Skin Irritation Research Articles

Pilot introduction of long-lasting insecticidal nets and hammock nets in the indigenous Comarca of Guna Yala, Panama

BackgroundAfter almost 70 years of using indoor residual spraying (IRS) as the primary intervention for malaria vector control, the Republic of Panama wanted to evaluate the operational feasibility and acceptability of distributing long-lasting insecticidal hammock nets (LLIHNs) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in the country.MethodsA pilot study conducted in 2019 distributed LLINs and LLIHNs to cover all sleeping spaces in 15 high burden localities of the indigenous Comarca of Guna Yala and measured retention, coverage, use and physical deterioration, washing and drying practices, as well as people’s satisfaction with product characteristics post-distribution.ResultsOverall, 89.9% of enumerated sleeping spaces were covered during the campaign. Monitoring post-distribution showed that 82.7% of the population received messages about the campaign before it happened and 92.4% claimed to know the purpose of the net and how to care for and repair it. Mild adverse reactions, specifically skin irritation associated with the insecticide in LLINs and LLIHNs, were reported by 38.4% of households. Two years after distribution, 86.3% of the LLIHN/LLINs were retained. Use was very high right after distribution (85%) but decreased to 57% six months after distribution and to 38% two years after distribution. The main reason for not using the LLIHN/LLINs was the reported absence of mosquitoes. Two years post-distribution, LLIHN/LLINs were preserved in good physical condition (4% torn), very few were washed with insecticide-damaging products (chlorine or detergent) (9%) or dried under the sun (15%), and LLIHN/LLINs were washed on average less than once every two months. The average number of people per sleeping space was 1.34.ConclusionAlthough the distribution of LLIHN/LLINs was operationally feasible and LLIHN/LLINs were initially well-accepted and cared for by these communities, use decreased drastically over the two years of follow up after distribution. Hence, should there be future LLIHN/LLIN distributions in this area, sufficient resources and efforts need to be allocated to promoting LLIHN/LLIN use. Further investigation into the reasons for low LLIHN/LLIN use are needed to guide such efforts.

Health‐Risk Assessment of Groundwater Arsenic Levels in Bhagalpur, India, and Development of a Cost‐Effective Paper‐Based Arsenic Testing‐Kit

ABSTRACTArsenic is considered one of the most hazardous trace metals in groundwater researched to date because of the hazardous impacts like cancer, skin irritation, and other skin‐related diseases. The present study involved collecting 60 water samples from Bhagalpur district, Bihar, India, to estimate the arsenic concentration. The human health risk assessment of the samples concerning children and adults was also performed, and the maximum concentration of arsenic was found to be relatively high in some sample sites. Prolonged exposure to arsenic could be fatal to the local population. The current study also focuses on developing a low‐cost paper‐based arsenic detection kit. The paper‐based test kit was tested for parameters like color development for different forms and concentrations of arsenic, storage conditions for the test strips, the effect of different interfering agents on color development, and optimization of the AgNO3 solution. The cost analysis was carried out, and it was found that the kit would cost 0.046 USD per sample, which is 70–100 times lower than the cost of current methods.

Enhancing Pediatric Forearm Fracture Management: The Role of Extension Casting in Reducing Repeat Interventions

Background: Fractures of the forearm are common in the pediatric population, often requiring careful management to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize long-term complications. Among the various treatment modalities available, extension casting has emerged as a promising approach in pediatric forearm fracture management. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of extension casting in reducing the need for repeat interventions in pediatric forearm fractures. Methods: This study was a prospective cohort study conducted at the Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology of Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College & Hospital, Enayetpur, Sirajganj, from July 2020 to July 2023. A total of 60 pediatric patients, aged 5-12 years, with acute forearm fractures were enrolled. Different statistical methods were adopted in this study. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The study of 60 pediatric patients with forearm fractures showed a mean age of 8.2 years, with 60% males. Most fractures were in the middle third of the forearm (60%). At 12 weeks, 87% maintained satisfactory reduction. Only 10% required repeat interventions. PODCI scores indicated excellent functional recovery, low residual pain, and high satisfaction. Minor complications included skin irritation (6.7%) and transient nerve palsy (3.3%), with no long-term complications. Conclusion: The results of this study affirm the effectiveness and safety of extension casting in managing pediatric forearm fractures. This method not only ensures better maintenance of fracture reduction and reduces the need for repeat interventions but also yields excellent functional outcomes and low complication rates. J Rang Med Col. September 2024; Vol. 9, No. 2: 50-55

Thai Novel Cost-Effectiveness Biocellulose Dressing: Clinical Trial Phase I, Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Biocellulose wound dressings offer flexibility, high tensile strength, and water-retention properties, resulting in a cool and painless dressing experience. However, their usage has been limited due to high costs. In 2020, the PTT Research and Development Department introduced “Innaqua®,” a novel biocellulose wound dressing that excels in fluid absorption capacity, desorption, wound dressing surface, and wound moisturization. This product is particularly suitable for developing countries, as it combines low cost with high effectiveness, thereby enhancing treatment accessibility. However, it lacks clinical studies. Objective: To evaluate the clinical safety of Innaqua® for human use. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial, clinical safety study was conducted with 63 healthy volunteers. Skin irritation and allergic reactions were analyzed. Results: Clinical safety studies of Innaqua® indicated non-inferiority in terms of erythema at 4.8% versus 4.8% (p=0.012) and allergic reactions at 3.2% versus 4.8% (p=0.004) compared with Bactigras®. No edema occurred with either wound dressing. Conclusion: Innaqua® is a biocellulose wound dressing researched and developed in Thailand. It creates an optimal environment for wounds. The present study demonstrated clinical safety in human use. Innaqua® emerges as a new, cost-effective option for biocellulose wound dressing, catering to a broader population. Keywords: Biocellulose; Innaqua; Thai; Allergy; Safety

Occupational health of drilling waste workers as related to microbial exposure and waste treatment methods.

Exposure to microorganisms is a known contributor to occupational disease. This study assessed drilling waste workers' health status and investigated the potential of inhalable bioaerosols to elicit an immune response in vitro and in vivo. Venous blood and self-reported health data were collected from 56 and 73 Norwegian drilling waste workers, respectively. Immunological effects were assessed as Toll-like receptor (TLR) activation potential of personal air samples in vitro and biomarker expression in workers' plasma samples in vivo. Parameters, such as BMI, sex, and smoking habits, were considered along with factors such as purification technology of drilling waste when biomarker expression was interpreted. Symptom prevalence among exposed workers was compared to an unexposed control group. Personal air samples activated TLR signalling in vitro in 90% of all cases. The activation potential correlated significantly with work exposure to microbial agents and total dust. Significant differences in biomarker expression and symptom prevalence were identified between purification technologies and exposure groups. Drilling waste workers had significantly increased OR of skin irritation and respiratory symptoms compared to the control group. Exposure to microorganisms during the treatment of offshore drilling waste is an occupational health concern.

Machine‐Learning Enabled Biocompatible Capacitive‐Electromyographic Bimodal Flexible Sensor for Facial Expression Recognition

AbstractSingle‐mode sensors suffer from poor robustness and insufficient data features in facial expression recognition, so fusing multi‐sensor signals is the key to improving the accuracy of expression recognition systems. Here, a biocompatible capacitive‐electromyographic dual‐mode sensor (CEDS) is presented, consisting of a capacitive pressure sensing unit and dry electrodes for electrophysiological signal monitoring, assembled in a 3D stacking fashion. A double‐coupled microstructure is prepared and the electrical double‐layer effect is realized by doping ionic liquid, which significantly improves the capacitive performance of the sensor. The application of dry electrodes effectively solves the problems of hydrogel electrodes that are prone to water loss and skin irritation. Besides, the good biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties of CEDS are verified through cytotoxicity and bacteriostatic tests. Based on the sensing of a single signal, a fatigue driving monitoring system and a manipulator control system are constructed respectively. By further integrating the capacitive and electrophysiological signal monitoring functions of CEDS, a 1D convolutional neural network‐assisted facial expression recognition system is constructed, which effectively improves the accuracy of expression recognition and demonstrates the great potential of facial expression monitoring systems based on flexible sensor technology in practical applications.

Nanocrystals in Dermal Drug Delivery: A Breakthrough for Enhanced Skin Penetration and Targeted Skin Disorder Treatments

One of the major challenges in dermal drug delivery is the adequate penetration of the active compound into the skin without causing any skin irritation and inflammation. Nanocrystals (NCs) are nanoscale particles, and their sizes are below 1000 nm. NCs are made up of drug particles only, which are used to improve the aqueous solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. NCs are typically prepared either by bottom-up or top-down techniques. The advantages of using NC-based formulations in enhancing dermal drug delivery include increased drug loading capacity, easier and deeper penetration into the skin tissue, and increased passive diffusion. NC-based formulations with the capacity of enhanced dermal drug delivery can be effectively used to treat a wide range of skin disorders, including melanoma, inflammation, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, bacterial infections, fungal infections, eczema, skin aging, herpes simplex virus infections, skin manifestations of tick bites, frostbite-related infections, hyperpigmentation, and diabetic foot ulcer. In this review, major challenges in dermal drug delivery across the skin barrier, mechanism of action of dermal NCs, advantages of using NCs in enhancing dermal drug delivery, NC preparation methods, and applications of NCs in the treatment of various skin disorders have been discussed.

The safety of humeroradial fixation using Kirschner wires in children

Humeroradial joint fixation (HJF) has been employed during elbow surgery to maintain stability. Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation is the most commonly used method in children; however, there are valid concerns regarding complications such as breakage. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the safety of humeroradial fixation using K-wires in children. In total, 249 patients diagnosed with Monteggia fractures underwent HJF at our institute from January 2013 to November 2021. All relevant clinical data were collected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Skin irritation, incision infection, elbow instability, and ulnar healing were followed up. The elbow function was evaluated using Mackay standards. There were 81 females and 168 males (average age, 6.6 ± 2.8 years). Of these patients, 67 did not have ulna fixation, whereas 127 were fixed with K-wires after osteotomy of the proximal ulna or correction of the deformity. The K-wire sizes used for HJF were 1.6, 1.8, and 2 mm in 6, 125, and 118 patients, respectively. The duration of K-wire fixation of the humeroradial joint was 6.6 ± 2.5 weeks on average. Two patients suffered from K-wire breakage and underwent reoperation. There were three patients with K-wire end irritation. According to Mackay standards, the elbow function score was excellent, good, and poor in 188, 41, and 20 patients, respectively, at 6 months postoperatively. No bone bridge was found at the capitellum and radial head fixation sites in any patient. HJF using K-wires combined with a cast is a safe method with a low incidence of complications in children and should be considered a reliable option when humeroradial joint fixation is required.Level of evidenceIV.

Formulation and evaluation of Dapagliflozin -Loaded Ethosomes as Transdermal Drug Delivery Carriers: Statistical Design

Diabetes that includes risk factors for noncommunicable diseases like hypertension are only one example of the various situations in which chronic disease is connected with other conditions. Due to the challenges in overcoming the adverse effects of a complicated therapeutic treatment regimen, the treatments available for such chronic comorbid disorders are restricted and tough. The purpose of this research was to create and refine Dapagliflozin nano vesicular ethosomal gel for use in the treatment of patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Different parameters, such as in-vitro skin permeation, skin irritation, in-vivo antidiabetic, and antihypertensive activities, were used to characterise the developed formulations. Dapagliflozin is a potent, oral, reversible, highly selective, and competitive inhibitor of human SGLT2 used to treat type 2 diabetes. The ethosomes that contain dapagliflozin are the focus of our current study. By incorporating this medication inside lipid nanocarriers, we were able to generate ethosomes, where the vesicular size and lipid used for formulation controlled the sustained release of medicines. The purpose of this study is to create Dapagliflozin-loaded ethosomes for the management of diabetes, and then to statistically optimise and characterise them. For ethosome improvement, we used a 33-level factorial design with three factors. The entrapment efficiency (Y1), vesicle size (Y2), zeta potential (Y3), and % CDR (Y4) were selected as the dependent variables, whereas phosphatidylcholine (X1), cholesterol (X2), and ethanol (X3) were selected as the independent factors. Following incorporation of the optimised ethosomes into Carbopol® 940 gel, their rheological behaviour, in-vitro release, and ex-vivo skin permeation studies were characterised. When compared to drug solutions, in vitro and ex vivo permeation studies yielded more positive results. All things considered, the ethosomal vesicles showed promise as a carrier, allowing for improved topical administration of Dapagliflozin. Keywords: Dapagliflozin, Diabetes, SGLT2, in-vitro release, and ex-vivo, phosphatidylcholine, topical administration, 33-level factorial design.

Sensory and Motor Function, Pain, and Health Status in Children with Arthrogryposis and Myelomeningocele

Background/Objectives: Proprioception and sensory disorders have been reported in children with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) and myelomeningocele (MMC), but valid and reliable assessment tools are limited in accurately identifying the sensory aspects of motor disorders. This study aimed to investigate the somatosensory status in the feet and legs. An additional purpose of this study was to explore pain, skin irritations, and health status. Methods: Nineteen children with AMC, twenty-three with MMC, and twenty-two typically developing (TD) children (7–18 years old) were tested using a somatosensory test battery in ankle kinesthesia and in identifying four different types of floors. Results: In the AMC and MMC groups, the threshold to perceive the somatosensory stimuli was not achieved by all participants. MMC participants perceived somatosensory stimuli less than TD participants in all tests, with a higher level of the lesion and more affected ambulation. The MMC group identified one floor significantly less often than the TD group. The AMC group performed better than the MMC group in two-point discrimination, vibration sensation, and some light-touch pressure tests. There were no differences among the TD, AMC, and MMC groups in ankle kinesthesia. Pain was reported by four (21%) subjects in the AMC group and five (22%) in the MMC group, and skin irritations were reported by three (13%) participants in the MMC group. There was no difference among the TD, AMC, and MMC groups in health status as reported using the EQ-5D-Y visual analog scale. Conclusions: Although differences in sensory aspects were the most evident between the groups, assessments of activity and participation levels in the rehabilitation of children with disabilities are also recommended.

Essential Oils as Dermocosmetic Agents, Their Mechanism of Action and Nanolipidic Formulations for Maximized Skincare

Essential oils (EOs) are known for their diverse bioactivities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, skin-barrier repairing and anticancer, and therefore, hold profound potential to be used in cosmetic and skincare products. Owing to these properties, EOs have long been utilized to address a range of dermatological issues, from acne and inflammation to aging and dryness. However, problems associated with EOs beset their practical applications, which include high volatility, oxidation, hydrophobic nature, low bioavailability, skin irritation, chemical transformation and poor stability in air and light. A prospective of nanolipidic formulations, including the nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) system for improved skin delivery of these EOs highlights the possibility of their use in topical applications, which offer several advantages such as improved bioavailability and stability, lower toxicity and higher drug content. These nanoformulations protect the EOs from environmental degradation and improve their penetration into deeper skin layers, leading to prolonged therapeutic benefits. The delivery of bioactive agents using a conventional topical preparation exhibits low penetration, frequent applications, poor adherence and prolonged therapy duration, whereas the novel delivery system exhibits improved stability of the drug, enhanced skin penetration, enhanced retention and better therapeutic efficacy. This review provides a comprehensive compendium of information on EOs, which are widely used in skincare, along with their nanolipidic formulations for maximized skincare uses. The mechanism of action of EOs as skin bioactive agents, challenges associated with their use, advances in nanolipidic formulations and their market value as cosmetic skincare products are also explored.

Exploration of synergistically engineered invasomes of fluconazole incorporated with safranal against onychomycosis for enhanced transungual delivery

Objective The preparation of safranal-containing invasomes for fluconazole (FLU-IN) is investigated in the current research work to augment FLU permeation, bioavailability, and solubility via nail for transungual delivery. Methods FLU-IN was prepared utilizing the “thin-film hydration process”, and for optimization, “Box-Behnken design (BBD)” was employed. Entrapment efficiency (EE), Poly-dispersity index (PDI), in vitro FLU release, vesicle size and zeta potential were used to characterize FLU-INopt. Confocal microscopy (CLSM), nail permeation investigation, and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were also carried out for further examination. Results The FLU-INopt demonstrated tiny, spherical, sealed-shape vesicles with a vesicle size of 140.3 nm, PDI of 0.1604, in vitro release of 84.32%, and entrapment efficiency of 74.65%. According to the CLSM investigation, the prepared formulation exhibits better FLU penetration over the nail than FLU suspension gel. Compared to the standard fluconazole marketed gel, the anti-fungal investigation showed that the FLU-IN gel has good anti-fungal potential against Trichophyton rubrum, Nakaseomyces glabrata and Candida albicans. Additional research on Wistar albino rats' skin irritancy supports the new FLU-IN formulation's safety for topical treatment. Conclusion The present study supported the claim that the developed invasomal formulation is a desirable vesicular carrier for FLU transungual delivery for the management of onychomycosis.

Cubosomes hydrogel containing silver based organometallic compounds for enhanced wound healing of burns: In vitro and in vivo studies

The aim of this study is to investigate the treatment of burn wounds and bacterial infections, specifically focusing on silver(I) N-heterocyclic carbene (Ag-NHC) loaded into cubosomes. Ag-NHC is an organometallic complex of silver (Ag) and can be considered an active pharmaceutical ingredient for the topical treatment of burns. A novel nanoparticle system, cubosome dispersions, was formulated using high pressure homogenization methods with different concentrations of lipid phase glyceryl monooleate (GMO), surfactants such as poloxamer 407 (F-127), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The optimized formulation (U6) was characterized by in vitro drug release profile (90.54 ± 1.17 %), particle size (126.7 ± 0.98 nm), zeta potential (−21.6 ± 6.83 mV), entrapment efficiency (89.30 ± 1.46 %), and morphology as observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The U6 formulation was incorporated into a hydrogel containing Carbopol 940 to form a cubosomal hydrogel (cubogel). The cubogel was characterized by the in vitro release of Ag-NHC (92 %), entrapment efficiency (>90 %), pH (5.3), viscosity (1.2 cP), spreadability, and TEM. From the in vitro drug release pattern, it was concluded that the U6 formulation showed slow and sustained drug release over 24 h, and demonstrated superior burn healing compared to marketed products. The in vivo wound healing study revealed that the cubogel demonstrated a superior burn healing rate compared to commercially available products (Quench® and Clotrimazole®). The in vivo histopathological results showed that the prepared cubogel was effective in treating second-degree burns, with no side effects or skin irritation, compared to commercial products. Additionally, Ag-NHC-loaded cubogel facilitated sustained release for treating burn wounds without any bacterial infections. The current findings provide a strong basis for the initiating phase 0 clinal trials, highlighting significant potential for the further research to benefit the pharmaceutical industry.

TECHNICAL AND PATENT PERSPECTIVE ON FILM FORMING TOPICAL SPRAYS

Film-forming systems were a viable option for topical and transdermal medication administration in the present study. Medication administered via the skin serves two purposes: topical treatment of skin disorders and transdermal drug absorption into the circulation. Apart from the ease of self-administration, the topical route provides a broad and diverse surface and functions as a substitute for oral and hypodermic injection drug delivery routes. Existing dosage forms, such as creams, patches, and ointments, have several drawbacks. In addition to being unsightly, patches can be painful to put on curved surfaces, create discomfort while peeling off, and most often cause skin irritation because of their occlusive qualities, which block sweat ducts and prevent perspiration from evaporating from the skin surface. This review encompasses the mechanism of polymers, such as ethyl cellulose and Eudragit types, plasticizers, and penetration enhancers utilized in film formation. Overall, polymeric film-forming sprays exhibit substantial potential for the convenient administration of antibiotics and antiseptics to treat bacterial, fungal, and viral skin infections. The application of topical medication is thought to result in both local and systemic effects. The physicochemical characteristics of the medication and patient adherence determine how well the topical treatment works. Poor permeability and poor adherence to the skin are some of the disadvantages of conventional pharmaceutical formulations for topical and dermatological administration. The development of medication delivery technologies intended for topical administration to the skin includes the use of topical film-forming systems.

Preliminary safety and in vivo efficacy of Acmella oleracea extract‐loaded glycolipid emulsion serum—Effects on ocular irritation, dermal absorption, and facial skin biophysical and microrelief properties

AbstractObjectiveSubstantial efforts have been progressively devoted to developing innovative, safe, and effective topical anti‐aging products that not only improve the appearance of aged skin but also prioritize environmental sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources. Thus, the current study targeted to evaluate novel, natural emulsion/serum comprising new glycolipid emulsifier (lauryl glucoside/myristyl glucoside/polyglyceryl‐6 laurate) and Acmella oleracea plant extract as a model active.MethodsThe developed serum was assessed concerning its stability (freeze–thaw test, accelerated study), safety (in vitro screening of eye irritation potential, dermal absorption study) and efficacy (randomized, active/reference‐controlled, half‐face, in vivo study). Changes in skin biophysical properties, microrelief, roughness, texture, surface, and volume parameters were assessed in the periocular and perioral areas of human volunteers after 2 weeks of product application, utilizing several bioengineering and topography techniques.ResultsThe stability study demonstrated favourable stability profile of the developed serum, with practically unaffected stability‐indicating parameters (apparent viscosity, yield, flow point, storage and loss moduli, loss factor, pH, electrical conductivity) during freeze–thaw cycling and after 3 months of storage at 45°C. The hen's egg test on the chorioallantoic membrane of fertilized chicken eggs confirmed the absence of ocular irritation potential of investigated serum; no effects of haemorrhage, lysis or coagulation were occurred. Skin permeation study using diffusion cells revealed no permeation of spilanthol from the tested A. oleracea extract‐loaded serum through the pig ear skin into the receptor medium, thus suggesting no absorption into systemic circulation. In vivo efficacy study corroborated beneficial effects of evaluated serum on the condition/appearance of facial skin, at both periocular and perioral areas—significant (p < 0.05) increase in skin hydration (10%–40%) and smoothness (~15%); significant (p < 0.05) decrease in roughness (20%–30%), scaliness (~30%), and wrinkles (~15%)—implying more hydrated, smoother, visibly milder skin.ConclusionThe present findings confirmed the stability, preliminary safety (no ocular irritation, no dermal absorption, and good skin tolerability), and efficacy (improved skin hydration and microrelief) of the A. oleracea extract‐loaded, glycolipid‐based serum, supporting its potential as a safe and effective topical anti‐aging product.

Thermal management and core-shell construction produced super-low residual monomer and rapid absorbing SAP for hygiene goods

Minimized residual monomer is an essential requirement for mature industry products, particularly in ones such as superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), whose component is constituted sodium polyacrylic acid (PAA-Na). In this study, ternary compounded initiator (V-44, V-50, APS) was used to initiate the polymerisation reaction and effectively control the heat of polymerisation to release rate, which can be of paramount importance to achieve desired swelling and residual monomers performance of PAA-Na used in normal saline. For this purpose, solution polymerizations of acrylic acid (AA) at 75% neutralization and over range of nominal temperatures of 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 ℃ initiated by thermal initiator were carried out and the residual monomers, swelling ratio as well as mechanical properties were measured by means of high performance liquid chromatograph and extended rheometer. A star-shaped surface crosslinker was used to vary surface crosslinking density of SPAs, which strongly affected its absorbing rate. Finally, PAA-Na with quickly absorbing rate was used in personal care products and address the issue of skin irritation brought on by AA residues monomers.

The physical quality test formulation of ethyl acetate extract of kawista fruit peel (Limonia Acidissima L.) Ointment as an antibacterial against propionibacterium acnes

Introduction: Using medicinal plants in Indonesia still needs to be optimized. Almost all parts of the Kawista plant have been traditionally used to treat various ailments such as antioxidants, antidiabetic, wound healing, and controlling uric acid levels. Existing research on Kawista fruit peel as an acne antibacterial includes studies on the ethyl acetate extract of Kawista fruit peel against Propionibacterium acnes, which falls into the moderate to strong category. In Indonesia, Kawista fruit is limited to the flesh and is used to make syrup and dodol (a traditional sweet). In contrast, the fruit's peel remains a waste product. Objective: This study aims to develop a formula for an ethyl acetate extract ointment of Kawista fruit peel (Limonia acidissima L.) as an antibacterial agent against Propionibacterium acnes with good physical quality. Methods: The fruit peel extract was obtained using the maceration method with 96% ethanol. The extract was then formulated into ointment preparations with concentration variations of 6.25% (F1), 12.50% (F2), and 25% (F3). The physical stability tests for the ointment included organoleptic parameters, homogeneity, spreadability, and pH value tests. The data were analyzed to determine the effect of the extract concentration and storage time on the ointment's physical stability. Result: The test results showed that the ointment formulation of Kawista fruit peel extract (Limonia acidissima L.) could be successfully formulated into an ointment form and met the required evaluation criteria, including organoleptic testing, homogeneity testing, pH testing, and spreadability testing. Conclusion: Based on the study, it can be concluded that the Kawista fruit peel extract ointment (Limonia acidissima L.) can be successfully formulated into an ointment and meets the required evaluation criteria, including organoleptic testing, homogeneity testing, pH testing, and spreadability testing. A skin irritation test is required to determine whether any irritation occurs after applying the ointment.

Development of an Ointment to Medicate Medicine for Dosage Caused by Mucus in Babies with the Active Compound Sotong (Sepia sp.) and Essential Oils Cymbopogon citratus

Sumbawa society is rich in culture, especially in traditional medicine. People use materials from the surrounding environment, including plants and animals, as active ingredients for medicine. Newborn babies and toddlers are susceptible to blockage of the respiratory tract with mucus. In babies, it is usually caused by an imperfect suction process, while in toddlers, it is caused by bacteria or viruses. The Samawa people use a mixture of cuttlefish (Sepia sp.) and eucalyptus oil as a medicine that effectively removes mucus from the body. The active ingredient in cuttlefish has an unpleasant odour and cannot be stored for long. When they need cuttlefish, people must look for them in markets or traders on the coast. Of course, this takes time to use. The ointment production innovation has many advantages, including practicality, no fishy smell, ease of obtaining, and ease of storage for the long term. Using the natural active ingredient lemongrass, essential oil adds aromatherapy and provides warmth to the chests of babies and toddlers. Natural active and gel-based ingredients are safe to use without side effects. The ointment was tested for active ingredient content using GCMS and organoleptic tests for gel stability, spreadability (homogeneity), pH, and skin irritation. Based on the description above, it can be concluded that the ointment product is made from an anti-skin irritation gel base, pH 7, and gel spreadability of 5.5 cm. The active substance comes from cuttlefish Sepia sp. by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme and reducing the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), an essential inflammatory mediator in the pathogenesis of asthma and bronchitis. The simple production process means that the price of the ointment is within people's purchasing power.

Design, fabrication, and evaluation of antimicrobial sponge microneedles for the transdermal delivery of insulin

Transdermal drug delivery systems hold promise, but their effectiveness is often constrained by the skin’s barrier. Microneedles (MNs) improve drug permeability by creating micro-channels in the skin, yet they continue to face challenges such as infection risks and safety concerns. To overcome these challenges, a novel antimicrobial sponge MNs (ASMNs@PVP-INS) modified with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) for insulin (INS) delivery was designed. Mechanical testing demonstrated that these MNs possess excellent mechanical strength, capable of withstanding at least 0.11 N per needle without rupture. In vitro drug penetration tests revealed that the MNs consistently released over 75 % of INS within a 6 h. In an animal model, ASMNs@PVP-INS reduced initial blood glucose levels from 22.4 to 5.72 mmol/L, effectively maintaining glucose control for more than 6 h without inducing hypoglycemia. Additionally, agar diffusion assays indicated that INS loading did not compromise the antimicrobial properties of antimicrobial sponge MNs (ASMNs). Skin irritation tests showed that ASMNs@PVP-INS exhibited mild irritation (PII < 0.6), with skin damage fully recovering within 8 h. Safety assessments indicated no significant toxicity to mice, with biochemical markers remaining within normal ranges, thereby confirming their good biocompatibility. In conclusion, ASMNs@PVP-INS hold promise as a novel drug delivery vehicle.

Testing of UV Protection Activity, SPF Determination, and Irritation Assessment of Coastal Vegetation Ipomoea Pes-Caprae

Total solar radiation contains approximately 10% ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet rays have benefits such as providing warmth, light, and helping to synthesise vitamin D3. However, ultraviolet rays can also have negative impacts on the skin such as browning, hyperpigmentation, erythema, and premature ageing. Natural sunscreens with high SPF are useful in reducing the negative effects of ultraviolet rays. This study aims to determine anti-UV activity, SPF value, and assessment of human skin irritation or allergy to sunscreen cream from Ipomoea pes-caprae leaves. Anti-UV activity test and SPF value determination were carried out in vitro using UV-Vis Spectrophotometry. Irritation testing was conducted using the patch test method for 6 hours. The results showed that Ipomoea pes-caprae has anti-UV-A and anti-UV-B activities. Ipomoea pes-caprae leaf extract provides extra protection at a concentration of 2000 ppm. The irritation test of the cream on human skin found no skin abnormalities such as edema, urticaria, irritation and edema.