Skin Scales Research Articles

Effect of various extraction times on the physicochemical properties, functional groups, and microstructure of snakehead fish Channa striata skin–scale blended gelatin

Effect of various extraction times on the physicochemical properties, functional groups, and microstructure of snakehead fish Channa striata skin–scale blended gelatin

Latest Developments in the Hardspot Inspection of heavy plates

Hard Spots are local areas with increased hardness on the surface of semi-finished or end products in steel manufacturing. The cause of these hard spots is attributed to effects in the casting or rolling process. In general, the occurrence of hard spots cannot be avoided completely in production of heavy plates. Therefore, in various current line-pipe specifications the topic ‘hard spots’ is discussed and there is actually a strong request for a suitable test method from end users as well as manufacturers of line pipes. The current presentation should give an update on the ongoing developments. Basis of all current approaches are electromagnetic inspection methods, based on the correspondence in between electrical and magnetic material properties and physical hardness. To be able to integrate an inspection into the production process, the so called rolling skin or mill scale, a thin surface layer of different iron oxides with different material properties to the base material, should not influence the inspection results. The inhomogeneities of this rolling skin, especially in conductivity and permeability, normally render standard eddy current inspection impossible. Additionally in the standard production process, the products were handled by large cranes, manipulating the plates by strong magnets. These magnets leave behind a significant residual magnetization. To overcome both problems the method uses a strong alternating magnetization to measure different resulting micro magnetic parameters. By combining these parameters, the mill scale as well as the residual magnetization effects can be minimized, so it gets possible to measure small local hardness variations on the plates. The presented paper describes the actual progress of the inspection method itself including the theoretical background as well as the calibration on artificial hard spots. Furthermore, an outlook will be given to the implementation in an automatic inline inspection system for plate mills.

Effectiveness of Three Types of Moisturizers on Senile Dry Skin: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

For dry skin, the application of a hypoallergenic moisturizer twice daily is recommended in elderly individuals. However, it is not known which is the most effective and appropriate moisturizer among the commercially available moisturizers. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of the three widely used moisturizers for the treatment of senile dry skin. Patients/Methods. This interventional study involved elderly individuals aged >65 years who were living in a nursing home. The participants were randomly divided into the interventional (moisturizers A, B, and C) and conventional care groups. Moisturizers A, B, and C were applied on the skin of each member of the three intervention groups twice daily for 8 weeks. The water content of the stratum corneum and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were evaluated before and after the intervention. Changes in these parameters among the groups were compared using two-way analysis of variance and a posthoc test. Moisturizers A, B, and C and conventional care groups comprised six, seven, five, and four participants, respectively. The water content of the stratum corneum was significantly higher in the moisturizer A (p = 0.01) and B (p = 0.047) groups than in the conventional care group. There was no significant difference in TEWL among the groups. In terms of the appearance of the skin, white powder and small scales were both reduced in group A. Taken together with the water content, this was considered a clinically significant change.

Subcutaneous Injection of Allogeneic Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Psoriasis Plaques: Clinical Trial Phase I.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) play immunomodulatory role in various autoimmune diseases. Previous pre-clinical and clinical studies have shown that MSCs could be a therapeutic modality for psoriasis. However, the mechanisms of treatment and its possible side effects are under investigation. In this study, the safety and probable efficacy of injecting allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ADSCs) in psoriatic patients were evaluated. In this phase I clinical study with six months of follow-up, total number of 1×106 or 3×106 cells/cm2 of ADSCs were injected into the subcutaneous tissue of each plaque as a single dose in three males and two females (3M/2F) with a mean age of 32.8 ± 8.18. The primary outcome was safety. Changes in clinical and histological indexes, the number of B and T lymphocytes in local and peripheral blood, and serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were assessed. Paired t test was used to compare variables at two time points (baseline and six months after injection) and repeated measures ANOVA test was utilized for variables at three time points in follow-up visits. No major adverse effects such as burning, pain, itching, or any systemic side effects were observed following ADSCs injection, and the lesions showed slight to considerable improvement after injection. The mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory factors were reduced in the dermis of the patients after injection. The increased expression level of Foxp3 transcription factor in the patient blood samples suggested modulation of inflammation after ADMSCs administration. Six months after the intervention, no major side effects were reported, but skin thickness, erythema, and scaling of the plaques, as well as the PASI score, were decreased in majority of patients. Our study suggested that ADSC injection could be considered as a safe and effective therapeutic approach for psoriatic plaques (registration number: IRCT20080728001031N24).

The Domestic Isolation of Terbinafine- and Itraconazole-Resistant Trichophyton indotineae in Chinese Mainland.

Trichophyton indotineae, a new species of dermatophytes, has become a significant concern in treating dermatophytosis due to the high level of terbinafine resistance reported in India and even worldwide. This study aimed to report the terbinafine- and itraconazole-resistant T. indotineae in Chinese mainland, by identifying the phylogenetic classification of the isolate strain, and detecting the drug resistance, gene mutation and expression. The skin scales of the patient were cultured on SDA and the isolate was authenticated by DNA sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed following the M38-A2 CLSI protocol to examine the MICs values of terbinafine, itraconazole, fluconazole, etc. The strain was screened for mutations in the squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene by Sanger sequencing and detected the expression of CYP51A and CYP51B by qRT-PCR. A multi-resistant ITS genotype VIII sibling of the T. mentagrophytes complex (T. indotineae) was isolated in Chinese mainland. The strain harbored high terbinafine MIC of > 32μg/mL and itraconazole MIC of 1.0μg/mL, which was identified a mutation in the squalene epoxidase gene with amino acid substitution (Phe397Leu, mutation 1191C > A). In addition, overexpression of CYP51A and CYP51B was observed. With multiple relapses, the patient finally achieved clinical cure by itraconazole pulse therapy and topical clotrimazole cream for 5weeks. The first domestic strain of terbinafine- and itraconazole-resistant T. indotineae from a patient in Chinese mainland was isolated. Itraconazole pulse therapy can be an effective method for the treatment of T. indotineae.

Centella asiatica alleviates psoriasis through JAK/STAT3-mediated inflammation: An in vitro and in vivo study

Ethnopharmacological relevanceCentella asiatica (L.) Urban (CA) is a dry herb of the Umbelliferae family, first mentioned in Shennong's Herbal Classic. It is known for its ability to clear heat and dampness, detoxify, and reduce swelling, making it a popular treatment for dermatitis, wound healing, and lupus erythematosus. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by clearly delineated erythema and squamous skin lesions. However, the effect of CA on regulating inflammation and its mechanism in the pathogenesis of psoriasis is still not fully understood. Aim of the studyThis study evaluated the effects of CA on inflammatory dermatosis by in vitro and in vivo studies. And clarified the important role of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in the treatment of psoriasis with CA. Methods and materialsDifferent components of CA were extracted and analyzed for their total flavonoid and polyphenol contents. The antioxidant capacity of the CA extracts was determined using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods. In vitro, HaCaT cells were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 20 μg·mL-1) to establish an inflammatory injury model, and the effects of CA extracts on oxidative stress, inflammation and skin barrier function were evaluated systematically. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining was utilized for detecting cell apoptosis, while the expression of NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 pathways were detected by RT-PCR and western blot. Combined with an in vivo mice model of Imiquimod (IMQ) induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation, the most effective CA extract for alleviating psoriasis was identified and its potential mechanism was investigated. ResultsCA extracts showed high antioxidant capacity and were able to increase the content of GSH and SOD while reducing intracellular ROS generation. Notably, CA ethyl acetate extract (CAE) was found to be the most effective. Furthermore, CA extracts effectively downregulate inflammatory factors (IFN-γ, CCL20, IL-6 and TNF-α) mRNA levels and improved the gene expressions of barrier protective factors AQP3 and FLG, among them CAE and n-hexane extract of CA (CAH) had better effects. Western blot analysis indicated that CAE and CAH had anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 pathways, and CAE exhibited the best regulatory effect at the dose of 25 μg·mL-1. In vivo experiment, the psoriasis-like skin inflammation mice model was established by 5% IMQ and treated CAE solution (10, 20, 40 mg·mL-1) for 7 days, the results showed that CAE intervention reduced the skin scale and blood scab, and significantly inhibited the secretion of inflammatory factors in both serum and skin lesions at the dose of 40 mg·mL-1. ConclusionCentella asiatica extracts were effective in improving skin inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction, and also alleviated psoriasis through JAK/STAT3 pathway. The results provided experimental support for the potential use of Centella asiatica in functional food and skin care products.

Comparison of 2 sampling methods for molecular detection of bacteria or fungi from feline hair and scale specimens.

Skin diseases of cats are among the most frequent client motivations for a veterinary consultation. Both carpet and toothbrush sampling are commonly used to obtain hair and scale samples for microbiologic testing. Although molecular tests have become more accessible and more widely used by clinicians, the ideal collection method for clinical specimens is unclear. To assess their performance in retrieving microbial DNA from clinical samples, we compared the bacterial and fungal DNA load in hair and skin scale samples collected using carpet or toothbrush methods. We evaluated sample DNA yield using fluorometry, spectrophotometry, and quantitative PCR. Despite no measurable differences in sample weight, toothbrush samples yielded significantly higher bacterial (p = 0.028) and fungal (p = 0.005) DNA loads compared to carpet samples, regardless of disease status. The toothbrush method was more effective in harvesting microbial DNA from hair and skin scale samples.

A prospective open-label study of the antifungal activity of external forms of activated zinc pyrithione in the treatment of Malassezia-associated skin diseases

Background. There is insufficient data on the antifungal activity of activated zinc pyrithione, which is widely used in practice. Taking into account the reports about a significant role of Malassezia in the pathogenesis of a number of dermatoses, the study of this issue is of scientific, practical interest.
 Aims. To evaluate the antifungal activity of external forms of activated zinc pyrithione in the treatment of psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis versicolor.
 Materials and methods. An open prospective study was conducted between March and July 2022. Patients with psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis were treated with external forms of activated zinc pyrithione for 21 days. Skin scales and circular prints from lesion foci, as well as from skin areas without clinical manifestations before and after therapy were studied. A quantitative assessment of skin colonization by micromycetes of Malassezia was performed using microscopic, cultural methods of examination. Clinical efficacy and drug safety of the therapy was assessed using the Dermatological Symptom Scale Index, by recording adverse events at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3.
 Results. 64 patients aged 18 to 65 years with diagnoses of psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and pityriasis versicolor were included. 60 patients completed the study, 4 were excluded due to failure to adhere to the schedule.
 In patients with seborrheic dermatitis and pityriasis versicolor in the lesion foci after therapy, a significant decrease colonization level according to the results of microscopic, cultural studies was observed. In psoriasis patients, a significant decrease in the colonization level was obtained only based on the results of microscopic examination.
 In all groups, significant differences in comparison to the initial level were registered already at the 1st week of treatment. No adverse events were registered.
 Conclusion. Activated zinc pyrithione in the form of cream and aerosol showed moderate antifungal activity against micromycetes of the genus Malassezia.

Dermatoses in overweight and obese children and their relationship with insulin and skin color.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of obesity-related dermatoses in obese children, and the association between these dermatoses and insulin resistance as well as skin color. Obese, overweight, and normal weight children according to body mass index who were followed up and treated in the outpatient clinics were included in the study. Dermatological examinations of the participants were performed, and fasting insulin and glucose levels were checked. The obese and overweight children were evaluated as the patient group (70 girls, 41 boys, mean age: 12.37 ± 3.14 years). One hundred one healthy children with normal weight were determined as the control group (59 girls, 42 boys, mean age: 12.15 ± 2.43). The first five common dermatoses in the patient group when compared with the control group were keratosis pilaris (KP), striae distensae, hyperhidrosis, acanthosis nigricans (AN), and plantar hyperkeratosis. The first five dermatoses which were positively correlated with formation and insulin resistance were KP, striae distensae, AN, hyperhidrosis, and plantar hyperkeratosis. According to the Fitzpatrick skin scale, we found that the darker the skin color, the higher the probability of ANand KP(OR, 0.298; 95% CI, 0.106-0.834, p = 0.021; OR, 0.306; 95% CI, 0.117-0.796, p = 0.015, respectively). Some dermatoses associated with obesity and insulin resistance were not found in obese children, or there was no significant association. These results indicate that many skin morbidities may be prevented by preventing and treating obesity and insulin resistance in the early period.

MYCOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL PROFILE ALONG WITH ANTIFUNGAL SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN OF DERMATOPHYTOSIS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL FROM WESTERN INDIA

Introduction:Dermatophytosis is a common superficial mycosis causing significant cutaneous morbidity. In recent times, the prevalence of dermatophytosis is increasing. The dermatophyte infections spread easily and rapidly especially in low socioeconomic classes and thus warrant early therapy.Dermatophyte infections are commonly treated by topical antifungal drugs like clotrimazole, terbinafine, ketoconazole. But severe and chronic form of dermatophytosis requires treatment with systemic antifungal drugs like itraconazole, griseofulvin and terbinafine.There is emergence of antifungal resistant strains due to incongruous use of antifungals and poor antifungal policy. There are limited studies related to antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST). So present study was undertaken to determine mycological, clinical profile and antifungal Susceptibility testing ofdermatophytosis. Material & Methods: A prospective study was conducted on patients with superficial fungal infections over a period of 11 months (October 2018 to August 2019). Various samples like skin scrapings, scales, hair and nail clippings were processed by standard fungal culture methods. AFST was performed by using E-test strips (HiMedia) of fluconazole, itraconazole and terbinafine on Sabourauds dextrose agar plates and interpreted according to CLSI (M38A). Results: A total of 25 (23.8%) dermatophytes were isolated from 105 (skin 57, Nail 41, scales 11, Hair 6) samples. Out of 25 culture positive patients, 18 presented as tineacorporis, 3 as tineacruris, 3 onchomycosis, 1 each as tineacapitis&tinea incognito. T. tonsurans was most common dermatophyte 40% (N10), followed by T. rubrum 36% (N9), T. mentagrophytes 12% (N3) and M. canis 8% (N2) and T. megninii 4% (N1). AFST of all 25 isolates revealed that 21 isolates were sensitive to itraconazole (0.023 to 0.75 mcg/ml) wheras a single isolate of T. rubrum and T. tonsurans each were resistant. Two isolates of T.tonsurans showed lower MICs for itraconazole (0.023mcg/ml). For terbinafine (0.002-0.008mcg/ml), 14 isolates (56%) showed resistance with MICs >32 mcg/ml. For fluconazole (range 0.5-4 mcg/ml) only 3 isolates showed MIC in range while22 were resistant MICs >256mcg/ml. The results were communicated with dermatologists and appropriate changes were made in patient therapy. Conclusion: The emergence of resistant dermatophytesemphasises the need of antifungal drug susceptibility tests, antifungal stewardship and strong antifungal policy to enable the clinician to start suitable antifungals to avoid antifungal resistance and treatment failure.

Abstract 5133: Oxazolone induced atopic dermatitis mouse model using hIL-4/hIL-4Ra double knock-in mice, a preclinical mouse model for evaluating Dupilumab biosimilars

Abstract Background. Th2 cytokines (e.g. IL-4, IL-5, IL13) drive defined allergic reactions and various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases including atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma and rhinitis. IL-4Ra is a receptor shared by both IL-4 and IL-13, thus blocking of IL-4Ra could prevent both IL-4 or IL-13 mediated Th2 inflammatory response. Dupilumab (Dupixent) is a humanized anti-IL-4Ra monoclonal antibody which binds to human IL-4Ra and attenuates IL-4/IL-13 mediated Th2 inflammation. It has been approved for treating moderate to severe AD and asthma. However, since Dupilumab isn’t cross-reacting to mouse IL-4Ra, there is an unmet need for a robust mouse model to evaluate Dupilumab biosimilars at preclinical stages. In this study, we described an oxazolone induced AD model in hIL-4/hIL-4Ra double knock-in mice and its application to evaluate Dupilumab and its biosimilars. Methods. The oxazolone induce AD mouse model was established in hIL-4/hIL-4Ra double knock-in mice by repeated topical applications of Oxazolone on ears. Oxazolone-induced mice received subcutaneous injection of Dupilumab at 25 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg. Dermatitis activity was assessed by measuring ear thickness, ear skin erosion, redness and scaling every other day. Serum were collected at the study end and IgE levels were measured by ELISA. In addition, spleens were also collected and their weights were compared. Ear were collected at study end and proceeded with cytokine analysis and pathology evaluation. Results. Repeated topical application of oxazolone on mouse ears induced AD-like phenotypes including ear skin swelling, erythema and scaling, drastic elevation of IgE in serum, excessive production of human IL-4 cytokine as well as excessive inflammatory cell infiltration in ear skin, which suggests oxazolone is able to induce AD in this hIL-4/hIL-4Ra double knock-in mice. Subcutaneous injection of Dupilumab at two different doses levels, 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg successfully ameliorated ear skin swelling, erythema and scaling at the study end. In addition, Dupilumab at both dose levels significantly reduced the IgE level in serum and mitigated the inflammatory cell infiltration, e.g. eosinophil infiltration, in mouse ear. Furthermore, Dupilumab treatment significantly reduced mouse IL-6 and mouse KC/GRO levels in mouse ear. However, Dupilumab at both dose levels did not change the serum levels of human IL-4 as well as some other Th1 cytokines such as IFN-γ, IL-1β, TNF-α, etc. in mouse ear. Conclusion. In summary, repeated challenge with Oxazolone in hIL-4/hIL-4Ra double knock-in mice resulted in the development of AD with a Th2-like hypersensitivity, mimicking the key features and pathology of the human disease, which responded to standard of care treatment Dupilumab. This provides a valuable translational model for the evaluation of future biosimilars of Dupilumab. Citation Format: Tao Yang, Rongfei Lu, Xiaofei Xu, Likun Zhang, Dawei Wang, Xinhe Feng, Xiaoyu An, Jessie (Jingjing) Wang, Xianfei He, Carl K. Edwards. Oxazolone induced atopic dermatitis mouse model using hIL-4/hIL-4Ra double knock-in mice, a preclinical mouse model for evaluating Dupilumab biosimilars. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 5133.

Abstract 6335: Developing anti-IL-22 therapeutics for inflammation and cancer

Abstract Chronic inflammation facilitates the development of cancer, age-related, inflammatory autoimmune and other diseases. Proinflammatory cytokines play a central role in this pathogenic process by driving activation of NF-ƙB, STAT3 and other signaling cascades. IL-22 is an inflammatory cytokine involved in the pathology of autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and ulcerative colitis. IL-22 has also been shown to promote epithelial cell proliferation, stemness and tumorigenesis in cancer. Recent studies demonstrated that neutralization of IL-22 reduced dysplasia and tumor development in preclinical models. To date, there has not been a clear application for anti-IL-22 therapy for autoimmune diseases and cancer, likely due to identifying the right disease indication and to their low potency and low efficacy. Thus, there remains an opportunity to explore the potential of more potent anti-IL-22 therapeutics. Using BioAtla’s proprietary antibody discovery and engineering platforms, we have generated humanized anti-IL-22 antibodies with high affinities to human, cynomolgus and mouse IL-22. In vitro data demonstrated that our anti-IL-22 antibodies inhibited IL-22-induced p-STAT3, CXCL-1 and IL-10 activities. In addition, our antibodies showed a 10-fold increased binding activity to human IL-22 compared to Fezakinumab, which was previously developed by Pfizer for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. BioAtla’s high affinity anti-IL-22 antibodies were shown to be more potent relative to Fezakinumab using multiple in vitro assays. To test the functions of our antibodies in vivo, we also established mouse models to determine anti-IL22 efficacy. More specifically, to study whether targeting IL-22 in an inflammation-induced tumor microenvironment reduces tumor occurrence, we developed an inflammation-driven sporadic colitis-associated colorectal cancer mouse model for ongoing cancer studies that will be discussed. In addition, we evaluated our anti-IL22 antibodies in an imiquimod-induced psoriasiform skin inflammation mouse model. The mice treated with potent anti-IL-22 antibodies had significantly reduced skin lesions, including erythema, scales, and skin thickness compared to isotype antibody-treated mice. Q-PCR analysis of the mouse skin demonstrated that treatment with our anti-IL-22 antibody led to significantly decreased RNA levels of the imiquimod-induced inflammatory marker CXCL3. Thus, the enhanced anti-IL-22 therapy is a promising strategy for targeting anti-inflammation in autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and inflammatory cancers, including colorectal cancer. In conclusion, the development of a potent, species cross reactive anti-IL-22 antibody using BioAtla’s antibody discovery and engineering platforms addresses the challenges of anti-IL-22 therapeutics and allows for translational studies in relevant animal efficacy and safety models. Citation Format: Christina Wheeler, Jian Chen, Cathy Chang, Gerhard Frey, Haizhen Liu, Jing Wang, Kathryn Woodard, Solmarie Joyner, Wei Zhou, William J. Boyle, Jay M. Short. Developing anti-IL-22 therapeutics for inflammation and cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 6335.

Chronic activation of Toll-like receptor 2 induces an ichthyotic skin phenotype.

Ichthyosis defines a group of chronic conditions that manifest phenotypically as a thick layer of scales, often affecting the entire skin. While the gene mutations that lead to ichthyosis are well documented, the actual signalling mechanisms that lead to scaling are poorly characterized; however, recent publications suggest that common mechanisms are active in ichthyotic tissue and in analogous models of ichthyosis. To determine common mechanisms of hyperkeratosis that may be easily targeted with small-molecule inhibitors. We combined gene expression analysis of gene-specific short hairpin RNA (shRNA) knockdowns in rat epidermal keratinocytes (REKs) of two genes mutated in autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI), Tgm1 and Alox12b, and proteomic analysis of skin scale from patients with ARCI, as well as RNA sequencing data from rat epidermal keratinocytes treated with the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) agonist Pam3CSK4. We identified common activation of the TLR2 pathway. Exogenous TLR2 activation led to increased expression of important cornified envelope genes and, in organotypic culture, caused hyperkeratosis. Conversely, blockade of TLR2 signalling in keratinocytes from patients with ichthyosis and our shRNA models reduced the expression of keratin 1, a structural protein overexpressed in ichthyosis scale. A time course of TLR2 activation in REKs revealed that although there was rapid initial activation of innate immune pathways, this was rapidly superseded by widespread upregulation of epidermal differentiation-related proteins. Both nuclear factor kappa B phosphorylation and GATA3 upregulation was associated with this switch, and GATA3 overexpression was sufficient to increase keratin 1 expression. Taken together, these data define a dual role for TLR2 activation during epidermal barrier repair that may be a useful therapeutic modality in treating diseases of epidermal barrier dysfunction.

Survey and Prevalence of Lice Infestation the Pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Kurdistan Region-Iraq

Many parasite species may damage domestic pigeons, which are from the most essential birds for human populations in every corner of the world. Ectoparasites can be found in almost every bird. Birds can be impacted by a number of health problems, but parasitic illnesses play a crucial role influence. They are a significant source of disease infection and transmission. Although domestic pigeon lice are not known to spread any avian infections, they are hazardous to young birds in particular and typically accompany poor poultry health that is due to other factors. where a lot of lice could keep you up at night. They consume their bodily fluids, such as blood, and feathers. Since lice have a chewing mouthpart and feed on dry skin scales, scab tissues, and feather parts in addition to irritating the host's skin and sucking blood, the effects of louse parasitism on birds are frequently severe and include stunted growth and susceptibility to other infections. From October 2017 to July 2018, 200 domestic pigeons were checked for pigeons chewing lice. Three urban locations were chosen at random for each of the three main governorates in the study area—Duhok, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah. Hands were picked clean of lice; Samples were kept in 96 percent ethanol-filled tubes before being examined and identified under a dissecting microscope. In the current study, 48% (96/200) of domestic pigeons were infected with one or more lice and three species of lice were recorded and identified by morphological characteristics: Companulatus compare, Columbicola columbae, and Hohorostilla lata.

Evaluation of effectiveness and tolerability of a moisturiser as an adjuvant to isotretinoin therapy for acne: a real-world evidence

Background: Moisturizers are recommended as an adjuvant to acne therapies especially topical/systemic retinoids to counteract their cutaneous side-effects. Moisturisers also reduce inflammation and the intensity of acne. The compliment study was designed to evaluate effectiveness and tolerability of moisturiser (Excela, Cipla Ltd., Mumbai, India) in patients prescribed isotretinoin for managing their acne in real-world scenario. Methods: This open-label, observational, prospective, non-comparative multicentre study was conducted between June 2019 and January 2020. Patients who were prescribed Excela moisturiser as an adjuvant to isotretinoin for acne management were enrolled. After four weeks, the investigator graded the patient’s skin on smoothness and softness on a five-point scale and dryness, scaling and redness on a four-point scale. Its organoleptic characteristics and tolerability were evaluated using the subject assessment questionnaire. Results: We enrolled 200 patients (average age: 24.02±5.44 years). Investigators rated smoothness and softness of the skin as very good to excellent in 129 (64.5%) and 113 (56.5%) patients. No patient reported severe skin dryness, scaling or redness. Very good to excellent spreadability and appeal was rated by 132 (66.0%) and 133 (66.5%) patients, respectively. Eighty (40%) patients rated the moisturiser as non-greasy/non-sticky. Itching (1%), redness (0.5%), cold (0.5%), and cough (0.5%) were reported as adverse events but were of mild intensity and unrelated to the study product. No patient experienced serious adverse event or moisturiser-related adverse event. Conclusions: Overall, Excela moisturiser was effective and tolerable in patients with acne who were prescribed isotretinoin at the end of 4-week-long treatment period.

Efficacy and Safety of Cream Containing Dipotassium Glycyrrhizinate, Vaccinium myrtillius, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, and Tamarindus indica Compared with Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream in Eczema and Psoriasis

Background: Topical corticosteroids are the main treatment in eczema and psoriasis. However, long-term use of corticosteroids causes unwanted adverse effects. Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate (DPG) HERB cream, containing DPG, Vaccinium myrtillius, epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside, and Tamarindus indica, has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect by inhibiting histamine release and proinflammatory cytokine production so a natural herbal cream is required for alternative treatment. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of DPG-HERB. Materials and Methods: The present study was a right-left, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial in participants with eczema or plaque psoriasis on both sides of the body. DPG-HERB was applied to the lesion on one side of the body, while 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide (TA) cream was applied to the lesion on the other side, twice daily for four weeks. Disease severity as eczema area and severity index (EASI) in eczema, and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) in psoriasis, skin biophysics as corneometry and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and clinical assessments as erythema, scale or excoriation, and lichenification or thickness, were evaluated at baseline, week 2 and week 4 after treatment. The dermatology life quality index (DLQI) was performed at baseline and week 4. Adverse effects were recorded during each visit. Results: The evaluation of the 75 patients with 150 lesions in the present study, DPG-HERB and TA cream showed significant improvement in all the evaluated characteristics of eczema (p<0.05), however, in psoriasis, both creams showed significant improvement in skin biophysics, PASI, scale, and thickness (p<0.05), but DPG-HERB was less effective in decreasing erythema (DPG-HERB, p=0.31 and TA, p<0.05) and less improving TEWL compared with 0.1% TA cream (DPG-HERB, p=0.051 and TA, p<0.05). No side effects in the short-term period were reported in either group. Conclusion: DPG-HERB is safe and efficacious in eczema, but less effective in psoriasis comparing to TA cream. Keywords: Eczema; Plaque psoriasis; Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate acid

Biallelic mutations in FLG, TGM1, and STS genes segregated with different types of ichthyoses in eight families of Pakistani origin.

Congenital ichthyosis is a diverse group of keratinization disorders associated with generalized scaling of skin of varying severity. The non-syndromic forms of congenital ichthyosis are further grouped into common ichthyosis (ichthyosis vulgaris and X-linked ichthyosis), autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis, and keratopathic ichthyosis. To identify sequence variants involved in different forms of hereditary ichthyoses. We studied eight families with different types of ichthyosis including four families with autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis and four families with common ichthyosis. Whole exome sequencing and PCR based genotyping was carried out to find out the molecular basis of disease. In one family, a novel duplication sequence variant NM_002016.2:c.2767dupT; NP_002007.1:p.Ser923PhefsTer2 was identified in FLG gene; in four families a previously reported nonsense sequence variant NM_000359.3:c.232C>T; NP_002007.1:p.Arg78Ter was identified in TGM1 gene, while, in three families of X-linked recessive ichthyosis, the whole STS gene (NM_001320752.2; NP_001307681.2) regions were deleted. Gene expression studies have not been performed that would have strengthened the findings of computational analysis. This study highlights the significance of the c.232C>T variant in the TGM1 gene as a possible founder mutation, complete STS gene deletion as reported previously in Pakistani population, while novel sequence variant in the FLG gene expands the spectrum of variations in this gene. These findings may be used for genetic counseling of the studied families.

Malignancy-associated generalised exfoliative dermatitis: A retrospective study in a single-centre Asian cohort.

Erythroderma is an inflammatory skin condition that causes extensive erythema and skin scaling amounting ≥90% of the body surface area. This retrospective cohort study describes the prevalence of malignancy-associated erythroderma in a single centre where there was concerted effort to systematically offer malignancy screens to all adult erythroderma patients above the age of 65 years. Clinical charts were reviewed for all adult inpatients and outpatients with erythroderma who attended the National University Hospital (NUH) from 1 July 2019 to 31 December 2021. Data collected included patient demographics, clinical findings, laboratory investigations, disease-specific investigations such as endoscopic procedures and biopsies, follow-up duration and mortality data. Seventy-four patients were analysed. The median age of the patients was 73 years old (interquartile range: 59-81 years old). An underlying dermatosis was the most common cause of erythroderma-63 patients having atopic dermatitis/asteatotic eczema or psoriasis. Three patients had erythroderma from drug eruptions, and 1 patient had chronic actinic dermatitis. Four patients had associated malignancies (5.4%). Half of our patients completed further evaluation for malignancy (52.7%). The rest had either declined or were eventually unable to complete the investigations. There was a higher prevalence of associated malignancy (7.8%) in elderly patients above 65 years old. When compared to existing literature, our cohort reflects a higher observed occurrence of malignancy in association with erythroderma. As delays in evaluation for underlying malignancy could result in potentially deleterious outcomes, it is prudent to consider systematic screening for malignancy in high-risk populations such as elderly erythroderma patients.

Targeting Nrf2 with 3 H-1,2-dithiole-3-thione to moderate OXPHOS-driven oxidative stress attenuates IL-17A-induced psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes in the epidermis and parakeratosis, significantly impacts quality of life. Interleukin (IL)− 17A dominates the pathogenesis of psoriasis and facilitates reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, which exacerbates local psoriatic lesions. Biologic treatment provides remarkable clinical efficacy, but its high cost and unignorable side effects limit its applications. 3 H-1,2-Dithiole-3-thione (D3T) possesses compelling antioxidative capacities against several diseases through the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) cascade. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the effect and mechanism of D3T in psoriasis. We found that D3T attenuates skin thickening and scaling by inhibiting IL-17A-secreting γδT cells in imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriatic mice. Interleukin-17A markedly enhanced IL-6 and IL-8 expression, lipid peroxidation, the contents of nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide, oxidative phosphorylation and the MAPK/NF-κB pathways in keratinocytes. IL-17A also inhibited the Nrf2-NQO1-HO-1 axis and the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. D3T significantly reversed these parameters in IL-17A-treated keratinocytes. ML‐385, a Nrf2 neutralizer, failed to improve D3T-induced anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects in IL-17A-treated keratinocytes. We conclude that targeting Nrf2 with D3T to diminish oxidative and inflammatory damage in keratinocytes may attenuate psoriasis.

Ichthyosis

The ichthyoses are a large, heterogeneous group of skin cornification disorders. They can be inherited or acquired, and result in defective keratinocyte differentiation and abnormal epidermal barrier formation. The resultant skin barrier dysfunction leads to increased transepidermal water loss and inflammation. Disordered cornification is clinically characterized by skin scaling with various degrees of thickening, desquamation (peeling) and erythema (redness). Regardless of the type of ichthyosis, many patients suffer from itching, recurrent infections, sweating impairment (hypohidrosis) with heat intolerance, and diverse ocular, hearing and nutritional complications that should be monitored periodically. The characteristic clinical features are considered to be a homeostatic attempt to repair the skin barrier, but heterogeneous clinical presentation and imperfect phenotype-genotype correlation hinder diagnosis. An accurate molecular diagnosis is, however, crucial for predicting prognosis and providing appropriate genetic counselling. Most ichthyoses severely affect patient quality of life and, in severe forms, may cause considerable disability and even death. So far, treatment provides only symptomatic relief. It is lifelong, expensive, time-consuming, and often provides disappointing results. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie these conditions is essential for designing pathogenesis-driven and patient-tailored innovative therapeutic solutions.