Development of Transparent Epoxy Resin–Bi₂O₃ Composites as Alternative Radiation Shielding Materials for Optical Shielding

2026-03-16T02:49:48+00:00

Scattered radiation exposure during radiology procedures can reach the head and eye lenses of personnel, requiring eye protection with good radiation attenuation capabilities without compromising comfort. Conventional lead-based radiation protection materials have high density, making them heavy and less ergonomic for long-term use. This study aims to evaluate the X-ray attenuation capability of a transparent epoxy resin–bismuth oxide (Bi₂O₃) composite as a candidate optical shielding material for radiation glasses based on the Half Value Layer (HVL) parameter. The composite was made using epoxy resin as a matrix and Bi₂O₃ as a high atomic number filler, with a mass ratio of 5:1 and a thickness of 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm. Measurements were performed using a diagnostic X-ray machine at voltages of 40 kV and 45 kV with an ionization dosimeter detector. The HVL value was calculated based on the linear attenuation coefficient (μ), and the data were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk normality test and Spearman's correlation. The results showed that an increase in composite thickness resulted in an increase in the HVL value, and there was a significant positive correlation between thickness and HVL (r = 0.681; p < 0.01). The epoxy resin–Bi₂O₃ composite showed effective attenuation at thin thicknesses with optical transparency characteristics, making it a potential lead-free optical shielding material for radiation glasses. These findings demonstrate that Bi₂O₃--epoxy resin composites are promising candidates for developing lightweight, transparent, and effective radiation protective eyewear.

Herbal-Based Topical Gel of Impatiens balsamina L. Enhances Macrophage Infiltration in Traumatic Oral Mucosal Ulcer Repair

2026-03-16T02:43:59+00:00

Traumatic oral mucosal ulcers are common lesions that require effective inflammatory regulation for optimal healing, in which macrophages play a crucial role. Long-term use of topical corticosteroids is associated with adverse effects, encouraging the exploration of safer herbal-based alternatives. Impatiens balsamina L. has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties; however, evidence regarding its effect on macrophage responses in traumatic oral ulcers remains limited. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of topical Impatiens balsamina L. extract gel on macrophage cell counts during the healing of traumatic oral mucosal ulcers.

An in vivo experimental study with a post-test only control group design was conducted using 27 male Wistar rats. Traumatic ulcers were induced on the inferior labial vestibular mucosa and treated topically for three days with either 15% extract gel, 10% extract gel, or gel base (n= 9 per group). Macrophage counts were assessed histologically using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. Data were analyzed using Welch’s one-way ANOVA followed by the Games–Howell post hoc test. Mean macrophage counts were highest in the 15% extract gel group (111.78 ±15.68), followed by the 10% group (45.00 ±10.56) and the control group (22.22±3.35). Significant differences were observed among all groups (P<0.001). Topical Impatiens balsamina L. extract gel significantly increased macrophage presence during traumatic oral ulcer healing, with the 15% concentration showing superior effectiveness. These findings confirm that Impatiens balsamina L. extract gel accelerates the inflammatory phase of wound healing by enhancing macrophage recruitment, supporting its potential as a natural alternative for oral ulcer management.

Jurnal Health Sains

Development of Transparent Epoxy Resin–Bi₂O₃ Composites as Alternative Radiation Shielding Materials for Optical Shielding

Herbal-Based Topical Gel of Impatiens balsamina L. Enhances Macrophage Infiltration in Traumatic Oral Mucosal Ulcer Repair