Treatment Of Skin Diseases Research Articles

Transcriptomic and proteomic investigation of the ameliorative effect of total polyphenolic glycoside extract on hepatic fibrosis in Lamiophlomis rotata Kudo via the AGE/RAGE pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDuring the regression of liver fibrosis, a decrease in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) can occur through apoptosis or inactivation of activated HSCs (aHSCs). A new approach for antifibrotic therapy involves transforming hepatic myofibroblasts into a quiescent-like state. Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) Kudo (L. rotata), an orally available Tibetan herb, has traditionally been used to treat skin disease, jaundice, and rheumatism. In our previous study, we found that the total polyphenolic glycoside extract of L. rotata (TPLR) promotes apoptosis in aHSCs for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis. However, whether TPLR induces aHSCs to become inactivated HSCs (iHSCs) is unclear, and the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. PurposeThis study aimed to examine the impact of TPLR on the phenotypes of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) during the regression of liver fibrosis and explore the potential mechanism of action. MethodsThe effect of TPLR on the phenotypes of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) was assessed using immunofluorescence (IF) staining, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), and Western blotting. Transcriptomic and proteomic methods were employed to identify the main signaling pathways involved. Based on the omics results, the likely mechanism of TPLR on the phenotypes of aHSCs was confirmed through overexpression and knockdown experiments in TGF-β1-activated LX-2 cells. Using a CCl4-induced liver fibrosis mouse model, we evaluated the anti-hepatic fibrosis effect of TPLR and explored its potential mechanism based on omics findings. ResultsTPLR was found to induce the differentiation of aHSCs into iHSCs by significantly decreasing the protein expression of α-SMA and Desmin. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed that the AGE/RAGE signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the morphological transformation of HSCs following TPLR treatment. In vitro experiments using RAGE overexpression and knockdown demonstrated that the mechanism by which TPLR affects the phenotype of HSCs is closely associated with the RAGE/RAS/MAPK/NF-κB axis. In a model of liver fibrosis, TPLR obviously inhibited the generation of AGEs and alleviated liver tissue damage and fibrosis by downregulating RAGE and its downstream targets. ConclusionThe AGE/RAGE axis plays a pivotal role in the transformation of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) into inactivated hepatic stellate cells (iHSCs) following TPLR treatment, indicating the potential of TPLR as a therapeutic agent for the management of liver fibrosis.

Quality Control and Phytochemical Profiling of a Polyherbal Traditional Indian Medicine by GC-MS method

Introduction: Gomutra (Cow's urine) has been described to be the most effective substance of animal origin. It is useful in treating various diseases due to its pharmacological activities. Nevertheless, due to its pungent smell, palatability, shelf life and fresh availability have always remained a problem. So it is very much essential to modify it into different dosage forms. One of its traditional dosage forms is Gomutrasava, an alcoholic fermented product indicated in the management of Shvitra (vitiligo). Aim & objective: The study is planned for Pharmaceutical preparation and quality control assessment of Gomutrasava. Material & Methods: Gomutrasava was prepared according to a reference from Astanga Hrudaya. This formulation was tested for organoleptic characters and physicochemical parameters, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Observation & Results: After fermentation colour of Gomutrasava appeared dark brown with specific cow urine smell. pH, specific gravity at 25ºC, reftractive index, brix, viscocity, total solid content, alcohol content, reducing sugar, non reducing sugar of Gomutrasava were 5.41, 0.967 wt/ml, 1.394, 37º, 1.38/sec, 37%, 6%, 0.96%, 0.07% respectively and test for methanol and microbial contamination were negative. GC-MS revealed some compounds attributed to antimicrobial, anticancerous and antifungal activities. Conclusion Thus this data combined with analytical data will be used for clinical study and treatment of Shvitra (Vitiligo), Kushtha (Leprosy) and various skin diseases.

O01 Inborn errors of metabolism - Solving the puzzle of prolidase deficiency

Abstract Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) may present with ­distinctive cutaneous manifestations as part of a multisystem phenotype. Diagnosis is a multidisciplinary affair, made difficult by their rarity and complex genetic architectures. Knowledge of molecular mechanisms provides hope for targeted therapies, but unmet needs remain in the treatment of skin disease. Prolidase deficiency (OMIM #170100) is a rare IEM characterised by impaired collagen recycling, recalcitrant lower limb ulceration and massive imidodipeptiduria. The cases of two siblings born to related parents are reported, presenting initially in childhood with hydroa vacciniforme-like photosensitivity. Following a decade-long journey, the diagnosis of prolidase deficiency was eventually made. Pitfalls including the limitations of conventional diagnostic modalities and whole genome sequencing are examined, as well as the effects of chronic skin changes and associated disability on quality of life in childhood and adolescence. Therapeutic options, possible connections to hydroa vacciniforme, and prospects for translational research are reviewed. A rational approach to the clinical and genetic diagnosis of IEM in the paediatric dermatology clinic is proposed.

Noval advance of histone modification in inflammatory skin diseases and related treatment methods.

Inflammatory skin diseases are a group of diseases caused by the disruption of skin tissue due to immune system disorders. Histone modification plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and treatment of chronic inflammatory skin diseases, encompassing a wide range of conditions, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, lupus, systemic sclerosis, contact dermatitis, lichen planus, and alopecia areata. Analyzing histone modification as a significant epigenetic regulatory approach holds great promise for advancing our understanding and managing these complex disorders. Additionally, therapeutic interventions targeting histone modifications have emerged as promising strategies for effectively managing inflammatory skin disorders. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the diverse types of histone modification. We discuss the intricate association between histone modification and prevalent chronic inflammatory skin diseases. We also review current and potential therapeutic approaches that revolve around modulating histone modifications. Finally, we investigated the prospects of research on histone modifications in the context of chronic inflammatory skin diseases, paving the way for innovative therapeutic interventions and improved patient outcomes.

Effects of Photodynamic Therapy Using 5 -Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA) Loaded Acrylic Nanoparticles (ANPs) on HaCaT Cells.

ALA-PDT (5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy) is a central modality in the treatment of skin diseases. Increasing the bioavailability of ALA remains a critical issue. With this in mind, our study explores a novel route of ALA delivery by loading acrylic nanoparticles (ANPs). ALA-ANPs were synthesized by emulsion polymerisation and characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). The effects of ALA-ANPs on HaCaT cell line were evaluated, including characteristics, morphological changes, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) fluorescence kinetics, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential and ki67 expression in these cells. The ANPs had uniform sizes, smooth surfaces and excellent light transmittance, with diameters of 150-200 nm. In contrast, the ALA - ANPs had uneven surfaces and poor light transmittance, with diameters of 220-250 nm. During 12 hours of co-incubation of HaCaT cells with ALA, the intracellular accumulation of PpIX increased over time. Notably, after 6 hours of incubation, PpIX levels induced by 1.81 mg/mL ALA-ANPs exceeded those induced by 1.0 mM ALA (p < 0.01). CCK-8 results showed a positive correlation between PDT-induced inhibition of HaCaT cell proliferation and ALA concentration when ALA concentration remained below 2.0 mM. Compared to the 1.0 mM ALA group, the 1.81 mg/mL ALA-ANPs group showed decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, ki67 immunofluorescence intensity and cell proliferation. In contrast, ROS levels were significantly increased in the 1.81 mg/mL ALA-ANPs group (p < 0.01). Loading ANPs provide improved stability and potency for ALA. The ALA-ANPs-PDT approach has superior inhibitory effects on HaCaT proliferation in vitro.

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor role in chronic inflammatory skin diseases: a narrative review.

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that has gained increasing attention in the field of dermatology due to its multifaceted role in skin health and disease. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the AHR and its implications in dermatological conditions. The AHR is well known for its involvement in xenobiotic metabolism, particularly in response to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and dioxins. However, recent research has unveiled its pivotal role in the skin immune response, barrier function, and homeostasis. The AHR signalling pathway is intricately linked to various dermatological disorders, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne and hidradenitis suppurativa. In this review, we delve into the molecular mechanisms through which AHR activation influences skin physiology and highlight how dysregulation can lead to pathological conditions. Moreover, we discuss the emerging therapeutic potential of AHR modulators in the treatment of skin diseases. In conclusion, the AHR is a pivotal player in dermatology, with a multifaceted role in skin physiology and pathology. Understanding the intricacies of AHR signalling in the skin offers promising avenues for the development of novel therapies and preventive strategies for various dermatological conditions. Further research is warranted to elucidate the full scope of AHR's contributions to dermatology and its potential as a therapeutic target.

SKIN DISORDERS IN THE LIGHT OF UNANI SYSTEM OF MEDICINE

Skin disorders have been prevalent since the Greco-Arabic period. Unani physicians have described the structure and functions of skin interpreting the etiology, clinical features, and management of various skin disorders. These scholars have stated a comprehensive description of various skin ailments such as Hikka (Pruritis), Urticaria (Shara), Quba (Ring worm), Jarb (Scabies), Acne (Basoor-e-Labniya), Bars(Vitiligo), Namla(Herpes), Nar farsi (Eczema), Daus sadaf (Psoriasis) and Saleel (Wart) etc. Ancient Unani scholars have been treating these ailments successfully forages. They have compiled a single as well as composite herbal formulations and various methods of Ila-j bit- tadbeer such as Cupping-Hijamah, Leeching-Irsal-e-Alaq for the treatment of skin disorders. These herbal medicine and therapies have greater significance in the treatment and management of various skin disorders.

Diabetes-related skin lesions : a frequently underdiagnosed problem

Skin disorders are common in diabetes, affecting both patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. These cutaneous manifestations can be classified into three categories: dermatoses associated with the presence of diabetes, cutaneous complications of diabetes (acute and chronic) and dermatoses linked to antidiabetic treatments. These conditions vary considerably in terms of severity (from insignificant cosmetic problems to life-threatening) and prevalence (from relatively frequent to rare). Despite the high prevalence of diabetes and associated skin disorders, the dermatological manifestations of diabetes are generally neglected and often under-diagnosed. Failure to diagnose and treat skin disorders at an early stage can lead to clinical worsening, whereas early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications.

Unveiling ferroptosis: a new frontier in skin disease research.

Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death distinct from apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, is increasingly recognized for its role in skin disease pathology. Characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, ferroptosis has been implicated in the progression of various skin conditions, including psoriasis, photosensitive dermatitis, and melanoma. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis and compares its cellular effects with other forms of cell death in the context of skin health and disease. We systematically examine the role of ferroptosis in five specific skin diseases, including ichthyosis, psoriasis, polymorphous light eruption (PMLE), vitiligo, and melanoma, detailing its influence on disease pathogenesis and progression. Moreover, we explore the current clinical landscape of ferroptosis-targeted therapies, discussing their potential in managing and treating skin diseases. Our aim is to shed light on the therapeutic potential of modulating ferroptosis in skin disease research and practice.

Ethnobotanical Studies on Traditional Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Humans’ Skin Diseases in Ethiopia: A Review

The ethnobotanical literature review explores the use of medicinal plants in treating skin diseases in Ethiopia, assessing gaps in accessible research papers. 18 scientific papers, including M.Sc. theses, journals, electrons, and proceeding, highlight the safety and cost-effectiveness of these plants. In this ethnomedicinal literature review, a total of “233” species belonging to 71 families under 170 genera were selected from different regions of the country. Taxa commonly used for the treatment of skin disease belong to six families such as Asteraceae (19), Fabaceae (17), Solanaceae (15), Euphorbiaceae (14), Lamiaceae (11) and Malvaceae (10, each) in number of species. Herbs formed a major component (43%), while shrubs, trees, and climbers constitute 32%, 16%, and 9%, respectively. Plant species cure various skin diseases such as dandruff, eczema, skin rash, scabies, inflammation, cuts, wounds, boils, itching, sores, and swellings. The most frequently used plant parts for the preparation of remedies were leaves, followed by roots and/or leaves. Traditional folk medicines hold the heritage of community acceptance because they are derived from indigenous knowledge and skills that also involve theories, beliefs, and experiences. In this review, the current literature on ethnomedicinal plants is summarized, along with a listing of the medicinal plants used for common skin ailments. Based on the reviewed papers, the main threats to medicinal plants in the country were overgrazing, agricultural expansion, firewood, drought, and construction. Thus, the review paper concludes by providing recommendations regarding the scenarios of research in the country.

The nanocrystalline cellulose from Ananas comosus leaf wastes: An overview to extraction, purification, and applications as curcumin drug delivery system

Currently, antibacterial materials are attracting considerable attention across various fields. In this study, curcumin (Cur) was prepared with nanocrystal cellulose (NCC) into the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix to improve the functional properties of a pure Cur-NCC-PVA film. The NCC was obtained from Ananas comosus leaves and characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and particle size analysis. The variations of Cur concentrations (50, 75, and 100 μg) were added to prepare Cur-NCC-PVA films. The release kinetics of Cur from the films was determined using a spectrophotometer and the release kinetic model was obtained using Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic model. The antibacterial activity of Cur-NCC-PVA films was established using the diffusion method. The results of NCC characteristics showed satisfactory significance. The FTIR showed a functional group of chemical composition that confirmed the removal of non-cellulosic constituents. XRD confirmed the crystallinity index of NCC of 75.89%. Meanwhile, the particle size of NCC of 268.45 nm. The development of Cur-NCC-PVA films showed a uniform yellow color. The release of curcumin in all films was increased depending on the time following the zero-order kinetic reaction. The non-Fickian kinetics demonstrated the mechanism of Cur release from the film. The Cur-NCC-PVA films in Cur concentration of 100 μg were confirmed to have the highest antibacterial activity and significantly different between 50 and 75 μg Cur-NCC-PVA films against Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus spp., and Escherichia coli. The Cur-NCC-PVA films described the potential activity for topical formulation in skin disease treatment.

Research on Strategies for Wound Healing and Infection Control in Skin Disease Nursing

The skin, as the largest organ in the human body, plays multiple roles such as protecting, sensing, and regulating body temperature. Wound healing and infection control are two extremely important links, in the treatment and care of skin diseases. Efficient wound healing and infection control strategies affect the speed and quality of patient recovery and can reduce medical costs and alleviate social burdens. This study adopts the method of literature review to systematically sort out the basic theory of skin wound healing, analyze the particularity of skin disease wound care, and summarize the key technologies of wound healing and infection control. Research has found that skin wound healing is a complex physiological process involving multiple stages such as inflammatory response, cell proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Therefore, wound care for skin diseases requires personalized nursing measures based on the characteristics of different types of skin diseases. The research results indicate that effective wound healing and infection control strategies include: cleaning the wound, rational use of dressings, maintaining a moist environment for the wound, and timely treatment of infections. These strategies provide a scientific theoretical basis and practical guidance for wound healing and infection control in skin disease care, which helps to improve the quality of clinical nursing and promote patient recovery.

Probiotics and their Beneficial Health Effects.

Probiotics are living microorganisms that are present in cultured milk and fermented food. Fermented foods are a rich source for the isolation of probiotics. They are known as good bacteria. They have various beneficial effects on human health including antihypertensive effects, antihypercholesterolemic effects, prevention of bowel disease, and improving the immune system. Microorganisms including bacteria, yeast, and mold are used as probiotics but the major microorganisms that are used as probiotics are bacteria from the genus Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Streptococcus, and Bifidobacterium. Probiotics are beneficial in the prevention of harmful effects. Recently, the use of probiotics for the treatment of various oral and skin diseases has also gained significant attention. Clinical studies indicate that the usage of probiotics can alter gut microbiota composition and provoke immune modulation in a host. Due to their various health benefits, probiotics are attaining more interest as a substitute for antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs leading to the growth of the probiotic market.

МИЦЕЛЛЯРНАЯ ВОДНАЯ СИСТЕМА НА ОСНОВЕ N-ДЕЦИЛПИРИДИНИЙ ХЛОРИДА ДЛЯ СПЕКТРОФОТОМЕТРИЧЕСКОГО ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ 5-НИТРО-4,6-ДИХЛОРБЕНЗОФУРОКСАНА

Biologically active compound 5-nitro-4,6-dichlorobenzofuroxane (5NDCBFO) has a pronounced acaricidal, fungicidal activity and is a part of veterinary preparations used in the treatment of fungal skin diseases of animals and demodecosis caused by scabies mites of Psoroptes cuniculi species. In this connection, the determination of 5NDCBFO content is relevant. To improve the analytical performance, the determination of the analyte was carried out in a micellar system of N-decylpyridinium chloride (DPC) + dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) + water. Optimum conditions for spectrophotometric analysis were obtained by applying response surface methodology and Box-Benken plans. The Box-Behnken design was used to obtain the systems with the highest light absorption of 5NDCBFO. The independent factors chosen for the experiment planning were the concentration of DPX (X1), pH of the medium (X2) and the volume fraction of DMSO in the binary solvent (DMSO) (X3), the intensity of the absorption band A382 served as the target function. The optimal matrix of the system DPC + DMSO + water we found has the composition X1 = 0.94; X2 = 1; X3 = 1, or in decoded values C (DPC) = 0.087 mol/L; pH = 7.6; DMSO = 0.2. The calibration graph under optimum conditions is as follows: Y = A382= 0.046 + 8760 C (5NDCBFO) mol/L, R2 = 0.999, l = 1 cm, t = 25 C. The influence of sample components on the results of analytical determinations was studied and it was found that the spectrophotometric determination of the analyte was not hindered by their presence within wide limits. The correctness of the analytical determinations was established by the results of applying the technique to the analysis of a model mixture including a known amount of the determined substances. The consistency of the analyte contents found in relation to the quantities introduced was shown. The use of response surface methodology for the determination of 5-nitro-4,6-dichlorobenzofuroxane in biologically active preparations allowed to develop a selective and accurate technique using micellar media and spectrophotometric method of analysis.

Structural and therapeutic properties of salicylic acid-solubilized Pluronic solutions and hydrogels.

Salicylic acid (SA) finds extensive applications in the treatment of rheumatic and skin diseases because of its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. As it is lipophilic in nature, there is a need for appropriate delivery systems to harness these properties for different applications. Herein, we examined the suitability of Pluronic P123/F127 micellar systems as delivery media by investigating the structural, flow and antimicrobial properties of P123/F127-SA solutions and hydrogels using DLS, SANS, rheological and zone inhibition measurement techniques. SA modulates the aggregation characteristics of these surfactant systems and brings about spherical-to-worm-like micelle-to-vesicular structural transitions in the hydrophobic Pluronic P123 system, a spherical-to-worm-like micellar transition in the mixed P123/F127 system and an onset of inter-micellar attraction in the hydrophilic Pluronic F127 system. SA-solubilized systems of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic Pluronics inhibit the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with comparable MIC values. This suggests that the interaction of SA molecules with the bacterial cell membrane remains unobstructed upon encapsulation in Pluronic micelles. F127 hydrogel-based SA formulations with rheological properties suitable for topical applications and up to 15% SA loading were prepared. These will be useful SA ointments as F127 is an FDA-approved excipient for topical drug delivery applications. The results indicate that Pluronics remain effective as delivery agents for SA and exhibit interesting structural polymorphism upon its solubilization.

Traditional and Contemporary uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Psoralea corylifolia Linn.

Background: Bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia Linn.) is an endangered and traditionally important medicinal plant of the family Fabaceae. It is used worldwide for the treatment of several ailments due to the presence of various bioactive constituents that are mainly concentrated in the seeds and fruits of plants. It has been used since time immemorial as a popular drug for shvitra (leukoderma), kustha (skin diseases), osteopathy, rejuvenation, aphrodisiac, etc. Materials and Methods: Primarily, classical texts of Ayurveda including Brihat trayi (The greater triad), Laghu trayi (The lesser triad), and Nighantu (Lexicons) were reviewed. Establishing an overview, library resources, and online collections of books and other online databases such as Pubmed Central, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, ERIC, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, DOAJ, JSTOR, Henari, Google Scholar, NepJoL were explored with search words like “Bakuchi”, “Psoralea corylifolia” for its botanical characteristics, traditional and contemporary uses, pharmacognosy, phytochemical constituents, pharmacology, toxicology, and agricultural and miscellaneous aspects. Results and Discussion: It was found that Psoralea corylifolia has been used since the Vedic period for the treatment of various skin diseases like psoriasis, and vitiligo in Ayurveda and several metabolic and systemic diseases in Traditional Chinese Medicine, by its various names and formulations. Furthermore, under appropriate dosages no any toxic effect of the plant was reported in an animal experiment conducted by Uthirapathy and Ahamad. Conclusion: The seed of P. corilifolia Linn is commonly used in skin diseases such as Switra (leukoderma), Vicharchika (psoriasis) whereas anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-lipogenic, anti-tuberculous, anti-carcinogenic, memory enhancing, anti-venom and aphrodisiac has also been reported as its major pharmacological activities. Clinical trials can be further conducted to evaluate the pharmacotherapeutics of P. corylifolia to develop the well-established evidence-based therapy

Ethnobotany, traditional knowledge, and nutritional value of Argan (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) in Western Anti-Atlas of Morocco.

The Souss region in Morocco is known nationally and internationally for its essential knowledge of traditional herbal medicine and the cultural heritage of nutrition. The endemic species Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels is an important crucial plant used by the local population to treat many diseases and prepare some authentic foods. To identify the therapeutic uses of the Argan tree [Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels] and their benefits in preparing authentic foods, the survey was conducted using semi-structured questionnaires. We have achieved 450 interviews with traditional health practitioners and knowledgeable villagers. In the region of Chtouka Aït Baha and Tiznit (Western Anti-Atlas). In parallel with this survey, we collected some old local manuscripts from conventional practitioners in the region. The data obtained were analyzed using specific ethnobotanical indices such as Use Value (UV), Fidelity Level (FL), and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC). In parallel, we analyzed the nutritional value of some authentic foods derived the argan oil (Amlou, Tagoulla, and Labsis). All 450 interviewees use the argan oil in food or for the preparation of their authentic foods derived (Amlou, Tagoulla, and Labsis); among them, 100 persons use Argan, in addition to food, in the treatment of various diseases with UV and RFC at 1.94 and 0.22, respectively. Among eight treated diseases by argan tree, the treatment of skin and subcutaneous diseases had a very highly significant value of the FL index (98%). Similarly, the analysis of the manuscripts collected in the study area revealed an ancient therapeutic use of the argan tree. The results also show that the Argan oil extracted from the seed is used to prepare authentic foods with significant nutritional value, especially Amlou.

From traditional medicine to nanomedicine: potential of Ginkgo biloba extracts in treating inflammatory skin diseases.

The use of plant extracts as a potential cure for various conditions has moved from traditional medicine to evidence-based medicine. Skin diseases have been addressed since time immemorial using plant extracts through observational and traditional knowledge and passed on through generations. With the advent of modern techniques, the molecular mechanisms of action of plant extracts/isolates are being deciphered with more precision, and more nanomedicine-based therapies are being studied to improve their therapeutic efficacy and stability. The leaves and seeds of Ginkgo biloba (G. biloba), an ancient medicinal tree species, have been used in Chinese herbal medicine for thousands of years. G. biloba extracts have been widely studied as a neuroprotective and anti-ischaemic drug for ischaemia-reperfusion injuries in the heart, lungs, brain, kidneys, and other organs. However, the use of G. biloba can be accompanied with side effects and drug interactions. Although, there is now a growing interest for its use in skincare, the mechanisms of action of the extract are not fully understood and vital aspects of G. biloba, such as its neuroprotective and angiogenic properties contributing to the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and skin ageing, are yet to be investigated. This review critically discusses the mechanisms of action of different constituents of G. biloba extracts linked to their potential interference in the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases. In addition to its ability to act on oxidative stress, G. biloba can regulate angiogenesis through its compounds such as ginkgetin or ginkgolide K, which either inhibit aberrant angiogenesis in eczema/psoriasis or increase microcirculation during skin ageing. G. biloba may also contribute to the control of pruritus in atopic dermatitis via a neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory mechanism by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathways. This review also highlights nanomedicine strategies to decrease the side effects and enhance the efficacy of the extracts. Similar strategies have been successfully used for anticancer molecules in targeted chemotherapy and iron delivery in anaemia treatment.

Cutaneous and conjunctival habronemosis in horses treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Santa Catarina State University, Brazil.

Habronemosis, also known as habronemiasis or habronematidosis, is a parasitic disease of equids caused by the larval stages of Habronematidae nematodes (Habronema muscae, Habronema microstoma, and Draschia megastoma) that are transmitted by muscid flies. The presence of aberrant infective larvae in the cutaneous and conjunctival tissues of these hosts results in granulomatous, exudative, and ulcerated lesions, also known as "summer sores." In this study, we present a retrospective analysis of habronemosis cases in horses from the municipality of Lages, located on the Santa Catarina Plateau, a region with high altitudes and a temperate climate that differs from regions of Brazil where such parasitosis usually occurs. The equids were examined from 2008 to 2020 at the Veterinary Hospital of Santa Catarina State University. Sixteen patients were diagnosed and treated using macrocyclic lactones and wound cleaning. Most cases were recorded in autumn in horses (10/16, 62.5%) over 15 years of age (11/16, 68.8%), and the lesions were more frequently located in the conjunctiva (11/16, 68.8%). In scientific dissemination media, this is the first report of habronemosis on the Santa Catarina Plateau, Brazil. This information will contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin diseases in horses in this region.

Development of a predictive model for managing lifestyle behaviors among patients with chronic skin diseases: Using machine learning techniques

This study aimed to develop a predictive model using lifestyle behavioral factors related to chronic skin disease symptoms and machine learning techniques. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients with chronic skin diseases currently receiving treatment at 19 Saengki Korean Medical Clinics specializing in the treatment of chronic skin diseases. Data were collected from 264 participants through an online survey conducted over a three-month period. We used changes in patients' skin symptoms as the dependent variable and lifestyle, behavioral, and treatment variables that affect chronic skin disease remission as predictors. Based on previous studies, we evaluated the performance of the six models using machine learning techniques (decision tree, logistic regression [LR], random forest [RF], CatBoost, gradient boosting classifier, and LightGBM) that are commonly used to create predictive models using categorical factors. The results showed that RF and LR performed well. We selected LR as the final model based on the confusion matrix and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The LR results showed that herbal medicine use and hospital visits were associated with chronic skin disease symptoms, whereas the RF results showed that herbal medicine use, exercise, and wheat flour consumption were associated with chronic skin disease symptoms. These findings suggest that both the treatment and lifestyle behaviors are associated with chronic skin disease symptoms.