Skin Roughness Research Articles

Native collagen sheet mask improves skin health and appearance: A comprehensive clinical evaluation.

Collagen, a critical structural protein found abundantly in animal skin and bones, has become increasingly recognized for its potential therapeutic role in skincare. Despite growing interest, the scientific evidence for the efficacy of collagen sheet masks remains limited. The principal objective of our study was to provide insights into the multifaceted role of collagen in skin health, with a specific focus on its application in collagen sheet masks. The effects of a collagen sheet mask consisting of >92% native bovine collagen were investigated. The soluble protein components of the collagen matrix were analyzed and the influence of soluble collagen components on fibroblast regulation was examined. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis was performed for structural analysis and effect on irritated skin. Five different clinical studies were conducted, including a comparison of the diversity of the skin microbiome, the tolerance and local irritating reactions in atopic dermatitis, an evaluation of skin redness after UV radiation, wrinkle reduction, and hydration and skin roughness of the collagen mask in comparison to a pre-soaked cellulose sheet mask. The collagen mask contains soluble protein components, including small collagen peptides. The mask showed potential for promoting fibroblast activity. SEM analysis showed a native collagen structure similar to human dermis. The mask maintained the skin microbiome diversity and decreased skin pH levels. It demonstrated good tolerability on both intact and lesional skin and had a significant effect in reducing erythema caused by UV radiation compared to other skincare products. It showed significant improvements in skin hydration and the volume of eye wrinkles and was more effective than pre-soaked cellulose sheet masks. Collagen sheet masks have the potential to positively impact skin health and appearance by increasing hydration, reducing erythema, minimizing wrinkles, and maintaining a healthy skin microbiome and skin barrier.

Enzymatically modified isoquercitrin and its protective effects against photoaging: In-vitro and clinical studies.

This research examines the anti-aging potential of the flavonoid derivative of isoquercitrin known as enzymatically modified isoquercitrin (EMIQ). Initial HPLC analyses showed that EMIQ used in the study contained 1-12 glucosides and 10.7% pentahydroxyflavonoids, promising potent antioxidant properties. In subsequent in-vitro studies with UVA-exposed human dermal fibroblasts (HDFa), EMIQ demonstrated protective properties by reducing collagen damage. It modulated both the TGFβ/Smad pathway and the MMP1 pathway, contributing to collagen preservation. This protective effect was further confirmed using the T-Skin™ model, a reconstructed full-thickness human skin model, which illustrated that EMIQ could defend the physiological structures of both the epidermis and dermis against UV radiation. A 28-day clinical trial with 30 volunteers aged 31-55 years highlighted EMIQ's effectiveness. Participants using EMIQ-containing Essence displayed reduced facial trans-epidermal water loss and skin roughness, alongside improved skin elasticity. This study emphasizes EMIQ's potential as an anti-photoaging ingredient in cosmetics, warranting further research. The findings pave the way for developing innovative skincare products addressing photoaging effects.

Unraveling the molecular mechanisms of cell migration impairment and apoptosis associated with steroid sulfatase deficiency: Implications for X-linked ichthyosis

Steroid sulfatase (STS) deficiency is responsible for X-linked ichthyosis (XLI), a genetic disorder characterized by rough and dry skin caused by excessive keratinization. The impaired keratinization process leads to reduced cell mobility and increased apoptosis, which can cause an excessive buildup of the stratum corneum. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying XLI and found that STS deficiency reduces cell mobility and increases apoptosis in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells. To explore these mechanisms further, RNA-sequencing was conducted on skin tissues from STS transgenic and knockout mice. Our RNA-seq results revealed that STS deficiency plays a critical role in regulating multiple signaling pathways associated with cell mobility and apoptosis, such as Wnt/β signaling and the Hippo signaling pathway. Knockdown of the STS gene using shRNA in HaCaT cells led to an upregulation of E-cadherin expression and suppression of key factors involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), such as N-cadherin and vimentin. Inhibition of EMT involved the Hippo signaling pathway and reduction of HIF-1α. Interestingly, inhibiting STS with shRNA increased mitochondrial respiration levels, as demonstrated by the extracellular flux oxygen consumption rate. Additionally, we observed a significant increase in ROS production in partial STS knockout cells compared to control cells. Our study demonstrated that the excessive generation of ROS caused by STS deficiency induces the expression of Bax and Bak, leading to the release of cytochrome c and subsequent cell death. Consequently, STS deficiency impairs cell mobility and promotes apoptosis, offering insights into the pathophysiological processes and potential therapeutic targets for XLI.

An open-label, single-arm clinical study to evaluate efficacy and safety of Nyumi radiant skin gummies in healthy adult subjects with fine lines/wrinkles, hyperpigmentary spots, and under eyes dark circles

Objectives: Flawless skin is certainly the most desired feature that plays a vital cosmetic role in human being. Apart from protecting our body from environmental factors, it also protects the body from water loss and infection-causing microorganisms. However, the skin condition changes due to various ageing factors. The present study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of multivitamin and nutraceutical ingredients-based gummies in adult human participants. Material and Methods: An open-label, single-arm clinical study was conducted on 36 enrolled healthy males and females (in ratio of 1:2) between 20 and 65 years of age to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the study product in healthy adult subjects with fine lines/wrinkles, hyperpigmentary spots, and under eyes dark circles. All eligible subjects consumed the test product for 75 days. They underwent clinical evaluation by dermatologist, instruments evaluation, and subjective evaluation. Results: Thirty two (n = 32) subjects completed all study visits. The study product, when consumed for 75 days, was found to be efficacious in reducing fine lines/wrinkles, under-eye dark circles, and pigmentation and also improving the overall skin condition as evidenced by dermatological, instrumental, and subjective assessments on day 25, day 50, and day 75. Regular consumption of gummies significantly reduced the appearance and severity of coarse wrinkling/lines and fine lines/wrinkles, improved skin laxity, reduced skin dryness by moisturizing the skin, lighten the pigmented area and under-eye dark circles by reducing the melanin concentration, increased the radiance/glow of the skin, improved the texture and firmness of the skin, reduced skin roughness, and also improved skin tone evenness. Moreover, no adverse event was recorded during the study conduction. Conclusion: The results of this clinical study suggest that consumption of two gummies together once daily for 75 days significantly improved skin radiance/glow, skin laxity, skin hydration, skin texture and firmness, skin tone evenness and reduced skin roughness, hence improving the overall skin condition. It was found to be efficacious in reducing the appearance and severity of coarse wrinkling/lines, fine lines/wrinkles, hyperpigmentary spots, and under-eye dark circles by reducing the melanin concentration as assessed by dermatologist, various instruments, and subjective assessment. The test product also proved to be safe based on no apparent or experienced discomfort, reactions or any kind of intolerance or adverse skin reactions or events during the trial.

P20 A Rare Case of Hereditary Mucoepithelial Dysplasia With Long Term Follow Up

Abstract This 28-year old woman initially presented at 2 years of age with patchy alopecia, perianal erythema and widespread rough skin. Prior to her first birthday she was diagnosed with bilateral corneal ulceration and was treated initially with soft contact lenses. She had no features of ichthyosis or hyperkeratosis and teeth, nails and eyelashes were normal. The hair loss progressed with involvement of the eyebrows. On examination, there was widespread keratosis pilaris, perianal and vulval erythema and angular cheilitis. Light microscopy of the cut hair was essentially normal. A clinical diagnosis of hereditary mucoepithelial dysplasia was made at that time. She recently underwent genetic testing which has confirmed the diagnosis. She is now registered blind and wears a wig. Her IQ is normal. Hereditary mucoepithelial dysplasia (HMD; OMIM 158310) is a rare autosomal dominant genodermatosis characterised by chronic mucosal lesions associated with keratitis, non-scarring alopecia, keratosis pilaris and psoriasiform perineal intertrigo. A novel causative heterozygous pathogenic variant c.1580G>T (p.Arg527Leu) was identified in our patient in the sterol regulatory element-binding factor 1 (SREBF1) gene. This is involved in promoting the transcription of lipogenes that are associated with epidermal cholesterol and fatty acid biosynthesis. HMD is allelic with autosomal dominant IFAP showing considerable phenotypic overlap and should be considered in patient with congenital hypotrichosis.

Effects of food containing Lactococcus lactis strain T21 on the improvement of skin condition: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study.

This research aimed to examine the effect of daily intake of food containing Lactococcus lactis strain T21 (T21) on skin conditions and inflammation-related markers in healthy adults who experience itching because of dry skin and have an atopic predisposition. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group study was conducted on 44 subjects aged 20 to 64 years. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive a T21-containing food or placebo daily for 8 weeks. The hydration of stratum corneum, trans-epidermal water loss, skin brightness (L*), skin redness (a*), and quality of life (QOL) scores were evaluated. Moreover, SCCA2, Th1/Th2, peripheral blood eosinophil count, TGF-β1, TARC, total IgE, and LDH were measured as inflammation-related markers. The results showed that, compared with the placebo, food containing T21 reduced trans-epidermal water loss in the neck and increased neck skin brightness (L*) after 8 weeks of consumption. Furthermore, a stratified analysis in subjects with a history of atopy showed improvements in neck skin redness (a*) and skin-related QOL. No significant improvement in inflammation-related markers was observed. Intake of food containing T21 for 8 weeks in healthy adult with atopic predisposition was suggested to improve skin barrier function in the neck and brightness in the neck skin. Furthermore, the results also suggested that it had the effect of improving rough skin and reducing discomfort due to dryness in healthy adults with a history of atopy.

Cutaneous manifestations of endocrine diseases and their assessment in reconstructive surgery

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and its main function is protection from external injuries and infectious influences. It is a metabolically active organ that works mainly by self-renewal of the squamous epithelium through continuous differentiation. The surface layer of the skin “epidermis” is updated every four weeks. It is also the body’s largest sensory organ, which can respond to external stimuli such as heat, cold, touch and pressure, which is necessary to maintain the body’s thermostat. Being the largest organ of the body, the skin is an active immune organ and an important peripheral neuro-endocrine organ. It is closely related to the endocrine system and, therefore, contributes to the homeostasis of peripheral hormones. A complex pathophysiology occurs when thyroid hormones are exposed to the skin, especially in the case of a continuing apparent violation of the regulation of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormone is considered one of the key hormones regulating skin homeostasis. The release of peripheral thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) affects many organs, additionally regulating various functions at the cellular level. In particular, the skin is considered an important target organ, on which the thyroid hormone has a significant effect. Numerous skin diseases are associated with a violation of the regulation of thyroid hormones. Rough skin manifestations are usually the first sign of an imbalance of thyroid hormones, in which they play an integral role in maintaining natural function. This article reviews the pathology of thyroid hormones, as well as skin diseases associated with diseases of the pancreas. The interaction of thyroid gland diseases with the skin, manifested in the form of various skin pathologies, will be considered. It is known that endocrine disorders affect all organ systems of the body, including the skin.

An Assessment of the Effectiveness and Safety of ULTRACOL100 as a Device for Restoring Skin in the Nasolabial Fold Region

One of the most notable signs of an aging face is the nasolabial folds (NLFs), which often diminish emotional well-being and self-confidence. To address this concern, many people seek solutions to improve their appearance, often turning to fillers. The ULTRACOL100 device, a tissue restoration material, has been previously investigated and shown to exhibit significant efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo studies. In this research, we aim to explore the safety and effectiveness of the clinical trial of ULTRACOL100 in improving the skin in the NLF area over an 8-week observation period. Male and Female adults with nasolabial folds received two injections of ULTRACOL100, with a 4-week interval between treatments, on one side of their faces. On the other side, they received control materials (REJURAN®, JUVELOOK®, or HYRONT®). The assessment of skin improvement in the nasolabial fold area for each subject took place before and four weeks after each application. Various skin parameters, such as roughness, elasticity, moisture, transparency, trans-epidermal water loss, tone, radiance, skin pore size, and skin density, were measured to evaluate the outcomes. The application of the ULTRACOL100 device significantly reduced the skin roughness, the trans-epidermal water loss, and the skin pore size and increased the skin’s elasticity and internal elasticity, as well as the skin’s moisture, transparency, skin tone, radiance, and density. This study comprehensively investigates the effectiveness and safety of the ULTRACOL100 device, comparing it with three commercial products (REJURAN®, JUVELOOK®, and HYRONT®). The ULTRACOL100 device showed comparable performance in improving the appearance of the NLF area among this study subjects.

A Reversible, Versatile Skin‐Attached Haptic Interface Platform with Bioinspired Interconnection Architectures Capable of Resisting Sweat and Vibration

AbstractA stable conformal interface technology for rough and sweaty complex skin is essential for a haptic interface capable of delivering sophisticated mechanical stimuli. However, conventional polymeric/hydrogel‐based skin adhesives cannot maintain adequate adhesion interaction performance at the haptic interface due to repetitive vibrations or sweaty skin. This study reports a reversible, versatile skin‐attached haptic interface platform, which embeds the hybrid architecture of a water‐drainable hexagonal array of frog toe pads and the energy‐dissipation matrix of snail pedal muscles with interconnected structures. The hybrid frog–snail‐inspired adhesive patch exhibits remarkable adhesion in pulling and shear directions under both dry and sweaty conditions. Furthermore, the microchannels between the hexagonal array can effectively drain liquid under sweaty conditions while also enhancing skin‐conformal contacts. The adhesion force enhanced by energy‐dissipation is analyzed considering a simple theory based on the adhesion, elastic, dissipation energies, and geometric features, resulting in the vibration‐resistant characteristics against diverse dry and wet vibration environments (vibrational frequency: 1–150 Hz). Bioinspired integrated skin‐attached haptic interface platform demonstrates the versatility of being reversibly applicable to various skin surfaces such as fingers, arms, and legs, yielding the feasibility of dynamic handling a basketball with multiple contacts and impacts in virtual reality (VR).

High-resolution measurements of swordfish skin surface roughness

The three-dimensional morphology of swordfish skin roughness remains poorly understood. Subsequently, its importance to the overall physiology and hydrodynamic performance of the swordfish is yet to be determined. This is at least partly attributable to the inherent difficulty in making the required measurements of these complex biological surfaces. To address this, here two sets of novel high-resolution measurements of swordfish skin, obtained using a modular optical coherence tomography system and a gel-based stereo-profilometer, are reported and compared. Both techniques are shown to provide three-dimensional morphological data at micron-scale resolution. The results indicate that the skin surface is populated with spiny roughness elements, typically elongated in the streamwise direction, in groups of up to six, and in good agreement with previously reported information based on coarser measurements. In addition, our data also provide new information on the spatial distribution and variability of these roughness features. Two approaches, one continuous and another discrete, are used to derive various topographical metrics that characterize the surface texture of the skin. The information provided here can be used to develop statistically representative synthetic models of swordfish skin roughness.

Integrated phylogenetic analyses reveal the evolutionary, biogeographic, and diversification history of Asian warty treefrog genus Theloderma (Anura, Rhacophoridae).

Asian warty treefrogs, genus Theloderma, are morphologically variable arboreal frogs endemic to Southeast Asia and Southern China. However, integrated systematic studies are lacking, and knowledge of the genus in terms of diversity, origin, and historical diversification remains limited. To address these knowledge gaps, we used three mitochondrial and five nuclear gene fragments to reconstruct the Theloderma phylogeny, estimate divergence times, and examine the biogeography of the genus. Phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses suggest that the genus Theloderma comprises three major clades corresponding to two subgenera and seven species groups, and mPTP identified at least 12 putative cryptic species, suggesting that species diversity has been underestimated. Biogeographic analyses indicated that most recent common ancestor of Theloderma originated in the Indochina Peninsula during the Middle Oligocene (ca. 27.77 Ma) and the splitting of Clade A to C occurred in the Late Oligocene (ca. 23.55-25.57 Ma). Current biogeographic patterns result from two distinct processes: insitu diversification in the Indochina Peninsula and dispersal in multiple areas, namely southward dispersal to the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, northeastward dispersal to Southern China, northward dispersal to the Himalayas, and dispersal from Southern China to the Indochina Peninsula. Ancestral character reconstruction suggests that the ancestor of Theloderma may have possessed a small body size, rough dorsal skin, and absence of vomerine teeth and hand webbing, and that these four characters have undergone multiple evolutions. Principal component analysis based on eight bioclimatic variables did not clearly distinguish the three major clades of Theloderma, suggesting that species in these clades may occupy similar climatic ecological niches. Our research highlights the importance of orogeny and paleoclimatic changes, in shaping amphibian biodiversity in mountain ecosystems.

A guideline of antiphotoaging activity of polysaccharide assay in vitro and in vivo

AbstractPeople have become increasingly concerned about skin beauty and health issues, especially skin photoaging. Previous studies showed that skin photoaging was characterized by skin roughness and dryness. It was caused by UV radiation‐related dysregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and oxidative stress. Therefore, to investigate the antiphotoaging activity of polysaccharides, it is critical to establish the skin photoaging model, including the in vitro cellular model and the in vivo animal model. The in vitro cellular model is judged by cell viability, the MMPs expression, oxidative detection, and the quantities of inflammation cytokines. Moreover, both the damage to the epidermis and dermis of nude mice and the change of collagen content in the skin are indicators of the in vivo animal model. Thus, in this guideline, we tried to summarize the practice of antiphotoaging activity for polysaccharides.

Changes in the Metabolome and Nutritional Quality of Pulp from Three Types of Korla Fragrant Pears with Different Appearances as Revealed by Widely Targeted Metabolomics

Korla fragrant pear (Pyrus sinkiangensis Yü) fruits have a unique flavor and are rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, amino acids, and other nutrients. At present, the molecular basis of the quality differences among Korla fragrant pear fruits with a convex calyx and rough skin (RS), calyx shedding (SD), and a convex calyx (CV) remains unknown. To analyze the main metabolic components of Korla fragrant pear fruits and compare the antioxidant activities of these three fruits with different qualities, we used nutrient composition analysis and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS)-based widely targeted metabolomics approaches to analyze the changes in the quality characteristics of the pulp of these three Korla fragrant pear fruits with different appearances. The nutrient composition analysis showed that the fructose and glucose contents were not significantly different, and sucrose and vitamin C contents were significantly higher in SD fruits compared with CV and RS fruits. However, the levels of flavor substances such as titratable acids, total phenols, and total flavonoids were high in the pulp of RS fruits. The metabolomics results identified 1976 metabolites that were clustered into 12 categories, and phenolic acid and flavonoid metabolites were the most abundant. The differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in the fruits with different appearances were screened by multivariate statistical methods, and a total of 595 DAMs were detected. The analysis identified 300 DAMs between the CV and SD fruits, 246 DAMs between the RS and CV fruits, and 405 DAMs between the RS and SD groups. SD fruits contained the most metabolites with a high relative content, especially phenolic acids, lipids, amino acids and derivatives, alkaloids, and organic acids. Compared with CV fruits, flavonoid metabolism was more active in RS fruits, which also had a higher content of flavonoids, whereas the fewest metabolites were found in CV fruits, which also displayed less flavonoid accumulation. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the DAMs were mainly enriched in the metabolic pathways of flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, confirming that CV fruits have decreased flavone and flavonol biosynthesis and accumulate fewer flavonoids than RS fruits, which may explain the less bitter and astringent flavor of CV fruits. However, the flavonoid content in RS fruits was very high, which may be one of the reasons why RS fruits have a harder pulp and are less juicy, more slaggy, and less flavorful. Moreover, the analysis of the antioxidant activity showed that during fruit development and maturation, RS fruits had stronger antioxidant activity than SD and CV fruits. These results provide a theoretical basis for improving the fruit quality of Korla fragrant pears and the processing of pear pulp.

Skin rejuvenation effect of the combined PDLLA and non cross-linked hyaluronic acid: A preliminary study.

Skin aging is characterized by wrinkles, rough skin texture, pigmentation, facial erythema, and telangiectasia through structural and functional changes in the epidermis and dermis. Recently, injectable poly(D, L-lactic acid), a biodegradable polymer, has been used widely for skin rejuvenation. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of injectable dermal poly D, L-lactic acid) for skin rejuvenation. A total of 16 patients who desired skin rejuvenation were included. All participants received two or three procedure sessions with a 4 weeks interval between sessions. Clinical and three-dimensional images at baseline, before each procedural session, and follow-up visits were obtained. Therapeutic effects were assessed by evaluating signs of aging skin and overall improvement by dermatologists and patients. Histologic examinations with special stains were performed on the posterior auricular areas of consenting patients at baseline and follow-up visits after injecting poly D L-lactic acid into the postauricular area as in the face. Overall, statistically significant differences were observed in all signs of aging skin, such as fine wrinkles, skin texture, irregular pigmentation, telangiectasia, and facial erythema before and after treatments. Half (50%) of patients responded that there was more than 50% overall improvement. There were no severe adverse events. Histologic examination demonstrated increases in collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis. Results of this preliminary study suggest that injectable dermal poly D, L-lactic acid can significantly affect skin rejuvenation without causing any serious adverse events.

Vitamin A: It's role in cosmeceuticals for antiaging

AbstractTopical retinoids are among the most well‐studied and widely used cosmeceutical ingredients. Topical retinoids have skin rejuvenating benefits and can soften fine lines and wrinkles, lighten mottled hyperpigmentation, improve skin roughness, sallowness, and overall appearance of photoaged skin. Retinoic acid or tretinoin remains favored among dermatologists because there are a plethora of well‐designed clinical trials confirming its efficacy as a topical therapy for treating aging skin. In contrast, cosmeceutical retinoids are regulated as cosmetics and in general are not subjected to the same degree of scientific rigor as prescription retinoids. Despite this difference, there are studies confirming the antiaging benefits of cosmeceutical retinoids and studies comparing their efficacy and tolerability to tretinoin. This review will focus on over‐the‐counter retinoids including retinol, retinaldehyde, retinyl esters, adapalene, and novel retinoid molecules. Studies on pharmacokinetics, mechanisms of action, clinical benefits, and tolerability will be reviewed.

Arsenic Health Impacts to the People in Bangladesh

In a period from 1995 to 2000, we had collected and analyzed 33,092 hand tube well water samples from four different/principal geomorphological regions (Hill tract, Table Land, Flood Plain, and Deltaic reason) i.e., from all 64 districts of Bangladesh and found arsenic in 60 districts that were above the WHO recommended value in drinking water (10 μg/L) and 50 districts that were above the maximum permissible limit, 50 μg/L. In our study for 6 years in Bangladesh, the survey for identification of arsenical patients was conducted by our group with a medical team in 261 villages of 80 police stations under 33 districts out of 50 where contamination of groundwater with arsenic is above 50 μg/L. We could not identify people suffering from arsenical skin lesions who drunk water below 100 μg/L of arsenic. During this survey, arsenic patients were identified in 222 villages of 69 police stations under 31 out of 33 districts. The number of people we examined including children was 18840, and 3725 people were identified with arsenical skin lesions. We had registered 1885 males, 1542 females, and 298 children out of the total 3725 patients, having arsenical dermal lesions, such as: melanosis, leucomelanosis, keratosis, hyperkeratosis, dorsal, non-petting oedema, gangrene, cancer, etc. If children are included, then 19.77% (n=3725) have arsenical dermal lesions, and for separately adults and children, these are 24.52% and 6.13%, respectively. Buccal mucus membrane melanosis (MMM) on tongue, gums, lips, etc. was also found. Rough dry skin often with palpable nodules (spotted keratosis) on dorsal of hand, feet, and legs are the symptoms seen in severe cases.

The identification of a novel mutation (p.I223fs) in WRN associated with Werner syndrome.

Werner syndrome (WS) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by mutations in the WRN gene, and it is characterized by multiple manifestations corresponding to early-onset aging. This study reports the case of a WS patient with a novel WRN mutation. A 36-year-old male patient with WS was evaluated after approval from the local ethics committee. The clinical and biochemical findings of the patient were described. Peripheral blood sample was collected to extract genomic DNA for WRN gene exome sequencing. The three-dimensional (3D) protein structural prediction analysis was performed via the AlphaFold 2.2 program and PyMol software. We report the case of a clinically diagnosed WS patient with consanguineous parents who presented with complex manifestations including early-onset diabetes mellitus, binocular cataracts, cerebral infarction, cerebral atherosclerosis, hypertension, dyslipidemia, hypothyroidism, and suspected meningioma, accompanied by short stature, gray hair, rough skin with subcutaneous fat atrophy, a high-pitched voice, palmoplantar keratoderma, bilateral flat feet, and an indolent deep ulceration on the foot. Exome sequencing identified a novel homozygous frameshift mutation in the WRN gene, c.666-669 del TATT, p.I223fs. The 3D structure prediction showed that premature termination and significant structural changes could occur in the mutant WRN protein. We identified a novel homozygous frameshift mutation, p.I223fs, in WRN in a Chinese patient with WS, expanding the spectrum of mutations in WS.

The effect of a 12-week dietary intake of food supplements containing collagen and MSM on dermis density and other skin parameters: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised four-way study comparing the efficacy of three test products

Dietary supplementation with collagen has been gaining popularity as an anti-ageing remedy. The aim of this randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled four-way study was to investigate and compare the effects of 12-week daily dietary supplementation with products containing 10 g hydrolysed fish collagen (HC) or a combination of 5 g or 10 g HC with 1.5 g methylsulphonylmethane (MSM) on dermis density in healthy human subjects. The secondary objectives were to investigate the effects on a variety of other skin parameters. The study results showed improved dermis density, skin texture and reduced wrinkles for all the active products. However, products containing MSM were superior in the improvement of skin thickness and roughness, and a higher dose of HC combined with MSM was crucial for improvement in hydration. On the other hand, no significant effects of the supplementation on viscoelasticity and transepidermal water loss were determined with any of the products.

Consumer’s perception and acceptance of lumpfish used in salmon cages

Lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) are used as cleaner fish in salmon aquaculture to treat sea lice. However, after 18–24 months and reaching 0.4–0.6 kg, the fish is removed from the salmon cage and usually discarded, which raises social, economic, and environmental challenges, as well as ethical concerns. This paper assesses the viability of marketing lumpfish as food by exploring possible products that can be made from the fish in Vietnamese cuisine, and understanding the stakeholder’s perception and acceptance of the fish. We used a customer co-creation method to investigate market potential, sending a sample of 45 kg of frozen and whole lumpfish from Norway to Vietnam. Researchers, industrial stakeholders, restaurant chefs, and household consumers collaborated to discuss, process, cook, and taste the fish, and the evaluations were assessed before and after consumption. More than 10 Vietnamese dishes were identified as possible use for lumpfish, including grilled, fried, sour soup, hotpot, and several value-added products. Household consumers and restaurant buyers evaluated the fish positively in terms of sensory quality (taste, color, flavor, size, and texture), but the rough skin and sharp thorn are negative aspects. Individual consumers accept the fish and were willing to buy it if the price is reasonable. In contrast, industrial stakeholders evaluated the lumpfish less favorably, citing its soft and mushy texture, sticky smell, and very low fillet-recovery-ratio (only 15.9% of skinless fillet and 16.7% of kama can be obtained from whole-defrosted lumpfish). They also found that the taste of the fish was not delicious and bitter in some value-added products. In addition, this study found that the information relating to lumpfish as a cleaner fish is not an issue in the Vietnamese context.

Association analysis of agronomic traits and construction of genetic networks by resequencing of 306 sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) lines

Due to the relatively brief domestication history of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris ssp. vulgaris), our understanding of the genomic diversity and functional genes in its cultivars is limited, resulting in slow breeding progress. To address this issue, a total of 306 germplasm materials of major cultivars and breeding lines from China, the USA, and Europe were selected for genome resequencing. We investigated population structure and genetic diversity and performed selective scanning of genomic regions, identifying six novel genes associated with important agronomic traits: the candidate genes DFAX2 and P5CS for skin roughness; the candidate genes FRO5, GL24, and PPR91 for root yield and sugar yield, and the pleiotropic candidate gene POLX for flourishing growth vigour, plant height, crown size, flesh coarseness, and sugar yield. In addition, we constructed a protein–protein interaction network map and a phenotype-gene network map, which provide valuable information for identifying and characterizing functional genes affecting agronomic traits in sugar beet. Overall, our study sheds light on the future improvement of sugar beet agronomic traits at the molecular level.