Effects of repeated exposure to ozonated water on hair fibre structure and integrity: Part I.

Consumers are attracted to the latest fashion trends and different looks. This drives the search for novel hair treatments. Some chemicals present in hair treatment products can penetrate the hair shaft. These materials can either nourish or injure the hair cortex. Different techniques have been used to investigate the mechanism of molecule penetration and the conditions under which penetration occurs. This article reviews the techniques applied for this purpose. Various microscopy techniques are used to capture clear and colourful images to determine the diffusion pathways and the exact location of the molecules under study. However, the laborious sample preparation often leads to sample destruction since cross-sectioning is often required. While various other techniques have been successfully used for investigating the penetration methods, most of these require different amounts of work to be put in for sample preparation and instrumentation. Several spectroscopic techniques have been used to study the penetration of the molecules because of the high levels of accuracy and the quick response time of these techniques. Moreover, the samples are not damaged during the investigation.

Various cosmetic alterations done to the hair for aesthetic purposes have a profound damaging impact on its morphology. This study delves into the complex dynamics of hair structure by analysing the changes in the cuticle induced by chemical degradation. Advanced microscopic techniques like Microtopography and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were employed to investigate the grade of damage on treated hair as compared with virgin hair. On treatment with bleach, it could be observed that the cuticle structure in virgin hair exhibited deteriorating effects like partial degradation whereas the impact on treated hair samples strands that had previously undergone modifications exhibited much more intensifying consequences like complete deterioration exposing holes and gaps. The findings from the current exploration shed light on the nuanced relationships within the hair structure, providing valuable insights into the consequences of chemical degradation. Thus, laying a foundation for suggestive recommendations that include the impact of environment, lifestyle and genetics in the fields of trichology and cosmetology.

ABSTRACTThe deterioration of the cuticle and cortex hair due to routine cosmetic practices has been identified as a primary factor contributing to undesirable changes in the esthetic qualities of hair. Chemical and physical treatments can cause significant damage to hair fibers. In this study, the damage induced by heating in chemically treated hair subjected to acid straightening, bleaching, and the combination of both treatments is investigated. Previous results published by our group have already clarified certain aspects of the mechanism of action of acid straightening on hair fibers. In this new work, we show other relevant aspects to the hair care area with the aim to respond: how can we assist cosmetic product developers and consumers in understanding the changes caused by the combined use of chemical transformation procedures (specifically acid straightening and bleaching) and exposure to heat? By examining the thermal behavior of chemically treated hair fibers, we shed light on key aspects of both external (through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy–attenuated total reflectance [FTIR/ATR] and scanning electron microscopy [SEM]) and internal (through ultra‐small angle x‐ray scattering [USAXS], small angle x‐ray scattering [SAXS], and wide‐angle x‐ray scattering [WAXS]) changes. SAXS and WAXS structural analyses provided information on the internal structure and hierarchical organization of hair samples. While these techniques have been widely used to evaluate hair fibers, the effects of heating on their structure have been less explored. We examined the changes in the hierarchical arrangements as the fibers were heated in situ during the x‐ray scattering experiments. It was possible to evaluate the specific regions where heat causes damage to both the cortex and the cuticle of the hair fiber, and the extent of these damages. Furthermore, it was observed that the bleached and straightened fiber undergoes more changes with the use of heat, due to the loss of important surface components, as shown by FTIR and SEM measurements.

This study investigated how varying degrees of oxidation (DO) affect the physicochemical and biological properties of tragacanth gum (TG). The oxidized tragacanth gum (OTG) was characterized using multiple analytical techniques: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (¹H NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheological analysis. In this study, the highest level of oxidation reached 57%, indicating effective oxidation of TG. While aldehyde peaks were not clearly visible in the FTIR spectrum due to their existence in masked hemiacetal form, NMR analysis revealed a new peak at 5.38 ppm. The absence of an expected aldehyde peak at 9.7 ppm further supported hemiacetal formation. SEM analysis demonstrated that with increasing oxidation degree, the pore size decreased to (23 ± 0.8) µm. In addition, higher DO resulted in decreased rheological properties and thermal stability, while the introduced aldehyde groups conferred antibacterial properties on the modified gum. The blood compatibility test results for TG and OTG samples show less than 0.2% and 1% hemolysis, respectively. Furthermore, cell viability remained above 85% after three days of cell culture, thoroughly verifying the safety of the synthetic material for medical applications.

• Saffron Pollen (SP) was introduced as a novel carrier for Curcumin (Cur). • The surface pores of SP allowed for tight and superficial encapsulation of Cur. • The adsorption isotherm of Cur onto SP was best described by the Freundlich model. • After encapsulating of Cur, its thermal stability increased by 20 %. • After encapsulating of Cur, its photostability increased by 4 times. Curcumin (Cur), a polyphenolic compound with diverse pharmacological properties, was effectively encapsulated within saffron pollen (SP). The encapsulation process was validated using multiple analytical techniques, including fluorescence microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that Cur was integrated within the surface pores and the internal structure of SP. The adsorption isotherm of Cur onto SP was best described by the Freundlich isotherm model. The maximum loading capacity achieved was 14 % (w/w). TGA analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the SP/Cur complex was enhanced by 2.3 % and 20 % compared to their unencapsulated forms at temperature ranges of 0–300 °C and 300–600 °C, respectively. The DPPH assay demonstrated that the photostability of Cur in its encapsulated form was 4 times greater than that of free Cur after both were subjected to light exposure for 60 days. In conclusion, the findings substantiate that SP represents a novel and stable carrier for Cur.

Physicochemical characterization of rice, potato, and pea starches, each with different crystalline pattern, when incorporated with Konjac glucomannan

There are a wide variety of reactive species which can affect cell function, including reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and lipid species. Some are formed endogenously through enzymatic or non-enzymatic pathways, and others are introduced through diet or environmental exposure. Many of these reactive species can interact with biomolecules and can result in oxidative post-translational modification of proteins. It is well documented that some oxidative modifications cause macromolecular damage and cell death. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that certain classes of reactive species initiate cell signaling by reacting with specific side chains of peptide residues without causing cell death. This process is generally termed “redox signaling,” and its role in physiological and pathological processes is a subject of active investigation. This review will give an overview of oxidative protein modification as a mechanism of redox signaling, including types of reactive species and how they modify proteins, examples of modified proteins, and a discussion about the current concepts in this area.

Drusen are extracellular deposits that accumulate below the retinal pigment epithelium on Bruch's membrane and are risk factors for developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The progression of AMD might be slowed or halted if the formation of drusen could be modulated. To work toward a molecular understanding of drusen formation, we have developed a method for isolating microgram quantities of drusen and Bruch's membrane for proteome analysis. Liquid chromatography tandem MS analyses of drusen preparations from 18 normal donors and five AMD donors identified 129 proteins. Immunocytochemical studies have thus far localized approximately 16% of these proteins in drusen. Tissue metalloproteinase inhibitor 3, clusterin, vitronectin, and serum albumin were the most common proteins observed in normal donor drusen whereas crystallin was detected more frequently in AMD donor drusen. Up to 65% of the proteins identified were found in drusen from both AMD and normal donors. However, oxidative protein modifications were also observed, including apparent crosslinked species of tissue metalloproteinase inhibitor 3 and vitronectin, and carboxyethyl pyrrole protein adducts. Carboxyethyl pyrrole adducts are uniquely generated from the oxidation of docosahexaenoate-containing lipids. By Western analysis they were found to be more abundant in AMD than in normal Bruch's membrane and were found associated with drusen proteins. Carboxymethyl lysine, another oxidative modification, was also detected in drusen. These data strongly support the hypothesis that oxidative injury contributes to the pathogenesis of AMD and suggest that oxidative protein modifications may have a critical role in drusen formation.

There are many different analytical techniques used in pharmaceutical industry and  pharmaceutical analysis such as Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).These techniques are useful in both qualitatively and quantitatively analysis. The current study used the three techniques (FTIR, DSC and SEM)  to analyse carbamazepine (CBZ) sample to compare between them in order to ensure ideal chosen efficient technique. A CBZ sample was analysed by t FTIR. Another sample was recorded on DSC within about 10 min. In addition, the sample picture was taken by SEM within about 20 min.The results of FTIR, DSC and SEM techniques showed that the CBZ sample has functional groups such as alkenes and aromatic rings. Melting point (191.88 C°) with sharp peak with endothermic transformation (solid – solid) with enthalpy 95,5217 J/g and entropy 4,975 J/K. Furthermore, prismatic morphology with different particle size of CBZ and coarse texture. Depending on results of  TIR, DSC and SEM techniques, it can be seen that three techniques are powerful tools due to give better understanding of physicochemical properties of CBZ when used with each other.

Identification of ancient textiles from Yingpan, Xinjiang, by multiple analytical techniques

Hydrogels are comprised of a cross‐linked network of polymers.Water penetrates these networks, resulting in swelling and giving the hydrogel a soft and rubbery consistency, thereby maintaining the integrity of the membrane. Because of the drawback of conventional therapy for ocular delivery, a hydrogel membrane containing a combination of timolol maleate and brimonidine tartrate were formulated for the treatment of glaucoma. In the present investigation, hydrogel membranes were prepared using polymers like gelatin, PVA and chitosan, which were cross‐linked using physical and/or chemical methods. The cross‐linking of the membranes was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies. From the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the membranes, it appeared homogenous and showed no separation. The pH of the membranes ranged from 7.21‐7.4. The hydrogels showed a considerably good swelling ratio ranging from 91.66‐372.72%. The drug content ranged from 82.78‐95.62%. The in vitro drug release study indicated that there was a slow and sustained release of the drug from the membranes that were sufficiently cross‐linked and followed zero order release. The Intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering activity of the prepared formulation was compared with the marketed formulation, and it was found that the IOP lowering action was sustained for a long period of time. Stability studies proved that the formulations could be stable when stored at room temperature. Results of the study indicate that it is possible to develop a safe and physiologically effective hydrogel that is patient compliant. Key words: Cross‐linking, differential scanning calorimetry, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, glaucoma, hydrogels, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the progression of several diseases including inflammation, atherosclerosis, aging and age-related degenerative disorders. Reactive oxygen species damage membrane bound lipids resulting in lipid peroxidation-derived protein modifications. Cell-based measurements of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation by traditional fluorescence microscopy provide a powerful platform to quantitate oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Here, we used three different approaches to measure oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in cells by fluorescence microscopy. 1) Two new fluorogenic probes, CellROX™ Orange and CellROX ™ Green Reagents to measure oxidative stress in cells, 2) Image-iT® Lipid Peroxidation Kit for a ratiometric determination of lipid peroxidation in live cells 3) Click-iT® Lipid Peroxidation Imaging Kit, a click chemistry-based approach which utilizes incorporation of an alkyne-modified unsaturated fatty acid analog, linoleamide, into the cellular membranes. The resulting oxidation products, like 9, 12-dioxo-10(E) dodecenoic acid (DODE) can readily modify proteins and these modifications were readily detected in fixed cells by the copper-catalyzed click reaction using fluorescent azides. Using these approaches, we measured oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation caused by several oxidants in cells. Increases in oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and protein modifications were assessed by high content imaging and analysis as well as traditional fluorescence microscopy. In the models tested, at least 2-3 fold increases were observed compared to controls was and responses were successfully inhibited by antioxidants. The three strategies described here provide powerful new tools for the assessment of oxidative stress in cells and convey distinct advantages over existing cell-based methods. Citation Format: Bhaskar S. Mandavilli, Robert Aggeler. Cell-based analysis of oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and lipid peroxidation-derived protein modifications using fluorescence microscopy. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 512. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-512

This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and property analysis of four novel multilayer 3D polymers (1A to 1D) with 1,3-phenyl bridge architectures spanning 248 to 320 layers. High-molecular-weight polymers were successfully synthesized via catalytic Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling over a four-day reaction period. Structures, thermal, and optical properties were examined using multiple analytical techniques. Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy was used to study the hydrogen bonding within the polymer system, suggesting the formation of the polymer through the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy indicated strong electronic delocalization, with maximum absorbance peaks between 257 and 280 nm. Thermal characterization, using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), was used to investigate the thermal stability. TGA results showed that all four polymers retained more than 20% of their initial mass at 1000 °C, indicating good thermal stability across the series. DSC analysis revealed that polymer 1A exhibited a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 167 °C, indicating the presence of a network formed by aromatic conjugation and hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, the subtle Tg step observed for 1A suggests a degree of crystallinity within the polymer matrix, which was further supported by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) experiments provided further insights into intermolecular packing, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) contributed to a better understanding of the morphology of the obtained polymers. These results highlight the potential of these polymers as thermally stable and conductive materials for biomedical and industrial applications.

Objective. To study free-radical lipid oxidation, oxidative protein modification, and glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities, as well as the end product of nitric oxide, i.e., nitrite, in the mitochondrial fraction of the brain in animals during experimental cerebral edema and treatment with taurine. Materials and methods. Toxic cerebral edema was induced by i.p. administration of tetraethyl tin to rats at a dose of 10 mg/kg. The intensity of lipid peroxidation was recorded in terms of hydroperoxide and malondialdehyde contents. Results and conclusions. Analysis of the levels of oxidative protein modification showed that cerebral edema was characterized by increases in the contents of oxidative protein and lipid modification and nitric oxide, along with a decrease in the glutathione content and reductions in the activities of glutathione-containing enzymes (glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase). There is considerable interest in using agents able to increase glutathione contents and activate glutathione-containing enzymes. These include taurine. Our data indicate that administration of taurine for five days at a dose of 50 mg/kg led to a decrease in levels of lipid peroxidation products and normalization of oxidative protein modification in the mitochondrial fraction the brain in rats with experimental cerebral edema.

Hair straighteners are very popular around the world, although they can cause great damage to the hair. Thus, the characterization of the mechanical properties of curly hair using advanced techniques is very important to clarify how hair straighteners act on hair fibers and to contribute to the development of effective products. On this basis, we chose two nonconventional hair straighteners (formaldehyde and glyoxylic acid) to investigate how hair straightening treatments affect the mechanical properties of curly hair. The mechanical properties of curly hair were evaluated using a tensile test, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), a torsion modulus, dynamic vapor sorption (DVS), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The techniques used effectively helped the understanding of the influence of nonconventional hair straighteners on hair properties. For the break stress and the break extension tests, formaldehyde showed a marked decrease in these parameters, with great hair damage. Glyoxylic acid had a slight effect compared to formaldehyde treatment. Both treatments showed an increase in shear modulus, a decrease in water sorption and damage to the hair surface. A combination of the techniques used in this study permitted a better understanding of nonconventional hair straightener treatments and also supported the choice of the better treatment, considering a good relationship between efficacy and safety. Thus, it is very important to determine the properties of hair for the development of cosmetics used to improve the beauty of curly hair.