Skin Surface Isotropy Assessment via EMI Scoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing the barrier function of newborn skin are costly and inaccessible to most biological laboratories, necessitating the development of new tools for evaluating skin maturation and isotropy.
Innovation Solution
A semi-quantitative scoring system, known as the EMI (Electron Microscopy Isotropy) scoring system, assesses skin surface isotropy by evaluating cellular parameters such as cell density, cell clusters, adhesion, and differentiability, using scanning electron microscopy to determine the degree of skin maturation, which is correlated with age and skin surface topography.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If heavy technology equipment is used to measure NMF for assessing barrier function, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential information needed for barrier function assessment from the complex NMF measurement process and isolates it into a simpler, more accessible format. By focusing on specific surface parameters that correlate with barrier function, the method separates the critical assessment elements from the heavy technological infrastructure required for complete NMF analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified model or surrogate system that replicates the essential information obtained from complex NMF measurements. By developing alternative assessment methods that correlate with barrier function without requiring the same heavy equipment, the invention provides a copy of the diagnostic capability using more accessible technology.
2Measurement precision
If complex equipment is used for measuring NMF, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simpler, potentially disposable or easily replaceable assessment tools rather than expensive, complex equipment. This approach prioritizes ease of operation and accessibility while maintaining sufficient measurement precision for clinical and cosmetic applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the assessment system to be more self-sufficient and easier to operate without requiring specialized training or complex equipment maintenance. The simplified methodology allows practitioners to perform barrier function assessments with greater independence and fewer technical requirements.
3Measurement precision
If detailed cellular parameters are assessed for isotropy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the complex assessment of surface isotropy into distinct, manageable cellular parameters. By segmenting the evaluation into specific components that can be scored individually, the method maintains high measurement precision while reducing the overall complexity of the assessment system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different levels of assessment detail to different parameters based on their importance and measurability. By focusing computational and analytical resources on the most critical local features of skin surface isotropy, the method achieves high precision without requiring equally complex analysis across all parameters.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for determining the isotropy of the skin surface of a subject, and hence the degree of maturation of the said skin surface, by examining various parameters reflecting the cell organization. Methods for identifying active agents, raw materials and formulation are also provided.