Dermatological Science Research Articles

Forty years of Clinics in Dermatology

In 2023, Clinics in Dermatology marked its 40th anniversary, celebrating a remarkable journey of excellence since its inception in 1983. Led by its founding editor, Dr Lawrence Charles Parish, the journal has consistently delivered cutting-edge research and clinical insights, becoming a cornerstone resource in dermatology. The journal has published 3,667 documents. In all publications, 4,311 authors from 4,248 departments and 78 countries played a pivotal role. We provided data about the total number of publications and citations for each contributor (author, department, and country). By coword analysis, we presented the central theme of publications, which may offer a nuanced understanding of Clinics in Dermatology’s diverse and influential contributions to dermatologic science.

Skin dark spot mapping and evaluation of brightening product efficacy using Line-field Confocal Optical Coherence Tomography (LC-OCT).

Facial dark spots remain a significant challenge for the cosmetic industry, in terms of providing effective treatment. Using Line-field Confocal Optical Coherence Tomography (LC-OCT), we investigated the internal structural features of photo-aging spot areas and evaluated the efficacy of a skin-brightening cosmetic product. Twenty-six Asian female volunteers, aged between 29 and 65 years, applied a cosmetic product on their entire face twice a day for 2 months. LC-OCT was used to evaluate the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) undulation and the volume density of melanin in the epidermis at D0 and D56. Skin brightening and redness were also assessed by photography (SkinCam). Using LC-OCT technology, various microscopic dark spot morphologies, spanning from minimally deformed DEJ to complex DEJ patterns, were identified. Dark spots characterized by slight deformities in the DEJ were predominantly observed in the youngest age group, while older volunteers displayed a wavier pattern. Furthermore, a total of 44 spots were monitored to evaluate the brightening product efficacy. A statistically significant reduction in melanin volumetric density of 7.3% in the spots and 12.3% in their surrounding area was observed after 56 days of product application. In line with these results, an analysis of color parameters using SkinCam reveals a significant increase in brightening and decrease in redness in both pigmented spots and the surrounding skin following application. LC-OCT proves to be a valuable tool for in-depth dark spots characterization and assessment of skin brightening products, enabling various applications in the field of dermatological sciences.

Commentary on "Investigating the Anatomic Location of Soft Tissue Fillers in Noninflammatory Nodule Formation: An Ultrasound-Imaging-Based Analysis".

*Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, Rockville, Maryland †Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, Fairfax, Virginia ‡Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom; §Global Aesthetics Alliance, Chevy Chase, Maryland The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.

Unleashing the Zoological Tapestry: Animals Eponyms in Dermatology Revealing Nature's Influence on Skin Diseases.

The dermatological canvas, often considered the storyteller of human health, is imbued with narratives that intertwine with the very essence of the natural world. A mesmerizing facet of this narrative is found in "animals eponyms" - enigmatic skin conditions christened after animals whose traits mimic the intricate nuances of these dermatological tales. Delving into this realm unveils a tapestry where medicine and nature dance in synchrony, encapsulating both the artistry and science of dermatology. Animals eponyms offer a unique bridge between dermatology and the natural world. They serve as memorable tools for recognizing and diagnosing dermatological conditions while embodying the fascinating connection between humans and the animal kingdom. By examining these eponyms, dermatologists gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between medicine and nature, ultimately enhancing patient care through enhanced diagnostic acumen.

Wireless, Soft Sensors of Skin Hydration with Designs Optimized for Rapid, Accurate Diagnostics of Dermatological Health.

Accurate measurements of skin hydration are of great interest to dermatological science and clinical practice. This parameter serves as a relevant surrogate of skin barrier function, a key representative benchmark for overall skin health. The skin hydration sensor (SHS) is a soft, skin-interfaced wireless system that exploits a thermal measurement method, as an alternative to conventional impedance-based hand-held probes. This study presents multiple strategies for maximizing the sensitivity and reliability of this previously reported SHS platform. An in-depth analysis of the thermal physics of the measurement process serves as the basis for structural optimizations of the electronics and the interface to the skin. Additional engineering advances eliminate variabilities associated with manual use of the device and with protocols for the measurement. The cumulative effect is an improvement in sensitivity by 135% and in repeatability by 36% over previously reported results. Pilot trials on more than 200 patients in a dermatology clinic validate the practical utility of the sensor for fast, reliable measurements.

342 Patterns and predictors of NIAMS funding for early career researchers

Both basic and clinical research are important for advancing science and public health, and the NIH has been working to increase support for investigators performing clinical research. Our objective was to evaluate the distribution of mentored career development awards in dermatology and to compare it to other specialties funded by the National Institute for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease (NIAMS). We collected data on K08 and K23 awards from NIAMS through the publicly available NIH Reporter database and classified these awards as dermatology, musculoskeletal, or rheumatology research to compare the K08 and K23 distribution across specialties. We also classified award recipients as men or women according to the gender pronouns used in publicly available institutional biographies. From January 2012 to June 2021, NIAMS granted K23 awards to 104 unique recipients and K08 awards to 108 unique recipients, resulting in an overall ratio of 1.0 for K23 to K08 recipients. This K23:K08 ratio varied by specialty: it was 0.4 for dermatology, 0.8 for musculoskeletal research, and 1.7 for rheumatology. Adjusted multivariate regression models show that the odds of K23 versus K08 awards were over three times higher in rheumatology than dermatology (OR 3.63, 95% CI 1.72-7.90). Women were almost three times more likely to receive K23 awards (OR 2.64, 95% CI 1.47-4.82), and there was evidence of effect modification in the association between specialty and award type by gender (likelihood ratio test, p-value = 0.015). When stratified by gender, the K23:K08 ratio in dermatology was 0.1 for men and 1.1 for women. The imbalance between support for early career researchers in dermatology focusing on basic versus clinical research may have important implications for the state of dermatological science and the academic workforce. Efforts to address these challenges and correct the imbalance in research funding is needed to improve equity in the dermatology workforce and improve patient outcomes.

Training and Retaining Physician‒Scientists in Dermatology: China

Physician‒scientists play a crucial role in the development and advancement of medical science. The number of physician‒scientists has been decreasing in recent years, and this phenomenon is also very prominent in the field of dermatology. In China, on the one hand, the quality and quantity of dermatological science research are rapidly increasing. On the other hand, there are many problems and challenges in physician‒scientist training that hinder young students from choosing to enter an MD‒PhD path over an MD-only path. Continuous efforts should be made to attract medical students to the dermatology specialty, to guide and spur their interests in scientific research, and to provide them with excellent research conditions and environment.

138 Environmental stress protection and inflammaging prevention: A novel synergistic antioxidant blend

We present an efficient approach to slowing the progression of skin damage using a multi-mechanistic antioxidant blend suitable for cosmetic formulations and validate its performance in vitro. Three different mechanisms were targeted simultaneously: scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitigating intracellular ROS and reducing ROS-induced inflammaging markers. Using a Design of Experiment approach, a novel, non-phototoxic synergistic blend of antioxidants was identified and characterized in vitro for its ability to quench free radicals (DPPH assay) and intracellular ROS generated by UVA (DCFH assay). Further, we demonstrated that use of the blend results in a mitigation of markers correlated with inflammaging (photoaging and hyperpigmentation) caused by environmental oxidative stress (PGE2, IL-8, MMP-1).3 These results support the notion that a multi-mechanistic antioxidant blend may effectively alleviate environmentally induced skin damage and be easily incorporated into skin care formulations providing an anti-inflammaging benefit. Brewer, M.S. “Natural Antioxidants: Sources, Compounds, Mechanisms of Action and Potential Applications.” Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, vol. 10, 2011; McMullen, Roger L. Antioxidants and the Skin. Allured Books, 2013; Oswald, T., Crane, C.M., Dueva-Koganov, O., Bianchini, R. Design of Experiments to Optimize a Novel Antioxidant Blend [conference presentation]. Innovations in Dermatological Sciences, Rutgers, NJ 2018.

History of dermatology: the study of skin diseases over the centuries

The study of skin, the science of dermatology, has undergone significant transformations throughout the centuries. From the first descriptions of skin diseases in Egyptian papyri and in Hippocratic writings to the first treatises on dermatology, important individuals and discoveries have marked the specialty. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the specialty consolidated itself as a field of medical study based on the first classifications of dermatoses, diagnostic methods, and drug treatments. In the 20th century, the scientific and technological revolution transformed dermatological practice, incorporating new therapeutic resources, as well as surgical and aesthetic procedures. In the face of such a vigorous process, it is important to provide a historical synthesis for the medical community to recognize and understand the origins that supported one of the most relevant specialties in the current medical scenario.

Adolescent Acne and Disparities in Mental Health

AbstractAcne is a hallmark of adolescence, affecting 85% of youth between the ages of 12 and 25 worldwide. Perhaps because of its ubiquity and minimal impact on physical functioning, acne is often dismissed as a time‐delimited cosmetic nuisance and has been summarily neglected by developmental scientists. However, emerging evidence suggests that acne is associated with clinically significant psychological adjustment problems, including depression and anxiety. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach that bridges developmental and dermatological science, we reposition acne as a prominent source of psychological maladjustment and health disparities in adolescence. Specifically, we propose that females and youth with darker skin may be disproportionately affected by the pernicious psychological effects of acne. Reconceptualizing adolescent acne as a developmentally and psychologically meaningful dermatologic disease with effects shaped by culture and health care disparities will advance our understanding of youth’s mental health.

ENGLINGHTNING THE HOLISTIC CONCEPT OF BAHAQ-E-ABYAZIN UNANI SYSTEM OF MEDICINE: REVIEW OF LITERATURE.

The study of skin, the science of dermatology, has undergone significant transformations throughout the centuries. From the first descriptions of skin diseases in Egyptian papyri and in Hippocratic writings to the first treatises on dermatology, important individuals and discoveries have marked the specialty. A comprehensive description of Amrazejild (skin diseases) is available in classical Unani literature. Ancient Greco-Arabic scholars have described Bahaq-e-Abyaz (pityriasis) in detail along with etiopathogenesis, clinical features, complications, and management in their treatises. Ancient Unani scholars have been treating Bahaq-e-Abyaz successfully since antiquity. They have mentioned and practiced a compendium of single as well as compound herbo-mineral formulations for the treatment of Bahaq-e-Abyaz. It is important to provide a historical synthesis for the medical community to recognize and understand the holistic concept of Bahaq-e-Abyaz along with the treatment as mentioned in classics of Unani medicine.

Attendee Survey and Practical Appraisal of a Telegram®-Based Dermatology Congress During the COVID-19 Confinement

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic outbreak introduced dramatic changes in all our lives, daily practice, and medical conferences. In search of a tool to spread dermatologic knowledge during confinement, an online medical meeting was held on April 25th to 26th, 2020. In this study, we aimed to assess the characteristics, opinion and satisfaction of the attendees to a free-of-charge online congress. Secondarily, we intended to explain how this meeting was prepared. Material and MethodsOnline survey administered to the attendees to an online congress organised via the Telegram® Messenger App. Its organisation and planning, which needed no financial support and was done by volunteer organisers, moderators and speakers, is described step by step. ResultsThe satisfaction of both speakers and attendees was very high. All participants considered that this format had a great present and future, and most of them rated it as superior to regular face-to-face meetings. Female gender and predominantly private practice favoured this opinion. DiscussionThe COVID-19 pandemic has forced the cancellation of most scientific gatherings. This has been seen by some authors as an excellent opportunity, encouraging medical societies and organisations to lead the change to virtual meetings. Although confinement did not allow real contact, our online meeting showed it was possible to ensure interaction and participation between attendees, moderators and speakers. Dermatologists enjoyed some dermatologic science, even despite the extraordinary circumstances disrupting their daily clinical practice. Most of them felt they were participating in something new and compelling that many felt superior to traditional meetings.

Congreso virtual de dermatología realizado a través de Telegram® durante el confinamiento de la COVID-19: organización y evaluación

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic outbreak introduced dramatic changes in all our lives, daily practice, and medical conferences. In search of a tool to spread dermatologic knowledge during confinement, an online medical meeting was held on April 25th to 26th, 2020. In this study, we aimed to assess the characteristics, opinion and satisfaction of the attendees to a free-of-charge online congress. Secondarily, we intended to explain how this meeting was prepared. Material and MethodsOnline survey administered to the attendees to an online congress organised via the Telegram® Messenger App. Its organisation and planning, which needed no financial support and was done by volunteer organisers, moderators and speakers, is described step by step. ResultsThe satisfaction of both speakers and attendees was very high. All participants considered that this format had a great present and future, and most of them rated it as superior to regular face-to-face meetings. Female gender and predominantly private practice favoured this opinion. DiscussionThe COVID-19 pandemic has forced the cancellation of most scientific gatherings. This has been seen by some authors as an excellent opportunity, encouraging medical societies and organisations to lead the change to virtual meetings. Although confinement did not allow real contact, our online meeting showed it was possible to ensure interaction and participation between attendees, moderators and speakers. Dermatologists enjoyed some dermatologic science, even despite the extraordinary circumstances disrupting their daily clinical practice. Most of them felt they were participating in something new and compelling that many felt superior to traditional meetings.

A World of Scientific Endeavors and Friendships

To give readers a sense of the important contributions of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) in the development of individuals’ careers from the early 90s through the early 2000s, we asked Eugene Healy (University of Southampton, UK), Sarolta Karpati (Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary), and Lajos Kemeny (University of Szeged, Hungary) to share their experience in leadership positions in the Society during that period. They were posed several questions, presented in bold, and their responses follow their initials in the paragraphs that follow.

Introduction

We are pleased to present the most recent Advances in Aesthetic Scales Issue of Dermatologic Surgery, which follows several other Dermatologic Surgery special issues on new aesthetic scales. Scales are an important part of the scientific method of proving efficacy of drugs and devices in the cosmetic marketplace. The US FDA requires scientifically validated scales to be used as measurement tools to specify enrollment criteria for FDA approval studies on cosmetic interventions with drugs and devices, and to measure the outcomes of such studies, usually as rated by blinded expert evaluators, treating investigators and study subjects. Many other countries now follow FDA guidelines for drug and device approval. As such, this issue presents new scales on the Asian chin, forehead, and calves. Cosmetic ideals may differ from country to country, and scales must account for regional and cultural aesthetic preferences. For the non-Asian cosmetic dermatologist, these scales may highlight fascinating regional and cultural differences in cosmetic preferences. Also, in this issue are new scales on skin laxity or dimpling of the thighs, buttocks, and knees, which are necessary to study the outcomes of many of our newer devices that address cosmetic concerns off the face. We wish to acknowledge the scientific leadership and commitment of the authors and Merz for undertaking this important scholarly initiative to elevate the level of science in cosmetic dermatology and equip us to generate further robust clinical evidence in our field.

Physico–Chemical Interaction between Clay Minerals and Albumin Protein according to the Type of Clay

Clay minerals are widely utilized in pharmaceutical and dermatological sciences as a gastrointestinal medicine or skin remediation agent. In order to verify the feasibility of clays as an injection, pill, or topical agent, it is important to study their interactions with biological components, such as proteins. In this study, we utilized a protein fluorescence quenching assay and circular dichroism spectroscopy to evaluate general aspects of protein denaturation and conformational change, respectively. Three different clays; layered double oxide (LDO), montmorilonite (MMT) and halloysite nanotube (HNT), were treated with albumin and the physico-chemical effect on the protein’s conformation was investigated. MMT was shown to influence the conformational change the most, owing to the large accessible adsorption site. HNT showed meaningful circular dichroism (CD) band collapse as well as fluorescence quenching in the protein, suggesting a potential harmful effect of HNT toward the protein. Among the three tested clays, LDO was determined to affect protein structure the least in terms of three-dimensional conformation and helical structure.

Frontiers in pigment cell and melanoma research.

In this perspective, we identify emerging frontiers in clinical and basic research of melanocyte biology and its associated biomedical disciplines. We describe challenges and opportunities in clinical and basic research of normal and diseased melanocytes that impact current approaches to research in melanoma and the dermatological sciences. We focus on four themes: (1) clinical melanoma research, (2) basic melanoma research, (3) clinical dermatology, and (4) basic pigment cell research, with the goal of outlining current highlights, challenges, and frontiers associated with pigmentation and melanocyte biology. Significantly, this document encapsulates important advances in melanocyte and melanoma research including emerging frontiers in melanoma immunotherapy, medical and surgical oncology, dermatology, vitiligo, albinism, genomics and systems biology, epidemiology, pigment biophysics and chemistry, and evolution.

International Investigative Dermatology 2018 Meeting: Promoting Global Skin Biology and Skin Disease Research

International Investigative Dermatology 2018 Meeting: Promoting Global Skin Biology and Skin Disease Research

Tobacco regulation as a paradigm for advancing regulatory science in dermatology.

Tobacco regulation as a paradigm for advancing regulatory science in dermatology.

Centennial History of Yonsei University Dermatology in Korea: 1917 to 2017.

Yonsei Dermatology celebrated its centennial in 2017, marking 100 years since Kung Sun Oh established the first Department of Dermatology and Urology in Korea in 1917. Following the footsteps of Kung Sun Oh, a pioneer of Korean dermatology, its members united and worked to provide the best medical service and achieve academic milestones in dermatology. Over the past hundred years, Yonsei Dermatology has played a pivotal role in the advancement of medical science and academia in Korea. The main activities of the department include medical care, education, and dermatologic research. Its research activities have encompassed a wide spectrum of dermatologic manifestations from skin immunology and pathology to introduction of newly developed treatment technologies. As Kung Sun Oh was the first Korean professor of dermatology at Severance Medical School and a passionate educator, we continue to serve his will by nurturing medical students and dermatology specialists to serve as global medical leaders. The Kung Sun Oh Memorial Lecture, first hosted in 1977, was the beginning of mutual international academic exchange in the field of dermatology in Korea. The memorial lecture has played a major role in advancing the academic status of Korean dermatological science by inviting distinguished dermatologists from around the world as guest lecturers. Yonsei Dermatology has played a key role in the history of modern medicine and dermatology in Korea over the last 100 years and continues to make an impact.