Nail Polish Research Articles

A Novel Nano-Hydroxyapatite Agarose-Based Hydrogel for Biomimetic Remineralization of Demineralized Human Enamel: An in-vitro Study.

This study aims to investigate the biomimetic effect of agarose hydrogel loaded with enamel matrix derivative (EMD-agarose) alone or in combination with nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA-EMD-agarose) on the remineralization of human demineralized enamel. Extracted human mandibular third molars were sectioned into 54 buccal and lingual halves. Acid-resistant nail varnish was applied to each half, except for two enamel windows. Enamel surface microhardness, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were conducted to evaluate enamel surfaces at baseline, following demineralization with 37% phosphoric acid, and after each hydrogel application and remineralization for two, four, and six days. Remineralization was performed using a phosphate solution at 37°C. At day 6 following remineralization, a statistically significant higher mean microhardness was recorded in n-HA-EMD-agarose hydrogel (260.87 ± 3.52) as compared to EMD-agarose hydrogel (244.63 ± 2.76) (p = 0.027). Similarly, n-HA-EMD-agarose hydrogel showed a higher mean calcium (46.31 ± 2.78), phosphorous (24.92 ± 0.826), and fluoride (0.909 ± 0.053) weight percentage compared to EMD-agarose hydrogel calcium (19.64 ± 1.092), phosphorous (19.64 ± 1.092), and fluoride (0.7033 ± 0.0624) weight percentage (p < 0.05). Further, SEM analysis revealed a substantial deposition of n-HA following the application of the n-HA-EMD-agarose hydrogel, whereas the EMD-agarose exhibited a relatively smooth enamel surface with less visible enamel rods due to mineral deposition. The combined n-HA-EMD-agarose hydrogel demonstrated improved surface microhardness of the remineralized enamel and enhanced mineral content deposition, indicating its potential as a biomimetic approach for dental enamel repair.

Dentinal Tubule Occlusion and Dentin Permeability Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride Solutions.

This invitro study compared the effect of two commercially available silver diamine fluoride (SDF) products on dentinal tubule (DT) occlusion and dentin permeability. Sixty-six dentin discs (1.0 mm thick) were divided equally into six groups: acid-etched with no treatment (negative control-NC), etched and sealed with nail varnish (positive control-PC), non-etched and treated with Advantage Arrest (AA), non-etched and treated with Topamine (TP), etched and treated with AA, and etched and treated with TP. Eight specimens from each group were tested for permeability using the dye percolation method. The remaining three samples from each group were assessed for dentinal tubule occlusion, depth of SDF penetration, and elemental analysis using a scanning electron microscope coupled with an energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX) system. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test were used to analyze the results. TP exhibited lower (p < 0.05) dye percolation compared to AA. While both SDF materials showed a statistically similar (p > 0.05) penetration depth in the DT, none of them had the ability to completely occlude all the DTs. AA exhibited more silver and fluoride ion deposition on etched dentin than TP, and both materials showed a similar increase in the deposition of Ca and P compared to NC. Whereas the effectiveness of dentin tubule (DT) occlusion varies based on the material used, both tested SDF products exhibit the capability to seal dentinal tubules, decrease dentin permeability, and promote dentin remineralization. These findings suggest their potential advantage in managing dentin hypersensitivity.

Phthalate Esters in Different Types of Cosmetic Products: A Five-Year Quality Control Survey.

Phthalate esters are commonly included in the formulations of cosmetics and related products in order to retain fragrance, enhance flexibility (i.e., by acting as plasticizers), facilitate the dissolution and dispersion of other ingredients, and improve the overall texture and sensory experience of the products. This study aimed to assess the presence and concentrations of phthalates in cosmetics by analyzing a comprehensive set of samples collected over a period of five years (2016-2020). The concentrations of nine different phthalate esters (BBP, DEHP, DNOP, DPP, DBP, DIPP, DMEP, DMP and PIPP) in 1110 cosmetics samples from France and Spain were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The samples were included in five categories: soaps and shampoos; hand and body creams; lip gloss and lipsticks; nail polish; and facial makeup and skincare products. Some of the samples (4.86%) contained at least one phthalate at concentrations above the threshold limit (1 µg mL-1). Variable concentrations of different phthalates were determined in the 54 positive samples identified. DEHP was the most frequently detected phthalate, followed by DBP. The findings revealed different profiles according to the different categories of cosmetics and the phthalates detected in each. The results were critically compared with those obtained in various previous studies.

Knowledge and awareness of ketoacidosis associated with high exposure to acetone-containing products: A crosssectional assessment

Purpose: To assess the knowledge and awareness of the Jordanian public about the hazards associated with high levels of exposure to acetone-containing products. Methods: The study was conducted between September 2019 and December 2020. An electronic anonymous questionnaire was distributed via different channels to be self-completed by the study population. Socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge about acetone-containing nail polish removers and sterilizing products, and awareness about the risk of ketoacidosis associated with high degree of exposure to these products, were assessed. Results: The findings revealed that a majority of participants were aware of the presence of acetone in nail polish removers (92.61 %) and sterilizing products (84.41 %), regardless of gender, age, educational type and educational level. In addition, females (70.4 or 83.0 %), youngest age group (70.7 or 83.0 %), those with health-related education (56.6 or 76.0 %), and graduates (72.0 or 83.9 %) were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) more aware about the safety of these products if inhaled or exposed to flame sources, respectively, than their peers. Moreover, concerning the risks of developing ketoacidosis and raised liver ketone levels as hazards associated with the high degree of exposure to acetone-containing products, females (44.2, 41.9 and 50.6 %), those with health-related education (64.1, 63.4 and 73.3 %), youngest age group (47.4, 44.6 and 56.5 %), and graduates (45.3, 43.5 and 52.8 %), respectively, were significantly more aware than the others (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: These findings indicate signs of significantly poor awareness about the serious risks associated with acetone-caused ketoacidosis among the study population. Therefore, well-organized educational campaigns are needed to enlighten graduates with health-related education and to improve public perception of the health hazards associated with human exposure to acetone-containing products.

Evaluating metal levels and potential health risks of nail polish brands on the Ghanaian market

ABSTRACT Research has shown possible existence of heavy metals in cosmetic products, as they are known to impact colour. Assessments have been carried out on selected brands of nail polishes on Ghanaian markets in the Ashanti Region, for levels of six metals, i.e., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), aluminium (Al), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu). A total of twenty (20) nail polish samples were analysed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer model nova 400P. The highest concentrations determined were Al (77.50 mg/L), Cu (2.126 mg/L), and Cr (25.66 mg/L). The levels of Pb, Cd, and Mn were all below detection limit. All samples analysed were below the WHO permissible limits, making them safe for use. Health risks associated with intake of these metals via dermal route, inhalation, and ingestion are evaluated, Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) are below unity, suggesting no potential health risks associated with their use.

Greenish discoloration due to gel nail extensions mimicking Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection: Is beauty really worth the risk: A case report

Over the past decades, the commercialization of nail cosmetics has increased. From nail polishes to artificial nails, different methods of nail beautification have emerged. Knowledge of the safety and efficacy of nail products is very important as nail products such as nail polish, nail polish removers, and artificial nails have several adverse effects. Harmful substances such as toluene sulfonamide-formaldehyde resin and methacrylates have been identified in commercial nail products, leading to several adverse effects, such as allergic contact dermatitis. Here, we report a case of a healthy young female, who developed greenish discoloration of nails following the removal of gel nail extensions, which need to be differentiated from Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and other causes such as fungal infection, subungual hematoma, and malignant melanoma, as early diagnosis may help in initiating the specific treatment, hence saving time and the need for unnecessary laboratory investigations.

Organophosphate ester exposure in nail salons: Health implications for workers

Organophosphates esters (OPEs) have become a preferred alternative in nail polish as plasticizers due to health concerns over previously used additives like dibutyl phthalate. However, the true extent of nail technicians' exposure to OPEs is largely unknown. This study shows that nail salon workers are significant exposed to OPEs, with varied concentrations found in air, dust, masks, and urine. The total concentrations of 11 OPEs in ultrasonic personal air samplers (UPAS) ranged from 251 to 1007 ng/m³, and in air conditioner filter dust from 371 to 14473 ng/g. Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) was the most abundant compound found in the nail polishes used in these salons. On average, the concentrations of TPHP and diphenyl phosphate (DPHP) in workers' urine after work were 5.2 and 1.8 times higher than those before work, respectively. Two nail salons that had the highest nail polish usage also had very high concentrations of TPHP in surgical masks, dust, and UPAS. TPHP concentrations in workers’ urine after work were 19 and 13 times those before work, respectively, in these two salons. Human internal exposure assessment showed that the average exposure dose of TPHP after work was 1.8 times higher than that before work. On average, use of masks reduced OPEs in urine by 77%. In conclusion, frequent mask replacement is highly recommended, especially in long working circumstances. Without regular replacement, masks may accumulate OPEs from the air, potentially becoming another source of human exposure to OPEs. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the occupational exposure of nail salon workers to OPEs, particularly considering that most practitioners in this industry are young women of reproductive age.

A cost-effective method for the sensitive detection of levofloxacin using a 3D composite electrode composed of nail polish, graphite and aluminium oxide.

The potential impact on human health and the environment has spurred significant interest in detecting and quantifying pharmaceutical compounds across various matrices, from environmental to biological samples. Here, we present an electrochemical approach for determining levofloxacin in drug, synthetic urine, water, and breast milk samples. An affordable sensor was constructed using 3D printing and composite material based on nail polish, graphite, and aluminum oxide. The conductive composite material was characterized spectroscopically, electrochemically, and by imaging techniques. Subsequently, an electrochemical method based on square wave voltammetry was optimized and applied. The method exhibited good sensitivity (5.11 ± 0.0912 μA L μmol-1 cm-2) and enhanced stability (RSD = 7.2%), with electrochemical responses correlating with the concentration of levofloxacin in the samples tested, yielding recovery values in the range of 98 to 111%. The developed method demonstrated a robust linear working range from 2 to 100 μmol L-1 and a nanomolar detection limit of 128 nmol L-1, rendering it suitable for quantitative analysis. The sensor also shows promise as a platform for the sensitive detection of pharmaceutical compounds, contributing to greater safety and sustainability in these domains.

Comparative evaluation of marginal integrity of three esthetic restorative materials in class V cavities under stereomicroscope: an in-vitro study

Aims: The aim of this invitro study was to compare the marginal integrity among three esthetic restorative materials. Methods and Material: This study was conducted on 60 freshly extracted human premolars in which Standardized Class V cavities were prepared. Teeth were equally assigned to three groups : GC- Aenial Anterior Composite(Group A), Tetric N- Ceram(Group B), Palfique LX5(Group C). Each group containing 20 teeth were restored and then stored in distilled water for 1 week at 37°C. The specimens were dried and painted with two coats of nail varnish on the teeth except 2mm around the cervical margins of the restoration and air dried. After that the teeth were kept in 2 % methylene blue solution for 24 hours. After sectioning the teeth, the sectioned halves were then evaluated for dye penetration under stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis used: The statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test along with post hoc pairwise comparison by Mann Whitney U test. Results: The findings suggested that Tetric N-Ceram was superior to the other two composite materials Conclusions: Marginal leakage scores of novel restorative material, Tetric N- Ceram was minimal and within acceptable limits compared to other tested material.

Comparative Evaluation of Apical Sealing Ability of Three Different Endodontic Sealer: An In Vitro Study

AIM : Comparative evaluation of apical sealing ability of three different endodontic sealers : An in vitro study Materials and Methods:- The study was conducted on 60 samples on single rooted teeth using three different sealers MTA fillapex, Apexit Plus, Bio C sealer. On the prepared samples access cavities and biomechanical preparation was performed using endodontic rotary system. The teeth were randomly divided into three groups of 15 each with control group having empty canal. All root surfaces except the apical 2 mm was covered with two layers of nail varnish and sticky wax and all samples were immersed in an aqueous solution of 2% methylene blue dye for 72 hours. Roots were longitudinally split using a diamond disc . STATISTICAL ANALYSIS : The data was statistically analysed with One way ANOVA test and post hoc tukey test to compare the apical sealing ability between the experimental groups RESULTS : In our study , least sealing ability was observed Apexit plus followed by MTA Fillapex and Bio C sealer.CONCLUSION : Bio C sealer showed considerably good results compared to MTA Fillapex and Bio C sealer

The Normal Growth Rate of Human Fingernails in Indian Population.

Background: India, with a large population working in industries, has a considerable amount of nail bed injuries day to day as well as infections and other issues with nails. However, there are no normative data for nail growth in our population. This study aims to measure and analyze the rate of nail growth in the Indian population, which will be a valuable tool for clinical assessment and treatment. Objective: The aim of the study was to estimate the average rate of nail growth of all fingers in the Indian population between the age group of 18 to 40 years. Materials and Methods: Fifty young adults whose 500 fingernails were painted with three coats of nail polish following a standardized protocol, and the rate of the growth of the nails was recorded with a digital Vernier caliper from the nail fold every 10 days for 1 month. Results: The average fingernail growth is 0.103 mm/d. There is no correlation of nail growth with sex or hand dominance. Nail growth is more in the left index finger (0.13 mm/d) and the left thumb, while it is the least in little fingers (0.101 mm/d). Initial fingernail growth was higher in older individuals, however. At the end of the study period, nail growth was equal. The nail growth rate reduces as the days progress. Conclusion: We have reported the normative data of nail growth as 0.103 mm per day. In the majority of the healthy population, this rate would hold true.

Evaluating the Application of Nail Polish as an Ostomy Baseplate: A Comparative Analysis With Conventional Ostomy Pastes in the Market and a Clinical Trial.

Peristomal skin complications are prevalent among patients with ostomies and significantly impact their quality of life. Ostomy care is crucial for patients with ostomies because it ensures proper adhesion and protects and reduces the peristomal skin complications. To assess the effectiveness of nail polish as a novel skin barrier and compare its performance with the commonly available ostomy barriers in the market. Phase I randomized controlled trial. A single trauma and surgery center. Forty patients who were hospitalized for ostomy implantation were enrolled. Twenty cases were included in each group. The use of nail polish as a baseplate was tested against the common ostomy pastes. Over 6 months, the study enrolled 40 patients who required loop ileostomy and were followed up for 8 weeks. Postoperative evaluation was performed using the City of Hope-Quality of Life ostomy and 36-Item Short Form questionnaires, as well as physical examinations conducted 1 day after surgery and at 4 and 8 weeks after surgical treatment. Forty patients were included in the study. At all 3 time points, significant differences were observed in 36-Item Short Form scores, time, and costs spent on ostomy care. The intervention group experienced fewer peristomal skin complications (skin itching, redness, inflammation, and burning) and skin allergies at the first and second time points (p < 0.05). Furthermore, none of the patients in the intervention or control group experienced rare complications such as folliculitis, candidiasis, contact dermatitis, or pyoderma gangrenosum. Single institution. The utilization of nail polish as a baseplate reduces skin allergies, peristomal skin complications, and the time and financial resources spent on ostomy care. Furthermore, using nail polish has demonstrated promising results in patients' quality of life. Consequently, using nail polish emerged as the preferred choice among study participants. See the Video Abstract . ANTECEDENTES:Las complicaciones de la piel periestomal son frecuentes entre los pacientes con ostomías y afectan significativamente su calidad de vida. Los cuidados de la ostomía son cruciales para los pacientes ostomizados, ya que garantizan una adhesión adecuada y protegen y reducen las complicaciones de la piel periestomal.OBJETIVOS:Evaluar la eficacia del esmalte de uñas como nueva barrera cutánea y comparar su rendimiento con las barreras de ostomía comúnmente disponibles en el mercado.DISEÑO:Ensayo clínico aleatorizado de fase I.ENTORNO:Un único centro de traumatología y cirugía.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron cuarenta pacientes hospitalizados para la implantación de una ostomía. Se incluyeron veinte casos en cada grupo.MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO PRINCIPALES:Se probó el uso de esmalte de uñas como placa base frente a las pastas de ostomía comunes. Durante un periodo de 6 meses, el estudio incluyó a 40 pacientes que necesitaban una ileostomía en asa y fueron sometidos a un seguimiento de 8 semanas. La evaluación postoperatoria se llevó a cabo mediante los cuestionarios City of Hope-quality of life ostomy y SF-36, así como mediante exámenes físicos realizados 1 día después de la cirugía y a las 4 y 8 semanas del tratamiento quirúrgico.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron en el estudio cuarenta pacientes. En los 3 puntos temporales, se observaron diferencias significativas en las puntuaciones SF-36, el tiempo y los costos dedicados al cuidado de la ostomía. El grupo de intervención experimentó menos complicaciones cutáneas periestomales (picor, enrojecimiento, inflamación y quemazón de la piel), así como alergias cutáneas en el primer y segundo momento (p < 0,05). Además, ninguno de los pacientes del grupo de intervención ni del de control experimentó complicaciones poco frecuentes como foliculitis, candidiasis, dermatitis de contacto o pioderma gangrenoso.LIMITACIONES:Una sola institución.CONCLUSIÓN:La utilización de esmalte de uñas como placa base reduce las alergias cutáneas, las complicaciones cutáneas periestomales y el tiempo y los recursos económicos dedicados al cuidado de la ostomía. Además, el uso de esmalte de uñas ha demostrado resultados prometedores en la calidad de vida de los pacientes. En consecuencia, la utilización de esmalte de uñas resultó ser la opción preferida entre los participantes en el estudio. (Traducción-Dr. Aurian Garcia Gonzalez).

PHYSIO-ANATOMICAL EVALUATION OF SOME TREE SPECIES FOR AFFORESTATION IN DRY REGION OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

The stomatal features of plant species have ability to release water vapour into the air. Hence, correlations between the stomatal features and transpiration rate of five tree species namely Danielli oliveri, Delonix regia, Piliostigma thonningii, Azadirachta indica and Tectona grandis was studied to evaluate their capacity for afforestation. The leaf epidermal layers were isolated using nail polish; they were observed under the light microscope to examine their stomatal features. The transpiratiom rate was evaluated using the cobalt chloride method. The results revealed that Delonix regia and Piliostigma thonningii are amphistomatic; while the remaining three species are hypostomatic. The stomatal complex types observed are anomocytic, brachyparacytic and paracytic, The stomatal density ranged from 14.41 mm-2 to 93.61 mm-2; the stomatal index ranged from 7.15% to 28.23%; while the stomatal size ranged from 11.19 µm2 to 29.36 µm2. The study revealed that stomatal traits such as hypostomatic leaf nature, stomatal complex types (i.e. paracytic, brachyparacytic), low stomatal index, small stomatal size possessed by the plant species may be responsible for their lower rate of transpiration; which in turn might be suitable for their afforestation in dry areas. Therefore, Tectona grandis which released the lowest amount of water (2.49 × 10-6 mol m-2s-1) into the atmosphere might be the most suitable for afforestation, followed by Piliostigma thonningii, Daniellia oliveri, Delonix regia and lastly Azadirachta indica (2.97 × 10-6 mol. m-2s-1). Conclusively, the stomatal features showed positive correlations with transpiration rates; thereby enhancing the potentials of the studied species for afforestation in dry region.

Antifungal Niosomal Nail Lacquer for Enhanced Transungual Delivery of Efinaconazole in the Treatment of Onychomycosis

Niosomes, multilamellar vesicles, efficiently transfer active substances into the epidermis or systemic circulation. Topical medication delivery techniques increase skin permeability to active compounds. Onychomycosis, a common nail ailment caused by fungus, requires efficient topical therapies due to the risks of systemic antifungal therapy. This research aimed to make a nail polish with efinaconazole (EFN) to treat onychomycosis. The spherical Niosomes contained efinaconazole and had a 100 to 130 nm diameter. In the 24-hour in-vitro experiment, drug trapping ranged from 40 to 90% and release from 25 to 86%. The 1:2 mixtures of efinaconazole niosomes, Span 60, and CHO produced nail paint with good results. Efinaconazole-loaded niosomal nail polish had better drug release, antifungal effectiveness, and smoothness over other formulations. Topical nail polish can help low-bioavailability medicines. This method helps the medication enter the body through the nail. The ENNL can deliver onychomycosis drugs topically.

Minimum Spanning Tree‐Based Clustering for Chemical Evaluation of Commercial Nail Polish Samples Using Spectroanalytical Data

ABSTRACTThis study discusses potential toxic elements detection in conventional nail polish, including Cr and Pb. The noteworthy results highlight well‐established potential risks of elevated Cr and Pb concentrations. These elements are not allowed in the European Union. Implementing the minimum spanning tree (MST) approach and the isolation forest algorithm effectively clustered samples. Forty‐five samples were analyzed, and four clusters were identified. Two presented six samples with high concentrations of Fe (Cluster 1 with four samples) and Cr and Pb (Cluster 2 with two samples). The other 39 samples presented low concentrations of the determined elements (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Pb). Cadmium, Zn, and Mn were not detected in any of the analyzed samples. Furthermore, integrating energy‐dispersive x‐ray fluorescence (ED‐XRF) and laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) enabled fast direct analysis of nail polish samples, streamlining a swift and reliable data acquisition process. This research underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and monitoring of potential health hazards associated with nail polish formulations, especially in regions with regulatory restrictions on certain elements.

Evaluation of Microleakage of Nanoparticle-incorporated Cyanoacrylate Root Canal Sealer Using the Radioisotopic Method: An In Vitro Study.

The study aimed to assess the microleakage of nanoparticle-based (NPB) cyanoacrylate sealer and epoxy resin-based (ERB) sealer using radioisotope method and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). A total of 100 single-rooted teeth were collected; specimens were accessed, instrumented, and irrigated, and randomly distributed into 4 groups of 25 samples each: Group I: Positive control, group II: Negative control, group III: Obturated with NPB sealer, and group IV: Obturated with ERB sealer. All samples were immersed in 99mTc pertechnetate solution, for 3 hours after which radioactivity was estimated under a Gamma camera. The radioactivity released by specimens before and after nail varnish removal was statistically analyzed. After 2 weeks, the same samples were used for CLSM analysis. The sealer tubular penetration depth was measured at the deepest level for each group using ZEN lite 2012. Data collected was statistically evaluated. The amount of radioactivity observed at first in group III and group IV was 194.76 and 599.12 units, respectively, with p-value < 0.001, indicating significant interaction, and after nail varnish removal, it was 89.68 and 468.44 units, respectively, with a p-value < 0.001; again, indicating statistical significance. Hence, the radioactivity of NPB sealer was found to be lower than ERB sealer in both cases, indicating better sealing of the former. The photomicrographs show that mean value of dye penetration in NPB sealer in first, second, and third segment from apex was 85.06, 75.73, and 66.09, respectively; while in the case of ERB sealer, those were 597.28, 461.17, and 195.68, respectively; with p-value < 0.001; signifying that NPB sealer exhibited higher resistance to microleakage than ERB sealer. The NPB sealer can become a potential root canal sealer in future endodontics due to superior physiochemical properties attributed to the cyanoacrylate and incorporated nanoparticles. The study clinically signifies that we can equally use the radioisotopic method along with confocal method while conducting the microleakage studies. In addition, NPB sealer can be an emerging replacement with better properties than gold standard root canal sealers for clinical use. How to cite this article: Shetty C, Qaiser S, Shetty A, et al. Evaluation of Microleakage of Nanoparticle-incorporated Cyanoacrylate Root Canal Sealer Using the Radioisotopic Method: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(4):335-341.

Screening of environmental stimuli for the positive regulation of stomatal aperture in centipedegrass

Grasslands, the largest carbon pool in China, possess enormous potential for carbon sequestration. Increasing the stomatal aperture to increase the CO2 absorption capacity is a potential method to improve plant photosynthetic efficiency and ultimately enhance the carbon sequestration capacity of grass plants. Research on stomatal aperture regulation has focused mostly on Arabidopsis or crops, while research on grass plants in these areas is scarce, which seriously restricts the implementation of this grassland carbon sequestration strategy. Here, a widely used ecological grass, centipedegrass, was used as the experimental material. First, a convenient method for observing the stomatal aperture was developed. The leaves were floated in a potassium ion-containing open solution (67 mM KCl, pH 6.0) with the adaxial surface rather than the abaxial surface in contact with the solution and were cultivated under light for 1.5 h. Then, nail polish was applied on the adaxial surface, and a large number of open stomata were imprinted. Second, with the help of this improved method, the concentration‒response characteristics of the stomatal aperture to eleven environmental stimuli were tested. The stomatal aperture is dependent on these environmental stimuli in a concentration-dependent manner. The addition of 100 μM brassinolide led to the maximal stomatal aperture. This study provided a technical basis for manipulating stomatal opening to increase the carbon sequestration capacity of centipedegrass.

Electrochemical Determination of Catechol Using a Disposable Printed Electrode with Conductive Ink Based on Graphite and Carbon Black

Catechol (CT) is a phenolic compound widely used in various industrial sectors, but it is toxic; thus, there is a need for methods that aim to identify and quantify the existence of residues of this material in the environment. In this study a disposable printed electrochemical sensor was developed as an effective alternative for determining CT in water samples. The electrode, called SPEC, was manufactured using the screen-printing method using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a support, in which a conductive ink based on carbonaceous materials was used to print the working and auxiliary electrodes and a silver/silver chloride of ink on the reference electrode. The optimal ratio for the conductive ink was 6.25% carbon black, 35.42% graphite, and 58.33% nail polish. The ink obtained was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The assessment of the effect of pH on the redox process showed Nernstian behavior (0.057 V pH−1), indicating that the process involves the same number of protons and electrons. Under optimized conditions, with 0.2 mol L−1 acetate buffer at pH 5.0, and by square wave voltammetry, the sensor presented sensitivity values of 0.31 μA L μmol−1, a detection limit of 5.96 μmol L−1, and a quantification limit of 19.87 μmol L−1. The sensor was applied to determine CT in tap water samples, and the results showed recoveries between 97.95 and 100.17%.

Overview of the Current Advancements and Trends in the Transungual Drug Delivery System

Background: Drug delivery across human nails is termed a transungual drug delivery system. It is recommended for the amelioration of nail disorders and infectious nail diseases like onychomycosis. Thereby, vivid anti-fungal regimens have been prescribed in the form of different types of formulations, including nail lacquers, nail film, nail paint, and other types for treating onychomycosis. Method: All the formulations currently marketed or being marketed for the transungal drug delivery system were thoroughly studied, compared, and evaluated for their advantages and disadvantages so that a new vision can be sustained along the path of creating newer anti-fungal transunguals, keeping in mind the anatomy of the nail and various parameters that govern bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients across the nail bed. Accordingly, different techniques are devised to enhance permeation across the nail. The various parameters used to evaluate these formulations depend upon their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. Conclusion: The recent approaches in transungual novel drug delivery systems have been reported while exemplifying a few patented and marketed formulations, along with the clinical trial status of these formulations. There is a need for the development of new techniques to overcome all the loopholes present in the ongoing treatment techniques and the formulations used nowadays for the treatments of diseases that occur in nails. After thoroughly detailing transungal novel drug delivery systems, we envisage great opportunities for the researchers to carry out novel work in chemotherapy through nails.

Design and Development of Ecofriendly Herbal Oil Infused Nail Polish Remover Tissues

Natural nail polish removers have gained popularity as a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional acetone-based removers. This abstract provides a research work of the key features and benefits of natural nail polish removers, which are made from natural and non-toxic ingredients like plant-based solvents, essential oils, finished on natural and regenerated fibred nonwoven spun lace fabrics. These environment friendly techniques remove nail polish effectively without emitting foul chemical odors or harming cuticles and nails. The study introduces a nail polish remover solution featuring lemongrass oil as its primary active ingredient enriched with vitamin E oil. In response to the growing desire for natural cosmetic products, this study examines the efficiency and safety of composites made of lemongrass oil and vitamin E oil treated on fabric as a nail polish remover through antimicrobial testing and subjective analysis. The findings suggest that the proposed approach may be more effective than conventional nail polish removers in terms of user experience and environmental impact. Thus, in response to the growing demand for natural and non-toxic beauty products, this natural nail polish removers were developed and embraced, which has assisted the beauty industry in becoming more environmentally and health conscious. Keywords: Nail polish remover, acetone, viscose fabric, lemongrass oil, vitamin E, and eco-friendly