Effect of applications of 1-MCP and ethylene on the ripening and degreening process of banana fruits cv. Barranquillo

The banana cv. Barranquillo (Musa acuminata, AAA, 'Gros Michel') is a highly desired fruit because of its productive potential and organoleptic quality but various aspects of the ripening process are unknown. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of applications of 1-MCP and ethylene on the ripening and degreening process. Two experiments were carried out at room temperature with fruits harvested at commercial maturity. The first four treatments evaluated maturation: control, ethylene, 1-MCP, and 1-MCP + ethylene. In the second experiment, different concentrations of ethylene based on ethephon (0, 100, 500 and 1000 µL L-1) were evaluated. The fruits treated with 1-MCP decreased the ripening process, and 1-MCP was a good alternative for conserving the fruits; the ethylene had opposite results. The color index of the skin, weight loss, firmness, total soluble solids, and maturity ratio had changes associated with the presence of ethylene. In the second experiment, the ethylene applications between 100 and 500 µL L-1 sufficiently stimulated degreening but accelerated the ripening process.

El banano cv. Barranquillo (Musa acuminata, AAA, 'Gros Michel') es un fruto muy apetecido por su potencial productivo y calidad organoléptica, pero se desconocen varios aspectos del proceso de maduración. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de la aplicación de 1-MCP y etileno en la maduración y en el proceso de desverdizado. Se realizaron dos experimentos a temperatura ambiente y con frutos cosechados en madurez comercial; en el primero, se evaluaron cuatro tratamientos, para entender la regulación de la maduración, estos fueron: testigo, etileno, 1-MCP y 1-MCP+etileno. En el segundo experimento, se evaluaron diferentes concentraciones de etileno, a base de etefon (0, 100, 500 y 1000 µL L-1). Los frutos tratados con 1- MCP presentaron una disminución en el proceso de maduración, por tanto, el 1-MCP, se convierte en una buena alternativa de conservación, mientras que con etileno, el proceso fue opuesto. Se evidenció que el índice de color de la epidermis, la pérdida de peso, la firmeza, los sólidos solubles totales y la relación de madurez se consideran cambios asociados a la presencia de etileno. En el segundo experimento se encontró que, aplicaciones de etileno entre 100 y 500µL L-1, se consideran suficientes para estimular el desverdizado, pero aceleran el proceso de maduración.

Caracterización morfométrica nuclear de la epidermis sana en pacientes de diferentes edades y sexo

Introducción : La piel es un órgano complejo altamente vulnerable al envejecimiento, fenómeno que biológicamente provoca cambios a nivel tisular y celular. De manera usual los elementos histológicos que la caracterizan se describen con un enfoque cualitativo, sin tener en cuenta la edad, sin embargo, desde el punto de vista cuantitativo, aspecto este que lo posibilita la morfometría no ha sido abordado en todas sus potencialidades. Objetivo : Caracterizar el comportamiento de indicadores morfométricos como perímetro, área, volumen nuclear en las células de la capa espinosa de la epidermis sana, según edad y sexo. Métodos : Se realizó un estudio de serie de casos con 12 pacientes con diagnóstico histopatológico de carcinoma basocelular atendidos en Centro Oncológico del Hospital Provincial Universitario Vladimir Ilich Lenin de Holguín, en el año 2019 y a los cuales se les extirpó el tumor mediante una biopsia escisional que incluía la lesión y un borde amplio de piel sana. Se emplearon métodos teóricos y empíricos, estos últimos basados en técnicas morfométricas, luego se realizó análisis estadísticos de los datos obtenidos y se reflejaron en tablas. Resultados : A medida que avanza la edad el perímetro, el área y el volumen nuclear disminuyen en ambos sexos. Conclusiones : Tanto el perímetro, como el área y el volumen nuclear disminuyen en las células de la capa espinosa de la epidermis sana en ambos sexos a medida que avanza la edad, lo que traduce disminución del tamaño nuclear.

Introduction: The skin is a complex organ highly vulnerable to aging, a phenomenon that biologically causes changes at the tissue and cellular level. Usually the histological elements that characterize it are described with a qualitative approach, without taken age into account, however from the quantitative point of view, this aspect that morphometry makes possible has not been addressed in all its potentialities. Objective: To characterize the behavior of morphometric indicators such as perimeter, area, nuclear volume in the cells of the spinous layer of the healthy epidermis, according to age and sex. Methods: A case series study was carried out with 12 patients diagnosed with histopathology of basal cell carcinoma treated at the Oncology Center of the Provincial University Hospital Vladimir Ilich Lenin of Holguin, in the year 2019 and to which the tumor was removed by means of an excisional biopsy that included the lesion and a broad border of healthy skin. Theoretical and empirical methods were used, the latter based on techniques morphometric, then statistical analysis of the data obtained was performed and were reflected in tables. Results: As age advances the nuclear perimeter, area, and volume decreased in both sexes. Conclusions: Both the perimeter, the area and the nuclear volume decrease in the cell of the spinous layer of the healthy epidermis in both sexes as age advances, which translates into a decrease in nuclear size.

Correlations between transepidermal water loss rates and stratum corneum hydration levels in healthy children / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective:To determine whether the transepidermal water loss rate (TEWL) is correlated with the stratum corneum (SC) hydration level.Methods:Healthy children aged ≤ 17 years were enrolled from Medical Center for Public Health of Puning, 2 kindergartens and 2 primary schools, from October 2021 to June 2022. TEWL and SC hydration levels were measured on the left forearm and right anterior shank using a device for measuring skin physiological funcitons. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the correlations between TEWL and SC hydration levels in children of different ages and genders.Results:A total of 1 396 healthy children were enrolled, aged from 1 month to 17 years. Among them, 783 were male children and 613 were female children. In children aged 1 to < 12 months, no correlation was observed between TEWL and SC hydration levels on the forearms of male children, while TEWL was positively correlated with SC hydration levels on the anterior shanks of male children, as well as on the forearm and anterior shanks of female children ( r = 0.283, 0.404, 0.420, respectively, all P < 0.05) . In children aged 1 to 2 years, positive correlations were observed between the above two indicators on the anterior shanks of male children and forearms of female children ( r = 0.370, 0.419, respectively, both P < 0.01) , while there were no correlations between the two indicators on the anterior shanks of female children or forearms of male children. Positive correlations were observed between TEWL and SC hydration levels on both the forearms and anterior shanks of female children and the forearms of male children aged 3 to 5 years and 6 to 11 years ( r values ranging from 0.172 to 0.293, all P < 0.05) , but not on the anterior shanks of male children aged from 6 to 11 years. The group aged 12 to 17 years exhibited significantly positive correlations between TEWL and SC hydration levels on both the anterior shanks and forearms of male and female children ( r values ranging from 0.269 to 0.485, all P < 0.001) . Conclusion:SC hydration levels are positively correlated with TEWL on the anterior shanks and forearms of healthy children, and the degree of correlation tends to increase with age.

Descripcion Fisiopatológica de la Descamacion Cutanea por Toxinas Exfoliativas Estafilococicas, Nuevo Enfoque de Diagnostico Diferencial

Resumen El síndrome de piel escaldada estafilocócica, la escarlatina estafilocócica y el impétigo ampollar son patologías que tienen en común el mecanismo de lesión de la piel por toxinas exfoliativas producidas por estafilococos, su presentación y manifestaciones clínicas son difíciles de diferenciar de otras patologías sistémicas como la enfermedad de Kawasaki, el síndrome de Steven Johnson y diferentes farmacodermias. En los últimos años se ha podido explicar el mecanismo molecular de lesión cutánea, lo que ayudo de manera importante a interpretar y poder realizar un adecuado diagnóstico diferencial entre estas patologías. Los pediatras necesitan múltiples herramientas para llegar a un diagnóstico certero de las noxas que producen lesiones en piel y manifestaciones sistémicas. Una buena anamnesis y el conocimiento de un abanico de diagnósticos diferenciales son importantes para el tratamiento médico.

Abstract Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, staphylococcal scarlet fever and bullous impetigo are pathologies that have in common the mechanism of skin injury by exfoliative toxins produced by staphylococci, their presentation and clinical manifestations are difficult to differentiate from other systemic pathologies such as Kawasaki disease, the syndrome of Steven Johnson and drug induced skin diseases. In recent years, it has been possible to explain the molecular mechanism of skin injury, which has helped in an important way to interpret and be able to make an adequate differential diagnosis between these pathologies. Pediatricians need multiple tools to reach an accurate diagnosis of the disease that produce skin lesions and systemic manifestations. A good history and knowledge of a range of differential diagnoses are important for medical management.

Diseño y fabricación de modelos impresos en 3D como complemento para las clases prácticas de histología médica / Design and manufacturing of 3D printed models as a complement for medical histology practical classes

RESUMEN: Tradicionalmente, la Histología se ha apoyado del análisis de preparaciones histológicas a través del microscopio para su enseñanza. En este sentido, uno de los principales obstáculos que enfrentan los estudiantes al analizar los tejidos, es extrapolar una imagen bidimensional a una estructura tridimensional (3D). La impresión 3D permite subsanar esta limitación, haciendo posible fabricar material docente, con las características requeridas con un alto grado de detalle y bajo costo. El objetivo de este trabajo fue diseñar y fabricar modelos impresos en 3D como complemento para las clases prácticas de Histología Médica. Se fabricaron modelos impresos en 3D de la ultraestructura de la barrera de filtración glomerular (BFG) en su estado normal y síndrome nefrótico. Además, se fabricó un modelo de la capa muscular del esófago humano dando énfasis a la disposición helicoidal de sus fibras musculares. Los modelos de epidermis permitieron identificar sus distintos estratos: estrato córneo, estrato granuloso, estrato espinoso, y estrato basal. Dentro los beneficios derivados de la impresión de modelos en 3D podemos destacar el bajo costo económico de su fabricación, alta reproducibilidad, bioseguridad, y potencial para favorecer el aprendizaje y la enseñanza de la Histología. No obstante, es necesario analizar la percepción y beneficio sobre el aprendizaje de los estudiantes derivados de la aplicación de los modelos mediante técnicas de evaluación cuantitativas y cualitativas.

SUMMARY: Traditionally, Histology has relied on the analysis of histological slides through the microscope for its teaching. In this sense, one of the main obstacles faced by students when analyzing tissues is to extrapolate a two-dimensional image to a three-dimensional (3D) structure. 3D printing makes it possible to overcome this limitation, making it possible to manufacture teaching material with the required characteristics with a high degree of detail and low cost. The objective of this work was to design and manufacture 3D printed models as a complement for the practical classes of Medical Histology. 3D printed models of the ultrastructure of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB) in its normal state and nephrotic syndrome were fabricated. In addition, a model of the muscular layer of the human esophagus was fabricated emphasizing the helical arrangement of its muscle fibers. The epidermis models allowed the identification of its different layers: stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale. Among the benefits derived from 3D printing of models, we can highlight the low economic cost of manufacturing, biosafety and potential to favor the learning and teaching of Histology. However, it is necessary to analyze the perception and benefit on student learning derived from the application of the models by means of quantitative and qualitative evaluation techniques.

Síndrome de Steven Johnson: Caso clínico / Steven Johnson syndrome: Clinical case

Resumen El síndrome de Stevens-Johnson (SJS) y la necrosis epidérmica tóxica (TEN) son consideradas como un espectro de enfermedades cutáneas raras pero potencialmente fatales. Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 55 años, con antecedente de epilepsia secundario a angiomas cavernosos en manejo con fenitoína. Asistió por cuadro clínico de dos días de evolución consistente en edema facial asociado a rash pruriginoso en región toracocervical, disfagia y picos febriles no cuantificados. A la exploración física conhiperemia e inyección conjuntival, edema de labios superior e inferior con lesiones tipo aftas blanquecinas y dolorosas. En piel, exantema maculopapular, confluente y eritematoso que desaparece a la digitopresión, de predominio en tronco y extremidades superiores. Ante estos resultados se sugirió que la paciente estuviera cursando con un síndrome de Steven Johnson. Esta es una patología de baja prevalencia, generalmente secundaria a una reacción idiosincrática que en la mayoría de los casos se produce por medio de medicamentos como los antibióticos, anticonvulsivantes, antiinflamatorios no esteroideos, entre otros. El manejo se basa en un diagnóstico temprano, retiro de las sustancias causales, realizar una vigilancia estricta de líquidos corporales, temperatura, aislamiento y un adecuado cuidado de la piel. Dentro de las medidas farmacológicas se puede usar la inmunoglobulina intravenosa.

Summary Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrosis (TEN) are considered as a spectrum of rare but potentially fatal skin diseases. The case of a 55-year-old woman with a history of epilepsy secondary to cavernous angiomas under management with phenytoin is presented. She attended for a clinical picture of two days of evolution consisting of facial edema associated with pruritic skin eruption in the thoracocervical region, dysphagia and unquantified feverish peaks. On physical examination with hyperemia and conjunctival injection, upper and lower lip edema with whitish and painful thrush-like lesions. In the skin, a maculopapular, confluent and erythematous rash that disappears when digitopressured, predominantly in the trunk and upper extremities. Given these results, it was suggested that the patient be studying with Steven Johnson syndrome. This is a pathology of low prevalence, generally secondary to an idiosyncratic reaction that in most cases occurs through medications such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, among others. Management is based on early diagnosis, removal of causal substances, strict monitoring of body fluids, temperature, isolation and proper skin care. Within pharmacological measures, intravenous immunoglobulin can be used.

Mvda is required for zebrafish early development

BACKGROUND: The MVD gene mutations are identified in porokeratosis, which is considered a skin-specific autoin- flammatory keratinization disease. However, the biological function of MVD gene remains largely unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the function of mvda gene, orthologous to the human MVD gene, in developing zebrafish. METHODS: Morpholino antisense oligonucleotide technique was used to generate mvda loss-of-function phenotypes. Knockdown of mvda was confirmed by RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed to analyze the morphology of the epidermis. Angiogenesis study was presented using the Tg(fli1a:EGFP)yl transgenic strain. In addition, acridine orange staining was used to examine the apoptotic cells in vivo. RESULTS: As expected, the mvda morphants showed abnormal morphology of the epidermis. Moreover, we observed ectopic sprouts in trunk angiogenesis and impaired formation of the caudal vein plexus in the mvda-deficient zebrafish. Besides, increased apoptosis was found throughout the tail, heart, and eyes in mvda zebrafish morphants. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicated the essential role of mvda in the early development of zebrafish. This was the first in vivo knockdown study of the zebrafish mvda gene, which might offer insight into the biological function of the human MVD gene.

Effect of topical nitric oxide donors on epidermal hyperplasia in mice with impaired barrier function / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of nitric oxide on epidermal hyperplasia in mice with impaired barrier function.Methods:Fifteen SKH1 hairless mice were divided into 4 groups by using a random number table: normal control group (3 mice) , S-nitroso-N-acetyl-DL-penicillamine (SNAP) group (4 mice) , barrier-impaired group (4 mice) , SNAP-treated barrier-impaired group (4 mice) . Fifteen C57BL/6J mice were randomly and equally divided into 3 groups: normal control group, barrier-impaired group and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) -treated barrier-impaired group. Mice in the two normal control groups were both topically treated with propylene glycol-ethanol mixtures on the back; those in the SNAP group were topically treated with SNAP solution alone; those in the two barrier-impaired groups were both treated with repeated tape peeling followed by topical application of propylene glycol-ethanol mixtures on the back twice a day; those in the SNAP-or SNP-treated barrier-impaired group were treated with repeated tape peeling followed by topical application of 10-mmol/L SNAP or SNP solution on the back twice a day. After 4 consecutive days of treatment, all the mice were sacrificed on day 5, and skin tissues were resected from the back of mice followed by preparation of paraffin sections. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed to measure the epidermal thickness, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining was conducted to detect proliferating cells in the epidermis. Two-way analysis of variance and one-way analysis of variance were used for comparisons among groups, and least significant difference- t test was used for multiple comparisons. Results:No significant difference in the epidermal thickness or number of PCNA-positive cells was observed between the SNAP group and normal control group ( t=0.33, 1.25, P=0.748, 0.246, respectively) . Compared with the corresponding normal control groups, the barrier-impaired groups showed significantly increased epidermal thickness and number of PCNA-positive cells (all P < 0.01) . Compared with the corresponding barrier-impaired groups, SNAP-treated barrier-impaired group and SNP-treated barrier-impaired group both showed significantly increased epidermal thickness (SKH1: 127.5 ± 12.0 μm vs. 50.4 ± 5.4 μm; C57BL/6J: 78.1 ± 7.6 μm vs. 45.9 ± 3.7 μm; both P < 0.001) and number of PCNA-positive cells (SKH1: 120.0 ± 5.0 cells/mm vs. 87.3 ± 3.8 cells/mm; C57BL/6J: 285.0 ± 15.0 cells/mm vs. 232.0 ± 19.3 cells/mm; both P < 0.01) . Conclusion:Topical nitric oxide donors did not affect normal epidermis, but could aggravate epidermal hyperplasia in barrier-impaired skin, suggesting that skin condition affects the effect of topical nitric oxide donors on epidermal hyperplasia.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of Arnebiae Radix and Dictamni Cortex and efficacy study of herbal extracts on allergic contact dermatitis using 3D human reconstructed epidermis / 中草药·英文版

Objective: To evaluate the quality of Arnebiae Radix (AR) and Dictamni Cortex (DC) and study the efficacy of herbal extracts of these two herbs on the treatment of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Methods: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of effective components was performed using High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and HPLC-Quadrupole Time of Flight-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-QTOF-MS). In vitro allergic ACD 3D model was established by incubating 3D reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) with skin sensitizer, potassium dichromate. A total of 65 gene expression that were associated with ACD, which included 24 antioxidant responsive element (ARE) and 41 SENS-IS genes were quantified by qRT-PCR. More than or equal to 10 ARE genes and 18 SENN-IS genes were induced by 1.3-fold, demonstrating the successful establishment of in vitro ACD model. Oil extracts of AR and DC were applied on the in vitro ACD model to study the efficacy. Results: Batch 3 of AR and batch 2 of DC showed presence of all active ingredients with the highest concentrations. Active ingredients of the herbs were extracted using a special oil and formulated into herbal oil extracts. The herbal oil extracts were able to down regulate the induced genes in the in-vitro ACD skin model, bringing the tissue back to homeostatic status. Conclusion: The oil extracts showed the potent efficacy of using AR and DC in ACD treatment. The combination study will be done to optimize the formulation ratio which will be developed into a topical cream.

Concentração de minerais no tecido queratinizado podal de equinos jovens da raça Crioula em diferentes fases de crescimento / [Mineral concentrations in the keratinized tissue on the feet of young Crioulo horses at different stages of growth]

O presente estudo avaliou o perfil mineral de Cálcio (Ca), Cobre (Cu) e Zinco (Zn) no estojo córneo pré e pós-desmame e sua associação com pigmentação, gênero e idade de potros da raça Crioula criados em pastagens nativas no Rio Grande do Sul. Foram coletadas amostras do casco de potros da raça Crioula 41 dias pré e 28 dias pós-desmame. Os teores de Ca, Cu e Zn variaram no casco fetal (571,0±39,4; 14,5±7,6 e 130,0±30,5mg/kg, respectivamente; P<0,05) e no definitivo (653,0±169,2; 33,8±11,5 e 69,3±36,8mg/kg, respectivamente; P<0,05), no pré (620,0±184; 17,2±21,2 e 103,0±75,5mg/kg, respectivamente; P<0,05) e no pós-desmame (517,5±181; 0 e 79,0±41,7mg/kg, respectivamente; P<0,05). Houve associação positiva (P<0,05) com a faixa etária no pré-desmame para Ca (r=0,5) e Cu (r=0,57), e negativa para Zn (r=-0,69; P<0,05). No pós-desmame, houve associação positiva (P<0,05) para Ca (r=0,36) e Zn (r=0,64) e negativa para Cu (r=-0,39; P<0,05). Tanto a pigmentação quanto o gênero não afetaram o perfil mineral. Conclui-se que há diferenças nas concentrações de Ca, Cu e Zn na epiderme do casco de potros da raça Crioula no pré e pós-desmame, independentemente da pigmentação e do gênero, onde as concentrações de Ca e Cu aumentam com a idade, enquanto as de Zn diminuem.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mineral profile of Ca, Cu and Zn in the hoof horny capsule at pre and post-weaning and its association with pigmentation, gender and age range of Crioulo foals raised in native pastures in RS. Samples were collected from the epidermis of the Crioulo foal's hoof at two times, 41 pre and 28 post-weaning. The contents of Ca, Cu, Zn Varied in the fetal hoof ( 571.0±139.4, 14.5±7.6 and 130.0±30.5mg/kg, respectively, P<0.05) and definitive (653.0±169.2, 33.8±11.5 and 69.3±36.8mg/kg, respectively, P<0.05), in the pre (620.0±184, 17.2±21.2 and103.0±75.5mg/kg, respectively, P<0.05) and post-weaning (517.5±181, 0.1 and 79.0±41.7mg/kg, respectively, P<0.05).There was a positive association (P<0.05) with a preweaning age for Ca (r=0.5) and Cu (r=0.57) and negative for Zn (r=-0.69, P<0.05). In the post weaning there was a positive association (P<0.05) for Ca (r=0.36) and Zn (r=0.64) and negative for Cu (r=-0.39; P<0.05). Neither pigmentation nor gender affected the mineral profile. It is concluded that there are differences in Ca, Cu, Zn concentrations in the epidermis of foals of the crioulo breed at the pre and post weaning, regardless of pigmentation and sex, where Ca and Cu concentrations increase with age, while Zn concentrations decrease.(AU)

Quantitative Cellular Evaluation and Anatomical Organization of the External Region of Different Genetic Materials and Maturation Stages of Tomato Processing

Abstract The effect of the anatomical structure of tomato skin may be significant for quality determination at the harvest point, but the definitions of cells that constitute the skin of fleshy fruits, such as tomato, are still unclear, providing contradictory descriptions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidermal tissue of different genetic materials of tomato processing (IT761, U2006, TC2736, CVR2909 and F3060) and maturation stage, in order to compare and choose genetic materials with morphological characteristics of the epidermis region more appropriate for the bulk transport. Micrographs were used for cell measurements using the Image J software. Cuticle undergoes thickening during fruit growth, and reduction in full maturation. Genetic materials presenting fruits with thicker cuticle at the harvest stage (CVR2909, F3060 and IT761) were more advantageous due to their mechanical resistance. Cuticle deposition ends before full fruit maturation, resulting in a decrease in the amount of cutin per surface unit, consequently decreasing cuticle thickness in the ripe fruit. The characteristics observed in the tomato fruit mesocarp clearly showed the disruption of the cell wall during the fourth maturation stage related to loss of fruit firmness. Among the new genetic materials, F3060 has a greater potential to become cultivated for industrialization due to its morphological characteristics, such as elevated cuticle thickness and high values for width, height, perimeter and area of epidermal cells in full maturation stage, which make it suitable for bulk transport.

Exploratory Study of Epidermis, Basement Membrane Zone, Upper Dermis Alterations and Wnt Pathway Activation in Melasma Compared to Adjacent and Retroauricular Skin

BACKGROUND: Melasma is a chronic acquired focal hypermelanosis which pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. Classical pathophysiologic studies have analysed the affected and perilesional areas, but little is known about the status of sun-protected skin, which is subjected to the same endogenous and genetic factors.OBJECTIVE: To assess the histological characteristics of melasma compared to adjacent and retroauricular skin.METHODS: Skin samples were collected from 10 female from: melasma, perilesional area and retroauricular. The samples were stained (haematoxylin-eosin, periodic acid-Schiff, Fontana-Masson, picrosirius red, toluidine blue and Verhoeff), immunolabelled for CD34 and Wnt1. The data from the skin sites were analysed simultaneously by a multivariate model.RESULTS: Melasma skin exhibited noteworthy stratum corneum compaction, greater collagen heterogeneity, solar elastosis, higher number of mast cells, basement membrane zone (BMZ) damage, Wnt1 expression, pendulum melanocytes, higher cellularity and vascular proliferation at the superficial dermis. Stratum corneum compaction, collagen heterogeneity and BMZ abnormalities were variables associated to melasma that not follow a continuum through retroauricular to adjacent skin. Mast cell count was the variable that disclosed correlation with the most other abnormalities as well as had the greater contribution in the multivariate model.CONCLUSION: In addition to melanocyte hyperactivity, melasma skin exhibits alterations in the epidermal barrier, upper dermis and BMZ, which differ from the adjacent sun-exposed skin and retroauricular skin, indicating a distinct phenotype, rather than a mere extension of photoageing or intrinsic ageing. Mast cells appear to play a central role in the physiopathology of melasma.

Cicatrização de feridas cutâneas: uso da membrana de látex natural isolada e associada à fibrina rica em plaquetas em ratos Wistar / Healing of skin wounds: use of natural latex membrane isolated and associated with platelet-rich fibrin in Wistar rats

Devido à alta incidência de feridas e lesões de pele, a busca científica tem se focado no desenvolvimento de coberturas e substitutos epidérmicos alternativos às técnicas de enxertia que possuam a mesma função de evitar a exposição de feridas às variações externas. O látex natural derivado da Hevea brasiliensis estimula o processo de cicatrização, assim como a fibrina rica em plaquetas (PRF). A associação desses dois compostos tem como finalidade oferecer um suporte estrutural e estímulo à migração epitelial, associado à proteção e menor desidratação do leito cicatricial. No presente estudo, investigamos a resposta de reparo cicatricial em feridas agudas de espessura total em ratos Wistar, submetidos a três diferentes tratamentos: membrana de látex associada à PRF (ML+PRF), apenas a membrana de látex (ML) e controle com solução de cloreto de sódio a 0,9% estéril em. A avaliação macroscópica foi realizada por mensuração, posteriormente a amostra tecidual foi coletada e submetida à coloração com Hematoxilina & Eosina e Picrosirius Red para análise histológica. Para análise estatística, as variáveis quantitativas foram determinadas por ANOVA (pós-teste de Tukey) e as variáveis semiquantitativas determinadas pelo teste de Friedman (pósteste de Dunn), sendo considerados significantes quando p<0,05. Como resultados houve diminuição significativa no diâmetro da ferida e melhor reepitelização em relação aos controles , assim como houve estímulo à deposição de colágeno tipo I, que gera resistência tecidual. Não foram observadas complicações quanto ao uso dessa associação, portanto auxilia no reparo da pele em tratamento de feridas agudas de espessura total em ratos Wistar hígidos(AU)

Due to the high incidence of wounds and skin lesions, scientific research has focused on the development of alternative epidermal coverings and substitutes to grafting techniques that have the same function of preventing the exposure of wounds to external variations. The natural latex derived from Hevea brasiliensis stimulates the healing process, as well as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). The association of these two compounds aims to provide structural support and stimulate epithelial migration, associated with protection and less dehydration of the healing bed. In the present study, we investigated the healing repair response in acute full-thickness wounds in Wistar rats, submitted to three different treatments: latex membrane associated with PRF (ML + PRF), only the latex membrane (ML), and control with a solution of 0.9% sodium chloride sterile. The macroscopic and microscopic evaluations were performed by measurement, followed by tissue sample collection and staining with Hematoxylin & Eosin and Picrosirius Red for histological analysis. For statistical analysis, quantitative variables were determined by ANOVA (Tukey's post-test) and semi-quantitative variables were determined by Friedman's test (Dunn's post-test), being considered significant when p<0.05. As a result, there was a significant decrease in the wound diameter and better re-epithelialization concerning the controls, as well as the deposition of type I collagen, which generates tissue resistance. No complications were observed regarding the use of this association. Therefore, it assists in skin repair in the treatment of acute full-thickness wounds in healthy Wistar rats(AU)

Alterações na Epiderme de Pacientes com Aids Autopsiados em Uso da Terapia Antirretroviral / Changes in the Epidermis of Autopsied AIDS Patients Using Antiretroviral Therapy

Objetivo: Avaliar a influência da terapia na morfologia da epiderme de pacientes com Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida - AIDS. Metodologia: Estudo transversal desenvolvido na Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Brasil. Foram selecionados pacientes com AIDS de ambos os sexos, que foram agrupados de acordo com o tratamento com Terapia antir-retroviral de alta eficiência: pacientes em uso de HAART (n = 14) e pacientes sem uso de HAART (n = 14). Outras informações foram coletadas do prontuário clínico. Resultados: A idade média dos pacientes em tratamento foi de 49,07 ± 7,89 anos e dos pacientes sem TARV foi de 55,11 ± 10,17 anos. A maioria dos pacientes na terapia utilizada pertencia ao sexo feminino, 9 (64,28%). Estes apresentaram espessamento epidérmico (150,04 x 86,09µm), número de camadas celulares (8,0 x 5,5 camadas) e densidade de células de Langerhans superiores àquelas que não utilizaram a terapia, com diferença significativa. Conclusão: Nossos achados sugerem que o HAART propor-ciona a recuperação dos constituintes da epiderme alterados pela doença, melhorando sua função como barreira chave na proteção do corpo contra microorganismos ambientais. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the influence of therapy in the morphology of the epidermis of patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Methodology: Cross-sectional study developed at the Triangulo Mineiro Federal University, Brazil. This study has been approved by Triângulo Mineiro Federal University Research Ethics Committee on protocol number 1780/2010. Patients with AIDS, of both genders were selected and arranged according to treatment with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy: patients in use of HAART (n = 14), and patients without use of HAART (n = 14). Other information was collected from the clinical record. Results: The mean age of the patients undergoing therapy was 49.07±7.89 years, and of the patients without HAART was 55.11±10.17 years. The majority of the patients using the therapy, belonged to the female gender, 9 (64.28%). These showed epidermal thickness (150.04 x 86.09µm), number of cell layers (8.0 x 5.5 layers) and density of Langerhans cells higher than those who did not use the therapy, with a significant difference. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the HAART provides recovery of epidermis constituents altered by the disease, improving its function as a key barrier in protecting the body against environmental microorganisms. (AU)

Galectin 3: an extraordinary multifunctional protein in dermatology. Current knowledge and perspectives

Abstract: Galectin 3 is a unique ~31 kDa protein that recognizes the N-acetyl-lactosamine structure of several glycoconjugates. It mainly occurs in epithelial and myeloid cells, but is also found in a variety of human cell types. In view of the crucial role played by galectin 3 in the regulation of cellular processes of essential importance and in the pathogenetic mechanisms of diverse disorders, it is not surprising that, particularly in the last three decades, the attention of the scientific community has been increasingly drawn to this extraordinary and multifunctional galectin. In this paper the authors summarize current knowledge on the expression of galectin 3 in normal and diseased human skin, its implications in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and prognosis of cutaneous disorders, and the perspectives of a novel approach to the treatment of the latter using galectin 3 or its inhibitors/antagonists.

Gender Differences in the Microanatomy of Skin of Palm in Humans

Knowledge of basic elements provides opportunity to make clear vision of structure of any organ. It is well known that accurate values of thickness of epidermis of skin and its variation with body site, age and sex are important in the fields of medical and biological research. The variations in skin reaction to certain stimuli could be due to biological factors such as the epidermal thickness, dermal thickness, distribution of epidermal appendages etc. Methods: Skin was procured from palm of six freshly embalmed human cadavers. Out of these three were males and three were females. Age of the male and female cadavers ranged between 60 to 70years (mean age 67years). Skin samples measuring 1cm (L) X 0.5cm (B) were taken from center of palm. Tissue was preserved in 10% formaldehyde for 48 hours. Fixed tissue specimens were dehydrated through increasing concentrations (30%, 50%, 70%, 90% and absolute) of ethanol. After clearing the tissue in xylene, embedding was done in paraffin wax. 5 µm thick sections were cut using rotary microtome. Whole thickness of tissue was sectioned. Haematoxylin[Harris’s] and Eosin stained section was observed for 3 different fields thus for each cadaver 27 observations were obtained. Results: In females thickness of epidermis(Edp) of were observed 404.43±23.41µm,thickness of stratum corneum (330±32.83µm),layers of stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum were 4 and 3 respectively, number of rete pegs (7.52±0.94), depth of rete pegs (195.78±18.05µm), thickness of papillary dermis and reticular dermis were(135.92±13.230µm) and (386.10±8.24µm) respectively. Whereas In males thickness of epidermis(Edp) of were observed (296.63±107.03µm),thickness of stratum corneum were (112.20±63.92µm),layers of stratum spinosum and stratum granulosum were 2, number of rete pegs 16.15±3.71, depth of rete pegs (104.56±15.28µm), thicknesss of papillary dermis and reticular dermis were(142.63±40.84µm) and (483.27±116.43µm) respectively. Conclusion: Despite of the fact that subjects from both sexes belonged to the same age group, clear and statistically significant histological differences were observed in the skin of palm. Females showed thicker epidermis as well as stratum corneum but thinner dermis in comparison to males. Males had more number of rete pegs but these are shallower than females.

Evaluation of the value of Western blot analysis based on human epidermal extracts prepared by thermal separation in the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective To prepare human epidermal extracts by thermal separation,and to evaluate the value of epidermal extract-based Western blot analysis in the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid (BP).Methods Human epidermal extracts were prepared by thermal separation from circumcised foreskins of healthy males.Serum samples were obtained from 22 inpatients with BP and 25 inpatients without BP in Hospital for Skin Diseases,Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College between January 2015 and August 2017.These serum samples were subjected to Western blot analysis with epidermal extracts as substrates,as well as to BP180-NC16A enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square test and Fisher's exact test with the SPSS22.0 software.Results The sensitivities of epidermal extract-based Western blot analysis and BP 180-NC16A ELISA in the diagnosis of BP were 86.36％ (95 ％ CI:64.03％-96.41％) and 95.45％ (95％ CI:75.11％-99.76％) respectively (~ =1.10,P =0.294),and the specificities were 100％ (95％ CI:83.42％-100％) and 92％ (95％ CI:75.11％-99.76％) respectively (x2 =20.8,P =0.149).Epidermal extract-based Western blot analysis in the 22 patients with BP showed a protein band with relative molecular mass (RMM) of 230 000 in 4 patients,a protein band with RMM of 180 000 in 18,a protein band with RMM of 120 000 in 1,and a protein band with RMM of 97 000 in 1.The BP180-NC16A ELISA showed that the antibody titers were more than 50 U/ml in the BP patients with protein bands of RMM of 180 000.Conclusions The epidermal extract-based Western blot analysis mainly showed the protein band with RMM of 180 000 in the patients with BP.The sensitivity of the epidermal extract-based Western blot analysis was lower than that of the BP180-NC16A ELISA,and the epidermal extract-based Western blot analysis tends to be negative when the titer of the autoantibody is low.

Construction and identification of mouse model with conditional knockout of p75 neurotrophin receptor gene in epidermal cells by Cre-loxP system / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective@#To construct and identify a mouse model with conditional knockout (cKO) of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR-cKO) gene in epidermis cells by Cre-loxP system.@*Methods@#Five p75NTRflox/flox transgenic C57BL/6J mice (aged 6-8 weeks, male and female unlimited, the age and sex of mice used for reproduction were the same below) and five keratin 14 promotor-driven (KRT14-) Cre+ /- transgenic C57BL/6J mice were bred and hybridized via Cre-loxP system. Five p75NTRflox/+ ·KRT14-Cre+ /- mice selected from the first generation of mice were mated with five p75NTRflox/flox mice to obtain the second generation hybrids. After the second generation mice were born 20-25 days, the parts of the mice tail were cut off to identify the genotype by polymerase chain reaction method. Four p75NTR gene complete cKO mice (6 weeks old) and 4 wild-type mice (6 weeks old) were selected and sacrificed respectively. The abdominal skin tissue and brain tissue were excised to observe the expression of p75NTR in the two tissue of two types of mice by immunohistochemical staining. The abdominal skin tissue of two types of mice was obtained to observe the histomorphological changes by hematoxylin and eosin staining.@*Results@#(1) Twenty second generation mice were bred. The genotype of 4 mice was p75NTRflox/flox·KRT14-Cre+ /-(p75NTR-/-), i. e. p75NTR gene complete cKO mice; the genotype of 5 mice was p75NTRflox/+ ·KRT14-Cre+ /-, i. e. p75NTR gene partial cKO mice; the genotype of 5 mice was p75NTRflox/flox·KRT14-Cre-/-, and that of 6 mice was p75NTRflox/+ ·KRT14-Cre-/-, all of which were wild-type mice. (2) The expression of p75NTR was negative in skin epidermis tissue of p75NTR gene complete cKO mice, while numerous p75NTR positive expression was observed in skin epidermis tissue of wild-type mice. Abundant p75NTR positive expression was observed in brain tissue of both wild-type mice and p75NTR gene complete cKO mice. (3) There was no abnormal growth of skin epidermis tissue in both wild-type mice and p75NTR gene complete cKO mice, with intact hair follicle structure.@*Conclusions@#Applying Cre-loxP system can successfully construct a p75NTR-cKO mice model in epidermis cells without obvious changes in skin histomorphology.

Rab25 Deficiency Perturbs Epidermal Differentiation and Skin Barrier Function in Mice

Rab25, a member of the Rab11 small GTPase family, is central to achieving cellular polarity in epithelial tissues. Rab25 is highly expressed in epithelial cells of various tissues including breast, vagina, cervix, the gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Rab25 plays key roles in tumorigenesis, mainly by regulating epithelial differentiation and proliferation. However, its role in skin physiology is relatively unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that Rab25 knock-out (KO) mice show a skin barrier dysfunction with high trans-epidermal water loss and low cutaneous hydration. To examine this observation, we investigated the histology and epidermal differentiation markers of the skin in Rab25 KO mice. Rab25 KO increased cell proliferation at the basal layer of epidermis, whereas the supra-basal layer remained unaffected. Ceramide, which is a critical lipid component for skin barrier function, was not altered by Rab25 KO in its distribution or amount, as determined by immunohistochemistry. Notably, levels of epidermal differentiation markers, including loricrin, involucrin, and keratins (5, 14, 1, and 10) increased prominently in Rab25 KO mice. In line with this, depletion of Rab25 with single hairpin RNA increased the expression of differentiation markers in a human keratinocyte cell line, HaCaT. Transcriptomic analysis of the skin revealed increased expression of genes associated with skin development, epidermal development, and keratinocyte differentiation in Rab25 KO mice. Collectively, these results suggested that Rab25 is involved in the regulation of epidermal differentiation and proliferation.

Detection of skin thickness and echo density in healthy adults by using high-frequency ultrasound / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective To measure the thickness and echo density of the skin at multiple sites of healthy adults by using high-frequency ultrasound.Methods A total of 50 healthy volunteers were enrolled from Department of Dermatology and Venereology,China-Japan Friendship Hospital between June and December in 2018,including 33 females and 17 males aged 22-69 years.The thickness and echo density of the epidermis,dermis and epidermis-dermis layer were detected by using high-frequency ultrasound at 12 sites,including the forehead,cheek,chest,abdomen,and the inner and outer sides of the upper arm,forearm,thigh and leg.The means of two groups were compared by using t test,and means of several groups were compared by using one-way analysis of variation.Results High-frequency skin ultrasound images differed among different anatomical sites.There were significant differences in the thickness and echo density of the epidermis,dermis and epidermis-dermis layer among the 12 sites (P ＜ 0.05).The epidermis was thickest at the inner side of the thigh (160.68 μm ± 25.71 μm),the dermis was thickest at the cheek(1 828.78 μm ± 399.10 μm),and the epidermis-dermis layer was thickest at the cheek (1 943.48 μm ± 402.4 μm).The echo density of the epidermis,dermis and epidermis-dermis layer was highest at the inner side of the leg (152.27 ± 21.56),forearm (52.71 ± 15.57) and forearm (62.56 ± 15.76) respectively.The thickness of the epidermis,dermis and epidermis-dermis layer at the forehead,cheek and the inner side of the forearm was significantly higher in male volunteers than in female volunteers (P ≤ 0.05 or ＜ 0.01),while the echo density of the dermis and epidermis-dermis layer at the forehead,cheek and the outer side of the leg was significantly lower in male volunteers than in female volunteers (P ＜ 0.05 or 0.01).Conclusion Differences exist in skin thickness and echo density among different anato mical sites and between male and female healthy adults.