically unstable, driving the system toward coalescence. Furthermore, physical instabilities, including creaming, arise due to presence of dispersed droplets of different densities to a continuous phase. Emulsions allow the formulation of oils, can act as vehicles to solubilize both hydrophilic and lipophilic molecules, and can be tailored to desirable rheological profiles, including "gel-like" behavior and shear thinning. The usefulness of emulsions can be further expanded by imparting stimuli-responsive or "smart" behaviors by inclusion of a stimuli-responsive emulsifier, polymer or surfactant. This enables manipulation like gelation, breaking, or aggregation, by external triggers such as pH, temperature, or salt concentration changes. This platform generates functional materials for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, oil recovery, and colloid engineering, combining both smart behaviors and intrinsic benefit of emulsions. However, with increased functionality comes greater complexity. This review focuses on the use of stimuli-responsive polymers for the generation of smart emulsions, motivated by the great adaptability of polymers for this application and their efficacy as steric stabilizers. Stimuli-responsive emulsions are described according to the trigger used to provide the reader with an overview of progress in this field.