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Raman spectroscopic imaging is a label-free spectral technology to investigate the distribution of transdermal targets in skin. However, it is difficult to analyze low content of analytes in skin by direct imaging analysis. Combining Raman mapping technology with multiple linear regression algorithms, concentration contribution factor of targets in ex vivo human skin tissue at every point has been calculated. The distribution profiles are visualized as heat maps demonstrating the targets levels in different skin layers. This method has been successfully employed to investigate the vibrational imaging of distribution of hyaluronic acid and lidocaine in skin. Moreover, three dimensional (3D) images of the penetration profiles of hyaluronic acid with different molecular weight have been obtained. The results from 3D images were in good agreement with these from two-dimensional images, indicating that this method was a reliable way for monitoring the distribution of targets in skin.

Louise Finlayson acknowledges financial support from EPSRC Industrial Doctorate Centre Scheme (2262922) and the Laser Research and Therapy Fund (registered charity SC030850). An increase in the use of light-based technology and medical devices has created a demand for informative and accessible data showing the depth that light penetrates into skin and how this varies with wavelength. These data would be particularly beneficial in many areas of medical research and would support the use and development of disease-targeted light-based therapies for specific skin diseases, based on increased understanding of wavelength-dependency of cutaneous penetration effects. We have used Monte Carlo radiative transport (MCRT) to simulate light propagation through a multi-layered skin model for the wavelength range of 200 nm – 1000 nm. We further adapted the simulation to compare the effect of direct and diffuse light sources, varying incident angles and stratum corneum thickness. The lateral spread of light in skin was also investigated. As anticipated, we found that the penetration depth of light into skin varies with wavelength in accordance with the optical properties of skin. Penetration depth of ultraviolet radiation was also increased when the stratum corneum was thinner. These observations enhance understanding of the wavelength-dependency and characteristics of light penetration of skin, which has potential for clinical impact regarding optimizing light-based diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for skin disease. Publisher PDF

PURPOSE This study aimed to quantify the penetration of hydrogen peroxide (HP) inside the pulp cavity and color change with two different concentrations of HP to at-home bleaching associated or not with enamel microabrasion (MA). METHODS Forty healthy premolars were randomly divided in four groups (n = 10): only HP4%, MA + HP4%, only HP10%, MA + HP10%. The concentration (μg/ml) of HP was assessed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The color change (ΔEab , ΔE00 and WID ) was evaluated before and one-week after bleaching. Data were evaluated for a two-way ANOVA and the Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS The application of MA increased the amounts of HP inside the pulp chamber when compared to without MA, as well as PH10% when compared to PH4% (p

This study evaluated tubule penetration of GuttaFlow Bioseal with cold single cone or carrier-based technique, under confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Twenty straight single-rooted teeth were instrumented with Hyflex CM and divided in two groups (n = 10) according to the obturation method: single cold gutta-percha cones; experimental carrier-based obturators. GuttaFlow Bioseal, labelled with Rhodamine B dye, was used as sealer in both groups. Teeth transversally sectioned were observed under CLSM. Percentage of sealer penetration and integrity of sealer layer perimeter were measured. Surface and microstructural characteristics of obturators and gutta-percha cones were compared by FEG-SEM and EDX analysis. No significant differences were found between groups for each examined parameter. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were reported mainly within groups. Integrity was similar among and within groups. FEG-SEM/EDX analysis of obturators revealed the presence of Ba and Zn. Carrier-based obturation technique associated with GuttaFlow Bioseal does not seem to affect sealer penetration into dentinal tubules.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) on dentinal tubule penetration of EndoSequence BC. Sixty premolars were divided into four groups according to the obturation technique and plasma treatment. Root canals were filled with single cone in Group 1 (SC), single cone after ACP application in Group 2 (SC-P), warm vertical compaction in Group 3 (WVC), warm vertical compaction after ACP application in Group 4 (WVC-P). Horizontal sections were imaged using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The maximum penetration and percentage of penetration values were measured. These data were statistically analysed (P

The transmission of an electromagnetic field produced by a current loop of finite radius through a coaxial circular aperture in a perfectly conducting plate is evaluated through a rapidly convergent formulation in an exact form. By applying the equivalence principle, the problem is first formulated in the Hankel transform domain, obtaining a set of dual integral equations in which the equivalent surface magnetic current density defined on the aperture is not known. The set of dual integral equations is regularised in a second‐kind Fredholm integral equation by applying the Abel integral‐transform technique. The solution is achieved by expanding the unknown in a set of orthogonal basis functions that correctly reproduce the behaviour of the equivalent magnetic current at the edge of the aperture. Finally, under particular assumptions, a low‐frequency solution is extracted in a closed form. Numerical results are reported to validate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed formulations.

The skin is the largest organ of the integumentary system with a multifunctional purpose to protect the body from heat and microbes, regulate body temperature, and act as a sensory organ. A topical dosage form applied on the skin will have to cross the stratum corneum, which would then allow the dosage form to traverse the subsequent layers of the skin. The drug with poor solubility and short half-life would serve as an ideal candidate for its delivery via the transdermal route. This review reports the role of natural oils in enhancing the permeation of drugs through skin as they possess different features like natural origin, favorable penetration enhancement, and partitioning action in the skin. Chemical penetration enhancers have been used widely but are associated with toxicities. Thus, more research should be channelized in the area of extraction of oils from natural sources, along with their active constituents, which can serve as therapeutic alternatives to various disorders and diseases. Natural oils are obtained from leaves, fruits, flowers, seeds, bark, and roots, which have a therapeutic potential as well as penetration enhancing activity. The demerits of oral drug delivery include degradation of drugs in the gastrointestinal tract, addition of taste masking, and coating of tablets, which can be overcome by delivering the drug via the transdermal route. Natural oil contains lipids, flavonoids, and terpenes, which play a significant role in anti-inflammatory and penetration enhancing activity.

This study aimed to evaluate dentinal tubule penetration of the root canal filling material using various techniques such as cold lateral compaction, new generation thermoplastic core carrier and continuous-wave obturation. The root canals of premolar teeth were instrumented, and the teeth were allocated randomly to three groups (n = 15/group). After the obturation with three different techniques, three sections of 2-mm thickness at 2, 5 and 8-mm from the apex were examined under a confocal laser scanning microscope. The data were analysed of variance with a significance level of P

Today the print quality of digital printing techniques has improved and is considered satisfactory and competitive to analogue techniques for certain graphic products. Satisfactory print quality mostly depends on the interaction of ink and printing substrate where ink penetration has an important role. Namely, the ink penetration affects the parameters that describe the print quality together with visual appearance of print density and mottling. Therefore, it is important to select an adequate printing substrate for each printing technique. Awareness of environmental problems related to the shortage of wood raw materials has led to an increase in the use of recycled printing paper and in particular the implementation of new alternative sources of cellulose fibres instead of virgin wood fibres in the papermaking process. In this research the emphasis is precisely on defining the influence of ink penetration into laboratory papers made of triticale pulp on the final print quality. The laboratory printing papers were obtained by mixing triticale pulp with pulp from recycled fibres in three different portions. Papers were thereafter printed by ultraviolet (UV) inkjet printer and the ink penetration within laboratory papers with and without straw pulp was analysed using two methods of ink penetration analysis (microscopic/spectroscopic). The influence of ink penetration on the final print quality was observed and analysed based on several quality parameters (optical ink density, mottling and colorimetric values). These results confirmed that triticale pulp in laboratory papers provides equal print quality compared to laboratory papers made only from pulp from recycled fibres.

Background Monitoring the transcutaneous permeation of exogenous molecules using conventional techniques generally requires long pre-analytical preparation or labelling of samples. However, Raman spectroscopy is a label-free and non-destructive method which provides spatial distribution of tracked actives in skin. The aim of our study was to prove the interest of Raman imaging coupled with multivariate curve resolution alternating least square (MCR-ALS) analysis in monitoring retinol penetration into frozen and living human skin. Materials and methods After topical treatment of skin samples by free or encapsulated retinol, thin cross sections were analysed by Raman imaging (up to 100 µm depth). Mann-Whitney test was used to identify retinol spectroscopic markers in skin. MCR-ALS was used to estimate retinol contribution in Raman spectral images. Heat maps were constructed to compare the distribution of free and encapsulated retinol in skin models. Results We identified the bands at 1158, 1196 and 1591 cm-1 as specific features for monitoring retinol in skin. Moreover, our MCR-ALS results showed an improvement of retinol penetration (up to 30 µm depth) with the encapsulated form as well as storage reservoir formation in stratum corneum, for each skin model. Finally, greater retinol penetration into living skin was observed. Conclusion This study shows a proof of concept for the evaluation of retinol penetration in skin using Raman imaging coupled with MCR-ALS. This concept needs to be validated on more subjects to include inter-individual variability but also other factors affecting skin permeation (age, sex, pH, etc). Our study can be extended to other actives.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T10:59:20Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 This study evaluated the persistence of eugenol-containing (PR, Provy) or eugenol-free (RT, Relyx Temp, and TB, Temp Bond) temporary cement residues and its effects on push-out bond strength and dentinal penetration of the self-adhesive resin cement (Relyx U200). Eighty human roots were endodontically treated and post space prepared. Fourty specimens were distributed in four groups (n = 10): Control (CO), without any clinical procedure, PR, RT, and TB, where a metallic post was cemented with one of the temporary cements. After metallic post removal, hemi sections post space were submitted to SEM analysis. Another specimens were distributed in similar groups, but fiberglass post was cemented using Relyx U200 cement and submitted to push-out bond strength and dentinal penetration cement analysis, in post space thirds. SEM analysis were evaluated by Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests, while bond strength and dentinal penetration were evaluated by ANOVA One-Way and Tukey test (p

Aim To assess the chemical and microstructural characteristics of dentine after the use of two irrigation protocols and correlate this with the antimicrobial properties of HCSC and changes to the dentine structure / chemistry after sealer placement. Methodology Two irrigation protocols - Protocol A using 2% NaOCl used 5mL/5 min and Protocol B with 2% NaOCl (5mL/5 min) followed by 17% EDTA (5mL/3 min) were used to prepare dentine. The chemical and microstructural changes following irrigation were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy (n=5) on dentine obtained from the mid-root and coronal parts of extracted human teeth. Four sealers (AH Plus, BioRoot, MTA Fillapex, TotalFill) were characterized by SEM/EDS (n=3). The ability of the sealers to eradicate intratubular Enterococcus faecalis biofilms was assessed by live/dead dye and confocal laser scanning microscopy to measure the percentage of living cells. The effect of combined irrigation and root filling on the dentine was assessed by SEM and EDS analysis (n=5). Statistical analysis was undertaken using one-way ANOVA and a number of post hoc tests to detect intergroup differences. The F test was used for comparison of variances in the microbiology testing. Results The use of NaOCl alone left the smear layer seemingly intact, with traces of chlorine remaining on dentine. The use of BioRoot sealer restored the calcium ion levels of dentine which are depleted by the irrigation with EDTA. BioRoot exhibited antimicrobial properties against intratubular bacteria even in the presence of smear layer (Protocol A). The smear layer removal improved the bactericidal effect of all sealers and Ca2+ leaching. The use of a chelating agent was important for the intratubular sealer penetration for AH Plus but not the other sealers. Conclusion The removal of smear layer was associated with greater penetration of AH Plus into the dentinal tubules but not for the penetration of HCSC sealers. BioRoot was a more effective sealer in reducing the bacterial load in the dentinal tubules than the other materials tested and the presence of smear layer did not affect its activity.

This study assessed influence of 1% phytic acid and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on the dentinal tubules penetration of EndoSequence BC bioceramic-based and AH Plus resin-based sealers using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Forty single-rooted mandibular premolars were divided randomly into four groups (n = 10). Group 1 received final irrigation with 1% phytic acid solution and canals sealed by AH Plus sealer, Group 2: 1% phytic acid solution and EndoSequence BC sealer, Group 3: 17% EDTA solution and AH Plus sealer and Group 4: 17% EDTA solution and EndoSequence BC sealer. Specimens were horizontally sectioned 2, 4 and 6 mm from the apex. Average maximum depth of sealer penetration was examined using CLSM. Group three showed the deepest sealer penetration at all three levels which was significantly higher than all other groups (P ˂ 0.05). Deep sealer penetration is achievable with AH Plus and EDTA. Phytic acid groups have moderate tubular penetration ability.

Distribution static compensator is based on power electronic devices technology which is utilized to supply rapid changes in active power as well as reactive power of utility grids. This is useful to achieve corrections in power factor, balancing of load, compensation of current and filtering of harmonics. Therefore, proposed work investigates the improvement of the power quality by utilizing the distribution static compensator, which is equipped by battery energy storage system and interfaced to distribution network with solar photo voltaic (PV) energy integration. In the present study, distribution static compensator is controlled using a control strategy based on the synchronous reference frame theory. Customised IEEE-13 nodes test system incorporating solar PV generation and distribution static compensator, is utilized to perform the harmonic mitigation and power quality analysis. Disturbances of power quality and harmonics have been investigated due to abrupt changes in the insolation of solar radiation, outage of PV plant from grid and synchronization of PV plant to grid. MATLAB/Simulink environment is utilized to perform the study. Effectiveness of a developed approach is validated by comparing results of simulation with results extracted in real time using real time digital simulator. Results indicate that the developed method is more effective for harmonic mitigation and improving power quality of electrical power in distribution network integrated with solar PV generation. Performance of the approach is compared with the performance of methods reported in the literature to establish the suitability of the method for harmonics mitigation and power quality improvement in grid with solar energy.

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin that is used to prevent and treat acne and pellagra. It is often found in water-based skin care cosmetics because of its high water solubility. Nicotinamide is a small molecule with a molar mass of 122.1 g/mol. However, it has a hydrophilic nature that becomes an obstacle when it penetrates through the skin. The topmost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, acts as a strong hydrophobic barrier for such hydrophilic molecules. The oil-based formulations are expected to enhance the transdermal delivery efficiency of nicotinamide.We have developed oil-based microemulsion formulations composed of a squalane vehicle. Monoolein was used as an emulsifier that has a potential to enhance the nicotinamide delivery through the stratum corneum.Because the mean size of the emulsions measured by dynamic light scattering was 20.9 ± 0.4 nm, the microemulsion formulation was stable under the long-term storage. Monoolein acted as a skin penetration enhancer, and it effectively enabled the penetration of nicotinamide through human abdominal skin, compared with nicotinamide in a phosphate-buffered saline solution. The flux was increased 25-fold. Microscopic imaging revealed that the hydrophilic bioactive compounds penetrated through the intercellular spaces in the epidermis.The monoolein-based microemulsion was transparent and stable, suggesting that it is a promising formulation for a transdermal nicotinamide delivery.Le nicotinamide, aussi connu sous le nom de niacinamide, est une vitamine hydrosoluble utilisée pour prévenir et traiter l’acné et la pellagre. On le trouve souvent dans les produits cosmétiques de soins de la peau à base d’eau en raison de sa forte solubilité dans l’eau. Le nicotinamide est une petite molécule d’une masse molaire de 122,1 g/mol. Cependant, sa nature hydrophile devient un obstacle lorsqu’il pénètre la peau. La couche supérieure de la peau, la couche cornée, agit comme une barrière hydrophobe robuste contre ces molécules hydrophiles. Les formulations à base d’huile devraient améliorer l’efficacité de l’administration par voie transdermique du nicotinamide. MÉTHODES: Nous avons développé des formulations de microémulsions à base d’huile composées d’un véhicule de squalane. La monooléine a été utilisée en tant qu’émulsifiant doté du potentiel d’améliorer l’administration de nicotinamide par la couche cornée. RÉSULTATS: Étant donné que la taille moyenne des émulsions mesurées par diffusion dynamique de la lumière était de 20,9 ± 0,4 nm, la formulation de microémulsion était stable en cas de stockage à long terme. La monooléine a agi comme promoteur de l’absorption cutanée et a permis la pénétration efficace du nicotinamide dans la peau abdominale humaine, par rapport au nicotinamide dans une solution avec tampon phosphate salin. Le flux a été multiplié par 25. L’imagerie microscopique a révélé que les composés bioactifs hydrophiles ont pénétré les espaces intercellulaires de l’épiderme.La microémulsion à base de monooléine était transparente et stable, ce qui suggère qu’il s’agit d’une formulation prometteuse pour une administration de nicotinamide par voie transdermique.

It was previously reported that a highly resistant structure, which functions as a barrier against the penetration of dyes, is present at the interface between the cuticle and the cortex of human hair. That structure was named CARB, cuticle anchored resistant base. The goal of this study was to clarify the formation and composition of the structure CARB.Cuticular substructures were observed from the keratinized area of each hair to its root end. The positions where the CARB structure appeared were isolated, and the barrier ability before and after that structure was evaluated. The distributions of glycolipid and cystine were measured using a nano-IR and a transmission electron microscope (TEM).Cuticular substructures were fully constructed several mm from the hair bulb of the hairs observed. The results show that keratinization at the distal side of the cuticle cell precedes that of the proximal side, and CARB is fully constructed last among the substructures. Glycolipid was preferentially distributed at CARB in the keratinized area. The cystine content of CARB is lower than that of the A-layer; however, it is slightly higher than that of the exocuticle and the inner layer.These results demonstrate that CARB is produced in the final stage of keratinization of the cuticle layers. The rich contents of glycolipid and cystine might contribute to its resistant property.Il a été précédemment rapporté qu’une structure hautement résistante, qui fonctionne comme une barrière contre la pénétration des colorants, est présente à l’interface entre la cuticule et le cortex des cheveux humains. Cette structure a été baptisée « CARB » pour cuticle anchored resistant base (base résistante ancrée dans la cuticule). L’objectif de cette étude était de clarifier la formation et la composition de la structure CARB. MÉTHODES: Des sous-structures cuticulaires ont été observées à partir de la zone kératinisée de chaque cheveu jusqu’à sa racine. Les positions où apparaissait la structure CARB ont été isolées et la capacité de barrière avant et après cette structure a été évaluée. Les distributions des glycolipides et de la cystine ont été mesurées à l’aide d’un spectromètre infrarouge nanométrique (nano-IR) et d’un microscope électronique à transmission (MET). RÉSULTATS: Les sous-structures cuticulaires étaient entièrement construites à plusieurs mm du bulbe capillaire des cheveux observés. Les résultats montrent que la kératinisation du côté distal de la cellule cuticulaire précède celle du côté proximal, et la structure CARB est entièrement construite en dernier dans les sous-structures. Les glycolipides étaient distribués de préférence dans la structure CARB dans la zone kératinisée. La teneur en cystine de la structure CARB est inférieure à celle de la couche A ; cependant, elle est légèrement supérieure à celle de l’exocuticule et de la couche interne.Ces résultats démontrent que la structure CARB est produite à l’étape finale de la kératinisation des couches cuticulaires. Le riche contenu en glycolipides et cystine pourrait contribuer à sa propriété résistante.

Background Owing to the increase in the number of medical procedures performed every year, the frequency of filler injection-related complications has also increased. Although slow, gentle injections with low pressure are usually considered to be safe, the differences in ejection pressure during a filler injection remain to be determined. This study aimed to identify the optimal pressure during filler injections and evaluate its capacity to overcome the arterial blood pressure and reflux the filler material. Methods Twelve combinations of four hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers with different rheological properties and three needles of different diameters were assessed to determine the force exerted by the injection model. The ejection forces corresponding to varying injection forces were measured and HA filler ejection pressures were calculated. Results The highest and lowest injection forces were achieved using 30- and 25-G needles, respectively. In accordance with the expected ejection force, high ejection pressure was achieved by administering the HA filler under a high injection force. Irrespective of the injection force, the ejection pressure was likely to be higher than the vascular pressure at the time of entry into the vessel, rendering the injection dangerous. Conclusion During filler injection, penetration of blood vessels and intravascular injection can be avoided by approaching the target area gently using a cannula or needle.

Biofunctionalized TiO2 nanoparticles with a size range of 18.42±1.3 nm were synthesized in a single-step approach employing Grape seed extract (GSE) proanthocyanin (PAC) polyphenols. The effect of PACs rich GSE corona was examined with respect to 1) the stability and dispersity of as-synthesized GSE-TiO2 -NPs, 2) their antiproliferative and antibiofilm efficacy, and 3) their propensity for internalization and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in urinary tract infections (UTIs) causing Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram-positive Staphylococcus saprophyticus strains. State-of-the-art techniques were used to validate GSE-TiO2 -NPs formation. Comparative Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectral analysis demonstrated that PACs linked functional -OH groups likely play a central role in Ti4+ reduction and nucleation to GSE-TiO2 -NPs, while forming a thin, soft corona around nascent NPs to attribute significantly enhanced stability and dispersity. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) and inductively coupled plasma mass-spectroscopy (ICP-MS) analyses confirmed there was significantly (p

Background Porcine ear skin is used in studies of percutaneous penetration as a substitute for human skin. The objective of the present study was to determine the structure of the hair follicles on the dorsal area of porcine ear skin and make a morphometric comparison with the hair follicles of human skin. Materials and methods Sections of frozen biopsies were cut vertically to the skin surface in longitudinal sections using a cryotome and were investigated using microscopy. For each hair follicle, various parameters were determined. Results The follicular density in porcine ear skin varies according to the area studied, and the length of most of the follicles was approximately 1458 ± 286 μm. The size of the follicular orifice was also determined in a total of 305 follicles. It showed a diameter of roughly 113 ± 43 μm. Conclusion The results showed a very good similarity between human and pig hair follicles. Therefore, porcine ear skin can be considered as a very suitable model of human skin in dermal and especially follicular penetration studies.

This articles develops a probabilistic scheme for the efficient controlling of hybrid microgrids seeing renewable sources and power storages. Owing to the increasing popularity of DC loads (such as laptops, phones, etc) and distributed generation, hybrid AC–DC microgrids can provide more advantages than AC microgrids by direct power supply to AC and DC loads individually. In order to incorporate the randomness of forecast values’ impacts, a new load flow approach constructed based on unscented transform is engaged to handle the uncertainties of electrical demand, bidding pricing, tidal turbine output power and photovoltaic output. As the planned problem is a hard non‐linear optimization, an influential polar crow search optimization algorithm is created to explore the problem domain. The polar version helps to search the optimal solution in a smoother and symmetrical space. Also, a new self‐adaptive three platform correction system is used to reinforce the search aptitude of crow search optimization algorithm when evading early convergence. The total energy losses has improved from the initial condition of 4,065.363 $ to 3,216.129, 3,147.086 and 3,276.394 $ in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd scenarios, respectively. Moreover, the second scenario could get into the best voltage profile with deviation of 0.077428 pu.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different chelation solutions on the penetration of resin-based and bioceramic root canal sealers into dentinal tubules using a device that assembles conventional microplate detection with automated digital microscopy. Eighty-four single-rooted teeth were prepared with 30.07 nickel-titanium instruments and divided into four groups of 21 according to the final irrigation solutions used: saline (control), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), maleic acid (MA), and etidronic acid (HEBP). The samples were obturated with AH Plus, MTA Fillapex, or EndoSequence BC Sealer using the single-cone technique. The roots were then sectioned horizontally at 2, 6, and 10 mm and examined using a Cytation 5 reader and Gen5 software. Data were compared using two-way analysis of variance followed by univariate analyses and Tukey's multiple comparison test (p < .05). The mean penetration depth in the apical thirds was higher in the MA group than in the other groups (p = .013). The mean depth in the middle and coronal thirds was almost equal in the EDTA and HEBP groups. The mean depth was significantly higher in the coronal thirds of the root canals than in any other section in all final irrigation solution groups (p < .001). EndoSequence BC Sealer displayed higher penetration depth than AH Plus and MTA Fillapex, although the differences between the examined sealers were not statistically significant. The chelation solutions increased root canal sealer penetration into the dentinal tubule.

This paper proposes a novel method for quantifying fault level in future grid scenarios with various penetrations of power electronics‐connected renewable energy sources. As it is known, the information regarding the fault level is critically important for designing protection schemes, different control loops, understanding voltage profile in the grid, etc. This method is focused on the steady‐state fault level calculation and it can be used to analyse future grid scenarios including uniform and non‐uniform penetration of power electronics‐based generation displacing all, or just specific conventional synchronous generation in the grid. Due to different possibilities for type, size, and location of power electronics‐based RES generation in future grid, it is required to analyse the unprecedented scale of scenarios. The proposed method for FLC enables us to assess the system fault level for large numbers of FG scenarios without a need for detailed system modelling and/or time‐domain simulations. The simulation results demonstrated the suitability of our proposed FLC method for various penetration levels of PE‐based RESs in the 2‐area and the IEEE 39‐bus test systems. The obtained results are compared with time‐domain simulations and the IEC 60909 standards performed in DIgSILENT PowerFactory, where the efficacy of the proposed methodology is demonstrated.

Despite of the good stability with Li-metal, Li6.75 La3 Zr1.75 Ta0.25 O12 (LLZTO) suffers from large interfacial resistance and severe Li-metal penetration. Herein, a dual layer ceramic electrolyte of Ti-doped LLZTO(Ti-LLZTO)/LLZTO was developed, with the reducible Ti-LLZTO layer contacting Li-metal and the LLZTO layer contacting cathode. The identical crystal structures of Ti-LLZTO and LLZTO enables a seamless contact and a barrierless Li+ transport between them. The densities of Ti-LLZTO pellets are higher than that of LLZTO. With an in situ reduction of Ti-LLZTO by Li-metal, the interfacial wettability was improved and a mixed ion-electron conducting layer was created. Both features help to reduce defects/pores on interface and homogenize the interfacial ionic/electronic flux, facilitating the reduction of interfacial resistance and suppression of dendrites. With the help of Ti-LLZTO layer, long-term stable lithium plating/stripping was reached in an areal capacity of 3.0 mAh cm-2 .

Background Skin being the largest organ of the human body plays a very important role in the permeation and penetration of the drug. In addition, the transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) plays a major role in managing dermal infections and attaining sustained plasma drug concentration. Thus, evaluation of percutaneous penetration of the drug through the skin is important in developing TDDS for human use. Material and methods Various techniques are used for getting the desired drug penetration, permeation, and absorption through the skin in managing these dermal disorders. The development of novel pharmaceutical dosage forms for dermal use is much explored in the current era. However, it is very important to evaluate these methods to determine the bioequivalence and risk of these topically applied drugs, which ultimately penetrate and are absorbed through the skin. Results Currently, numerous skin permeation models are being developed and persuasively used in studying dermatopharmacokinetic (DPK) profile and various models have been developed, to evaluate the TDD which include ex vivo human skin, ex vivo animal skin, and artificial or reconstructed skin models. Conclusion This review discusses the general physiology of the skin, the physiochemical characteristics affecting particle penetration, understand the models used for human skin permeation studies and understanding their advantages, and disadvantages.

To investigate the effects of different molecular weight (MW), wool derived hydrolysed keratins (i.e. peptides) on the physical properties of relaxed textured hair.Very curly hair of African origin was relaxed using sodium hydroxide-based treatment. Relaxed hair was treated with different MW peptides derived from keratin protein and an amino acid, L-Leucine. The low-MW keratin peptides were 221 Da, the mid-MW keratin peptides were approximately 2577 Da, and the high-MW keratin peptides were approximately 75 440 Da. The penetration of these different peptides into relaxed hair was evaluated using a laser scanning micrometre and by fluorescence microscopy. The effect of these compounds on single-fibre mechanical properties and thermal properties was evaluated using tensile and DSC testing, respectively.Low- and mid-MW compounds were able to penetrate deep into the hair cortex. High-MW peptide adsorbed onto the hair surface and possibly slightly penetrated into the outer layers of the fibre surface. Both mid- and high-MW keratin peptides, increased Young's modulus and reduced hair breakage at 20% and 80% relative humidity. With the exception of mid-MW peptide, other peptides and amino acid were not able to modify thermal properties of relaxed textured hair.Our data suggest that low-MW compounds may increase hair volume, and high-MW peptides may repair damage on freshly relaxed textured hair.Etudier les effets des kératines hydrolysées, issues de la laine, de différents poids moléculaires (PM) (par ex : peptides) sur les propriétés physiques des cheveux texturés défrisés. MÉTHODES: Les cheveux très bouclés d’origine africaine ont été défrisés à l’aide d’un traitement à base d’hydroxyde de sodium. Les cheveux défrisés ont été traités avec des peptides de différents PM dérivés de la protéine de kératine et un acide aminé, la L-leucine. Les peptides de kératine de PM faible étaient de 221 Da, les peptides de kératine de PM moyen étaient d’environ 2 577 Da et les peptides de kératine de PM élevé étaient d’environ 75 440 Da. La pénétration de ces différents peptides dans les cheveux défrisés a été évaluée à l’aide d’un micromètre à balayage laser et par microscopie à fluorescence. L’effet de ces composés sur les propriétés mécaniques à fibre unique et les propriétés thermiques a été évalué à l’aide de tests de traction et de l’analyse calorimétrique différentielle (ACD), respectivement. RÉSULTATS: Les composés de PM faible et moyen ont pu pénétrer en profondeur dans le cortex des cheveux. Les peptides de PM élevé ont été adsorbés sur la surface des cheveux et ont éventuellement pénétré, légèrement, dans les couches externes de la surface des fibres. Les peptides de kératine de PM moyen et élevé ont augmenté le module de Young et réduit la casse des cheveux à 20 % et 80 % d’humidité relative. À l’exception des peptides de PM moyen, d’autres peptides et acides aminés n’ont pas pu modifier les propriétés thermiques des cheveux texturés défrisés.Nos données suggèrent que les composés de PM faible peuvent augmenter le volume des cheveux et que les peptides de PM élevé peuvent réparer les dommages sur les cheveux texturés fraîchement défrisés.

Cosmetic emollients are widely used in skincare formulations due to their ability to 'soften' the skin and modulate formulation spreadability. Though emollients are commonly used, little is known about their effects on the biomechanical barrier properties of human stratum corneum (SC), which play a critical role in consumer perception of formulation efficacy. Accordingly, our objective was to provide new insights with a study involving fourteen cosmetic emollient molecules with widely varying structures, molecular weights, SC diffusivities, topological polar surface areas (TPSAs), viscosities and chemical functionalities.Mechanical stress in the SC was measured in vitro using a substrate curvature measurement technique. Stress development due to SC drying was measured before and after topical treatment with cosmetic emollients. Emollient diffusivity and alterations to lipid content in SC after treatment were measured via ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. The maximum penetration volume of emollient in SC was characterized to elucidate mechanisms underlying emollient effects on stress.The application of all cosmetic emollients caused a reduction in SC mechanical stress under dehydrating conditions, and a linear correlation was discovered between emollient penetration volume and the degree of stress reduction. These molecules also induced increases in stress equilibration rate, signalling changes to SC transport kinetics. Stress equilibration rate increases linearly correlated with decreasing intensity of the νCH2 band, indicating a previously unknown interaction between cosmetic emollients and SC lipids. Stress and penetration volume results were rationalized in terms of a multi-parameter model including emollient molecular weight, diffusivity, TPSA and viscosity.We provide a new rational basis for understanding the effects of cosmetic emollient choice on biomechanical properties affecting SC barrier function and consumer perception. We demonstrate for the first time that emollients very likely reduce SC mechanical stress through their ability to take up volume when penetrating the SC, and how molecular weight, SC diffusivity, TPSA and viscosity are predictive of this ability. As cosmetic formulations continue to evolve to meet the needs of customers, emollient molecules can be selected that not only contribute to formulation texture and/or spreadability but that also leverage this novel connection between emollient penetration and SC biomechanics.Les émollients cosmétiques sont largement utilisés dans les formulations de soins de la peau en raison de leur capacité à «adoucir» la peau et à moduler la capacité d'étalement de la formulation. Bien que les émollients soient couramment utilisés, on en sait peu sur leurs effets sur les propriétés de barrière biomécanique de la couche cornée humaine (SC), qui jouent un rôle essentiel dans la perception par les consommateurs de l'efficacité de la formulation. En conséquence, notre objectif était de fournir de nouvelles perspectives avec une étude impliquant quatorze molécules émollientes cosmétiques avec des structures, des poids moléculaires, des diffusivités SC, des surfaces polaires topologiques (TPSA), des viscosités et des fonctionnalités chimiques très variables. MÉTHODES: La contrainte mécanique dans le SC a été mesurée in vitro en utilisant une technique de mesure de la courbure du substrat. Le développement du stress dû au séchage SC a été mesuré avant et après un traitement topique avec des émollients cosmétiques. La diffusivité émolliente et les altérations de la teneur en lipides dans la SC après le traitement ont été mesurées par spectroscopie ATR-FTIR. Le volume de pénétration maximal de l'émollient dans SC a été caractérisé pour élucider les mécanismes sous-jacents aux effets émollients sur le stress. RÉSULTATS: L'application de tous les émollients cosmétiques a entraîné une réduction de la contrainte mécanique SC dans des conditions de déshydratation, et une corrélation linéaire a été découverte entre le volume de pénétration de l'émollient et le degré de réduction de la contrainte. Ces molécules ont également induit des augmentations du taux d'équilibrage des contraintes, signalant des changements dans la cinétique de transport SC. Le taux d'équilibrage des contraintes augmente linéairement en corrélation avec la diminution de l'intensité de la bande νCHNous fournissons une nouvelle base rationnelle pour comprendre les effets du choix des émollients cosmétiques sur les propriétés biomécaniques affectant la fonction de barrière SC et la perception du consommateur. Nous démontrons pour la première fois que les émollients réduisent très probablement la contrainte mécanique SC grâce à leur capacité à prendre du volume lors de la pénétration du SC, et comment le poids moléculaire, la diffusivité SC, le TPSA et la viscosité sont prédictifs de cette capacité. Alors que les formulations cosmétiques continuent d'évoluer pour répondre aux besoins des clients, des molécules émollientes peuvent être sélectionnées qui contribuent non seulement à la texture et / ou à l'étalement de la formulation, mais qui exploitent également cette nouvelle connexion entre la pénétration des émollients et la biomécanique SC.

Root canal filling aims at eliminating empty spaces into the root canal system using biologically compatible materials. Three-dimensional root canal obturation must prevent or minimize the reinfection caused by microorganisms' leakage. This study aimed at evaluating whether fluorophore (Rhodamine or Fluo-3) influences the CLSM images of intratubular penetration of four endodontic sealers. Eighty bovine teeth were prepared using K files up to a size #70 and irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. All roots were divided into eight groups (n = 10) according to the sealer and fluorophore used: AH Plus/Rhodamine, AH Plus/Fluo-3, Sealer Plus/Rhodamine, Sealer Plus/Fluo-3, Sealer Plus BC/Rhodamine, Sealer Plus BC/Fluo-3, Endosequence/Rhodamine, and Endosequence/Fluo-3. All roots were filled using cold lateral compaction technique. After 7 days, the roots were transversely sectioned, and three slices, one of each canal third, were obtained. Intratubular penetration was evaluated using CLSM. Sealer Plus BC/Rhodamine and Endosequence BC/Rhodamine presented higher intratubular penetration than AH Plus/Fluo-3 and Sealer Plus/Fluo-3 (p ˂ .05). The intragroup analysis showed similar intratubular penetration, regardless of the root third, except for the apical third in AH Plus/Fluo-3 and Sealer Plus BC/Fluo-3 groups. The type of fluorophore influences the calcium silicate sealers' tubular penetration but not of epoxy resin-based ones using CLSM. Bioceramic sealers should not be used associated with Rhodamine for CLSM evaluation. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The type of fluorophore influences the calcium silicate sealers' tubular penetration but not of epoxy resin-based ones when CLSM is used for assessment. Bioceramic sealers should not be used associated with Rhodamine.

The penetration mechanism of choline chloride‐glycerol deep eutectic solvent (DES) through the stratum corneum (SC) as a potential solvent for a novel enhancer of protein penetration into the skin was investigated in a wide and small angle X‐ray diffraction study. We found that DES penetrated through intercellular lipids but not the corneocytes. DES seemed to extract a portion of lipids of the short lamellae in the SC. Hydrated DES with a DES to water weight ratio of 9 to 1 (9DES‐1H2O) showed the strongest interaction with the lipids in the SC compared with water, DES, and hydrated DESs with another weight ratio of DES to water (DES : water=8 : 2). In a skin penetration test with a fluorescently labelled lysozyme, 9DES‐1H2O increased the amount of penetration through the SC by two‐fold compared with HEPES buffer., Drug delivery: The penetration mechanism of choline chloride‐glycerol deep eutectic solvent (DES) through the stratum corneum (SC) as a potential solvent for a novel enhancer of protein penetration into the skin was investigated in an X‐ray diffraction study. We found that hydrated DES increased the penetration of lysozyme through the SC due to the disruption of the short lipid lamellar structures through partial extraction of lipids in the SC.

Objective Mechanical plaque removal may alter the surface morphology of the gingival penetration part of the implant. We applied an air-powered abrasive system (AP), titanium curette (TC), stainless curette (SC), ultrasound scaler (US), and titanium brush (TB) which are commonly used to remove plaque, to titanium or zirconia and the changes in surface morphology and the epithelial attach against substrata. Materials and methods (a) The morphological changes of titanium and zirconia after mechanical cleaning were assessed by scanning electron microscopy and a roughness analyser. (b) Oral epithelial cells of rats were inoculated on the surface of the materials after mechanical cleaning, and the adherence of epithelial cells was observed. (c) The maxillary first molars were extracted from the rats and replaced by experimental titanium or zirconia implants. The length of the immunoreactive laminin-332 band was observed at the implant-peri-implant epithelium interface. Results (a) The surface roughness increased in experimental groups except the AP group. (b) Among the experimental groups, the AP group showed the highest number of attached cells. (c) The length of the immunoreactive laminin-332 band was longer in the control group than those in all five experimental groups. Among the experimental groups, the AP group showed the longest band. Conclusion All mechanical cleaning methods increased the surface roughness of the materials except AP. AP did not cause distinct implant surface alterations. Surface alteration caused by mechanical cleaning may evoke inferior for epithelial attachment and reduce resistance against foreign infiltration.

Dilated vessels at the ulcer floor of the second part of the duodenum can be signs of pancreatic arteriovenous malformation; contrast‐enhanced computed tomography should be performed, and surgical treatment should be considered.

This study compared the depth and percentage of dentinal tubule penetration for single-cone (SC) and warm vertical (WV) obturation techniques with two different bioceramic sealers (BC Sealer [BCS], BC Sealer HiFlow [BCSHF]) and an epoxy resin-based sealer (2Seal easymiX). Fifty canals were filled with BCS, BCSHF or resin-based sealer (RBS). Teeth in BCS and BCSHF groups were filled with SC or WV techniques, and teeth in the control group (RBS) filled with WV technique only. The roots were sectioned at 3 mm and 6 mm levels from the apex and evaluated with a confocal laser microscope. There was significantly greater depth and percentage of sealer penetration at the 6 mm section compared to 3 mm (P 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found in sealer type or obturation technique at the examined levels (P 0.05). In conclusion, dentinal tubule penetration was similar comparing BC Sealer, BC Sealer HiFlow and RBS using SC and WV techniques.

Turkyilmaz, Ali/0000-0003-0641-0062 WOS:000553969300001 PubMed: 32735400 This in vitro study aimed to investigate the tubular penetration depth of four different sealers used with two different obturation methods in the apical, middle, and coronal root canal dentin. Eighty-four single-rooted teeth were instrumented until the F4 ProTaper universal rotary file and filled with AH26, AH Plus (Dentsply, DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany), RealSeal (SybronEndo, Orange, CA), and MTA Fillapex (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) using cold lateral condensation (CLC) and single-cone (SC) obturation techniques. Thereafter, the roots were sectioned longitudinal and prepared for scanning electron microscope evaluation. The maximum and minimum sealers penetration depth into dentinal tubules at the apical, middle, and coronal regions and the average depth of sealer penetration were calculated. The data was statistically analyzed two-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey and Dunnett tests and independent samplesttest using maximum mean values. There was no statistically difference between the obturation methods (p> .05). When the sealers are evaluated within themselves AH26 was affected by obturation methods significantly (p< .05). Also the results revealed a significant difference between root regions (p< .05). AH26 and RealSeal root canal sealers had the highest penetration values with CLC and SC obturation techniques, respectively. The obturation method did not affect the penetration amount of root canal sealers. RealSeal root canal sealer performed better penetration ability than the other sealers. Apical third of the root in all groups showed lowest penetration depth. Scientific Research Projects Coordination Center of Kirikkale University, Kirikkale/TurkeyKirikkale University [2012/94] Scientific Research Projects Coordination Center of Kirikkale University, Kirikkale/Turkey, Grant/Award Number: 2012/94

Sorption of phosphate by soils is an important determinant of fertiliser efficiency. Its extent and rate differ between soils. This paper considers both how these differences can be described and how they can be explained. Published data on the rate of reaction of soil with phosphate are assembled. There are 88 soil samples from five continents, as reported in six publications. In almost all cases, sorption (S) was related to solution concentration (c) and time (t) by: S = a cᵇ¹tᵇ² – qtᵇ³. The term after the minus sign describes the rate of desorption; its value is affected by soil phosphate status. The “a” parameter reflects the amount of adsorbing surfaces present plus their affinity for phosphate. The b₁ parameter, which describes the curvature of the sorption plots, reflects the composition of the adsorbing surfaces and their phosphate status. Large values are obtained for soils with a small range of electric potentials of their reacting surfaces and a low phosphate status, as is common for Australian virgin surface soils. The greatest influence on the b₂ parameter, which describes the curvature of the plots against time, is the method of measurement. Large values were observed when soil and solution were shaken together and are probably an artefact caused by mutual abrasion of the soil particles. When this problem was avoided, large values of b₂ were associated with very phosphate‐deficient soils; small values of b₂ often occurred when b₁ was also small, suggesting surfaces of varying potential were present. If the substances present included components such as kaolin, that might explain both the range in potentials and limited penetration. HIGHLIGHTS: The effect of solution concentration (c) and time (t) on sorption (S) can be described by S = acᵇ¹tᵇ² – qtᵇ³ and the other terms are parameters. Small values of the “curvature” term b₁ are associated with large values for heterogeneity of the reacting surfaces. Mutual abrasion of the soil particles causes large values of rate parameter b₂ when soil and solution are shaken. When this problem is avoided the value of b₂ depends on the rate of penetration.

The aim of the paper presented herein is the description and safety evaluation of the process of dissolution of an 86-microneedle patch composed of hyaluronic acid, when applied topically to human abdominal skin explants. Such explants were chosen to replace the inability of obtaining periorbital skin. In order to evaluate penetration and dissolution of the microneedles, we employed histochemical methods and a fluorescent dye FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate).Abdominoplasty human skin explants were treated with square microneedle patches with a 1.5-cmThe application of the MN patch to excised skin explants showed these microneedles to be non-invasive into the dermis of the skin. Skin puncturing with MN patches revealed 17 different sites of microneedle penetration immediately afterwards and 4 sites, 2 h later. Although there were some variances in the epidermal depth of penetration, these variances did not impact on cell viability. The hyaluronic acid-based microneedles having 450 µm in length penetrated the epidermis at an averaged depth by 26 µm without disrupting skin cell viability and without causing an inflammatory response. Hyaluronic acid could be detected in most of these penetration sites, with no diffusion into the dermis, which is important for cosmetic applications. FITC analysis uncovered fluorescein isothiocyanate distribution within microneedle insertion site, which remained steady after 2 and 6 h of experimentation.Using ex vivo tracer staining studies, we have shown that the evaluated microneedle applicator is capable of penetrating the skin epidermis and delivering substances embedded in the needle polymer matrix. In addition, the tested product was shown to be safe, which provides a broad perspective for delivering cosmetic and pharmaceutic agents.Le but de cet article est de décrire et évaluer l’innocuité du processus de dissolution d'un patch de 86 micro-aiguilles composé d'acide hyaluronique, lorsqu'il est appliqué par voie topique sur des explants de peau abdominale humaine. De tels explants ont été choisis pour palier à l'impossibilité d'obtenir une peau périorbitaire. Afin d'évaluer la pénétration et la dissolution des micro-aiguilles, nous avons utilisé des méthodes histochimiques et un marqueur fluorescent FITC (isothiocyanate de fluorescéine). MÉTHODES: Les explants de la peau humaine de l'abdominoplastie ont été traités avec des patchs à microaiguilles, carrés d'une surface de 1,5 cm2, contenant 86 micro-aiguilles et ayant 450 ± 23,5 μm de hauteur avec 1 mm d'espacement entre les micro-aiguilles. Un traitement histologique et des colorations ont été réalisée pour observer la viabilité cellulaire et les glycosaminoglycanes. La diffusion de FITC a été observée en épifluorescence. Le pourcentage de surface colorée pour chaque traitement a été comparé à des échantillons témoins non traités à différents temps de cinétique. Un test de Mann-Whitney a été utilisé pour identifier la différence entre deux populations (sites de pénétration des micro-aiguilles et peau normale) avec une limite de significativité statistique de P0.05. RÉSULTATS: L'application du patch MN sur les explants de peau a montré que ces micro-aiguilles ne Pénétraient pas dans le derme de la peau. L’application cutanée des patchs MN a révélé 17 sites différents de pénétration de micro-aiguille immédiatement après l’application et 4 sites, 2 heures plus tard. Bien qu'il y ait eu quelques variations dans la profondeur de pénétration épidermique, ces variations n'ont pas eu d'impact sur la viabilité cellulaire. Les micro-aiguilles à base d'acide hyaluronique d'une longueur de 450 μm ont pénétré l'épiderme à une profondeur moyenne de 26 μm sans perturber la viabilité des cellules de la peau et sans provoquer de réponse inflammatoire. L'acide hyaluronique composant les micro-aiguilles a été détecté sur la plupart de ces sites de pénétration, sans diffusion dans le derme, ce qui est important pour les applications cosmétiques. L'analyse FTIC a révélé une distribution d'isothiocyanate de fluorescéine dans le site d'insertion de micro-aiguille qui est restée stable après 2 et 6 heures d'expérimentation.En utilisant des études de coloration de traceurs sur explant de peau humaine ex vivo, nous avons montré que l'applicateur de micro-aiguille est capable de pénétrer l'épiderme et de délivrer des substances incorporées dans la matrice polymère de l'aiguille. De plus, le produit testé s'est avéré sûr et bien toléré, ce qui ouvre une large perspective pour l'administration d'agents cosmétiques et pharmaceutique.

Most coal seams in China are characterized by high‐gas pressure and high‐gas content, which seriously threaten the safety of coal mines. Gas extraction is an effective measure for preventing gas disasters. However, the drilling process in soft coal seams is inefficient; it is difficult for the boreholes to reach the design length. The rate of penetration (ROP) plays an important role in determining drilling efficiency and borehole length in soft coal seams. In this study, we establish a simplified ROP model for soft coal seams and evaluate the maximum ROP of Hebi No. 6 coal mine. First, the drill cutting transport capacity of the drilling system and drill cutting quantity generated during the drilling process are analyzed. By simplifying drill cutting transport and coal seam properties, the ROP model is established. Second, the Rock Failure Process Analysis software is used to analyze the deformation region of boreholes, which has a great influence on the drill cutting transport space. Finally, a field test is implemented in Hebi No. 6 coal mine in Henan Province, China, to verify the model, and we propose a measure to control the ROP below the maximum value to increase the length of the borehole. The test results indicate that the model has high accuracy, with errors less than 15%, and the lengths of boreholes in air‐return and transportation roadways are increased to 60 and 80 m, respectively, and the increase rate is greater than 50%.

BACKGROUND Ultradeformable liposomes are promising carriers for cosmeceutical actives as they can be loaded with molecules of different polarities, and they present unique penetration properties. AIMS While those features have already been tested, we wanted to know whether their special penetration properties could be maintained after incorporation in diverse cosmetic vehicles, including commercial products already in the market. METHODS Ultradeformable liposomes loaded with a lipophilic and a hydrophilic fluorescent probe were prepared by lipid film resuspension, followed by extrusion and incorporation to different vehicles and commercial products. Penetration was determined in human and pig skin by incubation, with the Saarbrucken penetration model, followed by the recovery of the probes or by fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS The incorporation of ultradeformable liposomes to cosmetic vehicles did not alter their penetration in most of the cases for human skin explants. Pig skin penetration presented significant differences compared with human explants. CONCLUSIONS Ultradeformable liposomes could be useful as versatile cosmeceutical carriers in final product formulations.

Aim\ud \ud To establish if irrigant activation techniques, namely manual‐dynamic‐activation (MDA), passive‐ultrasonic‐irrigation (PUI) and sonic‐irrigation (SI), improve the tubular penetration of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) into root dentine when compared with conventional‐needle‐irrigation (CNI). Secondly, investigate if increasing NaOCl concentration and/or contact‐time improves the performance of these techniques.\ud Methodology\ud \ud A total of 83 extracted human maxillary permanent canines were decoronated to 15 mm and root canals prepared to a size 40,.10 taper. Root dentine was stained with crystal violet for 72 h and embedded in silicone. Eighty specimens were randomly distributed into 16 groups (n = 5) according to the irrigant activation technique, NaOCl concentration (2%; 5.25%) and irrigant contact‐time (10 min; 20 min). All activation techniques were used for 60 s in the last minute of irrigation. Additionally, 3 teeth were not exposed to NaOCl to confirm adequate dentine staining had occurred (i.e. negative control). All specimens were subsequently dissected, observed under a light microscope and NaOCl penetration depth (µm) determined by measuring the average width of bleached dentine using ImageJ software. Statistical comparisons were made with paired and unpaired t‐tests, ANOVAs followed by post‐hoc Tukey and Dunnett’s tests, and a general linear model (α < 0.05).\ud Results\ud \ud Overall, NaOCl penetration ranged from 38.8 µm – 411.0 µm with MDA, PUI and SI consistently resulting in significantly greater tubular infiltration than CNI (P < 0.05). The deepest measurements in the coronal, middle and apical segments were all recorded in the MDA; 5.25%; 20 min group and the least in the CNI; 2%; 10 min group. Increasing either irrigant concentration or contact‐time resulted in significantly greater NaOCl penetration depths for all techniques and segments of the canal (P < 0.05). However, when irrigant concentration and contact‐time were increased together, a significant interaction effect between these two independent variables was observed on overall NaOCl penetration (P < 0.05).\ud Conclusions\ud \ud Agitating irrigants with MDA, PUI or SI, as well as using greater irrigant concentrations or contact‐times, potentiated NaOCl penetration into root dentine. However, longer durations of NaOCl exposure at lower concentrations resulted in similar depths of tubular penetration as those achieved at higher concentrations.

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has the advantages of high penetration, non-invasiveness, and controllability, and it is suitable for deep-seated tumors. However, there is still a lack of effective sonosensitizers with high sensitivity, safety, and penetration. Now, ultrasound (US) and glutathione (GSH) dual responsive vesicles of Janus Au-MnO nanoparticles (JNPs) were coated with PEG and a ROS-sensitive polymer. Upon US irradiation, the vesicles were disassembled into small Janus Au-MnO nanoparticles (NPs) with promoted penetration ability. Subsequently, GSH-triggered MnO degradation simultaneously released smaller Au NPs as numerous cavitation nucleation sites and Mn2+ for chemodynamic therapy (CDT), resulting in enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. This also allowed dual-modality photoacoustic imaging in the second near-infrared (NIR) window and T1 -MR imaging due to the released Mn2+ , and inhibited orthotopic liver tumor growth via synergistic SDT/CDT.