Abnormal Hair Research Articles

In Vivo Imaging Techniques for the Human Scalp: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Scalp inflammation and alopecia are distressing conditions for which patients regularly present to dermatology. Although some diagnoses can be made clinically, others require biopsy, which carries the risk of pain, infection, bleeding, and scarring. This review examines the existing literature regarding noninvasive in vivo imaging techniques and their evidence and utility in evaluating scalp pathology, with a focus on the diagnostics of hair conditions. A systematic literature search was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines without timeframe restrictions. The PubMed and Clarivate (Web of Science) databases were searched using the terms ("imaging" OR "in-vivo imaging" OR "non-invasive imaging" OR "non-invasive in vivo imaging" "imaging," "in-vivo imaging) AND ("human scalp disorders" OR "scalp" OR "hair loss" OR "alopecia"). Peer-reviewed randomized control trials (RCTs), prospective studies, retrospective studies, and case series or reports discussing in vivo imaging of the scalp published before 2022 were selected. Forty-two studies were included and discussed; modalities included laser devices (n = 27), ultrasound (US) (n = 13), infrared thermography (n = 1), skin capacitance imaging (SCI), and ultraviolet light-enhanced visualization (ULEV) (n = 1). The most common laser devices used were reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), multiphoton microscopy (MPM), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). US techniques included high-frequency US (HFUS) and US biomicroscopy (UBM). Quality imaging of the scalp in the setting of alopecic, neoplastic, and inflammatory diseases is highly sought after. Many of these noninvasive imaging techniques show promise, each with individual advantages and disadvantages in imaging-specific conditions. Ultimately, noninvasive imaging techniques may be used to optimize patient management and minimize morbidity associated with scalp biopsies.

Satisfactory Clinical Response to Erlotinib in a Patient Diagnosed with Olmsted Syndrome.

Olmsted syndrome is a rare congenital keratinization disorder characterized by mutilating palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK), often accompanied by flexion deformity, periorificial keratotic plaques, and hair abnormalities. The majority of Olmsted syndrome cases are attributed to mutations in the TRPV3 (Transient receptor potential vanillin 3) gene(1). Herein, we aim to present a sporadic case of Olmsted syndrome with a recurrent c1717G>T p.Gly573Cys variant in the TRPV3 gene, demonstrating clinical improvement with the epidermal growth factor inhibitor Erlotinib.

Exosomes for Treating Hair Loss: A Review of Clinical Studies.

The regenerative properties of exosomes make them especially appealing to treat skin and hair diseases. Preclinical studies suggest that exosomes may fuel hair growth by stimulating dermal papilla cells, activating hair follicle stem cells, and promoting angiogenesis. However, very limited data are available on the safety and efficacy of exosome use in human subjects. To review the published literature on exosome use in human subjects with a focus on safety and the challenges facing clinical implementation in the treatment of androgenetic and nonscarring alopecias. A review was conducted of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases and included 48 studies. Twenty-five studies were clinical trials, 14 case reports, 4 case series, 1 retrospective review, and 4 conference abstracts. Nine clinical studies were found relevant to alopecia. One hundred twenty-five patients received an exosome treatment for hair loss. Side effects were rare. However, in the broader field of dermatology, at least 10 serious adverse events have been reported. Although exosomes have many promising therapeutic applications, there is demand for larger well-designed clinical trials with extended follow-up periods to prove efficacy and a need for consistent manufacturing standards and regulatory oversight to ensure product safety.

Real-world safety profile of zanubrutinib: a disproportionality analysis based on the FAERS database

ObjectiveZanubrutinib is a second-generation Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been approved for the treatment of several B cell malignancies. The aim of this study was to evaluate adverse events...

6625 Adrenocortical Oncocytoma: Illuminating The Clinical And Biological Behavior Of An Extremely Rare Tumor Of The Adrenal Gland

Abstract Disclosure: H. Usmani: None. M. Arguello, MD: None. Background: Only 120 cases of adrenocortical oncocytoma have been reported in English literature (1). Standardized diagnostic criteria, or a typical clinical or biological course, have yet to be established. 58 yo woman with PMH HTN, COPD, CREST syndrome on chronic prednisone, previous 38-pk yr smoker, pulmonary nodule, current vaper, was incidentally found to have a left adrenal mass when she went for CT abd pelvis with IV and oral contrast to evaluate for suspected diverticulosis and anemia. CT showed a mass in the left adrenal gland measuring 5.6 x 4.4 cm in size, heterogeneous in density, with possible areas of necrosis. It is unclear how long the adrenal mass was there since the patient never had a CT scan before. Patient was asymptomatic except 50 lb wt loss in the last couple of years with a feeble appetite, self-reported abnormal hair growth (no hirsutism on exam), voice deepening attributed to smoking, and HTN- well controlled with nifedipine. Patient has no FHx of endocrinopathy. Adrenal function tests wnl except for plasma free normetanephrines slightly high at 1.64 nmol/L, which was unlikely from tumor considering tumor size. Normal adrenal function tests included 11-deoxycortisol, DHEA-S, plasma-free metanephrine, aldosterone, renin, aldosterone: renin ratio, androstenedione, ACTH, 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test.She underwent left-sided lap adrenalectomy 4 mos after discovery of adrenal mass, with no complications. 6 days after surgery, a left in JP drain caught on a door at patient’s home, causing splenic subcapsular tear requiring emergent splenectomy. The path report shows an encapsulated neoplasm consisting of sheet-like proliferation of eosinophilia polygonal cells with nuclear atypia, low mitotic activity, and no capsular or vascular invasion. Immunohistochemical markers show neoplastic cells positive for SF1, Mart1, inhibin (focal), and synaptophysin (focal); negative for CK-OSCAR, CK7, CK20, chromogranin, HMB45, and TTF-1, Ki67 and pHH3 show low proliferative index. The pathology slides were sent to U of M, where the diagnosis of adrenal cortical oncocytoma was made. Removal of oncocytoma has not affected patient’s weight, blood pressure, deep voice, or hair growth on 4 month follow up. Lin-Wiess-bisceglia system (2) suggests a benign lesion. But, as mutation rate for this rare tumor is unclear, plan for CT abd pelvis in 1 yr. Conclusion: This case elucidates the clinical and biological course and pathologic diagnosis of an exceedingly rare adrenal tumor.

B-089 Pseudo-clonal Increased IgG4 with Polyclonal Distribution Demonstrated by MALDI-TOF-MS in a Pediatric Patient with Tricho-Hepato-Enteric Syndrome (THES)

Abstract Background THES is a rare autosomal recessive syndromic enteropathy caused by pathogenic variants in two genes, the Tetratricopeptide Repeat Domain 37 (TTC37) and Ski2 Like RNA Helicase (SKIV2L), that encode components of the human SKI complex involved in RNA degradation. This disease is characterized by several clinical features with variable penetrance including intractable congenital diarrhea, wooly hair abnormalities, intrauterine growth restriction, facial dysmorphism, immune dysfunction, liver abnormalities, and skin hyperpigmentation. Hypogammaglobulinemia with low IgG and normal to low IgM levels have been described in these cases which may require intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) replacement therapy. Some cases have a reduced population of switched memory B cells, T cells with reduced IFN-γ secretion, and hyporesponsive NK cells. Our patient is a 4-year-old female reported to have a homozygous TTC37 mutation with clinical manifestations of TPN dependence, liver fibrosis with portal hypertension, splenomegaly, developmental delay, thrombocytopenia and anemia requiring transfusion, and a history of hypogammaglobinemia requiring IVIG replacement. Patient would go on to develop elevated immunoglobin levels leading to additional testing described below. Methods Serum total protein analysis performed using the using Siemens Atellica CH Total Protein II test (Weichselbaum method using biuret reagent). Serum immunoglobin (IgA, IgG and IgG), IgG subclass, and kappa/lambda free light chain level analysis performed by turbidimetric photometry assay using a Binding Site Optilite analyzer. Serum protein electrophoresis and immunotyping performed using CAPILLARYS 2 capillary zone electrophoresis and immunosubtraction with antisera. Serum protein immunofixation performed using Sebia Hydrasys 2 with Hydragel 9 IF Maxi kit. Confirmation and final determination of serum immunoproteins performed at our reference laboratory using MASS-FIX (MALDI-TOF MS) matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry after patient serum applied to 5 separate immunoaffinity resins specific to immunoglobulin G, A, M, K, and L for purification. Results Initial testing showed a broadly migrating beta-gamma region IgG kappa monotypic restriction measuring 1.7 g/dL, with predominantly kappa subtraction and trivial lambda subtraction by immunosubtraction; serum free kappa/lambda light chain ratio was increased at 22.94. Serum immunoglobins and free light chains measured (mg/dL): IgA 738 (15 - 160), IgM 48 (50 - 240), IgG 2,805 (405 - 1,160), free kappa 20.42 (0.33 - 1.94), and free lambda 0.89 (0.57 - 2.63). IgG subclasses measured (mg/dL): IgG1 533 (320 - 950), IgG2 174 (50 - 340), IgG3 16.9 (10.0 - 120.0), IgG4 1,221.1 (2.0 - 110.0). Additional serum protein values included (g/dL): total protein 8.10 (6.00 - 8.30), albumin 2.97 (3.43 - 4.84), alpha-1 0.32 (0.21 - 0.44), alpha-2 0.52 (0.54 - 0.97), beta globulin 3.42 (0.65 - 1.03), and gamma globulin 0.87 (0.70 - 2.30). The polyclonal nature of the IgG4 spike was later demonstrated by the MASS-FIX mass spectrograph. Conclusions MASS-FIX is a useful addition to the toolset used in the diagnosis of possible monoclonal gammopathies and protein disorders, especially where broad monotypic restrictions are observed or in patients with abnormal presentations for monoclonal gammopathies. Using current standard techniques, the above case could have been incorrectly classified as a monoclonal process resulting in unnecessary cost and incorrect treatment.

Heterozygous DSP in-frame deletion in a poodle with syndromic ichthyosis involving additional hair and tooth abnormalities.

Ichthyoses comprise a large heterogeneous group of skin disorders, characterized by generalized scaly and hyperkeratotic skin. We investigated a miniature poodle with early onset generalized scaling, dry and irregularly thickened skin, paw pad hyperkeratosis and abnormalities in hair and teeth. The clinical signs of ichthyosis were confirmed by histopathological examination, which revealed mild epidermal hyperplasia and lamellar orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis. A hereditary condition was suspected and a genetic investigation was initiated. We sequenced the whole genome of the affected dog and searched for potentially causative variants in functional candidate genes for the observed phenotype. The analysis revealed a heterozygous in-frame deletion in DSP, NC_049256.1:g.8804542_8804544del resulting from a de novo mutation event as evidenced by genotyping leukocyte DNA from both parents. The 3 bp deletion is predicted to remove one aspartic acid without disrupting the open reading frame (XM_038584124.1:c.1821_1823del, XP_038440052.1:p.(Asp608del)). The DSP gene encodes desmoplakin, a desmosomal plaque protein, responsible for cell-cell adhesion to provide resistance to mechanical stress in epidermal and cardiac tissues. We hypothesize that the deletion of one amino acid in the N-terminal globular head domain acts in a dominant negative manner and thus impairs the proper connection with other proteins. Several variants in DSP in humans and cattle have been described to result in different phenotypes associated with hair and skin abnormalities, sometimes in combination with variable cardiac and/or dental manifestations. In conclusion, we characterized a new syndromic ichthyosis phenotype in a dog and identified a de novo 3 bp deletion in the DSP gene as causal variant.

The Proportion of Catagen and Telogen Hair Follicles in Occipital Scalp of Male Androgenetic Alopecia Patients: Challenging the Established Dogma.

The hair follicle can cycle throughout a lifetime, undergoing periods of growth (anagen), regression (catagen) and relative quiescence (telogen). The time that a hair follicle spends in each of these stages is crucial to determine the length of hair fibre that it produces. Perturbations in this regard can manifest in various hair diseases such as anagen effluvium, or acute and chronic telogen effluvium. The established 'dogma' when considering how many hair follicles there are in each stage has long been that the majority are in anagen (85%-90%), followed by telogen (10%-15%) and catagen (1%-2%). These values are based on various studies using different methodologies such as hair plucking, phototrichograms and histology. However, these methods have flaws when it comes to differentiating between catagen and telogen follicles. We sought to determine the catagen: telogen ratio through the exvivo stereomicroscopic examination of hundreds of hair follicles removed from the occipital scalp of 14 Caucasian males during routine hair transplantation procedures. Using this methodology, and in agreement with a similar observation by another research group, we found that the percentage of catagen hair follicles was higher (7.5%) than telogen (3.5%) in all patients assessed. Consequently, we believe that the percentage of catagen follicles is clearly underestimated and therefore challenge the current established dogma.

Alopecia patterns and trichoscopic findings in patients with autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis.

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) is a rare genodermatosis categorized among nonsyndromic ichthyoses. While ARCI patients often manifest hair abnormalities, their impact on the quality of life remains underreported in the literature. This study aims to comprehensively characterize the clinical and trichoscopic findings of alopecia in ARCI patients. A prospective study spanning from January 2019 to December 2021 (3 years) was conducted at the Dermatology Department of Habib Thameur Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia. Clinical and trichoscopic examinations were performed on the hair of the participants, with molecular studies conducted on 15 patients. The study included 30 patients, predominantly female (male/female = 0.58), with a mean age of 20 years. Twenty-eight patients were born from consanguineous marriages. Lamellar ichthyosis was observed in 22 cases, while congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma and bathing suit ichthyosis were each present in 4 cases. The ARCI severity score, assessed using the Visual Index For Ichthyosis Severity scale, had a mean value of 15 (4-28). Alopecia emerged as a prominent finding in 11 patients, presenting as hairline recession (13%), multiple patchy alopecia (27%), and alopecia of the eyebrows (13%). Trichoscopic findings included interfollicular and perifollicular scaling, perifollicular lamellar hyperkeratosis, peripilar casts, interfollicular erythema, loss of hair openings, predominance of single hair follicles, broken hair, vellus hair, anisotrichosis, pili torti, dystrophic hair, and comma hair. Several trichoscopic findings showed statistically significant associations with the severity of ARCI. In our study, we only included 30 patients due to the rarity of this genodermatosis. Contrary to previous perceptions, alopecia is a notable finding in ARCI, particularly in patients with a severe form. This study provides a detailed characterization of alopecia in ARCI, shedding light on its prevalence and associated trichoscopic features, thereby enhancing our understanding of this dermatological condition.

Hair fragility (trichorrhexis nodosa) in alopecic Pomeranian dogs.

While alopecia associated with hair cycle arrest (HCA, Alopecia X) is well-recognised in Pomeranian dogs, the authors are unaware of reports of concurrent hair fragility. Following the observation of frequent hair shaft abnormalities in alopecic Pomeranians, we hypothesised that hair fragility events would be more frequent in dogs with a phenotype of HCA when compared to dogs with normal coats. Eight alopecic Pomeranian dogs or crosses with a phenotype of HCA and 36 unaffected Pomeranians with owner-reported normal hair coats. All affected dogs underwent dermatological examination and clinicopathological evaluations. Hair samples, plucked from affected areas or obtained by brushing from unaffected dogs, were examined microscopically for structural abnormalities. Hair fragility events were characterised as trichorrhexis nodosa (TN) or longitudinal splits and were expressed per 10 mg of hair. A reference interval was calculated from the number of hair fragility events in the samples from unaffected dogs. The upper reference limit (with 90% confidence) from samples of 35 unaffected Pomeranians (one outlier excluded) was 9.75 hair fragility events per 10 mg of hair. The median (range) of fragility events in eight dogs with a phenotype of HCA was 66.0 (30.2-166.7) per 10 mg of hair. Clinicians should routinely perform trichography in Pomeranians with HCA because abundant hair abnormalities, particularly TN, may contribute to poor hair coat quality. Further studies are required to establish the pathophysiology of and treatments for these fragility events and to determine their predictive value for HCA.

Synthesis and Analyses of Hair Conditioner with Natural Essence from <i>Picea Pungens Glauca</i> Leaves

The main purpose of this study is to synthesize hair conditioners using natural essence sources and determine the fluid properties of hair conditioners. The essence obtained from Picea pungens glauca (Blue Spruce Pine) leaves using Soxhlet extraction via ethanol was used to formulate a hair conditioner. Picea pungens, native to North America, are resistant to wind and air pollution and are grown in many regions. It has a strong flavor due to the terpenes in the leaf extracts. Here, we formulated a hair conditioner with these extracts, and then the physical and chemical features of the conditioners were examined. Characterization studies were done by viscometer, gas chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. On the other hand, the shear rate and viscosity values were used to determine whether the synthesized creams were Newtonian or non-Newtonian. The conditioners were determined to be Newtonian fluids based on the results obtained.

The use of game-based learning strategies for dermatology and dermoscopy education: a cross-sectional study by the International Dermoscopy Society (IDS) survey

Abstract Introduction Dermoscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of various skin conditions. Dermoscopy increases the sensitivity and specificity for skin cancer diagnosis, as well as infectious, inflammatory, and hair diseases. However, mastering dermoscopy intricacies poses challenges. In this context, innovative educational methods are sought, including game-based learning (GBL) strategies. Objective To describe current perceptions, knowledge and usage of GBL strategies in dermoscopy education; and identify strengths and challenges to enhance their utilization. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted by the International Dermoscopy Society (IDS). A web-based survey with 25-questions was distributed among the IDS members between October 2022 and April 2023. Responses were collected and analyzed using SPSS Statistics 26. Results A total of 801 responses were received. Of these, 46.6% responders were unfamiliar with gamification and serious games. Among those acquainted, 56.3% reported using GBL strategies for education. Younger participants were more likely to use GBL strategies (p = 0.015). Participants familiar with GBL believed it enhances medical education (78.5%) but not as a sole replacement for traditional methods (96%). For dermoscopy education, 22.2% had used GBL strategies, with Kahoot (35.5%) and You Dermoscopy (24.1%) being the most commonly used. Respondents found gaming strategies to be fun (95%), motivating (91%), and valuable for e-learning (94%). Conclusion Results from this survey demonstrate favorable perception towards GBL strategies in dermatology education, including dermoscopy. While there are ongoing challenges in validation, GBL strategies are promising and valuable tools that can aid the learning and teaching experience. Addressing implementation barriers and validating existing games could optimize GBL's impact on dermatology education.

Clinical application of iliac myocutaneous flap pedicled with deep circumflex iliac artery in repair of complex defect of lower limb with cavity

To explore the effectiveness of iliac myocutaneous flap pedicled with deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA) on the repair of lower limb composite defect wounds with cavity. A retrospective analysis of 7 patients with lower limb composite defect wounds treated between March 2017 and September 2020 was conducted, including 4 males and 3 females, aged 24-58 years, with a median age of 37 years. The causes of injury were machine twisting injury in 2 cases, fall from height injury in 2 cases, and traffic accident injury in 3 cases. According to Gustilo-Anderson classification, there were 1 case of type Ⅲa, 4 cases of type Ⅲb, and 2 cases of type Ⅲc (combined with anterior tibial artery rupture); according to AO/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification, there were 2 cases of type 42-C3, 2 cases of type 43-A2, and 3 cases of type 43-B1. The time from injury to admission ranged from 2 to 10 hours, with an average of 6 hours. Tibial bone defect and surrounding soft tissue defect with deep cavity were left after primary emergency debridement. In the second stage, according to the characteristics of the wound, the three-dimensional repair of the composite defect was designed with DCIA embedded iliac myocutaneous flap. The size of the iliac flap was 2.0 cm×2.0 cm×2.0 cm to 7.0 cm×3.0 cm×2.5 cm, and the size of the flap was 12.0 cm×8.0 cm to 21.0 cm×13.0 cm. The internal oblique muscle flap was harvested in size of 3.0 cm×2.0 cm×2.0 cm to 5.5 cm×4.0 cm×4.0 cm. The donor site was primarily closed. All the flaps survived after operation, except for 1 case of partial necrosis of the flap edge, which healed after secondary skin grafting, and the donor and recipient wounds healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 16-24 months, with an average of 18 months. The broken end of the bone defect healed well, and the healing time was 8-10 months, with an average of 7.3 months. At last follow-up, the shape of the flap was satisfactory, the texture was soft, and there was no abnormal hair growth, pigmentation, and so on. Only linear scar was left in the donor site, and no complication such as abdominal hernia occurred. According to Paley fracture healing scoring system, bone healing was rated as excellent in 5 cases and good in 2 cases. The limb function was satisfactory, and full weight bearing was achieved at 12-16 months after operation. According to the lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), 6 cases were excellent and 1 case was good. The iliac myocutaneous flap pedicled with DCIA is flexible in design and highly free in tissue composition, which can repair the composite defect wound of lower limbs with deep cavity in a three-dimensional way, and repair the limb shape and reconstruct weight-bearing function to the greatest extent.

Impact of Skin Care Products on Phthalates and Phthalate Replacements in Children: the ECHO-FGS.

Phthalates and their replacements have been implicated as developmental toxicants. Young children may be exposed to phthalates/replacements when using skin care products (SCPs). Our objective is to assess the associations between use of SCPs and children's urinary phthalate/replacement metabolite concentrations. Children (4-8 years old) from the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes-Fetal Growth Study (ECHO-FGS) cohort provided spot urine samples from 2017 to 2019, and mothers were queried about children's SCP use in the past 24 h (). Concentrations of 16 urinary phthalate/replacement metabolites were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (). We used linear regression to estimate the child's use of different SCPs as individual predictors of urinary phthalate/replacement metabolites, adjusted for urinary specific gravity, age, sex assigned at birth, body mass index, and self-reported race/ethnic identity, as well as maternal education, and season of specimen collection. We created self-organizing maps (SOM) to group children into "exposure profiles" that reflect discovered patterns of use for multiple SCPs. Children had lotions applied (43.0%) frequently, but "2-in-1" hair-care products (7.5%), sunscreens (5.9%), and oils (4.3%) infrequently. Use of lotions was associated with 1.17-fold [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00, 1.34] greater mono-benzyl phthalate and oils with 2.86-fold (95% CI: 1.89, 4.31) greater monoethyl phthalate (MEP), 1.43-fold (95% CI: 1.09, 1.90) greater monobutyl phthalate (MBP), and 1.40-fold (95% CI: 1.22, 1.61) greater low-molecular-weight phthalates (LMW). Use of 2-in-1 haircare products was associated with 0.84-fold (95% CI: 0.72, 0.97) and 0.78-fold (95% CI: 0.62, 0.98) lesser mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP) and MBP, respectively. Child's race/ethnic identity modified the associations of lotions with LMW, oils with MEP and LMW, sunscreen with MCPP, ointments with MEP, and hair conditioner with MCPP. SOM identified four distinct SCP-use exposure scenarios (i.e., profiles) within our population that predicted 1.09-fold (95% CI: 1.03, 1.15) greater mono-carboxy isononyl phthalate, 1.31-fold (95% CI: 0.98, 1.77) greater mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl terephthalate, 1.13-fold (95% CI: 0.99, 1.29) greater monoethylhexyl phthalate, and 1.04-fold (95% CI: 1.00, 1.09) greater diethylhexyl phthalate. We found that reported SCP use was associated with urinary phthalate/replacement metabolites in young children. These results may inform policymakers, clinicians, and parents to help limit children's exposure to developmental toxicants. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13937.

Study on the Effect of Adult Men and Women’s Perception of Wearing Wigs on Wig Purchase Intention : Differences Depending on Hair Condition and Hair Loss Concerns

Study on the Effect of Adult Men and Women’s Perception of Wearing Wigs on Wig Purchase Intention : Differences Depending on Hair Condition and Hair Loss Concerns

Investigation of the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the utilization of rosemary among the population in Jordan.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has a rich historical use for various reasons due to its beneficial characteristics including stimulating hair growth, providing antioxidant and antibacterial effects, and functioning as a skin conditioner and fragrance enhancer. The plant is cultivated in Jordan and using it is gaining popularity among the population. To assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of rosemary use among Jordanians. A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting at least 385 participants via social media platforms. Face and content validity of the questionnaire was performed by independent researchers. The questionnaire was divided into three main sections including the demographics section, the knowledge section and the attitude toward rosemary use. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple linear regression. The study's participants (n = 407) had a mean age of 30.98 years old (SD = 12.76). The mean knowledge score for the participants ranged from -5 to 7, with a mean of 2.96 (SD = 2.61), with younger participants exhibiting higher knowledge scores regarding rosemary. Approximately half of the participants (48.2%) reported using rosemary for medical purposes. About three-quarters reported using rosemary oil, but a higher percentage reported using the leaves. Around three quarters administered it orally or applied it topically. Most participants obtained rosemary by growing it at home or from herbalists. Family and friends were the main influencers for rosemary users. Most of the study participants strongly agreed/agreed that plants possess a healing power (94.4%). The most reported reason for using rosemary was improving the hair condition (82.1%) followed by gastrointestinal problems (67.9%). The study highlights the widespread use of rosemary for different reasons through different methods of application. Addressing misconceptions and enhancing knowledge dissemination may allow informed decision-making and promote the safe and effective use of herbal therapies.

Evaluation and Stability Study of Hair Conditioner – A Comparison

The evaluation and stability of hair conditioner was carried out. In this study, six different brands of marketed hair conditioners were randomly selected, evaluated and compared. The hair conditioners went through various evaluation tests like organoleptic evaluation (color, odor, texture, physical state, flowability, consistency and ease of application, visual appearance and texture), washability test; irritancy test; conditioning effect; pH determination; viscosity measurement; hair strand testing as well as stability studies at different temperatures including thermal stability.

A prospective study evaluating the adhesive tape impression for the diagnosis of dermatophytosis in dogs and cats.

Potential contagion and zoonotic risk make rapid diagnosis of dermatophytosis important amongst companion animals. To compare the adhesive tape impression (ATI), trichogram, Wood's lamp (WL) examination and fungal culture for diagnosis of dermatophytosis, and the ATI and trichogram for ease of use. Five dogs and 15 cats with consistent lesions, history and at least two positive dermatophyte test results. After WL examination, one representative lesion per patient was sampled for ATI, trichogram and fungal culture. Microscopic detection of fungal elements on ATI and trichogram were objectively and subjectively compared. The ability of all tests to correctly detect dermatophytosis, and the ability of ATI and trichogram to detect fungal elements in >20 high-powered fields (HPF) were compared using Fisher's exact tests. ATI, trichogram, fungal culture and WL were positive in 100% (20 of 20), 90% (18 of 20), 95% (19 of 20) and 65% (13 of 20) of patients, respectively, with a significant difference between WL and ATI (p = 0.0499). Fungal culture revealed Microsporum. canis (n = 16), Nannizzia gypsea (n = 1), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (n = 1) and T. rubrum (n = 1). Fungal elements were detected in >20 HPF more frequently with ATI (18 of 20) than trichogram (11 of 20) (p = 0.017), and detection required careful scanning to distinguish from background debris more often with trichogram. Fungal elements were located with neutrophil clusters and keratinocyte rafts in addition to abnormal hair fragments more frequently on ATI. ATI had the highest ability to correctly diagnose dermatophytosis, and increased ease of detecting fungal elements compared to trichogram.

HAIR TONIC OF BROCCOLI (BRASSICA OLERACEA VAR. ITALICA) EXTRACT: FORMULATION, PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC, STABILITY AND HAIR GROWTH ACTIVITY TEST

Objective: Hair loss is a common scalp concern for both men and women. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. Italica) is a vegetable plant in the cabbage family or brassicaceae that has antioxidant activity and levels of flavonoids that can encourage hair growth. Hair tonic is one of cosmetic products that contain ingredients to nourish hair. The purpose of this study was to investigate the physical stability and activity of hair development in hair tonic preparations using broccoli stalks extracted at different concentrations of 30%, 35%, and 40%, followed by an examination of the hair growth activity test in an animal model. Methods: This study hair tonic was prepared with Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. Italica), the sample used the broccoli stalks, which was taken by purposive sampling. Evaluation of the preparation includes physical characteristic observation, pH examination, homogeneity of the preparation, irritation test, and stability test of the preparation using a cycling test, and check the activity test of hair growth in rats’ skin. Results: The results showed that the hair tonic preparation containing broccoli stalks extracts was stable at a temperature (4 °C±40 °C) where the odor, color, shape, homogeneity, and pH remained constant. In statistical testing using ANOVA analysis, each group of the hair tonic formula of broccoli stalks extract showed hair growth activity in male white rats. The hair tonic formulation containing 40% broccoli stalks extract had better hair growth activity compared to the 30% and 35% formula groups. The hair tonic prepared from broccoli extract is confirmed safe for use after successfully passing the skin irritation test. Conclusion: The hair tonic of broccoli extracts had met the standard of physical characteristics during storage time and it has a good activity test on hair growth in male white rats. This study provides a novel formulation in hair growth.

Acetyl zingerone methyl ether protects hair against oxidative damage incurred during and after treatment with permanent dyes and helps extend longevity of newly developed hair colour.

Use of permanent hair dyes causes unintended oxidative damage during the short time frame of the dyeing process that leads to perceivable changes in the feel, manageability and appearance of hair. Moreover, after hair has been dyed, regular exposure to the sun as a key environmental stressor continues to stimulate additional oxidative damage and to induce newly developed hair colours to fade prematurely or undergo changes in colour quality. To document the utility of acetyl zingerone methyl ether (MAZ) as a newly designed haircare ingredient to afford extra protection against oxidative damage and safeguard the integrity of hair colour. We demonstrate that MAZ is compatible chemically with the high alkaline conditions required for the colouring process and from theoretical calculations preferentially binds Fe and Cu ions relative to Ca or Zn ions. In model Fenton reactions MAZ effectively chelated active redox metals (Fe and Cu ions) in the presence of excess Ca+2 ions to inhibit the production of hydroxyl radicals, and in separate studies, MAZ neutralized singlet oxygen with greater efficiency than α-tocopherol by a factor of 2.5. When mixed into permanent dyes prior to hair tress application, MAZ significantly reduced combing forces, and SEM images led to substantial reductions in visual signs of surface damage. In a 28-day clinical study, relative to controls, mixing MAZ into hair dyes prior to application interfered neither with colour development nor with ability to cover grey hair and led to significant improvements in perceived attributes associated with hair's condition immediately following the dyeing process. Over a 28-day maintenance phase, especially between Day 14 and Day 28, continued use of shampoo and conditioner containing MAZ significantly preserved gloss measurements and hair colour in terms of longevity and colour quality as remaining desired and fresh compared to use of control shampoo and conditioner. This work establishes MAZ as a next-generation hair care ingredient for use in permanent dyes to attenuate oxidative damage and in shampoos and conditioners to promote longevity of hair colour and to maintain overall health and appearance of hair on a daily basis.