Research Institute for Fragrance Materials

Natural complex substances (NCSs) are botanical extracts of unknown or variable composition. Such NCS contain long chain substances that are very difficult or impossible to identify, representing a challenge to characterization and toxicity assessment. This study aims to provide an innovative and relevant method to identify the constituents of galbanum resinoid, experimentally assess, and accurately predict its ecotoxicity. A fractionation technique was used to separate the NCS into three phases: "volatile," "nonvolatile but potentially bioavailable," and potentially "inert." The whole substance (WS) and each fraction were tested as water accommodated fractions (WAFs) for acute and chronic ecotoxicity to algae and daphnids. The toxicity of fractions and the WS was predicted using (a) an in silico method adapted for mixture toxicity testing and (b) the additivity Classification Labelling and Packaging/Global Harmonised System (CLP/GHS) method, based on analytically determined composition. The volatile fraction was more toxic than the nonvolatile fraction, and the inert fraction was not chronically toxic to algae or daphnids. The experimental daphnid chronic toxicity was higher than the acute for the WS because of larger molecules not toxic to their solubility limit in acute studies. The results from the experiments validated the in silico predictions, which accurately predicted toxicity of the fractions and the WS even if rather conservative for chronic daphnids. Also, the in silico method mechanistically explained the WAF test results and attributed the observed toxicity to specific constituents. However, CLP/GHS overpredicted toxicity in all cases and failed to account for observed toxicity. Experimental and in silico approaches appear to be highly complementary to deal with NCSs. Moreover, the in silico method provides a rapid and cost-effective option to obtaining data for difficult-to-test substances.

While oncology treatments have traditionally been delivered through the intravenous (IV) route of administration (ROA), subcutaneous (SC) alternatives have become increasingly available. Research comparing real-world patient experiences with these ROAs in the USA has been limited. This study aimed to quantify and compare preferences, satisfaction, and daily life impact between SC and IV delivery for patients with cancer in the USA experienced with both ROAs in a real-world setting. Patients with cancer in the USA experienced with both SC and IV delivery were eligible to complete a 45-question web-based survey if they were at least 18years of age, had a confirmed self-reported cancer diagnosis, and received both SC and IV treatment for the same condition within the past 24months. The survey assessed treatment preferences, treatment site information, daily life impact, and feelings about potentially receiving at-home SC treatment. A free-response question was included to capture patient preferences in their own words. Of 201 patients completing this survey, 89.6% of patients indicated a preference towards SC delivery and 5.5% towards IV. Patients were typically more satisfied-to-very satisfied with SC delivery (78.6%, 33.3% IV), often owing to a reduced treatment burden and improved independence, convenience, and ability to cope with their illness. Satisfaction with SC treatment was also greater across the variables of appointment travel time (53.7%, 30.3% IV) and total time at a treatment facility (67.7%, 30.3% IV). When asked about hypothetically receiving at-home SC injections, over 80% of patients perceived a potential benefit. To our knowledge, this study was the first in the USA to survey real-world treatment preferences of patients with cancer experienced with both SC- and IV-delivered care. Findings demonstrated a strong overall preference towards SC delivery, providing valuable insights and highlighting the need to broaden treatment considerations to include patient perspectives.