The Experts below are selected from a list of 1101 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform

Howard I. Maibach - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Effect of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and metal organic frameworks (MOF) wiping sandwich patch on human Skin Decontamination and detoxification in vitro.
    Toxicology letters, 2020
    Co-Authors: Yachao Cao, Xiaoying Hui, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Abstract Most chemical warfare agents partition rapidly into stratum corneum (SC) and subsequently slowly diffuse through -- or are retained in the membrane. Since chemicals can interact with SC components during the process, Skin Decontamination poses a challenging yet important problem. To address these issues, we have developed a new method in combination with wet and dry decon technologies with new materials for emergency or delayed contamination scenarios. An in vitro human Skin diffusion system was employed to model various dermal exposures of radiolabeled chemical warfare simulants, followed by surface Decontamination with metal organic frameworks (MOFs), super-absorbent polymers (SAP), and/or dermal Decontamination gel (DDGel). All samples measured for radioactive recovery and acetylcholinesterase activity to ascertain relative decon efficacy. Results demonstrated powerful water absorption of SAP, strong catalysis of UiO-66 MOF, and decon enhancement of pre-wetting surface contaminants. SAP had no interfering interactions with MOF yet provided additional benefits as porosity and reactivity that allowed for fast liquidized chemical transportation, absorption, and degeneration. We then designed a cotton-based SAP/MOF patch that worked cooperatively in Decontamination and detoxification. Together with pre-wet, SAP/MOF wipe, and DDGel applications, maximum effect was observed in early and/or extended dermal exposure, and no “wash-in” effect occurred.

  • Recent Knowledge: Human/Animal Skin Decontamination
    Skin Decontamination, 2020
    Co-Authors: Christina Phuong, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Skin Decontamination, an important step mitigating percutaneous absorption through the stratum corneum (SC), is a highly complex process. Thus, understanding diffusion mechanisms and measuring dermal absorption rates are critical to protect humans from toxic exposures. Here, highly varied literature is placed in a biological and clinical perspective in regards to Decontamination. Recent data have shown multiple layers of SC structural heterogeneity, which result in unique substance partitioning characteristics across the membrane. As such, attempts to model and understand this behavior in alternative in vitro membranes prove difficult. More synthetic and natural membranes are being explored as models for vivo behavior. In addition, commonly accepted Decontamination methods are undergoing risk assessment. These recent and varied literature findings update available knowledge regarding Skin Decontamination and its challenges.

  • recent knowledge human animal Skin Decontamination
    2020
    Co-Authors: Christina Phuong, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Skin Decontamination, an important step mitigating percutaneous absorption through the stratum corneum (SC), is a highly complex process. Thus, understanding diffusion mechanisms and measuring dermal absorption rates are critical to protect humans from toxic exposures. Here, highly varied literature is placed in a biological and clinical perspective in regards to Decontamination. Recent data have shown multiple layers of SC structural heterogeneity, which result in unique substance partitioning characteristics across the membrane. As such, attempts to model and understand this behavior in alternative in vitro membranes prove difficult. More synthetic and natural membranes are being explored as models for vivo behavior. In addition, commonly accepted Decontamination methods are undergoing risk assessment. These recent and varied literature findings update available knowledge regarding Skin Decontamination and its challenges.

  • In vitro human Skin permeation and Decontamination of diisopropyl methylphosphonate (DIMP) using Dermal Decontamination Gel (DDGel) and Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) at different timepoints
    Toxicology letters, 2018
    Co-Authors: Yachao Cao, Xiaoying Hui, Akram Elmahdy, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Abstract This study compared the efficiency for in vitro human Skin Decontamination using DDGel and RSDL when applied at different timepoints (5 min and 90 min). Experiments were performed using in vitro human Skin models, in which Skin was mounted onto Flow-Through diffusion cells. The mass of 14-C DIMP removed from Skin surface after Decontamination was quantitated by measuring radioactivity with a liquid scintillation spectrometer. Both decontaminants removed more than 90% recovery dose of DIMP from Skin compared to control group (p

  • In vitro human Skin permeation and Decontamination of 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) using Dermal Decontamination Gel (DDGel) and Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL)
    Toxicology letters, 2018
    Co-Authors: Yachao Cao, Xiaoying Hui, Hanjiang Zhu, Akram Elmahdy, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Abstract This study compared the efficiency for in vitro human Skin Decontamination using DDGel and RSDL. Experiments were performed using in vitro human Skin models, in which Skin was mounted onto Flow-Through diffusion cells. The mass of 14-C CEES removed from Skin surface after Decontamination was quantitated by measuring radioactivity with a liquid scintillation spectrometer. Both decontaminants removed more than 82% of CEES from Skin. DDGel Skin Decontamination significantly reduced toxicant amount when compared to RSDL. Mean CEES remaining in stratum corneum (SC), viable epidermis, dermis, and systemic absorption of DDGel and RSDL were, 0.12 and 0.55% (P

Anders Bucht - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • In vitro human Skin Decontamination efficacy of MOF-808 in Decontamination lotion following exposure to the nerve agent VX.
    Toxicology letters, 2020
    Co-Authors: Andreas Larsson, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Anders Bucht, J. Qvarnström, Sandra Lindberg, Linda Öberg, Robin Afshin Sander, Susanne Johansson, L. Thors
    Abstract:

    Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown promising properties for removal of chemical warfare agents, in particular for material Decontamination and functionalized fabrics. The MOF-properties could also be beneficial for Skin Decontamination, especially when exposed to highly toxic and low volatile nerve agents. In such exposures, efficient Decontamination is crucial for adequate medical management. In the present study, seven zirconium-based MOFs were evaluated for their ability to degrade VX and subsequently tested in vitro for Decontamination of VX on human dermatomed Skin. Of the MOFs evaluated, MOF-808 showed the greatest ability to degrade VX in an alkaline buffer with complete degradation of VX within 5 min. PCN-777, Zr-NDC and NU-1000 displayed degradation half-lives of approximately 10 min. When including MOF-808 in a Skin friendly carrier with slightly acidic pH, a decreased agent degradation rate was observed, requiring over 24 h to reach complete degradation. In Skin Decontamination experiments, MOF-808 enhanced the efficacy compared to the carrier alone, essentially by improved agent absorption. Adding MOF-808 to Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) did not improve the high effectiveness of RSDL alone. The present study showed that including MOF in Skin Decontamination lotions could be beneficial. Further studies should include optimizing the particulates and formulations.

  • Improved Skin Decontamination efficacy for the nerve agent VX.
    Chemico-biological interactions, 2020
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Lars Hägglund, J. Qvarnström, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    Abstract Early initiated Decontamination is demonstrated to be crucial to avoid systemic effects of highly toxic and low volatile agents exposed on the Skin. Skin Decontamination can be performed by simple procedures, such as washing with soap and water, or by using advanced Decontamination products containing absorption and agent degradation properties. Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) has demonstrated high efficacy to remove nerve agents from the Skin. However, contrary to the current operational recommendations, experimental studies have shown that prolonged Skin contact time of RSDL is important for efficient Decontamination of VX. In the present study, several RSDL-protocols were evaluated for the efficacy to remove neat VX from human Skin in vitro. The Decontamination efficacies of the RSDL-procedures were compared with the efficacy of the simple procedure of washing off the Skin with soapy water. The RSDL-protocols containing repeated swabbing with the sponge and a 10 min Skin contact time of RSDL-lotion demonstrated the greatest Decontamination efficacy of all procedures evaluated. Repeating the protocol 2 h after the initial Decontamination step resulted in a transient increased Skin penetration of remaining intact agent on Skin and was followed by rapidly declined agent penetration rate. Decontamination performed with soapy water significantly increased agent amounts penetrating Skin, most likely caused by Skin hydration and agent dilution. In conclusion, a slightly extended procedure for RSDL-Decontamination showed improved efficacy and is therefore recommended for removal of nerve agents from the Skin. In addition, it is of highest importance that Skin Decontamination of nerve agents should consist of procedures using low water content.

  • Decontamination efficacy of soapy water and water washing following exposure of toxic chemicals on human Skin.
    Cutaneous and ocular toxicology, 2020
    Co-Authors: Emma Forsberg, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Anders Bucht, Linda Öberg, Elisabet Artursson, L. Thors
    Abstract:

    Aim of the study: Following exposure to toxic chemicals, Skin uptake is a potential route of intoxication. Therefore, efficient methods for rapid Skin Decontamination to mitigate systemic effects a...

  • Comparison of Skin Decontamination efficacy of commercial Decontamination products following exposure to VX on human Skin.
    Chemico-Biological Interactions, 2017
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Mona Koch, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Bo Koch, Lars Hägglund, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    Abstract The Decontamination efficacy of four commercially available Skin Decontamination products following exposure to the nerve agent VX was evaluated in vitro utilizing a diffusion cell and dermatomed human Skin. The products included were Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL), the Swedish Decontamination powder 104 (PS104), the absorbent Fuller's Earth and the aqueous solution alldecontMED. In addition, various Decontamination procedures were assessed to further investigate important mechanisms involved in the specific products, e.g. Decontamination removal from Skin, physical removal by sponge swabbing and activation of degradation mechanisms. The efficacy of each Decontamination product was evaluated 5 or 30 min after dermal application of VX (neat or diluted to 20% in water). The RSDL-lotion was superior in reducing the penetration of VX through human Skin, both when exposed as neat agent and when diluted to 20% in water. Swabbing with the RSDL-sponge during 2 min revealed decreased efficacy compared to applying the RSDL-lotion directly on the Skin for 30 min. Decontamination with Fuller's Earth and alldecontMED significantly reduced the penetration of neat concentration of VX through human Skin. PS104-powder was insufficient for Decontamination of VX at both time-points, independently of the Skin contact time of PS104. The PS104-slurry (a mixture of PS104-powder and water), slightly improved the Decontamination efficacy. Comparing the time-points for initiated Decontamination revealed less penetrated VX for RSDL and Fuller's Earth when Decontamination was initiated after 5 min compared to 30 min post-exposure, while alldecontMED displayed similar efficacy at both time-points. Decontamination by washing with water only resulted in a significant reduction of penetrated VX when washing was performed 5 min after exposure, but not when Decontamination was delayed to 30 min post-exposure of neat VX. In conclusion, early initiated Decontamination with the RSDL-lotion, containing both absorption and degrading properties, allowed to act on Skin for 30 min was superior in preventing VX from penetrating human Skin. Adding water during Decontamination resulted in increased penetration of neat VX, however, water in the decontaminant removal process did not influence the Decontamination efficacy. From our study on commercially available decontaminants, it is recommended that future product developments should include both strong absorbents and efficient nerve agent degrading components.

  • Comparison of Skin Decontamination efficacy of commercial Decontamination products following exposure to VX on human Skin.
    Chemico-biological interactions, 2017
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Mona Koch, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Bo Koch, Lars Hägglund, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    The Decontamination efficacy of four commercially available Skin Decontamination products following exposure to the nerve agent VX was evaluated in vitro utilizing a diffusion cell and dermatomed h ...

L. Thors - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • In vitro human Skin Decontamination efficacy of MOF-808 in Decontamination lotion following exposure to the nerve agent VX.
    Toxicology letters, 2020
    Co-Authors: Andreas Larsson, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Anders Bucht, J. Qvarnström, Sandra Lindberg, Linda Öberg, Robin Afshin Sander, Susanne Johansson, L. Thors
    Abstract:

    Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown promising properties for removal of chemical warfare agents, in particular for material Decontamination and functionalized fabrics. The MOF-properties could also be beneficial for Skin Decontamination, especially when exposed to highly toxic and low volatile nerve agents. In such exposures, efficient Decontamination is crucial for adequate medical management. In the present study, seven zirconium-based MOFs were evaluated for their ability to degrade VX and subsequently tested in vitro for Decontamination of VX on human dermatomed Skin. Of the MOFs evaluated, MOF-808 showed the greatest ability to degrade VX in an alkaline buffer with complete degradation of VX within 5 min. PCN-777, Zr-NDC and NU-1000 displayed degradation half-lives of approximately 10 min. When including MOF-808 in a Skin friendly carrier with slightly acidic pH, a decreased agent degradation rate was observed, requiring over 24 h to reach complete degradation. In Skin Decontamination experiments, MOF-808 enhanced the efficacy compared to the carrier alone, essentially by improved agent absorption. Adding MOF-808 to Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) did not improve the high effectiveness of RSDL alone. The present study showed that including MOF in Skin Decontamination lotions could be beneficial. Further studies should include optimizing the particulates and formulations.

  • Improved Skin Decontamination efficacy for the nerve agent VX.
    Chemico-biological interactions, 2020
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Lars Hägglund, J. Qvarnström, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    Abstract Early initiated Decontamination is demonstrated to be crucial to avoid systemic effects of highly toxic and low volatile agents exposed on the Skin. Skin Decontamination can be performed by simple procedures, such as washing with soap and water, or by using advanced Decontamination products containing absorption and agent degradation properties. Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) has demonstrated high efficacy to remove nerve agents from the Skin. However, contrary to the current operational recommendations, experimental studies have shown that prolonged Skin contact time of RSDL is important for efficient Decontamination of VX. In the present study, several RSDL-protocols were evaluated for the efficacy to remove neat VX from human Skin in vitro. The Decontamination efficacies of the RSDL-procedures were compared with the efficacy of the simple procedure of washing off the Skin with soapy water. The RSDL-protocols containing repeated swabbing with the sponge and a 10 min Skin contact time of RSDL-lotion demonstrated the greatest Decontamination efficacy of all procedures evaluated. Repeating the protocol 2 h after the initial Decontamination step resulted in a transient increased Skin penetration of remaining intact agent on Skin and was followed by rapidly declined agent penetration rate. Decontamination performed with soapy water significantly increased agent amounts penetrating Skin, most likely caused by Skin hydration and agent dilution. In conclusion, a slightly extended procedure for RSDL-Decontamination showed improved efficacy and is therefore recommended for removal of nerve agents from the Skin. In addition, it is of highest importance that Skin Decontamination of nerve agents should consist of procedures using low water content.

  • Decontamination efficacy of soapy water and water washing following exposure of toxic chemicals on human Skin.
    Cutaneous and ocular toxicology, 2020
    Co-Authors: Emma Forsberg, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Anders Bucht, Linda Öberg, Elisabet Artursson, L. Thors
    Abstract:

    Aim of the study: Following exposure to toxic chemicals, Skin uptake is a potential route of intoxication. Therefore, efficient methods for rapid Skin Decontamination to mitigate systemic effects a...

  • Comparison of Skin Decontamination efficacy of commercial Decontamination products following exposure to VX on human Skin.
    Chemico-Biological Interactions, 2017
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Mona Koch, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Bo Koch, Lars Hägglund, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    Abstract The Decontamination efficacy of four commercially available Skin Decontamination products following exposure to the nerve agent VX was evaluated in vitro utilizing a diffusion cell and dermatomed human Skin. The products included were Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL), the Swedish Decontamination powder 104 (PS104), the absorbent Fuller's Earth and the aqueous solution alldecontMED. In addition, various Decontamination procedures were assessed to further investigate important mechanisms involved in the specific products, e.g. Decontamination removal from Skin, physical removal by sponge swabbing and activation of degradation mechanisms. The efficacy of each Decontamination product was evaluated 5 or 30 min after dermal application of VX (neat or diluted to 20% in water). The RSDL-lotion was superior in reducing the penetration of VX through human Skin, both when exposed as neat agent and when diluted to 20% in water. Swabbing with the RSDL-sponge during 2 min revealed decreased efficacy compared to applying the RSDL-lotion directly on the Skin for 30 min. Decontamination with Fuller's Earth and alldecontMED significantly reduced the penetration of neat concentration of VX through human Skin. PS104-powder was insufficient for Decontamination of VX at both time-points, independently of the Skin contact time of PS104. The PS104-slurry (a mixture of PS104-powder and water), slightly improved the Decontamination efficacy. Comparing the time-points for initiated Decontamination revealed less penetrated VX for RSDL and Fuller's Earth when Decontamination was initiated after 5 min compared to 30 min post-exposure, while alldecontMED displayed similar efficacy at both time-points. Decontamination by washing with water only resulted in a significant reduction of penetrated VX when washing was performed 5 min after exposure, but not when Decontamination was delayed to 30 min post-exposure of neat VX. In conclusion, early initiated Decontamination with the RSDL-lotion, containing both absorption and degrading properties, allowed to act on Skin for 30 min was superior in preventing VX from penetrating human Skin. Adding water during Decontamination resulted in increased penetration of neat VX, however, water in the decontaminant removal process did not influence the Decontamination efficacy. From our study on commercially available decontaminants, it is recommended that future product developments should include both strong absorbents and efficient nerve agent degrading components.

  • Comparison of Skin Decontamination efficacy of commercial Decontamination products following exposure to VX on human Skin.
    Chemico-biological interactions, 2017
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Mona Koch, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Bo Koch, Lars Hägglund, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    The Decontamination efficacy of four commercially available Skin Decontamination products following exposure to the nerve agent VX was evaluated in vitro utilizing a diffusion cell and dermatomed h ...

Xiaoying Hui - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Effect of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and metal organic frameworks (MOF) wiping sandwich patch on human Skin Decontamination and detoxification in vitro.
    Toxicology letters, 2020
    Co-Authors: Yachao Cao, Xiaoying Hui, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Abstract Most chemical warfare agents partition rapidly into stratum corneum (SC) and subsequently slowly diffuse through -- or are retained in the membrane. Since chemicals can interact with SC components during the process, Skin Decontamination poses a challenging yet important problem. To address these issues, we have developed a new method in combination with wet and dry decon technologies with new materials for emergency or delayed contamination scenarios. An in vitro human Skin diffusion system was employed to model various dermal exposures of radiolabeled chemical warfare simulants, followed by surface Decontamination with metal organic frameworks (MOFs), super-absorbent polymers (SAP), and/or dermal Decontamination gel (DDGel). All samples measured for radioactive recovery and acetylcholinesterase activity to ascertain relative decon efficacy. Results demonstrated powerful water absorption of SAP, strong catalysis of UiO-66 MOF, and decon enhancement of pre-wetting surface contaminants. SAP had no interfering interactions with MOF yet provided additional benefits as porosity and reactivity that allowed for fast liquidized chemical transportation, absorption, and degeneration. We then designed a cotton-based SAP/MOF patch that worked cooperatively in Decontamination and detoxification. Together with pre-wet, SAP/MOF wipe, and DDGel applications, maximum effect was observed in early and/or extended dermal exposure, and no “wash-in” effect occurred.

  • In vitro human Skin permeation and Decontamination of diisopropyl methylphosphonate (DIMP) using Dermal Decontamination Gel (DDGel) and Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) at different timepoints
    Toxicology letters, 2018
    Co-Authors: Yachao Cao, Xiaoying Hui, Akram Elmahdy, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Abstract This study compared the efficiency for in vitro human Skin Decontamination using DDGel and RSDL when applied at different timepoints (5 min and 90 min). Experiments were performed using in vitro human Skin models, in which Skin was mounted onto Flow-Through diffusion cells. The mass of 14-C DIMP removed from Skin surface after Decontamination was quantitated by measuring radioactivity with a liquid scintillation spectrometer. Both decontaminants removed more than 90% recovery dose of DIMP from Skin compared to control group (p

  • In vitro human Skin permeation and Decontamination of 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) using Dermal Decontamination Gel (DDGel) and Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL)
    Toxicology letters, 2018
    Co-Authors: Yachao Cao, Xiaoying Hui, Hanjiang Zhu, Akram Elmahdy, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Abstract This study compared the efficiency for in vitro human Skin Decontamination using DDGel and RSDL. Experiments were performed using in vitro human Skin models, in which Skin was mounted onto Flow-Through diffusion cells. The mass of 14-C CEES removed from Skin surface after Decontamination was quantitated by measuring radioactivity with a liquid scintillation spectrometer. Both decontaminants removed more than 82% of CEES from Skin. DDGel Skin Decontamination significantly reduced toxicant amount when compared to RSDL. Mean CEES remaining in stratum corneum (SC), viable epidermis, dermis, and systemic absorption of DDGel and RSDL were, 0.12 and 0.55% (P

  • Article Skin Decontamination: principles and perspectives
    2016
    Co-Authors: Heidi P. Chan, Hongbo Zhai, Xiaoying Hui, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Skin Decontamination is the primary intervention needed in chemical, biological and radiological exposures, involving immediate removal of the contaminant from the Skin performed in the most efficient way. The most readily available Decontamination system on a practical basis is washing with soap and water or water only. Timely use of flushing with copious amounts of water may physically remove the contaminant. However, this traditional method may not be completely effective, and contaminants left on the Skin after traditional washing procedures can have toxic consequences. This article focuses on the principles and practices of Skin Decontamination

  • Effects of soap-water wash on human epidermal penetration.
    Journal of applied toxicology : JAT, 2015
    Co-Authors: Hanjiang Zhu, Christina Phuong, Xiaoying Hui, Eui-chang Jung, Howard I. Maibach
    Abstract:

    Skin Decontamination is a primary interventional method used to decrease dermal absorption of hazardous contaminants, including chemical warfare agents, pesticides and industrial pollutants. Soap and water wash, the most common and readily available Decontamination system, may enhance percutaneous absorption through the "wash-in effect." To understand better the effect of soap-water wash on percutaneous penetration, and provide insight to improving Skin Decontamination methods, in vitro human epidermal penetration rates of four C(14) -labeled model chemicals (hydroquinone, clonidine, benzoic acid and paraoxon) were assayed using flow-through diffusion cells. Stratum corneum (SC) absorption rates of these chemicals at various hydration levels (0-295% of the dry SC weights) were determined and compared with the results of the epidermal penetration study to clarify the effect of SC hydration on Skin permeability. Results showed accelerated penetration curves of benzoic acid and paraoxon after surface wash at 30 min postdosing. Thirty minutes after washing (60 min postdosing), penetration rates of hydroquinone and benzoic acid decreased due to reduced amounts of chemical on the Skin surface and in the SC. At the end of the experiment (90 min postdosing), a soap-water wash resulted in lower hydroquinone penetration, greater paraoxon penetration and similar levels of benzoic acid and clonidine penetration compared to penetration levels in the non-wash groups. The observed wash-in effect agrees with the enhancement effect of SC hydration on the SC chemical absorption rate. These results suggest SC hydration derived from surface wash to be one cause of the wash-in effect. Further, the occurrence of a wash-in effect is dependent on chemical identity and elapsed time between exposure and onset of Decontamination. By reducing chemical residue quantity on Skin surface and in the SC reservoir, the soap-water wash may decrease the total quantity of chemical absorbed in the long term; however, the more immediate accelerated absorption of chemical toxins, particularly chemical warfare agents, may be lethal. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Elisabeth Wigenstam - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • In vitro human Skin Decontamination efficacy of MOF-808 in Decontamination lotion following exposure to the nerve agent VX.
    Toxicology letters, 2020
    Co-Authors: Andreas Larsson, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Anders Bucht, J. Qvarnström, Sandra Lindberg, Linda Öberg, Robin Afshin Sander, Susanne Johansson, L. Thors
    Abstract:

    Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown promising properties for removal of chemical warfare agents, in particular for material Decontamination and functionalized fabrics. The MOF-properties could also be beneficial for Skin Decontamination, especially when exposed to highly toxic and low volatile nerve agents. In such exposures, efficient Decontamination is crucial for adequate medical management. In the present study, seven zirconium-based MOFs were evaluated for their ability to degrade VX and subsequently tested in vitro for Decontamination of VX on human dermatomed Skin. Of the MOFs evaluated, MOF-808 showed the greatest ability to degrade VX in an alkaline buffer with complete degradation of VX within 5 min. PCN-777, Zr-NDC and NU-1000 displayed degradation half-lives of approximately 10 min. When including MOF-808 in a Skin friendly carrier with slightly acidic pH, a decreased agent degradation rate was observed, requiring over 24 h to reach complete degradation. In Skin Decontamination experiments, MOF-808 enhanced the efficacy compared to the carrier alone, essentially by improved agent absorption. Adding MOF-808 to Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) did not improve the high effectiveness of RSDL alone. The present study showed that including MOF in Skin Decontamination lotions could be beneficial. Further studies should include optimizing the particulates and formulations.

  • Improved Skin Decontamination efficacy for the nerve agent VX.
    Chemico-biological interactions, 2020
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Lars Hägglund, J. Qvarnström, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    Abstract Early initiated Decontamination is demonstrated to be crucial to avoid systemic effects of highly toxic and low volatile agents exposed on the Skin. Skin Decontamination can be performed by simple procedures, such as washing with soap and water, or by using advanced Decontamination products containing absorption and agent degradation properties. Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) has demonstrated high efficacy to remove nerve agents from the Skin. However, contrary to the current operational recommendations, experimental studies have shown that prolonged Skin contact time of RSDL is important for efficient Decontamination of VX. In the present study, several RSDL-protocols were evaluated for the efficacy to remove neat VX from human Skin in vitro. The Decontamination efficacies of the RSDL-procedures were compared with the efficacy of the simple procedure of washing off the Skin with soapy water. The RSDL-protocols containing repeated swabbing with the sponge and a 10 min Skin contact time of RSDL-lotion demonstrated the greatest Decontamination efficacy of all procedures evaluated. Repeating the protocol 2 h after the initial Decontamination step resulted in a transient increased Skin penetration of remaining intact agent on Skin and was followed by rapidly declined agent penetration rate. Decontamination performed with soapy water significantly increased agent amounts penetrating Skin, most likely caused by Skin hydration and agent dilution. In conclusion, a slightly extended procedure for RSDL-Decontamination showed improved efficacy and is therefore recommended for removal of nerve agents from the Skin. In addition, it is of highest importance that Skin Decontamination of nerve agents should consist of procedures using low water content.

  • Decontamination efficacy of soapy water and water washing following exposure of toxic chemicals on human Skin.
    Cutaneous and ocular toxicology, 2020
    Co-Authors: Emma Forsberg, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Anders Bucht, Linda Öberg, Elisabet Artursson, L. Thors
    Abstract:

    Aim of the study: Following exposure to toxic chemicals, Skin uptake is a potential route of intoxication. Therefore, efficient methods for rapid Skin Decontamination to mitigate systemic effects a...

  • Comparison of Skin Decontamination efficacy of commercial Decontamination products following exposure to VX on human Skin.
    Chemico-Biological Interactions, 2017
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Mona Koch, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Bo Koch, Lars Hägglund, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    Abstract The Decontamination efficacy of four commercially available Skin Decontamination products following exposure to the nerve agent VX was evaluated in vitro utilizing a diffusion cell and dermatomed human Skin. The products included were Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL), the Swedish Decontamination powder 104 (PS104), the absorbent Fuller's Earth and the aqueous solution alldecontMED. In addition, various Decontamination procedures were assessed to further investigate important mechanisms involved in the specific products, e.g. Decontamination removal from Skin, physical removal by sponge swabbing and activation of degradation mechanisms. The efficacy of each Decontamination product was evaluated 5 or 30 min after dermal application of VX (neat or diluted to 20% in water). The RSDL-lotion was superior in reducing the penetration of VX through human Skin, both when exposed as neat agent and when diluted to 20% in water. Swabbing with the RSDL-sponge during 2 min revealed decreased efficacy compared to applying the RSDL-lotion directly on the Skin for 30 min. Decontamination with Fuller's Earth and alldecontMED significantly reduced the penetration of neat concentration of VX through human Skin. PS104-powder was insufficient for Decontamination of VX at both time-points, independently of the Skin contact time of PS104. The PS104-slurry (a mixture of PS104-powder and water), slightly improved the Decontamination efficacy. Comparing the time-points for initiated Decontamination revealed less penetrated VX for RSDL and Fuller's Earth when Decontamination was initiated after 5 min compared to 30 min post-exposure, while alldecontMED displayed similar efficacy at both time-points. Decontamination by washing with water only resulted in a significant reduction of penetrated VX when washing was performed 5 min after exposure, but not when Decontamination was delayed to 30 min post-exposure of neat VX. In conclusion, early initiated Decontamination with the RSDL-lotion, containing both absorption and degrading properties, allowed to act on Skin for 30 min was superior in preventing VX from penetrating human Skin. Adding water during Decontamination resulted in increased penetration of neat VX, however, water in the decontaminant removal process did not influence the Decontamination efficacy. From our study on commercially available decontaminants, it is recommended that future product developments should include both strong absorbents and efficient nerve agent degrading components.

  • Comparison of Skin Decontamination efficacy of commercial Decontamination products following exposure to VX on human Skin.
    Chemico-biological interactions, 2017
    Co-Authors: L. Thors, Mona Koch, Elisabeth Wigenstam, Bo Koch, Lars Hägglund, Anders Bucht
    Abstract:

    The Decontamination efficacy of four commercially available Skin Decontamination products following exposure to the nerve agent VX was evaluated in vitro utilizing a diffusion cell and dermatomed h ...