Intense Sun Exposure Research Articles

Detection for melanoma skin cancer through ACCF, BPPF, and CLF techniques with machine learning approach

Intense sun exposure is a major risk factor for the development of melanoma, an abnormal proliferation of skin cells. Yet, this more prevalent type of skin cancer can also develop in less-exposed areas, such as those that are shaded. Melanoma is the sixth most common type of skin cancer. In recent years, computer-based methods for imaging and analyzing biological systems have made considerable strides. This work investigates the use of advanced machine learning methods, specifically ensemble models with Auto Correlogram Methods, Binary Pyramid Pattern Filter, and Color Layout Filter, to enhance the detection accuracy of Melanoma skin cancer. These results suggest that the Color Layout Filter model of the Attribute Selection Classifier provides the best overall performance. Statistics for ROC, PRC, Kappa, F-Measure, and Matthews Correlation Coefficient were as follows: 90.96% accuracy, 0.91 precision, 0.91 recall, 0.95 ROC, 0.87 PRC, 0.87 Kappa, 0.91 F-Measure, and 0.82 Matthews Correlation Coefficient. In addition, its margins of error are the smallest. The research found that the Attribute Selection Classifier performed well when used in conjunction with the Color Layout Filter to improve image quality.

EXFOLIATIVE CHEILITIS: CASE REPORT IN A YOUNG PATIENT

Cheilitis is a general term for the inflammation of the lip. Exfoliative cheilitis is the rarest type of cheilitis and is characterized by superficial desquamation of the lip vermilion. We report a case of exfoliative cheilitis related to intense sun exposure in a 22-year-old White male patient with 4 months of evolution. The lips presented edema, dryness, desquamation, and multiple thick, yellowish-white crusts. Sialometry, serologic tests, and cytopathology showed no alterations. An incisional biopsy was performed, and the histopathologic examination revealed parakeratinized squamous epithelium with mild lymphocytic exocytosis and a scanty chronic inflammatory infiltrate in the underlying connective tissue. Treatment with topical corticosteroids was performed for 12 weeks and total remission of the lesions was observed. However, 2 months later, the lesions recurred and required topical corticosteroid intervention for another 12 weeks. After this treatment, complete healing occurred, and the patient remains in follow-up for 1 year.

Brachioradial Pruritus: Clinical, Electromyographic, and Cervical MRI Features in Nine Patients.

BackgroundBrachioradial pruritus (BRP) is a neuropathic dysesthesia manifesting as pruritus over the dorsolateral forearm. While the etiology is unknown, intensive sun exposure and cervical spine disease have been proposed. This study describes the clinical, electrodiagnostic (EDX), and cervical MRI findings in nine patients diagnosed with BRP.Materials and methodsAll patients underwent EDX and cervical MRIs. Numerous metrics were documented including presenting symptoms, neurological examination, EDX findings, and cervical MRI features.ResultsAll nine patients experienced pruritus of the arms/forearms, typical of BRP, which was unilateral in eight (89%) cases. Decreased pinprick sensation was noted in the arms/forearms (five [56%] patients) or of the thumbs, index, and/or middle fingers (four [44%] patients). Four (44%) patients had either decreased or absent biceps and brachioradialis deep tendon reflexes (DTRs), while one (11%) patient had decreased triceps and brachioradialis DTRs. The EDX revealed abnormalities in eight (89%) patients. Increased polyphasic units, decreased motor units, and/or denervation changes were recorded by needle electromyography (EMG) in eight (89%) patients: the biceps in seven (88%) and both the brachioradialis and triceps in four (50%) patients. The EMG abnormalities indicated chronic radiculopathy involving C6 in six patients and C5 and C6 in one patient. All nine patients had cervical spine disease, encompassing disc protrusions, spondylosis, spinal stenosis, and/or foraminal stenosis.ConclusionsBRP in this series of patients was accompanied by chronic cervical radiculopathy involving predominantly C6 and C5. EDX and cervical spine MR imaging should be considered essential investigations in the evaluation of patients with BRP.

Influence of environmental factors on the spread of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia.

BackgroundCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected millions of people worldwide. The infection is mostly spread through the inhalation of infected droplets. Saudi Arabia is a vast country having different climatic conditions.MethodsThe study evaluated the influence of environmental factors on the spread of COVID-19. Six zones (A to F) were classified depending on the climatic conditions. The study was conducted by retrospective analysis of COVID-19 records from the ministry of health between the months of September 2020 and August 2021. The environmental data such as average temperature (°C), humidity (%), wind speed (m/s) and sun exposure (kwh/m2) were retrieved from official sites. The data was analyzed to determine the effect of these factors on the spread of COVID-19. SPSS IBM 25 software was used to conduct the analysis and p < 0.05 was considered to indicate the significance of the results.ResultsAccording to the findings, the rate of infection was greater between April and July 2021. Six climatic zones experienced high temperatures, little humidity, consistent wind flow, and intense sun exposure throughout this time. The correlation study revealed a significant (p < 0.05) relationship between the environmental factors and the spread of COVID-19. The data suggested that during summer condition when the weather is hot, less humid, and steady wind flow with lots of sun exposure, the COVID-19 infection rate got augmented in Saudi Arabia. Poor ventilation and closed-door habitats in an air-conditioned atmosphere during this period could have played a role in human transmission. More research on air quality, population mobility and diseased condition is essential, so that precise proactive measures can be designed to limit the spread of infection in specific climatic seasons.

Characterization and Evolution of Volatile Compounds of Cabernet Sauvignon Wines from Two Different Clones during Oak Barrel Aging.

Xinjiang is a major wine-making region in China, but its hot climate in summer and intense sun exposure negatively affect the aroma quality of Cabernet Sauvignon wine. The aim of this study was to characterize and differentiate the volatile composition of Cabernet Sauvignon wines from two clones (169 and 191) in Xinjiang, and to study their aromatic profile evolution during 12-month oak barrel aging period. Results showed that before aging, clone 169 wine contained higher concentrations of several alcohols and ethyl esters, while acetate esters and furanic compounds were higher in clone 191 wine. After aging, levels of many terpenes, norisoprenoids, volatile phenols and phenolic aldehydes were significantly higher in clone 169 wine than 191 wine. Aroma series analysis revealed that clone 169 wine exhibited higher floral and roasty aromas after aging, while clone 191 wine had stronger chemical aroma. Principal component analysis indicated that aging process played a primary role in the alteration of volatile profile in these wines. Clone played a secondary role and oak barrel had a tertiary contribution to the variation. The present work indicates that clone 169 is a better choice for producing high-quality aged Cabernet Sauvignon wine with intense and elegant aroma in Xinjiang.

How to spot a basosquamous carcinoma: a study on demographics, clinical-dermatoscopic features and histopathological correlations.

Basosquamous carcinoma (BSC) is a relatively rare type of neoplasm originating from basal cell carcinoma with features of squamous differentiation. BSC has an aggressive local behaviour with a tendency for recurrence and a less frequent metastatic potential The primary objective was to describe the dermatoscopic features of the tumour. Secondary goals were to detect the morphological features of the tumour along with patients' characteristics and to evaluate possible dermatoscopic and histopathological correlations Twenty-two patients with 25 BSCs were enrolled. All tumours were surgically excised and diagnosis was based on histopathology. Clinical and dermatoscopic images were evaluated by two investigators based on pre-defined criteria, and a statistical analysis was performed The median age of the patients was 78 years old (range: 52-88) and the male/female ratio was 2.14. All patients reported history of either occupational (50%) or recreational (50%) intensive sun exposure and 72.73% had signs of actinic keratosis. The most common anatomical site of the tumours was the head/neck area (72%). Clinically, nodular (64%), ulcerated (88%) and non-pigmented (76%) lesions prevailed. Dermatoscopically, 92% had prominent vasculature and monomorphous arborizing vessels with a diffuse arrangement, representing the most frequently observed type. Ulceration (88%), SCC dermatoscopic criteria (56%), white strands/blotches (56%) and features of pigmentation (40%) were also detected We suggest that the most common prototype of BSC is an ulcerated, facial nodule in elderly males with photo-damaged skin, dermatoscopically displaying combined features of mostly nodular BCC and, to a less extent, SCC.

Association between Obesity and Sunburn Diagnoses: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in a Large Claims Dataset

A growing body of literature supports a somewhat paradoxical association between obesity and an increased risk of melanoma and a decreased risk of keratinocyte carcinomas (Pothiawala et al., 2012; Sergentanis et al., 2013; Zhou et al., 2016). Intermittent, intense sun exposure causing sunburn, coupled with decreased chronic UV exposure, has been postulated to explain the higher risk for melanoma and lower risk for keratinocyte carcinomas (Pothiawala et al., 2012; Præstegaard et al., 2015). Recent survey data have shown an association between obesity and self-reported sunburn, even after adjustment for confounders (Holman et al., 2018, 2014; Pothiawala et al., 2012).

Inherently Functionalized Carbon from Algae to Adsorb Precursors of Secondary Organic Aerosols in Noncombustion Sources

Recent findings have opened a new window on a hidden source of volatile and semivolatile organic compounds that are released into the atmosphere in the form of gas or aerosol. Asphalt pavement and bituminous composites in general have been found to be noncombustion sources that emit gas-phase precursors of submicron atmospheric aerosols that have serious impacts on human health as well as the climate. This study highlights the merits of using an inherently functionalized carbon (IFC) derived from an algal feedstock to selectively adsorb some potentially hazardous bitumen emissions, alleviating the side effects of intense sun exposure and high temperatures on air quality. With the use of density functional theory (DFT), six organic compounds emitted from bitumen that are precursors to secondary organic aerosols were modeled, then their adsorption to the active zones of a model surface of the IFC containing N-functional groups of amide, amine, pyrrole, and pyridine was measured. In a laboratory experiment, the adsorption properties of the functionalized carbon were also evaluated by a vapor sorption analyzer, supporting the DFT results that indicate the IFC’s potential to retain these volatile compounds in the matrix of bitumen. Of the organic molecules studied, benzofuran showed the least interaction with functional groups of the IFC surface (ΔE = −8.3 kcal/mol) and the most total adsorption uptake (2.443 wt %) by the IFC. Dibenzo-thiophene showed the most surface adsorption (ΔE = −18.1 kcal/mol) and the least total adsorption uptake (0.018 wt %) by the IFC. This could be explained by the extent of mobility and penetration of target volatile organic molecules into the IFC’s pores. The strong interactions of the IFC’s functional groups with organic molecules limit their penetration into the IFC’s pores, leading to a decreased total adsorption and vice versa.

'Occupational dermatoses from Personal Protective Equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic in the tropics - A Review'.

The COVID-19 pandemic has enveloped the world and there has been a high incidence of occupational dermatoses related to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) amongst healthcare workers (HCWs) during this period. Prevention and management of these conditions will not only improve staff morale and quality of life, but will also minimize the risk of breaching PPE protocol due to such symptoms. The tropical climate in Singapore predisposes HCWs to more skin damage and pruritus due to intense heat, high humidity and sun exposure. The effects of friction, occlusion, hyperhidrosis and overheating on the skin in the tropics should not be neglected. Preventive measures can be taken based on our recommendations, and the working environment can be made more conducive for frontline HCWs. We review the literature and discuss various preventive and management strategies for these occupational skin diseases for our frontline HCWs, especially those working in less controlled working environments beyond the hospital in Singapore. Shorter shifts and frequent breaks from PPE are recommended. Duration of continuous PPE-usage should not exceed 6h, with breaks in non-contaminated areas every 2-3h to hydrate and mitigate the risk of skin reactions. Other strategies, such as teledermatology, should be considered so that consultations can remain accessible, while ensuring the safety and well-being of our clinical staff.

UV protection for young athletes: using participatory program planning to develop a sports schools program

BackgroundThe incidence of melanoma increased rapidly throughout the last decades, with overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation being an established risk factor. Due to their intensive sun exposure, many student athletes (SAs) have an increased risk for skin cancer. The Clever in Sun and Shade Program (CSSP) aims at enforcing positive attitudes toward UV protection (UVP) and at supporting sports schools in establishing UVP strategies.MethodsCSSP was developed in 2019 using participatory program planning (PPP) as well as following WHO recommendations for UVP at schools. After drafting first material, within a PPP groups were conducted at a partner school (convenience sample 1) with students (n = 20), teachers (n = 5), school administration (n = 2), and coaches (n = 5). Materials were then adapted. Program acceptance and feasibility were tested at two further schools (convenience sample 2) with PPP groups of students (n = 95) and school administration (n = 2). Content analyses and descriptive statistics were conducted.ResultsLess than 50% of SAs and coaches of sample 1 expressed positive attitudes toward UVP, less than 10% reported appropriate UVP behavior. By using PPP, program material was adapted to the target groups’ needs, i.e., by including specific barriers and solutions. Only the most accepted video drafts were produced. The majority of SAs of sample 2 (80-86%) used predominantly positive adjectives such as “important” and “positive” to describe the completed videos and the behavior self-check poster.ConclusionsPPP process has greatly influenced concept and materials of CSSP for sports schools. Integration of future program participants has proven to be an important component in creating a fitting and feasible program. CSSP for sports schools is a program free of charge that enables sports schools to integrate UVP into their daily routine. It will be disseminated in cooperation with German Olympic Sports Confederation and German Cancer Aid in 2021.

Disseminated Superficial Actinic Porokeratosis in the Elderly: A Case Report

Abstract Currently, most authors believe that disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) is an inherited or acquired dermatologic disorder of keratinization that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals after adequate exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, or immunosuppression. Lesions in DSAP start in sun-exposed areas most commonly in the third or fourth decade of life. The lesions are pink to brownish papules and plaques with a raised scaling ridge, histologically seen as a column of parakeratotic keratinocytes, the cornoid lamella. DSAP is not only the most common, but also the most often overlooked form of porokeratosis (P). Here we present a 77-year-old male with DSAP, who sporadically developed initial skin lesions at the age of 67, at the time when his personal and medical history were significantly long for chronic intensive sun exposure and type 1 insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. We established the diagnosis of DSAP based on personal and medical history, clinical presentation, auxiliary methods such as dermoscopy, and confirmed with pathohistological findings. We advised the patient to avoid sun exposure and to apply photo-protective sunscreens, emollients and keratolytics. After five years of monitoring his changes, we continue to control his lesions for any possible alteration. Although mutations in several genes and data on sun exposure may be responsible for the onset of the disease, most cases of DSPA occur sporadically and without involving the facial skin, as in our case. Lesions usually begin in the third or fourth decade of life. In the elderly, an additional trigger may be present, such as e.g. age-related decreased immune competence. Diabetes mellitus may also be associated with immunodeficiency in the elderly. Recently, DSPA has been a special subtype of DSPA in the elderly. Malignant alteration can occur in DSPA, most commonly in lesions that are long lasting, large, in the elderly, or in lesions in immunocompromised individuals. In conclusion, this is the case of a 77-year-old male person, who sporadically developed the so-called subtype DSPA in the elderly. In addition to UV radiation, the relevant suggestive trigger factors were the immunosuppressive effects of diabetes mellitus and chronological aging.

Sunburn-related variables, secular trends of improved sun protection and short-term impact on sun attitude behavior in Italian primary schoolchildren: Analysis of the educational campaign "Il Sole Amico" ("The sun as a friend").

Sun protection early in life is an essential issue for primary prevention of skin cancers. The Il Sole per Amico was an educational campaign among 66 Italian primary schools. A total of 12,188 questionnaires were completed at baseline. Overall, 9.4% children reported >1 sunburn during the last year and 44.7% parents a use of sunlamps. Independent factors associated with sunburns were: age, lower level of parents' education, light eye and skin color, freckles, nevi on arms, intense sun exposure during the last year, sporadic use of sunscreens, and parental use of sunlamps. A total of 7280 (59.7%) questionnaires were completed at the end of the educational intervention. No significant difference was documented about behavior between the pre- and post-intervention periods. A significant reduction was instead found in both prevalence of recent sunburns and total number of sunburn episodes after comparison with the data obtained by identical questionnaire in the same geographic areas in the "Sole Si Sole No" project in 2001.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis-like Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: a Case Report

Abstract Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (LE) encompasses a wide spectrum of dermatologic manifestations, including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)-like presentations of acute or subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (TEN-like ACLE/SCLE). Although the clinical characteristics and histological features of these rare entities may closely mimic TEN, several subtle differences can help in differentiation between these conditions. We report a case of a patient with SCLE which developed drug unrelated TEN-like blisters after prolonged, intensive sun exposure and focus on a discussion of distinctive features that can be used to differentiate drug-induced TEN and TEN-like presentation of ACLE/SCLE.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune illness characterized by autoantibodies directed at nuclear antigens that cause clinical and laboratory abnormalities, such as rash, arthritis, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, alopecia, fever, nephritis, and neurologic disease. Most or all of the symptoms of acute lupus are attributable to immunologic attack on the affected organs. Many complications of long-term disease are attributable to both the disease and its treatment. Intense sun exposure, drug reactions, and infections are circumstances that induce flare; the aim of treatment is to induce remission. This chapter is divided into sections dealing with SLE’s definitions; epidemiology; pathogenesis; disease classification, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis; and treatment. This review contains 10 figures, 12 tables, and 97 references. Key Words: Systemic lupus erythematosus, Dermatomyositis, Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, Discoid lupus erythematosus, truncal psoriasiform, annular polycyclic rash

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune illness characterized by autoantibodies directed at nuclear antigens that cause clinical and laboratory abnormalities, such as rash, arthritis, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, alopecia, fever, nephritis, and neurologic disease. Most or all of the symptoms of acute lupus are attributable to immunologic attack on the affected organs. Many complications of long-term disease are attributable to both the disease and its treatment. Intense sun exposure, drug reactions, and infections are circumstances that induce flare; the aim of treatment is to induce remission. This chapter is divided into sections dealing with SLE’s definitions; epidemiology; pathogenesis; disease classification, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis; and treatment. This review contains 10 figures, 12 tables, and 97 references. Key Words: Systemic lupus erythematosus, Dermatomyositis, Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, Discoid lupus erythematosus, truncal psoriasiform, annular polycyclic rash

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune illness characterized by autoantibodies directed at nuclear antigens that cause clinical and laboratory abnormalities, such as rash, arthritis, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, alopecia, fever, nephritis, and neurologic disease. Most or all of the symptoms of acute lupus are attributable to immunologic attack on the affected organs. Many complications of long-term disease are attributable to both the disease and its treatment. Intense sun exposure, drug reactions, and infections are circumstances that induce flare; the aim of treatment is to induce remission. This chapter is divided into sections dealing with SLE’s definitions; epidemiology; pathogenesis; disease classification, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis; and treatment. This review contains 10 figures, 12 tables, and 97 references. Key Words: Systemic lupus erythematosus, Dermatomyositis, Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, Discoid lupus erythematosus, truncal psoriasiform, annular polycyclic rash

Risk behaviour and patient preferences for an improved non-melanoma skin cancer prevention modality for organ-transplanted patients: a European, multi-country, online patient community study.

Immunosuppressants used in organ transplant patients increase the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer. This study aimed to evaluate patient behaviours towards skin cancer prevention methods and to understand characteristics of a future prevention strategy based on patients' perspective. Carenity, a global online patient community, enabled the recruitment of 200 adult patients with solid organ transplants from four European countries: France, Italy, Spain and Germany. Most patients were well informed about the risk of skin cancer, but only 27% (53/200) monitored their skin. Most patients exposed themselves to intense sun exposure once a month or more. Nevertheless, more than half of patients were motivated to use additional prevention strategies and limit their sun exposure. The most appropriate prevention strategy was reported to be the use of a cosmetically attractive, water-resistant, paraben/fragrance-free cream. A one-size-fits-all approach is not an appropriate prevention strategy and an adapted approach based on patients' preferences may significantly contribute to better compliance and adherence.

Sunscreen use optimized by two consecutive applications.

Sunscreen users are often inadequately protected and become sunburned. This study aimed to investigate how much two consecutive sunscreen applications increased the quantity of sunscreen applied and decreased the skin area left without sunscreen (missed area) compared to a single application. Thirty-one healthy volunteers wearing swimwear were included and applied sunscreen two consecutive times in a laboratory environment. Participants had pictures taken in black light before and after each application. As sunscreens absorb black light, the darkness of the skin increased with increasing amounts of sunscreen applied. We conducted a standard curve establishing a link between change in picture darkness and quantity of sunscreen. The quantity of sunscreen at selected skin sites as well as the percentage of missed area was determined after each application. Participants had missed a median of 20% of their available body surface after a single application. After double application they had missed 9%. The decrease in missed areas was significant for the whole body surface and for each of the body regions separately. The median participant had applied between 13% and 100% more sunscreen at the selected skin sites after double application than after single application. We recommend double application, especially before intense sun exposure.

Trichoepithelioma arising in a congenital melanocytic nevus of an adult: A diagnostic pitfall

We report the rare occurrence of a trichoepithelioma within a congenital melanocytic nevus in an adult, whose clinical presentation was suspicious for malignant transformation. Dermoscopy was not reassuring, and different from previously described cases of trichoepithelioma. The occurrence on the back of a male was another peculiar finding, as usually TE arises on the face of young women. Histopathology was characteristic, with the exophytic desmoplastic trichoepithelioma surrounded by the melanocytic proliferation, and supported the hypothesis that trichoepithelioma is an acquired condition, probably induced by the release of growth factors and cytokines from melanocytes. We speculate that intense sun exposure, due to the patient’s outdoor working and sporting activities, might have activated the melanocytes, and triggered this very unusual benign proliferation. Trichoepithelioma should be included among the diagnostic pitfalls mimicking malignant proliferation inside a congenital melanocytic nevus.

Volatile composition and aromatic attributes of wine made with Vitisvinifera L.cv Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in the Xinjiang region of China: effect of different commercial yeasts

ABSTRACTThe Xinjiang region is a major grape- and wine-production area in China, but the region’s notably high temperatures in the summer and year-round intense sun exposure play negative roles in the aroma, complexity, and elegance of Cabernet Sauvignon wine. In this study, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes harvested in this region were fermented on an industrial scale using four commercial yeast strains (L2323, D254, RVA, and CECA) and spontaneous yeast (NF). The results showed that a total of 123 volatile compounds were detected and 15 volatile compounds significantly contributed their flavor notes to the wine’s overall aroma. The use of RVA and CECA strains resulted in wine with higher concentrations of higher alcohols, terpenes and norisoprenoids. However, the D254-fermented wine showed high level of esters and carbonyl compounds. Wine fermented with the L2323 and D254 strain possessed a stronger fruity aroma, whereas the RVA strain enhanced the herbaceous, chemical, and fatty aromas in wine. Principal component analysis revealed that a significant aromatic feature difference was observed in these wines after alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. The use of different commercial yeast strains altered the aromatic profile of Cabernet Sauvignon wine.