Propylene glycol 20% / Lactic acid 3% in Generic Unguentum M cream

Xerosis cutis (dry skin) is a common and burdensome symptom of atopic dermatitis (AD). Topical emollients restore skin hydration and barrier function through the physicochemical properties of their nonactive constituents (e.g., glycerol, urea, lactic acid, liquid paraffin, petrolatum) and represent the mainstay of basic therapy for xerosis cutis associated with AD. Newer "emollients plus" containing active ingredients may expand the treatment options available to patients with AD; however, we believe that basic emollients remain an important strategy for the long-term management of xerosis cutis. To that end, this article aims to review the clinical value of basic emollients for treating xerosis cutis in AD. We performed a series of literature searches to identify clinical studies of basic emollients containing one or more of the following ingredients: almond and coconut oils, amino acids, chondroitin, dexpanthenol, glucose, glycerol, glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, lanolin, olive oil, paraffin, petrolatum, phospholipids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, pyroglutamic acid, squalene, triglycerides, urea, vegetable oils, and vitamin E. From these searches, the authors identified articles of interest that described the efficacy of basic emollients for the treatment of xerosis cutis associated with AD. Studies included in our review varied widely in terms of sample size, study design, interventions, and endpoints but collectively showed that most basic emollient formulations are safe and effective at improving objective and subjective measures of xerosis cutis. These studies also demonstrated the importance of ongoing emollient therapy to avoid xerosis relapse and the additive benefits of emollients that combine ingredients with complementary biophysical properties (e.g., glycerol with its humectant effect plus petrolatum with its occludent effect). Overall, the current body of literature reinforces the role of basic emollients as effective and accessible treatment options for the long-term management of xerosis cutis in patients with AD.

Abstract licence: CC BY

Propylene glycol (PG) is a versatile chemical which can be produced by direct fermentation of sugars or through intermediates like lactic acid (LA), glycerol and sorbitol. Few studies have examined producing PG from different intermediates in terms of economic feasibility. In this study, seven process scenarios were assessed in a biorefinery annexed to an existing sugar mill. Aspen simulations were developed for each scenario as the basis for mass and energy balances, techno-economic, and environmental evaluations. Scenario 1 (LA intermediate) had the lowest minimum selling price (MSP) of 1,991 US$t-1 and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 1.24 kgCO2/kgPG which was the best intermediate investigated. Scenario 2a-2d (glycerol intermediate) was used to offer insights on the economic benefits of different design changes to the process. Scenario 2a investigates the use of reactive distillation as opposed to normal distillation in the other scenarios. Scenario 2c and 2d offer insights on the purchasing of green hydrogen as an alternative to producing onsite and effect of increased hydrogen ratios respectively. The MSP for the scenarios ranged from 2,121-2,863 US$.t-1 and GHG emissions of 0.8-2.2 kgCO2/kgPG. Scenario 3 (sorbitol intermediate) had the poorest performance with an MSP of 2,751 US$t-1 and GHG emissions of 2.22 kgCO2/kgPG. Scenario 4 (combined first and second-generation feed) had an MSP of 2,065 US$t-1 and 1.04 kgCO2/kgPG for GHG.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC

Despite the unique features of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), its mechanical properties, such as the elongation at break, need improvement to broaden its application scope. Herein, poly(1,3-propylene glycol citrate) (PO3GCA) was synthesized via a one-step reaction and evaluated as a plasticizer for PLLA films. Thin-film characterization of PLLA/PO3GCA films prepared via solution casting revealed that PO3GCA shows good compatibility with PLLA. The addition of PO3GCA slightly improves the thermal stability and enhances the toughness of PLLA films. In particular, the elongation at break of the PLLA/PO3GCA films with PO3GCA mass contents of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% increases to 172%, 209%, 230%, and 218%, respectively. Therefore, PO3GCA is promising as a plasticizer for PLLA.

Abstract licence: CC BY

Ketosis is one of the most common metabolic disorders in high-yielding dairy cows in early lactation. It has a negative impact on milk yield, reproduction, and general health of the animals. The present review aims to systematize and critically analyze current scientific data on the monitoring, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of subclinical and clinical ketosis, with the aim of developing an applicable protocol for good veterinary medical practices (GMP). Based on the comparative analysis method of data from the literature and clinical practice, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) in blood is confirmed as the gold standard for diagnosis with specificity and sensitivity above 90%. Indicators such as fat/protein (F/P) > 1.4 and NEFA > 0.4 mmol/L, as well as reduced citrate content in milk, have been evaluated as useful screening tools, although with lower diagnostic value. Despite the advantages of some indirect methods (such as F/P), critical analysis shows that they are strongly influenced by physiological status, lactation stage, and diet and cannot replace direct blood tests. Preventive approaches emphasize the importance of stable nutrition in the pre- and post-calving period, restriction of ketogenic feeds, and use of oral glucose precursors. Literature analysis shows that propylene glycol is effective, but with prolonged use it can reduce appetite. Combined antiketotic products have also been introduced, providing not only energy support but also liver protection. Particular attention has been paid to monensin (applied in the commercial product "Kexxtone")-a polyether antibiotic with sustained release, which reduces the incidence of ketosis by over 50% and increases milk yield in the first weeks after calving. However, its high cost, antibiotic nature, and need for veterinary supervision limit its universal use. The treatment protocol is differentiated according to the clinical type: glucose I. V. and propylene glycol in type I ketosis and avoidance of glucocorticoids in suspected type II (hepatic steatosis). In the critical analysis It is noted that improper use of glucocorticoids can lead to a worsening of the condition. A structured protocol for DVMP (Dairy Veterinary Medical Practice) is proposed, which includes targeted metabolic monitoring (NEFA, BHBA, F/P); proven preventive regimens (Kexxtone, propylene glycol, balanced rations), and staged prevention and treatment according to the form of ketosis. The adaptation of good practices to the scale of the farm and the level of knowledge and skills of the staff for their correct application remains a challenge. Providing training, a standardized control log, and access to field diagnostic tools is key to the success of any protocol.

Abstract licence: CC BY

This study investigates novel approaches for the green extraction of polyphenols from grape pomace. Sixteen natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) systems, based on either choline chloride or sucrose as hydrogen bond acceptors (HBAs) and one of tartaric, malic, lactic, oxalic, or citric acids, or 1,2-propylene glycol as hydrogen bond donors (HBDs), were evaluated. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the extraction parameters, namely water content and extraction time, for maximizing total anthocyanins and total flavonols content using different combinations of choline chloride and lactic acid. Optimal conditions were found to be not more than 25% (v/v) of water and an extraction ratio of 30 mL/g dw. Overall assessment of the results pointed at the system ChCl:lactic acid, 1:2 containing 25% water (CL25) as a satisfactory compromise alternative for both anthocyanin and flavonol extractions. Nevertheless, marked differences were found in the affinity of different NADES towards distinct phenolic compounds, which could be exploited for the rational selection of the most suitable solvent depending on the phenolic profile of the matrix or when searching for particular target compounds. In addition, the extracts obtained with distinct NADES showed notable antioxidant activity and, unlike conventional methanolic extracts, also exhibited antimicrobial effects attributable to the extraction solvent itself, highlighting their potential for food-related applications.

Abstract licence: CC BY

Bioactive compounds (BCs) are naturally occurring molecules found in plants, fungi, and microorganisms that can provide health benefits beyond nutrition. However, in order to administer them, they must be extracted from these organisms. This study reviews the extraction of anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds using deep eutectic systems (DESs). It was found that DES extraction media can be categorized as either choline chloride-based or natural product-based (e.g., proline, betaine, and lactic acid). Results indicate that extraction yields depended on many factors such as extraction method and DES composition, with values ranging from 0.02 to 200 mg/g. For example, curcumin extraction using ChCl-propylene glycol (1:2), for example, reached 23.1 mg/g, whereas rutin extraction using ChCl-levulinic acid (1:2) achieved 200 mg/g. Regarding this, most of the eutectic mixtures used are choline chloride (ChCl)-based combined with sugars, polyalcohols, organic acids, or even water. Nonpolar DESs combining betaine, L-proline, amino acids, sugars, and organic acids have also been used for the extraction of BCs with anti-inflammatory potential. Although the use of DES offers significant advantages for extraction processes, certain limitations still need to be overcome. This review highlights the comparative advantages of DESs in terms of extraction efficiency and environmental sustainability, offering practical insights for selecting optimal systems to extract anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds.

Abstract licence: CC BY

Fermentation remains central to food manufacturing and to the bio-based production of organic acids, solvents, and functional metabolites. This review integrates the biochemical pathways, key microorganisms, and application space of five major industrial fermentations-alcoholic, acetic, butyric, lactic, and propionic. We summarize the principal metabolic routes (EMP/ED glycolysis; oxidative ethanol metabolism; butyrate-forming pathways; and the Wood-Werkman, acrylate, and 1,2-propanediol routes to propionate) and relate them to the dominant microbial groups involved, including yeasts, acetic acid bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, clostridia, and propionibacteria. We highlight how the resulting metabolite spectra-ethanol, acetic acid, butyrate, lactate, propionate, and associated secondary metabolites-underpin product quality and safety in fermented foods and beverages and enable the industrial synthesis of platform chemicals, polymers, and biofuels. Finally, we discuss current challenges and opportunities for sustainable fermentation, including waste stream valorization, process intensification, and the integration of systems biology and metabolic engineering within circular economy frameworks.

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Abstract Poly (lactic acid) , Poly (propylene glycol) with Boc-Glycine linked polymer was synthesized from lactic acid, Poly (Propylene glycol) with Boc-Glycine. The synthesized polymers were characterized by using Infrared (IR) , Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopic Techniques ( 1 H NMR) and also characterized by Stability, Anti-inflammatory and Drug delivery studies were conducted in Vitro environments. PLA-PPG with Boc-Glycine copolymer polymer may be used in potential Drug delivery Applications in Pharmaceutical fields.

Abstract licence: CC BY