Red Patches Research Articles

A Case Study on Ek-Kustha (Psoriasis) Ayurvedic Management

In present era, skin diseases have become a major hazard for mental health more than physical, as it disturbs the cosmetic harmony. Psoriasis is marked by periodic flare-ups of sharply defined red patches, covered by a silvery, flaky surface. The Ayurvedic finding is considered as Ek Kustha which is a Vata- Kapha transcendent Kshudra Kushtha. Here, an effort was made to treat a female patient suffering from pustular psoriasis through Ayurved as the eminent choice. Since the treatment of wide range of Kustha is Sanshodhana alongside Sanshamana drugs but in this case, at first, Lepa karma and Shamana Aushadhi was performed. After Lepa Karma, Sanshamana drugs were given for 30 days. This case report showed that consolidated Ayurvedic modalities brought about extraordinary improvement in the condition of patient.

Leukemia its origin, types, risk factors and survivorship

Leukemia cancer; Feline leukemia virus (FeLV); CAR-Natural Killer and CAR-macrophages; TPMT and NUDT15 genes; Thiopurines.Leukemia is a cancer of the body’s blood forming tissues such as bone marrow and the lymphatic system. It is most common cancer in the children but mostly occur in adults.The general symptoms in leukemia cancer are appetite and headaches, and red patches on the skin of patients.The hematopoietic stem cell help to regenerate the healthy and leukemia free cells of white blood cells in bone marrow of patients and slowly-slowly cure the leukemia patients. Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is retrovirus globally impact on the health and cause tumor and bone marrow disorder and immune suppression. The CAR-Natural Killer and CAR-macrophages were introduced as a complement or alternative to CAR-T cells therapy for solid tumor. The thiopurines interfere with the synthesis of nucleic acids in leukemia affected cells in the bone marrow and acting mainly in the S-phase of cell division process in cancerous cells and alloHSCT therapy use to combined targeted therapy and cure to certain types of acute myeloid leukemia which is create by TP53 mutations.The TPMT and NUDT15 genes evaluated their association with 6MP dose intensity and identified 5 and 6 coding variant in TPMT and NUDT15 respectively.

Merkel cell carcinoma overlapping Bowen’s disease: two cases report and literature review

PurposeMerkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the skin, which mainly occurs in the sun exposed sites of white patients over 65 years, with a higher recurrence and metastasis rate. Clinically, MCC overlapping Bowen’s disease (BD) is a very rare subtype of MCC. Few cases in the literature have been described and the management is not well defined. We summarize and update the epidemiology, clinical and histopathological features, metastasis characteristics, local recurrence rate and management of it by presenting two cases of MCC overlapping BD and reviewing the literature over the last 11 years.DesignWe consulted databases from PubMed, ResearchGate and Google Scholar by MeSh “Merkel cell carcinoma” and “Bowen’s disease”, “Bowen disease” or “squamous cell carcinoma in situ”, from January 2013 to December 2023 and reviewed the literatures. We reported two additional cases.ResultsTotal 13 cases of MCC overlapping BD were retrospectively analyzed, in whom mainly in elderly women over 70 years, the skin lesions were primarily located on the faces, followed by the extremities and trunk. Most of them were asymptomatic, firm, dark red nodules arising on rapidly growing red or dark brown patches, or presenting as isolated nodules. Dermoscopy evaluation was rarely performed in the pre-operative diagnostic setting. All cases were confirmed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. The most definitive treatment was extended local excision, but local recurrences were common. Of the 13 cases, 4 cases experienced local or distant metastasis. One suffered from an in-transit recurrence of MCC on the ipsilateral leg after local excision and lymph node dissection, whose metastasis completely subsided after avelumab treatment and without recurrence or metastasis during 6 months of follow-up.ConclusionsMCC overlapping BD is a very rare skin tumor mainly predisposed on the faces, with high misdiagnosis rate and recurrence rate. Advanced disease at diagnosis is a poor prognostic factor, suggesting that earlier detection may improve outcome. The acronym, AEIOUN, has been proposed to aid in clinical identification. Our reports and the literature review can provide a better awareness and management of it.

Double-negative T cells ameliorate psoriasis by selectively inhibiting IL-17A-producing γδlow T cells

BackgroundPsoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin condition. Although biologic treatments are effective in controlling psoriasis, some patients do not respond or lose response to these therapies. Thus, new strategies for psoriasis treatment are still urgently needed. Double-negative T cells (DNT) play a significant immunoregulatory role in autoimmune diseases. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect of DNT in psoriasis and explore the underlying mechanism.MethodsWe conducted a single adoptive transfer of DNT into an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse model through tail vein injection. The skin inflammation and IL-17A producing γδ T cells were evaluated.ResultsDNT administration significantly reduced the inflammatory response in mouse skin, characterized by decreased skin folds, scales, and red patches. After DNT treatment, the secretion of IL-17A by RORc+ γδlow T cells in the skin was selectively suppressed, resulting in an amelioration of skin inflammation. Transcriptomic data suggested heightened expression of NKG2D ligands in γδlow T cells within the mouse model of psoriasis induced by IMQ. When blocking the NKG2D ligand and NKG2D (expressed by DNT) interaction, the cytotoxic efficacy of DNT against RORc+IL17A+ γδlow T cells was attenuated. Using Ccr5−/− DNT for treatment yielded evidence that DNT migrates into inflamed skin tissue and fails to protect IMQ-induced skin lesions.ConclusionsDNT could migrate to inflamed skin tissue through CCR5, selectively inhibit IL-17-producing γδlow T cells and finally ameliorate mouse psoriasis. Our study provides feasibility for using immune cell therapy for the prevention and treatment of psoriasis in the clinic.

Management of Plaque Psoriasis through Agadatantra Principles – A Case Report

Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing dermatological disorder characterized by the presence of pink to erythematous plaques with overlying silver hyperkeratotic plaques, distributed on the scalp, postauricular skin, elbows, gluteal cleft etc. Plaque psoriasis is one among the common variety of psoriasis. Though it is manageable with difficulty, its relapsing nature remains a threat to the present management strategies. On the contrary in Ayurveda, a thorough analysis of condition, purification, rasayana and samana medicines proves to be effective in such conditions. A single case report of 42 year old male consulted in the Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College OPD with presenting complaints as dry itchy and scaly silvery white lesions on chest, lower back, scalp and beard upon reddish patches with duration of two years. He was allergic to dantappala (Wrightia tinctoria) also. On examination the case was having positive candle grease and Auspitz sign with PASI score as 20.8 and DLQI as 21. The case was doignosed as ekakushta associated with severe pitta dushti and poor satva bala. The Doosheevisha chikitsa along with snehapana, svedana, vamana, virechana, takradhara, Shashtika annalepa and rasayana was done with proper medicines. The condition of the patient improved considerably by reducing the symptoms like erythema, dryness, itching, scaling and pain. The PASI score reduced to 2.3 and DLQI reduced to almost zero at the time of discharge. The further follow up has not reported any recurrence of the disease since two years.The proper understanding of the pathology through dasa vidha pareeksha and tracing out the vishaja nidanas can lead to a proper treatment plan. This will give successful management of similar conditions along with the enhancement of immunity to prevent or reduce the recurrence of the disease through principles of Agadatantra.

Endoscopic and clinicopathological features of segmental colitis associated with diverticulosis.

Segmental colitis associated with diverticulosis (SCAD) has close endoscopic and pathological similarities to ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease. Clinical data on SCAD are limited in Japan. We examined the endoscopic and clinicopathological features of patients with SCAD. This single-center retrospective study included 13 patients with SCAD between 2012 and 2022. Endoscopic findings were categorized as follows: type A (swollen red patches 5-10 mm at the top of mucosal folds), mild and moderate type B (mild-to-moderate UC-like findings), type C (aphthous ulcers resembling Crohn's disease), and type D (severe UC-like findings). Overall, six, five, and two patients were diagnosed with type A, mild type B, and moderate type B disease, respectively. Among the type A cases, two spontaneously progressed to moderate type B and one escalated to type D, necessitating an emergency sigmoidectomy owing to perforation peritonitis, despite repeated antibiotic treatments. Histopathologically, diffuse neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration with cryptitis were noted in all type A cases, whereas UC-like alterations were observed in type B and D cases. Seven type B cases were treated with oral 5-aminosalicylic acid and/or salazosulfapyridine. Clinical remission was achieved in three mild type B cases and one moderate type B case, while clinical relapse and remission were noted in three moderate type B cases. No anti-inflammatory treatment was required in three type A and two mild type B cases. Aggressive anti-inflammatory treatment should be considered for SCAD with UC-like findings due to the potential risk of severe ulceration, stenosis, and/or perforation.

Pengaruh Patch Ekstrak Buah Delima Merah Terhadap Percepatan Penyembuhan Traumatik Ulser pada Tikus Wistar

Traumatic ulcer is one of the disorders of the oral cavity that can be caused by mechanical, thermal, and chemical. Patch one of traumatic ulcer treatment choice are being developed, but the available patch is uneconomic and have side effects. Therefore, the use of natural ingredients is an alternative treatment, such as pomegranate. Pomegranate is known to contain bioactive elements, that can act as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, that it can accelerate the healing of traumatic ulcers. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of the pomegranate extract patch on the acceleration of ulcer healing. Sample in this research were 25 traumatic ulcered wistar rats which were divided into 5 groups. All groups were condensed the pomegranate extract patch with a concentration of 12.5%; 25%; 50%, positive control (taisho patch), and negative control (placebo). The red pomegranate extract patch can accelerate the healing of traumatic ulcers. There was a significant difference in healing time between all groups (p<0.05), except between the positive control group with a concentration of 50%. pomegranate extract patch affected the acceleration of ulcer healing, with a concentration of 50% pomegranate extract patch was the fastest.

Recent Approaches for the Topical Treatment of Psoriasis Using Nanoparticles.

Psoriasis (PSO) is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by the rapid and excessive growth of skin cells, which leads to the formation of thick, red, and scaly patches on the surface of the skin. These patches can be itchy and painful, and they may cause discomfort for patients affected by this condition. Therapies for psoriasis aim to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and slow down the excessive skin cell growth. Conventional topical treatment options are non-specific, have low efficacy and are associated with adverse effects, which is why researchers are investigating different delivery mechanisms. A novel approach to drug delivery using nanoparticles (NPs) shows promise in reducing toxicity and improving therapeutic efficacy. The unique properties of NPs, such as their small size and large surface area, make them attractive for targeted drug delivery, enhanced drug stability, and controlled release. In the context of PSO, NPs can be designed to deliver active ingredients with anti-inflammatory effect, immunosuppressants, or other therapeutic compounds directly to affected skin areas. These novel formulations offer improved access to the epidermis and facilitate better absorption, thus enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of conventional anti-psoriatic drugs. NPs increase the surface-to-volume ratio, resulting in enhanced penetration through the skin, including intracellular, intercellular, and trans-appendage routes. The present review aims to discuss the latest approaches for the topical therapy of PSO using NPs. It is intended to summarize the results of the in vitro and in vivo examinations carried out in the last few years regarding the effectiveness and safety of nanoparticles.

Implementation of Fuzzy K-Nearest Neighbor Method in Dengue Disiase Classification

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a condition brought on by infection with the dengue virus. DHF is a severe illness with hemorrhagic clinical signs that can result in shock and death. One of the four viral serotypes of the genus Flavivirus is responsible for DHF. DHF symptoms include fever, joint pain, red skin patches, and others that are similar to those of other illnesses. So that there are no errors in illness prediction, strong accuracy and accuracy are required when classifying DHF patients or not. The Fuzzy K-Nearest Neighbor (FKNN) method is used in this study to classify dengue sickness in order to obtain the best classification outcomes. In this investigation, k was searched for eight times, with values of 3,5,7,9,11,13,15, and 20. Each K's accuracy statistics are 75.15, 75.16, 77.58%, 79.51%, 85.01%, 78.14%, and 75.20 percent. K = 13, which has an accuracy score of 85.01%, yields the highest accuracy.

Profile Clinico Patological of Leprosy at Prof. Dr. I. G. N. G. Ngoerah Central Hospital Denpasar During 2017 – 2022

Introduction: Leprosy is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium Leprae. According to the WHO, leprosy is one of the communicable diseases that affect the skin, peripheral nerves, and upper mucosa, and it can cause physical disabilities, if not properly handled. This study aims to determine the clinical and pathological profile of leprosy at Prof. dr. I. G. N. G. Ngoerah Central Hospital Denpasar, in 2017 - 2022. Metods: The study used a descriptive research design with total sampling from secondary data obtained from the Pathology Anatomy Laboratory of Prof. dr. I. G. N. G. Ngoerah Central Hospital Denpasar. The sample collected during the study period included 63 samples of patients diagnosed with leprosy, which were then processed using SPSS software version 26. Result: The highest number of cases was found in patients age group of 19-64 years, accounting for 55 cases (87.3%), predominantly in male patients with 36 cases (57.1%). The most common main complaint was red patches, with 43 cases (72.8%) presenting erythematous skin lesions, specifically plaques, in 24 cases (42.8%). Conclusion: Based on classification, leprosy was more frequently grouped into two classifications: WHO classification and Ridley Jopling classification. According to the WHO classification, the majority of patients were found to have the PB type, accounting for 35 cases (55.6%), while based on the Ridley Jopling classification, the BT type was more prevalent, with 21 cases (33.3%). This study is beneficial as it provides insights into the clinical and pathological profile of leprosy. Further analytical research is needed to explore the relationships between various variables

Rosacea is More than Just a Red Face: Microbotox's Role in Minimizing Enlarged Facial Pores for a Rosacea Patient

Enlarged facial pores are a cosmetic concern and a prominent feature of skin aging that impacts patient quality of life. Microbotox has emerged in multiple studies as a solution for reducing pore size and improving skin texture. A case of 29 years old female with papulopustular rosacea and enlarged skin pores was reported. From the patient's anamnesis, it was found that the patient has been complaining of a reddish patch with pimples on the nose and both cheeks for the past 4 years. The patient has also had enlarged pores on both cheeks for the past 3 years. On dermatologic state there were erythematous macule, erythematous papules and enlarged pores on both of the cheek. Global Flushing Severity Score (GFSS) was 3, Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) of Rosacea Severity for papules and pustules is grade 2 and erythema grade 2. Visual Assessment for Pore was 6. Patient received a single session of microbotox. Dermoscopy examination showed linear vessels (telangiectasia), a pustule, and also follicles filled with sebum. Follow up of the patient was done for 6 weeks. Patients reported a decrease in issues such as flushing, papules, pustules, and erythema. A noticeable improvement in pore size was also observed. This action can be repeated every 3 months to maintain clinical improvement and good skin texture. Botulinum toxin exhibits a satisfying level of efficacy and safety in rosacea treatment. A single microbotox session proves to be a safe and effective approach for reducing facial pore size, along with notable improvements in skin texture.

Multiple Bowen's disease due to long-term narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy: A case report and literature review.

By presenting a case study on multiple instances of Bowen's disease and the consistent use of narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy over a three-year period, our aim is to enhance the comprehension of domestic clinicians regarding the disease. Additionally, we seek to review existing literature, encouraging dermatologists to consider clinical secondary primary lesion diagnoses. Our approach involves analyzing a diagnosed case of multiple Bowen's disease, examining clinical manifestations, histopathology, imaging results, and treatment methods related to NB-UVB phototherapy. We aim to facilitate discussion and understanding through a comprehensive literature analysis. An elderly male with a 30-year history of psoriasis vulgaris initiated continuous NB-UVB therapy three years ago. A year later, he developed red patches and plaques with distinct borders and scaly surfaces on his face, trunk, lower extremities, and scrotum. Histopathological examination confirmed Bowen's disease. Treatment involved liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, with no recurrence observed during the one-year follow-up. This case highlights that Bowen's disease, typically solitary, can manifest as multiple instances, especially in individuals with a history of psoriasis vulgaris. While NB-UVB stands as the primary treatment for psoriasis vulgaris, caution is warranted due to the potential risk of skin tumor induction with prolonged high-dose usage. Clinicians should be vigilant in monitoring and assessing the long-term implications of such therapies.

Exploring the Effectiveness of Biological Therapy in Patients with Psoriasis: Body Image and Quality of Life.

Background and Objectives: Psoriasis is a chronic, long-term, incurable skin inflammatory disease characterized by the excessive proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes, dilation of blood vessels, thickening of the skin, and the formation of visible red patches of variable sizes. The impact on patients differs with the severity of the disease, leading to physiological discomfort and psychological distress, which significantly affect the quality of life. The etiology of psoriasis is not completely clear, but immune cells, including type 1 and type 17 cytokine-producing cells modulated by regulatory T cells (Tregs), play a critical role in driving the disease pathogenesis. With the ability to specifically target inflammatory markers, biologics can efficiently inhibit the spread of inflammation to achieve therapeutic effects. The goal was to explore the changes in body image and quality of life in psoriasis patients undertaking therapies with biologic agents. Materials and Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental, single-sample, pretest-posttest design. Forty-four psoriasis patients were recruited from the dermatology outpatient clinics at two medical centers in northern Taiwan. A structured questionnaire, including demographic information, the Body Image Scale (BIS), and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), was used as a research tool. Questionnaire assessments were conducted both before and three months after the biologic agent intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: Our results indicated a significant difference in body image between psoriasis patients before and after intervention with biologic agents. In addition, overall quality of life (QoL) also showed significant improvements before and after biologic agent intervention. There was a positive correlation between body image and quality of life in psoriasis patients. Conclusions: The treatment for psoriasis has evolved rapidly in recent years, and biologic agents have proven to be effective therapies to improve the quality of life for psoriasis patients. Our study suggests that health-related education and psychological support can further benefit psoriasis patients to willingly and positively undertake treatment and therefore improve their positive body image and quality of life.

Patient perspective on psoriasis: Psychosocial burden of psoriasis and its management in Malaysia.

Psoriasis is a chronic erythematous inflammatory skin disorder. The major challenge with psoriasis is delayed diagnosis, resulting in delayed treatment initiation and reduced quality of life (QoL). This patient perspective study aimed to explore the emotional and psychosocial burdens faced by patients with psoriasis in Malaysia and their attitudes toward current psoriasis treatment. Adult patients with mild or moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, preferably with concomitant psoriatic arthritis, participated in a patient advisory board meeting along with a senior consultant dermatologist. Patients had to describe their initial symptoms, time of diagnosis, misdiagnosis, treatment initiation delays, treatment course, flare-ups, psychosocial impact, and QoL associated with psoriasis. The 11 participating patients had a mean age of 46 years with mean age of psoriasis diagnosis and an average year of suffering with psoriasis being 21.9 years and 24.5 years, respectively. The most common initial symptom of psoriasis was itching (62.5%), particularly of the scalp followed by itchiness and red patches on skin. Most patients (90%) reported initial misdiagnosis with other skin diseases by their primary care physicians (PCPs), which led to delayed treatment initiation. Most patients reported an emotional impact of psoriasis, including low self-esteem (18%), lack of confidence (27%), shock (18%), sadness (9%), and outrage (9%). Social discrimination/stigmatization in public places and at work (45%), and even from relatives (18%) was another reported challenge. However, 73% of patients were highly satisfied with the current treatment. Overall, the patients agreed that the lack of public awareness of psoriasis was responsible for the social stigma. The evidence obtained from this qualitative study indicated that psoriasis has a significant emotional and psychological impact on the patients affecting their QoL. Lack of awareness of the disease among PCPs, patients, and the public is a major challenge leading to poor treatment outcomes.

Effect of Panchatikta Ghrita Guggul and Mahamanjishthadi Kwath along with Virechan Karma in the management of Ek Kushtha (Plaque Psoriasis) : A Case Report

Background: Psoriasis, an autoimmune disease, affects a vast number of peoples around the world. About 2% of the world population and 0.44-2.8% of the Indian population were affected by psoriasis in 2016-2017. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis that manifests as red scaly patches with white scales affecting body areas, including the scalp, elbows, knees, trunk, and buttocks. The Ayurvedic diagnosis is considered as Ekakushtha which is a Vata Kapha predominant Kshudrakushtha. Objective: The present study was intended to assess the efficacy of Virechan Karma as Shodhan procedure along with Panchatikta Ghrita Guggul and Mahamanjishthadi Kwath as Shaman drug in Ek Kushtha (psoriasis). Materials and Methods: Here an effort was made to treat a 21 years old male diagnosed case of Plaque Psoriasis since 1 year. He presents with complaints of red scaly patches with white scales on upper limbs, lower limbs and trunk with itching and burning. After a thorough examination, an Ayurvedic treatment plan was designed in the form of Panchakarma (Virechan Karma) and oral medication (Panchatikta Ghrita Guggul 250 mg twice and Mahamanjishthadi Kwath 10 ml twice daily). As the principle of treatment of all types of Kushtha is Sanshodhana along with Sanshamana drugs. In this study initially Virechana Karma was performed. Result: After Sanshodhana, Sanshamana drugs were given for 4 months, the symptoms such as itching, burning, eruption, scaly patches gradually decreased. PASI (Psoriasis area severity index) score was taken for assessment parameter showed significant improvement. The skin lesions of the patient was calculated by PASI score before starting the treatment was found to be 29.9 which decreased to 3.5 after 4 months. Conclusion: This case report showed that combined Ayurvedic modalities resulted in great improvement in overall condition of the patient and clinically safe and effective in the management of Ekkushtha (psoriasis).

Acute Cutaneus Lupus Erythematosus in a Welder: a Case Report

Background: Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE) is a diverse group of autoimmune connective tissue disorders localised to the skin that can be associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). Chronicity and recurrency of this disease can cause a significant reduction in worker productivity, absenteeism and medical expensesObjective: To identify Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus in welder is an occupational diseases or work aggravated diseases which will be implemented through seven step of ocupational disease.Case Presentation: A 42-year-old patient came with complaints of red patches on the face, scalp, and hands since 3 months ago. the patient was previously treated at an internal medicine polyclinic and was diagnosed with SLE. The patient was then referred to the dermatology department of allergy and immunology and was diagnosed with acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.Discussion: According to the PERDOKI’s seven step guideline to diagnosis occupational disease, in this patient is declared as work aggravated disease. UV light is a major environmental triggering or precipitating factor in cutaneous lupus erythematosus(LE). Avoiding or reducing UV light exposure from the sun and from work are essential to prevent recurrence.

Excimer Laser System: The Revolutionary Way to Treat Psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoinflammatory skin disease that affects approximately 100 million people worldwide. It is a systemic disease characterized by scaly, red patches on the skin and can also affect the joints. Psoriasis can significantly affect a person's physical and mental health. The prevalence rate of psoriasis may vary depending on the specific population studied and the diagnostic criteria used. Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for psoriasis that involves exposing the affected skin to specific wavelengths of light. It can be used alone or with other treatments for severe psoriasis. However, clinicians must choose the right light source for each type of psoriasis and monitor the patient closely during treatment to avoid adverse events. The 308 nm excimer laser is a widely used device in dermatology for treating several skin conditions, including psoriasis. Although the excimer laser can treat various dermatologic diseases, this study will focus only on its effectiveness in treating psoriasis. This study will review the use of an excimer laser, its protocol, and its side effects.

Color morphs of the fire salamander are discriminated at night by conspecifics and predators

AbstractThe coexistence of multiple discrete color phenotypes (i.e. color polymorphism) has been studied in many diurnal species where environmental light allows most visual systems to chromatically discriminate color morphs. However, there is a large gap in our understanding of the discrimination thresholds and the function color polymorphisms play at night. We collected spectral data from the throats of red‐ and yellow‐morph males in a polymorphic population of the nocturnal amphibian Salamandra salamandra gallaica. We estimated the discriminability between morphs and their conspicuousness at night by fitting visual models of conspecifics and predators. We also collected morphological, behavioral and physiological data and assessed the abundance and activity patterns of each morph to explore their potential function. Visual models indicated that both conspecifics and predators can visually discriminate salamander color morphs under night‐light conditions. Assuming the potential role of yellow and red color patches as visual signals, putatively related to social signaling, we could suspect that these colors represent different adaptive optima. Red‐morph individuals had shorter bodies and lower body condition, but both morphs showed similar space use. In addition, both color morphs exhibited similar metabolic physiology, suggesting that the observed similarity in these traits may be better explained by the shared environmental conditions, rather than color. Finally, differences in the conspicuousness of red and yellow morphs could result in differential predation pressure.

Biologic Medications for the Treatment of Psoriasis - Main Groups and Dosing System

This review explores the evolving landscape of psoriasis treatment with a focus on the transformative impact of biologic drugs. Psoriasis, a prevalent and persistent skin condition characterized by red and scaly patches, historically relied on topical, phototherapeutic, and systemic treatments, each with limitations. The advent of biologics represents a significant advancement, offering targeted interventions by addressing specific immunologic mechanisms underlying the disease. Biologics are now considered the preferred systemic therapy for chronic moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, particularly when conventional treatments prove ineffective or present disadvantages. The review delineates the mechanisms of action for biologics targeting tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-17 (IL-17) and interleukin-23 (IL-23). Specific drugs under each category, including etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, secukinumab, ustekinumab, and others, are detailed with recommended dosages. Biologics have demonstrated substantial effectiveness, with clinical trials and real-world studies showcasing significant improvements in disease severity and patient’s quality of life. Notably, these drugs exhibit rapid action, often yielding noticeable changes within weeks. While biologics have revolutionized psoriasis treatment, the review emphasizes the importance of judicious use due to potential side effects such as injection-site reactions and respiratory infections. Serious adverse events, including infections and autoimmune reactions, necessitate careful patient selection and monitoring for safety. In conclusion, biologics offer a precise and effective approach to psoriasis treatment, promising marked symptom improvement and enhanced quality of life. The review underscores the need for responsible utilization, considering patient-specific factors, and anticipates ongoing advancements in biologics for improved control over this chronic dermatitis.

Diet impact on the reproductive characters of male red claw Cherax quadricarintus during the juvenile-adult transition

Male decapod reproduction involves gametogenesis, spermatozoa packaging in spermatophores, changes in cheliped´s growth, and specific behaviors such as courtship, male-male agoniztic interactions, and territory defense. These reproductive-related morpho-functional processes are supported by feed, one of the higher operative costs in aquaculture. This study aimed to evaluate the reproductive variables during the juvenile-mature transition of the male red claw Cherax quadricarinatus fed with two low-cost diets (T1 and T2). Pre-adult males (∼7 g) were individually distributed in plastic containers and fed a diet with fish silage (T1) (n = 9), a diet without fish silage (T2) (n = 8), and a commercial diet for ornamental fish used as a reference diet (T3) (n = 7). The proximal composition of T1, T2, and T3 was 34 %, 28 %, and 47 % for crude protein; 13 %, 9 %, and 6.5 for lipids; and 34 %, 47 %, and 28 % for carbohydrates, respectively. All males acquired sexual maturity with a body weight between 16 and 21 g. All groups showed similar chelae growth (based on the evaluation of the chelae height, and chelae thickness indexes) and red patch development. The gonadosomatic index was significantly lower in the T2 group with respect to T1. The lowest proportion of mature testicular lobes (filled with spermatids/spermatozoa) was detected in the T2 group (49 %), followed by T1 (59 %) group. There was also a lower protein content (∼ 27 %) in the vasa deferentia of the T2 group. However, all males showed a well-developed reproductive system and the histology of the testes and vasa deferentia showed no evidence of structural differences among groups. Under transmission electron microscopy analysis, both the primary and secondary layers of the spermatophore did not show qualitative differences among groups, including the spermatozoon morphology and acrosome size. This study highlights that males fed low-cost diets (0.56 and 0.65 U$S kg− 1, for T1 and T2 respectively), in particular T1, showed reproductive performances as good as the group fed on the reference diet. This is the first analysis of a pool of morpho-functional and biochemical reproductive variables in red claw males, to evaluate the effects of formulated diets on male sexual maturation.