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Chia Seed Mucilage-Based Bilayer Sponges Containing Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Wound Dressing

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Chia Seed Mucilage-Based Bilayer Sponges Containing Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Wound Dressing Authors: Qiao, Zhen; Kim, Jin Yeong; Zhang, Kelun; Park, Chang Ook; Shin, Yong Abstract: Effective wound management requires dressings that not only protect against infection but also support tissue regeneration. In this work, we present a chia seed mucilage/poly(vinyl alcohol) (CSMP)-zinc oxide (ZnO) bilayer wound dressing composed of a dense CSMP-ZnO hydrofilm as the outer protective barrier and a porous CSMP-ZnO sponge as the inner absorbent layer. The CSMP-ZnO bilayer wound dressing is fabricated via oven-drying and freeze-drying techniques, enabling a clear functional division between the outer protective layer and the inner wound-contacting layer and resulting in a stable and well-integrated structure. Mechanical testing demonstrates that the bilayer design synergistically combines the strength of the hydrofilm and the flexibility of the sponge, leading to improved mechanical integrity compared with single-layer structures, while the incorporation of ZnO nanoparticles enhances antibacterial performance. Water vapor permeability and contact angle analyses indicate that the dressing maintains a moist wound environment and exhibits tunable wettability, which are favorable for wound exudate management. In vitro evaluation using normal human dermal fibroblasts confirms good biocompatibility at low ZnO concentrations, and inhibition zone assays demonstrate effective antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, in vivo assessment using a murine scald wound model shows that the CSMP-ZnO bilayer wound dressing accelerates wound closure and promotes re-epithelialization compared with untreated wounds. Overall, this study highlights the CSMP-ZnO bilayer wound dressing as a multifunctional platform that integrates mechanical support, moisture regulation, antibacterial protection, and biocompatibility for advanced wound care applications.

Clinical Efficacy of a Flavo-Proxylane Topical Regimen Pre- and Post-ultrasound Procedure for Subjects Undergoing Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist Therapy

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Clinical Efficacy of a Flavo-Proxylane Topical Regimen Pre- and Post-ultrasound Procedure for Subjects Undergoing Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist Therapy Authors: Moradi, Amir; Kim, Jihee H.; Kim, Jemin M.; Choudhary, Hina N.; Brieva, Patricia M. Abstract: Introduction: Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are widely used for weight management and type 2 diabetes, but reports of reduced skin laxity and volume have raised aesthetic concerns. This study evaluates the first integrated skincare protocol designed for GLP-1 RA users. Methods: This 12-week, double-blind, randomized, split-face/split-neck study included 25 GLP-1 RA users (mean age 53.36 years) with mild-to-moderate skin aging, including male and female participants with Fitzpatrick skin types II to VI. All participants applied a topical regimen featuring Proxylane and wild fruit flavonoids (Flavo-Proxylane) to one side of the face/neck and a placebo to the other. After 4 weeks of topical monotherapy, participants received a single focused ultrasound treatment, followed by an additional 8 weeks of topical therapy. Outcomes included blinded image evaluation, 13 clinical grading parameters (via modified Griffiths scale), Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores, tolerability, and patient-reported satisfaction. Results: All participants completed the study and lost an average of 3.7 lb. After 4 weeks of Flavo-Proxylane monotherapy, significant improvements were observed for facial skin laxity (- 16%; P < 0.001) and marionette lines (- 5%; P < 0.05), while no significant changes were observed with placebo. By week 12, the combined regimen achieved amplified improvements versus baseline, week 4, and placebo (all P < 0.001), with total reductions of 44% in skin laxity and 34% in marionette lines. Significant improvements were observed across all 13 clinical parameters. Overall improvement rating favored Flavo-Proxylane, with 94% reporting moderate-to-significant improvement versus 30% for placebo. Flavo-Proxylane treatment was well tolerated, with 84% reporting improved skin appearance and only three mild, self-resolving adverse events. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that an integrated regimen with Flavo-Proxylane products and ultrasound may improve aesthetic outcomes in a diverse range of participants undergoing GLP-1 RA treatment.

Clinical Features and Treatment Response in Chronic Recurrent Erythema Multiforme: Difference Based on the Etiology Related to Herpes Simplex Virus

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Clinical Features and Treatment Response in Chronic Recurrent Erythema Multiforme: Difference Based on the Etiology Related to Herpes Simplex Virus Authors: Chung, Kyung Bae; Park, Jung Won; Lee, Joo Hee; Kim, Eun-Hye; Kim, Do-Young Abstract: Background: Erythema multiforme (EM) is typically a self-limited, acute hypersensitivity reaction. However, a subset of patients experiences chronic, recurrent episodes, for which clinical features and treatment strategies differ depending on the underlying etiology, especially in herpes simplex virus (HSV)-associated cases. Objective: To investigate the clinical and phenotypic features of chronic recurrent EM and assess treatment responses, with a focus on differences based on HSV association. Methods: This retrospective study included pathology-confirmed cases of suspected EM from 2010 to 2023. Forty patients with chronic EM (>= 3 recurrences or persistent disease for >= 12 months) were included. Clinical, histopathologic, and serologic data were analysed. Patients were stratified into herpes simplex virus-associated erythema multiforme (HAEM) and non-HAEM groups. Clustering analysis was performed to identify clinical phenotypes. Treatment responses to antivirals and immunomodulators were evaluated. Results: Of the 40 patients, 24 (60%) were classified as HAEM. HAEM patients showed more mucosal involvement, smaller targetoid lesions, and acral predominance, while non-HAEM patients had larger, coalescing lesions with more trunk involvement. Cluster analysis supported HSV as the major discriminating factor. Antiviral agents were effective in 87.5% of HAEM cases but ineffective in 76.9% of non-HAEM patients. Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine and mycophenolate mofetil showed variable responses. Baricitinib induced complete remission in all 3 refractory cases. Conclusion: HSV association defines a distinct clinical subtype of chronic recurrent EM, with differences in lesion morphology, distribution, and treatment response. Recognizing these patterns may guide targeted therapeutic strategies, including the potential use of Janus kinase inhibitors in refractory cases.

Refining Nail Surgery: Clinical Pearls and Best Practices

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Refining Nail Surgery: Clinical Pearls and Best Practices Authors: Jung, Jin Woong; Oh, Jongwook; Oh, Byung Ho Abstract: The nail is not only aesthetically significant but also functionally essential, as it protects the distal digits and serves as a counterpart for pressure-bearing areas. Nail surgery presents unique challenges since, even after successful treatment of pathological conditions, scarring may lead to cosmetic deformities, and partial or complete nail loss can result in functional impairment. Fortunately, recent advancements in nail surgery have improved treatment success rates while minimizing complications. This review focuses on the surgical management of 6 key nail disorders: ingrowing nails, pincer nails, onychogryphosis, glomus tumors, digital mucous cysts (DMCs), and nail unit melanoma (NUM). For recalcitrant ingrowing nails, soft tissue excision rather than direct nail intervention yields better outcomes. Pincer nails require surgical correction of the protruding nail bed to prevent recurrence. Onychogryphosis is effectively managed with repeated nail grinding to reduce thickness and maintain nail shape. Glomus tumors can be effectively diagnosed using ultrasound, with surgical excision reserved for cases with clear imaging findings. DMCs may be treated with surgical deroofing followed by chemical peeling agents to reduce recurrence. In NUM, a conservative surgical approach can be considered for cases of in situ or minimally invasive, avoiding unnecessary amputation. This review synthesizes key clinical pearls and best practices to optimize patient outcomes in nail surgery. By integrating the latest evidence and surgical innovations, we provide a comprehensive guide for dermatologic and surgical practitioners seeking to refine their approach to nail procedures.