Self-reported Skin Research Articles

Depression is associated with unintended pregnancy among fathers during the first 3 years after childbirth

BackgroundThe aim of the present study is to estimate the prevalence of unintended pregnancy in fathers with children aged less than or equal to 36 months and evaluate whether unintended pregnancy is associated with depression after controlling for covariates. MethodsWe used data from the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS) of 2019, a cross-sectional study that comprised a representative sample of residents in private households in Brazil. For the analysis of this study, we selected 30,579 men (> 14 years old) who answered to the Selected Resident questionnaire of the PNS and reported having a biological child (son). Among these 4806 had a child with less than 4 years of age and were used in our analysis. ResultsThe prevalence of unintended pregnancy in this group of fathers with a child ≤ 3 years was 35.0 % (95 % CI 32.6–37.5). In the final adjusted model, the variables associated with depression were: PHQ-9 total score (OR: 1.07, 95 % CI 1.03–1.11, p ≤0.001), a higher father's age (OR 1.01, 95 % CI 1.01–1.02), a higher father's age at birth (OR: 0.92, 95 % CI 0.90–0.94), self-reported black (OR: 3.00, 95 % CI 1.94–4.66), brown (OR: 1.63, 95 % CI 1.25–2.13) or indigenous (OR: 0.22, 95 % CI 0.07–0.69) skin color, lower per capita family income >1 to 2 MW (OR: 1.54, 95 % CI 1.01–2.35), ½ to 1 MW (OR: 2.22, 95 % CI 1.46–3.38) and up to 1 MW (OR: 1.76, 95 % CI 1.19–2.59) and not participating in the partner's prenatal appointments (OR: 2.04, 95 % CI 1.55–2.68). DiscussionIn our study, the prevalence of unplanned pregnancy among fathers of child less than 4 years of age is high, and it is associated with depression. Black and brown self-reported skin color, lower family income and higher father's age are associated with increased risk of unintended pregnancy.

Self-reported skin severity and quality of life in systemic sclerosis: multicentre validation of PASTUL.

The aim of this study was to validate the Patient self-Assessment of Skin Thickness in Upper Limb questionnaire (PASTUL) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and assess impact of skin involvement on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Participants were included in four UK centres. PASTUL specifies a grading of skin at 8 sites corresponding to the modified Rodnan Skin Score (mRSS). Construct validity was assessed by comparing PASTUL scores with mRSS. HRQoL was evaluated with EQ5D5L and Leeds SSc HRQoL questionnaires. Additionally, correlation between PASTUL and Scleroderma Skin Patient reported Outcome (SSPRO) was explored. Follow-up was 12 months. In total, 196 participants were included, mean age was 56.4 years (SD 13.9), 80.6% female (n = 158), mean disease duration 11.9 years (SD 9.9), 110 (56.1%) had limited cutaneous (lcSSc) and 81 (41.3%) diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc). PASTUL and upper limb mRSS were well correlated at baseline, 6 and 12 months (ICC = 0.67, 0.78 and 0.62, p< 0.001). Test-retest reliability was good (ICC = 0.83, p< 0.001). There was a stronger correlation between PASTUL and upper limb mRSS in dcSSc compared with lcSSc (0.69 vs 0.51, p< 0.001). In participants with early disease (< 4 years) PASTUL was moderately correlated with HRQoL (r = 0.53, p< 0.001), correlations were weaker in the whole group. Mean time to do the PASTUL self-assessment was 5.0 min (SD 3.7). PASTUL is a feasible outcome tool that adds to assessments as SSPRO. Skin thickening is correlated with HRQoL, particularly in early disease.

Insights into hair dye use and self-reported adverse skin reactions in the Dutch general population: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study.

Hair dyes are widely used in daily life. However, data on self-reported adverse skin reactions are scarce. To estimate the proportion of lifetime hair dye use and self-reported adverse skin reactions in the Dutch general population, and to investigate the association between (adverse skin reactions to) hair dye use and contact allergy-related factors. This cross-sectional study collected questionnaire-derived data from the Lifelines cohort. Logistic regression analyses were conducted between (adverse skin reactions to) hair dye use and black henna tattoo use, reactions to henna tattoos, patch testing, hand eczema and an occupation as hairdresser or beautician. The proportion of hair dye use was 63.1% of 70 987 participants, of which 6.8% experienced adverse skin reactions, mostly mild (77.7%). Hair dye users and those with skin reactions were both positively associated (p < 0.05) with female sex, middle-age, (positive) patch test results and hairdresser or beautician occupations. Hair dye users were more likely to have had henna tattoos, and those with reactions to hair dye were more likely to have had reactions to henna tattoos. Hair dye use is prevalent among the Dutch general population and frequently causes adverse skin reactions, especially in females who had black henna tattoos.

Potential association between allergenic food exposure and skin disease in Bangladesh: An application of principal component logistic regression (PCLR).

Allergenic foods can trigger skin conditions, yet their impact in Bangladesh remains underexplored. This study aims to investigate the potential association between exposure to allergenic foods and the development of skin disease across Bangladesh. We conducted a cross-sectional survey with 970 respondents from the divisions of Dhaka, Sylhet, Rangpur, and Chattogram who self-reported skin disease triggered by food allergens. We analyzed the data using multiple response analysis and principal component logistic regression. Approximately 64% of respondents had skin disease attributable to allergenic foods, with a relatively higher proportion among females (52%) than males (48%). Beef (67%), Brinjal (47.1%), Hilsa (45.8%), and Shrimp (23.7%) were the most frequently cited allergenic foods. Principal component logistic regression identified two highly significant principal components: the first representing Hilsa, Beef, and Brinjal (odds ratio = 2.256), and the sixth reflecting Corn (odds ratio = 1.342). Individuals who consumed foods with high loadings of the first principal component were 125.6% more likely to develop skin disease than nonconsumers, while those exposed to Corn had a 34.2% higher risk. The findings highlight prevalent allergenic foods in Bangladesh and their substantial impact on skin health, underscoring the need for dietary awareness and tailored interventions to mitigate allergic skin conditions in this population.

Association of the rs9896052 Polymorphism Upstream of GRB2 with Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients with Less than 10 Years of Diabetes

Growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2) is a negative regulator of insulin signaling and a positive regulator of angiogenesis. Its expression is increased in a mouse model of retinal neovascularization and in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This case–control study aimed to investigate the association between the rs9896052 polymorphism (A&gt;C) upstream of GRB2 and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in patients with T2DM from Southern Brazil, taking into consideration self-reported skin color (white or non-white) and the known duration of diabetes (&lt;10 years or ≥10 years). Genotypes were determined by real-time PCR in 838 patients with T2DM (284 cases with PDR and 554 controls without DR). In the total study group and in the analysis stratified by skin color, the genotype and allele frequencies were similar between cases and controls. However, among patients with less than 10 years of diabetes, the C allele was more frequent in cases than in controls (63.3% versus 51.8%, p = 0.032), and the CC genotype was independently associated with an increased risk of PDR (adjusted OR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.17–6.75). In conclusion, our findings support the hypothesis that the rs9896052 polymorphism near GRB2 is associated with PDR in Brazilian patients with T2DM.

Skin tone discrimination and birth control avoidance among women in Harris County, Texas: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionStructural racism plays a major role in reproductive health inequities. Colorism, discrimination based on skin color, may profoundly impact reproductive health access and service delivery. However, quantitative research in this area is limited.MethodsWe administered an online survey of women (n = 1,299) aged 18–44 from Harris County, Texas to assess the relationship between skin color discrimination and reproductive health service avoidance. The survey included questions on demographics, self-reported skin tone, and dichotomous measures of previous discrimination experiences and avoidance of care because of perceived discrimination. Binary logistic regression was used to examine whether race/ethnicity, skin tone, and previous discrimination experiences were related to avoidance of contraceptive care because of perceived discrimination.ResultsApproximately one-third (31.5%) of the sample classified themselves as non-Hispanic Whites (31.5%), 22.4% as Black, 27.4% as Hispanic and born within the US, and 7.6% as Hispanic born outside of the US. Approximately one-third of women classified themselves in the lightest skin tones, whereas almost one in five women classified themselves in the darkest skin tone palates. Darker skin tones had increasingly greater odds of reporting that they avoided seeking birth control out of a concern for discrimination compared to the lightest skin tone. After adjusting for race/ethnicity and sociodemographic variables (model 3), darker skin tones remained significantly associated with avoiding birth control.DiscussionThis study demonstrates the role that skin color discrimination plays in negative reproductive health experiences. While this is not surprising given that those with racist ideologies developed the concept of these racial and ethnic categories, the apparent association with darker skin colors and avoidance of seeking birth control provides evidence that structural and individual racism continues to have far-reaching and insidious consequences.ConclusionContraception is recognized for reducing maternal mortality, improving child health, increasing female empowerment, and decreasing poverty. However, not all women equally enjoy the benefits of access to contraception. Addressing colorism within reproductive healthcare has become critically important as the nation becomes increasingly diverse. Focusing on skin tone-based discrimination and its roots in anti-blackness expands our understanding beyond a Black–White binary traditionally applied when addressing racism in healthcare delivery.

Genetic Ancestry and Self-Reported "Skin Color/Race" in the Urban Admixed Population of São Paulo City, Brazil.

Epidemiological studies frequently classify groups based on phenotypes like self-reported skin color/race, which inaccurately represent genetic ancestry and may lead to misclassification, particularly among individuals of multiracial backgrounds. This study aimed to characterize both global and local genome-wide genetic ancestries and to assess their relationship with self-reported skin color/race in an admixed population of Sao Paulo city. We analyzed 226,346 single-nucleotide polymorphisms from 841 individuals participating in the population-based ISA-Nutrition study. Our findings confirmed the admixed nature of the population, demonstrating substantial European, significant Sub-Saharan African, and minor Native American ancestries, irrespective of skin color. A correlation was observed between global genetic ancestry and self-reported color-race, which was more evident in the extreme proportions of African and European ancestries. Individuals with higher African ancestry tended to identify as Black, those with higher European ancestry tended to identify as White, and individuals with higher Native American ancestry were more likely to self-identify as Mixed, a group with diverse ancestral compositions. However, at the individual level, this correlation was notably weak, and no deviations were observed for specific regions throughout the individual's genome. Our findings emphasize the significance of accurately defining and thoroughly analyzing race and ancestry, especially within admixed populations.

Acute skin toxicity and self-management ability among Chinese breast cancer radiotherapy patients: a qualitative study

ObjectivesRadiation dermatitis is the most common reaction to radiotherapy, almost all breast cancer patients receive radiotherapy on an outpatient basis. Currently, there are no studies on the experience of radiation dermatitis and the ability to self-manage it. Therefore, we aimed to use qualitative approaches to gain a deeper understanding of the actual experiences and self-management ability in order to provide a reference for further improving the effectiveness of self-management and to optimize symptom management strategies.MethodsA descriptive qualitative study was conducted using purposive sampling to select 17 breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from September to November 2023. The Colaizzi seven-step analysis method was used to classify the data into summarized themes.ResultsFour themes were identified from the interview responses: (1) multiple self-reported skin symptoms in breast cancer patients with radiation dermatitis; (2) the multidimensional impact on patient’s quality of life, especially pruritus, ulceration; (3) the ability to self-manage radiation dermatitis: strong mental toughness, positive response, and self-doubt; (4) challenges faced: concerns about radiotherapy side effects and recurrence, targeted symptom management and continuity of care after the radiotherapy.ConclusionsHealthcare professionals should consider patients’ self-reported symptoms when assessing radiation dermatitis. For pruritus and pain, we can enhance precision symptom management to improve patients’ quality of life. By utilizing information technology tools, we can increase breast cancer patients’ ability and confidence in managing radiation dermatitis effectively while enhancing accurate symptom management during radiotherapy.

Conscious and non-conscious responses to branded narrative advertising: Investigating narrativity level and device type

Narrative advertising enhances advertisement (ad) and brand evaluations from consumers. However, how the narrativity level of the ad impacts these evaluations is less clear. This study investigates affective and cognitive conscious and non-conscious responses to branded advertising in the form of two-dimensional videos that differ in narrativity level. In addition, it explores the effects of delivery modality (computer screen vs virtual reality). We collected self-reported, electroencephalography, and galvanic skin response data from participants watching real video ads with low and high narrativity levels. While self-reported data showed higher positive perceptions toward ads with a high (vs low) narrativity level, the neurophysiological metrics revealed no differences in arousal levels, cognitive load, and approach–avoidance behavior. Delivery modality had little to no effect on self-reported ad and brand metrics, but ads viewed through virtual reality evoked negatively valenced arousal. The findings suggest that narrativity level differently modulates conscious and unconscious cognitive and affective responses to video ads. JEL CLASSIFICATION: M31; M37

Real world insights for psoriasis: the association of severity of skin lesions with work productivity, medical consumption costs and quality of life

Background Psoriasis is a prevalent, chronic skin disease with a potential impact on work productivity, medical consumption costs, and quality of life. The influence of the extent of skin lesions on these outcomes is not well known. Objective We determined associations of self-reported skin lesions with self-reported work productivity, medical consumption costs, and health-related quality of life in respondents with psoriasis. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we included respondents with self-reported psoriasis in the Netherlands in an online questionnaire. We assessed the self-reported percentage body surface area (BSA) of psoriasis lesions. We used validated instruments to assess work productivity (WPAI-PsO), medical consumption costs (iMCQ), and health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L and the DLQI). We used ordinal logistic regression to associate BSA categories >1% versus 0-1% with outcomes adjusted for multiple confounders. Results We included 501 respondents with a mean age of 43 ± 12 years; 64% were men. Median BSA was 2% (interquartile range 1–5%). A higher BSA was associated with higher overall work impairment due to psoriasis (common odds ratio [cOR] 2.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40–4.29; n = 205), higher medical consumption costs (cOR 2.06, 95% CI 1.45–2.94) and lower health-related quality of life. Associations were strongest with a BSA cutoff of 0% or 1% compared to 2% or higher categories. Discussion In our study, having few to no lesions in psoriasis was associated with lower overall work impairment due to psoriasis, lower medical consumption costs, and higher health-related quality of life.

Lifetime prevalence and associated factors of itch with skin conditions: atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and dry skin in individuals aged > 50 years.

Itch, common in dermatological conditions, is often accompanied by psychological distress and reduced quality of life. However, research on the prevalence and associated factors of itch with skin conditions in general populations is limited. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the lifetime prevalence of itch with skin conditions and to identify its associated factors in individuals aged > 50 years. Participants from the Rotterdam Study, a population-based cohort, were interviewed to assess whether they had ever had an itchy skin condition, defining lifetime itch with skin conditions. Over 20 demographic, lifestyle, dermatological and nondermatological factors were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression analysis explored associations between these factors and itch with skin conditions, reported as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). In total, 5246 eligible participants were included (age range 51-100 years, median age 67; 56.0% women). The results revealed a-lifetime prevalence of 33.7% for itch with skin conditions. Factors significantly associated with itch were female sex (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.11-1.43), body mass index (1.02, 1.01-1.03), self-reported atopic dermatitis (4.29, 3.74-4.92), presence of atopic dermatitis (1.97, 1.60-2.43), self--reported psoriasis (2.31, 1.77-3.01), presence of psoriasis (2.11, 1.55-2.87), self-reported dry skin (1.95, 1.73-2.20), self-reported asthma (1.40, 1.08-1.83), renal impairment (1.45, 1.17-1.79), and clinically relevant depressive (1.85, 1.52-2.25) and anxiety symptoms (1.36, 1.11-1.66). This study reveals a substantial one-third lifetime prevalence of itch with skin conditions in individuals aged > 50 years. Significant associations with diverse lifestyle, demographic, dermatological and, intriguingly, nondermatological factors, including renal impairment, imply additional contributors to induction or persistence of itch in individuals with skin conditions.

Acceptability and tolerability of alcohol-based hand rubs among health workers and concessionaires in Malaysia during the COVID pandemic: a hospital-wide cross-sectional study using a modified WHO protocol

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the acceptability and tolerability of three alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHRs) at Sarawak General Hospital, Malaysia. Conducted from 12-26 November 2021 using a modified WHO Protocol, it involved a survey among health workers and concessionaires, with a 35% response rate (1,598 of 4,628 participants). The majority were nurses (60.8%), with the medical division most represented (28.4%). Most respondents (93.2%) used ABHRs at least five days a week and found them easily accessible (72.3%). Product B was the preferred ABHR (65%), primarily for its color and fragrance, surpassing WHO’s 50% approval rate in these aspects. However, no other product features met WHO criteria. There were no significant differences in self-reported skin tolerability across the products, and none achieved overall WHO approval. These results offer important insights for ABHR selection in developing countries and highlight the value of the WHO Protocol in assessing product acceptability and tolerability.

Prevalence of Occupational Contact Dermatitis Among Dental Personnel Using the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire-2002: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Occupational skin disease (OSD), such as contact dermatitis, is widespread among dental professionals; however, reports regarding its prevalence have inconsistent findings and methodology. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-reported questionnaire to estimate the prevalence of work-related and occupational exposure-induced skin diseases. A self-administered questionnaire, based on the validated Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire-2002, was distributed to 15 dental clinics in Israel in the first half of 2022. The questionnaire included questions about the occupation, exposure, and history of atopic disease, dry skin, and hand/arm and wrist eczema, as well as participant demographics. Overall, 312 dental professionals completed the questionnaires. Response rate was 80%. The lifetime prevalence of self-reported skin symptoms was 19.23%. Significant risk factors included exposure to metal objects, odds ratio (OR): 2.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): [1.02, 5.78]; p < .05, dry skin (OR: 3.54, 95% CI: [1.93, 6.5]; p < .001), itching when sweating (OR: 2.89, 95% CI: [1.39, 6]; p < .05), contact urticaria (OR: 10.67, 95% CI: [4.46, 25.49]; p < .001), hay fever (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: [1.14, 4.42]; p < .05), allergic symptoms (OR; 2.33, 95% CI: [1.18, 4.58]; p < .05), and asthma (OR: 4.8, 95% CI: [2.17, 10.36]; p < .001). This is the first study to use the NOSQ-2002 among dental professionals. Our study provides a better understanding of the prevalence and consequences of OSDs among dental personnel by utilizing the validated tool NOSQ-2002.

The impact of COVID-19 vaccine reactions on secondary vaccine hesitancy

BackgroundPrimary and booster vaccinations are critical for mitigating COVID-19 transmission, morbidity, and mortality. Future booster vaccine campaigns rely on an increased understanding of vaccine hesitancy. ObjectiveTo evaluate self-reported allergic and skin vaccine reactions as factors potentially associated with vaccine hesitancy in a nationwide vaccine allergy registry. MethodsResponses to survey questions concerning COVID-19 vaccine perceptions, coded from free text by 2 independent reviewers. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the association between changed negative perception and respondent demographics, vaccination history, and reaction characteristics. ResultsA total of 993 individuals (median of 46 years [IQR, 36-59], 88% female, 82% White) self-reported reactions to COVID-19 vaccination. Reactions included the following: delayed large local skin reaction (40%), hives/urticaria (32%), immediate large local skin reaction (3%), swelling (3%), anaphylaxis (2%), and other or unspecified (20%). Most respondents were initially unconcerned about the safety of COVID-19 vaccines (56%). After reactions, 401 of 993 (40%) report negative change in perception of vaccination, with more than half of these respondents (n = 211, 53%) citing their reasoning as a negative experience with adverse effects. Of 102 individuals asked about future vaccination, 79 (77%) indicated that they were unlikely or very unlikely to receive future COVID-19 vaccinations. Increased negative perception after reaction was associated with younger age, later COVID-19 vaccination dose number, and reaction type. ConclusionOur findings reveal that an individual's experience with allergic or cutaneous adverse effects after COVID-19 vaccination affects attitudes and decision-making regarding future vaccination, even in initially non-hesitant individuals. Further investigation of secondary vaccine hesitancy is necessary for adapting public health messaging to this important population.

Occurrence of hepatitis B and C virus infection in socioeconomic population strata from Recife, Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil.

To estimate the probability of infection with hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses in different socioeconomic strata of the population of Recife, Northeast Brazil. Study carried out from samples obtained in a survey of residents of a large urban center that had a population base and stratified sampling with random selection of households using the "Brazil Sample" package in the R software. HBV (HBsAg) and anti-HCV was performed using immunochromatographic tests. In cases positive for HBsAg, anti-HBc and HBeAg were tested using chemiluminescence, as well as HBV-DNA using real-time PCR. For cases positive for anti-HCV, the search for this antibody was repeated by chemiluminescence and for HCV-RNA by real-time PCR. The occurrence of HBsAg and anti-HCV cases in the general population was estimated based on a theoretical negative binomial distribution. Among 2,070 samples examined, 5 (0.24%) were HBsAg and 2 (0.1%) anti-HCV positive. The majority of cases had self-reported skin color as black/brown (6/7), education level up to high school (6/7), a steady partner (5/7) and lived in an area of low socioeconomic status (5/7). The occurrence of HBsAg and anti-HCV was lower than those previously found in population-based studies and slightly lower than the most recent estimates. Individuals with lower socioeconomic status should be a priority target of public health policies.

Leisure-Time Physical Activity in a Southern Brazilian City (2004-2021): Applying an Equity Lens to Time-Trend Analyses.

This study aimed to verify leisure-time physical activity trends over 15years and monitor inequalities according to gender, self-reported skin color, and socioeconomic position in a Southern Brazilian city. A secondary aim is to evaluate intersectionalities in physical activity. Trend analysis using 3 population-based surveys carried out in 2004, 2010, and 2021. Main outcome assessed was the prevalence of physical activity according to recommendations (150min/wk). Inequalities dimensions measured were sex, self-reported skin color, and wealth. Intersectionalities were evaluated using Jeopardy index combining all inequality dimensions. Trend analysis was performed using least-squares weighted regression. We included data from 3090, 2656, and 5696 adults in 2004, 2010, and 2021, respectively. Prevalence of physical activity remains stable around 25% in the 3years. In the 3 periods evaluated, men presented a prevalence in average 10 percentage points higher than women (SII2004 = -11.1 [95% confidenceinterval, CI, -14.4 to -7.8], SII2021 = -10.7 [95% CI, -13.7 to -7.7]). Skin color inequalities did not present a clear pattern. Richest individuals, in general presented a prevalence of leisure-time physical activity level 20pp higher than poorest ones (SII2004 = 20.5 [95% CI, 13.7 to 27.4]; SII2021 = 16.7 [95% CI, 11.3 to 22.0]). Inequalities were widely marked, comparing the most privileged group (represented by men, the wealthiest, and White) and the most socially vulnerable group (represented by women, the poorest, and Black/Brown). The Slope Index of Inequality for intersectionalities was -24.5 (95% CI, -31.1 to -17.9) in 2004 and -18.8 in 2021 (95% CI, -24.2 to -13.4). Our analysis shows that women, Black/Brown, and poor present lower leisure-time physical activity level. This group is often neglected regarding other health and social outcomes.

Personalized virtual reality exposure for panic disorder and agoraphobia: A preliminary neurophysiological study

BackgroundPersonalization is considered an important principle in virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy. We aimed to identify whether personalized VR exposure could provoke increased anxiety in patients with panic disorder and agoraphobia as it is considered the first step in successful treatment for anxiety. MethodsWe performed a double-arm, one-day preliminary study among 28 patients with panic disorder and agoraphobia. Three sessions of VR exposure, including a theater, train, and elevator scenario, were conducted in two groups. In the personalized group (n = 14), the brightness and crowd density were customized based on a pre-assessment. In the control group (n = 14), these conditions were fully randomized. Self-reported anxiety, heart rate, skin conductance, and electroencephalography were measured before, during, and after the VR sessions. ResultsIn the later VR sessions, higher self-reported anxiety levels measured by the Visual Analogue Scale were observed in the personalized exposure group. Increased heart rates during and after the VR sessions were observed in the personalized group. The changes in skin conductance peaks were not significantly different between the groups, but the increase in skin conductance was associated with the participants' perception of presence. The electroencephalogram showed widespread increases in alpha waves in the frontal and temporal areas of the brain in the personalized group than in the control group. ConclusionPersonalized VR exposure elicits stronger anxiogenic effects in patients with panic disorder and agoraphobia as suggested by self-report and neurophysiological data. Personalization of VR exposure has the potential for effective behavioral therapy.

A Survey of Skin Reactions Associated With Acrylic Nail Cosmetics, With a Focus on Home Kits: Is There a Need for Regulation?

Background: Sensitization to (meth)acrylates, the most common nail cosmetic allergens, is rising. In recent years, home acrylic nail kits have become easily available. Objective: To investigate the characteristics of individuals reporting skin reactions associated with acrylic nail cosmetics, particularly home kits. Methods: Cross-sectional survey of Facebook nail allergy support groups. Inclusion criteria were self-reported skin reactions associated with acrylic nails and age ≥18 years. Results: There were 199 respondents, nearly all female (99%), mostly white (83%), and 25-54 years old (83%). Seventy-eight percent reported using home acrylic kits, more than half for the first time during COVID-19. They predominantly learned about kits through social media (68%) and received training through websites/online videos (74%). Most home users (83%) first developed skin reactions after starting to use home kits. Compared with nonhome users, significantly more home users reported skin reaction onset within 1 year of use, as well as nail damage (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Among online nail allergy support group members, home acrylic nail kit use was common and associated with earlier development of skin reactions and more frequent nail damage than professional acrylic manicures. These findings raise important questions about the need to regulate home acrylic nail kits.

Healthy lifestyle and genomic ancestry related to good glycemic control in type 1 diabetes patients from Northeastern Brazil: a hierarchical analysis.

This study aimed to investigate the sociodemographic factors, dietary adherence, regular physical activity, and genomic ancestry percentage associated with good glycemic control in Brazilian patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using a hierarchical approach. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 152 T1D patients. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels were measured to evaluate the glycemic control status (good, moderate, or poor). Independent factors included sex, age, self-reported skin color, educational level, family income, dietary patterns, and physical activity. The percentage of genomic ancestry (Native American, European, and African) was influenced by a panel of 46 autosomal insertion/deletion ancestry markers. Statistical analyses included receiver operating characteristic curves, and hierarchical logistic regression analysis. The hierarchical analysis, patients who had high dietary adherence showed a positive association with good glycemic control (adjustedOR = 2.56, 95% CI:1.18-5.59, P = 0.016). Thus, age greater than 40 years was associated with good glycemic control compared to the children and adolescents group (adjustedOR = 4.55, 95% CI:1.14-18.1, P = 0.031). Males were associated with good glycemic control (adjustedOR = 2.00, 95% CI:1.01-4.00, P =0.047). The study findings suggest that consistent adherence to dietary regimens is associated with good glycemic control after adjusting for sociodemographic and genomic ancestry factors in an admixed population of T1D patients from Northeast Brazil.

The assessment of geriatric malnutrition, geriatric depression and associated co-morbidities among forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals in Bangladesh.

To assess the nutritional status and depression of the elderly forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (FDMN) in Bangladesh and determine the associated factors of geriatric depression (GD). This was a community-based, cross-sectional study among elderly FDMN. The Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA@-SF) and Geriatric Depression Scale Short-Form (GDS-15 SF) were used to determine malnutrition and GD, respectively. The study was conducted between November 2021 and March 2022 in Kutupalong Refugee Camp, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The study participants were elderly FDMN aged ≥ 60 years (n 430). The mean age and BMI were 71·7(±7·8) years and 21·94(±2·6) kg/m2, respectively. There was a high prevalence of self-reported diabetes mellitus (32·1 %), hypertension (26·7 %), hypotension (20 %), skin diseases (28·4 %) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (16·5 %). The prevalence of malnutrition was 25·3 %, and another 29·1 % were at risk. The prevalence of GD was 57·9 %, and co-occurrences of GD and malnutrition were seen in 17·5 % of participants. GD was significantly higher among elderly people with malnutrition (adjusted OR, AOR = 1·71, 95 % CI: 1·01, 2·89). FDMN aged ≥ 80 years were at higher risk of GD (AOR = 1·84, 95 % CI: 1·01, 3·37), and having fewer than five members in the household was an independent predictor of GD. Diabetes mellitus (AOR = 1·95, 95 % CI: 1·24, 3·08) and hypotension (AOR = 2·17, 95 % CI: 1·25, 2·78) were also significantly associated with an increased risk of GD. A high prevalence of GD and malnutrition was observed among elderly FDMN in Bangladesh. The agencies working in Cox's Bazar should focus on geriatric malnutrition and GD for the improvement of the health situation of FDMN in Bangladesh.