Ultraviolet-A absorbance analysis in thin porcine corneas pre-and post-crosslinking

ABSTRACT Purpose: To determine the absorbance coefficient of the thin porcine cornea to ultraviolet-A radiation (365 nm) submitted for crosslinking. Methods: This in vitro, benchtop experiment using cadaver tissue study analyzed 12 porcine corneal lamellas, which were obtained using a microkeratome after mechanical de-epithelization and separated into three thickness groups: 180, 300, and 360 μm. The corneal thickness values were measured by anterior-segment optical coherence tomography. All lamellas had ultraviolet-A (365 nm) absorbance measured with a 96-well plate spectrophotometer using an ultraviolet transparent microplate before riboflavin instillation and preand post-crosslinking according to the Dresden protocol. Results: The ultraviolet absorbance profiles of the 180, 300, and 360 μm groups were obtained as α-coefficients of 12.85, 76.55, and 120.27, respectively. A theoretical formula was calculated though a statistical analysis that demonstrated the correlation between stromal lamellar thickness and ultraviolet absorbance. Conclusions: Corneal thickness and ultraviolet-A spectral absorbance of corneal lamellas showed linear correlation. These findings can potentially contribute to the optimization of ultraviolet-A application during crosslinking, making the treatment of corneas with thickness <400 μm safe and personalized energy delivery for each corneal thickness.

Luz UVC como estratégia de desinfecção do ar e superfícies hospitalares / Luz UV-C como estrategia de desinfección del aire y superficies hospitalarias / UVC light as a strategy for disinfection of hospital air and surfaces

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia antimicrobiana de um dispositivo fixo emissor de luz UV-C na desinfecção de diferentes superfícies do ambiente hospitalar e sua eficácia antifúngica na qualidade do ar. Métodos Estudo quase-experimental realizado em uma unidade de internação hospitalar, que utilizou o Bioamostrador de ar Andersen® de seis estágios para análise do ar; e na avaliação das superfícies, utilizaram-se três suspensões de microrganismos (Acinetobacter sp. MDR, Escherichia coli e Klebsiella pneumoniae produtora de KPC) para contaminar o ambiente. Para ambos foram feitas coletas pré (controle) e pós-acionamento da luz UV-C (teste). Resultados Na avaliação do ar houve uma redução importante da contagem de colônias após a luz UV-C e não foram encontrados fungos patogênicos ou toxigênicos em nenhum dos dois momentos. Em relação à desinfecção das superfícies, nenhum crescimento bacteriano foi observado após a intervenção da luz, demonstrando 100% de inativação bacteriana nas condições testadas. Conclusão A utilização da tecnologia com emissão de luz UV-C fixa foi eficaz e pode ser considerada uma intervenção promissora para protocolos de desinfecção de superfícies hospitalares.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la eficacia antimicrobiana de un dispositivo fijo emisor de luz UV-C para la desinfección de diferentes superficies del ambiente hospitalario y su eficacia antifúngica en la calidad del aire. Métodos Estudio cuasi experimental realizado en una unidad de internación hospitalaria, en que se utilizó el biomuestreador de aire Andersen® de seis etapas para el análisis del aire. En el análisis de las superficies, se utilizaron tres suspensiones de microorganismos (Acinetobacter sp. MDR, Escherichia coli y Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de KPC) para contaminar el ambiente. En ambos se tomó una muestra antes (control) y después de accionar la luz UV-C (prueba). Resultados En el análisis del aire hubo una reducción importante del recuento de colonias después de la luz UV-C y no se encontraron hongos patógenos ni toxigénicos en ninguno de los dos momentos. Con relación a la desinfección de las superficies, no se observó ningún crecimiento bacteriano después de la intervención de la luz, lo que demuestra un 100 % de inactivación bacteriana en las condiciones analizadas. Conclusión El uso de la tecnología con emisión de luz UV-C fija fue eficaz y puede ser considerada una intervención prometedora para protocolos de desinfección de superficies hospitalarias.

Abstract Objective To evaluate a fixed UV-C light emitting device for its antimicrobial effectiveness in the disinfection of distinct surfaces and its antifungal effectiveness on air quality in the hospital environment. Methods This quasi-experimental study was conducted in a hospital inpatient unit, in which a six-stage air Biosampler (Andersen®) was used for air analysis. In the evaluation of surfaces, three suspensions of microorganisms (Acinetobacter sp. multidrug-resistant, Escherichia coli, and KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae) were used to contaminate the environment. In both evaluations, pre- (control) and post-activation of UV-C light (test) collections were made. Results In the air evaluation, an important reduction was observed in the colony count after irradiation with UV-C light, and pathogenic or toxigenic fungi were not found in either of the two moments. Regarding the disinfection of surfaces, no bacterial growth was observed after the application of UV-C light, showing 100% bacterial inactivation under the tested conditions. Conclusion The use of fixed UV-C light emission technology was effective and can be considered a promising intervention for hospital surface disinfection protocols.

Association of sunlight exposure with visual impairment in an Indian fishing community

Purpose: Indian fishermen belong to a marginalized population and are continuously exposed to extreme occupational hazards and sunlight. A high prevalence of visual impairment (VI) is reported in the coastal fishing community. We aimed to investigate the association between VI and sunlight exposure measurement (SEM). Methods: In this cross?sectional observational study, 270 eyes of 135 participants were enrolled from a coastal fishing village. Participants underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, which included best?corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and anterior and posterior segment examination. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and SEM questionnaire were administered to estimate the level of dry eye and ultraviolet?B (UV?B) exposure, respectively. VI was defined as presenting visual acuity worse than 6/12 (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] > 0.3). Results: The mean age and spherical equivalent were 50.56 ± 11.72 years (range: 18–80 years) and 0.36 ± 1.68 diopters (D) (range: ?7.0 to +3.0 D), respectively. Age, SEM, OSDI, fishing as an occupation, and cataract were significantly associated with higher odds of VI in univariate analysis. Refraction, gender, education level, smoking status, amblyopia, systematic, and other ocular diseases were not significantly associated with VI. In the multivariate analysis, age, SEM, and presence of cataract remained significantly associated with a higher risk for VI. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for age and SEM scores demonstrate a fair index of discrimination for the detection of VI. Conclusion: SEM level is directly associated with a higher risk of VI among fishermen. The fishing community might benefit from regular eye examinations and awareness about the harmful effects of sunlight exposure and preventive measures.

Ultraviolet radiation and the human eye / Radiações ultravioletas e o olho humano

ABSTRACT This work is a critical review of the current understanding of the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the eye. It deals with the classification of this radiation, environmental level, and the factors that determine it, along with penetration into the human eye, toxicity to ocular structures, associated morbidities, events that may increase the vulnerability of the eye, and artificial eye filters.

RESUMO Esta é uma revisão crítica do efeito da radiação ul travioleta no olho. Trata da classificação dessa radiação, nível no meio ambiente e os fatores que o determinam, penetração no olho humano, toxicidade às estruturas dos oculares, morbidades associadas, eventos passíveis de aumentar a vulnerabilidade do olho e filtros oculares artificiais. Discute, ainda, o risco real dessas radiações ao olho humano à luz do conhecimento atual.

Effects of different light sources on the stability of cinepazide maleate in sodium chloride solution / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the effects of different light sources on the stability of cinepazide maleate in sodium chloride solution, providing a theoretical basis for standardizing operation for avoiding light in clinical medication.Methods:First, a standard curve was created and methodological studies were conducted. Then, intravenous drip solutions were prepared using clinically prescribed methods. Then, the absorbance of the solution of cinepazide maleate injection under outdoor light, light emitting diode (LED) light, indoor light, artificial sunlight with a color temperature of 6 500 K (D65), and under a shading condition for 1, 2, 3, and 7 hours were brought into the standard curve to obtain the concentrations, and the change of the concentrations was studied.Results:There was no light decomposition phenomenon of cinepazide maleate injection in the shading group (control group) within 7 hours. In the other four experimental groups, there was no obvious light decomposition phenomenon of cinepazide maleate injection in the LED light group. Compared with the shading group, cinepazide maleate injection in the indoor, outdoor, and D65 groups began to exhibit a light decomposition phenomenon at 1 hour ( F = 44 840.44, P < 0.001). At 2 hours, cinepazide maleate content in the outdoor and D65 groups began to decrease significantly compared with the shading group ( F = 15 459.12, P < 0.001). At 7 hours, cinepazide maleate exhibited significantly greater light decomposition in the outdoor group [(29.84 ± 0.43) L·mol -1·cm -1] and D65 group [(21.01 ± 0.51) L·mol -1·cm -1] than the shading group [(101.65 ± 1.5) L·mol -1·cm -1] ( F = 63 106.32, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in cinepazide maleate content between LED and shading groups ( P > 0.05). Conclusion:Cinepazide maleate injection is stable under the common LED light source and therefore it is not necessary to take lightproof operation. Cinepazide maleate injection is unstable under indoor, outdoor, and D65 light sources, and it is necessary to take lightproof operation.

Compatibility stability of cinepazide maleate injection and dopamine hydrochloride injection / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the compatibility stability of cinepazide maleate injection and dopamine hydrochloride injection and explore the basis for the combined application of cinnamazide maleate injection and dopamine hydrochloride injection.Methods:A method for determining cinnamazide maleate injection and dopamine hydrochloride injection was established using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer and verified from March 1, 2021 to May 20, 2021. The color and pH value of the solution prepared using the two drugs were determined within 5 hours at room temperature. The content change of the prepared solution was determined using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer.Results:The linear range of the mass concentration of cinnamazide maleate was 4.03 - 32.24 mg/L and the linear range of dopamine hydrochloride was 20 -120 mg/L. At 25 ℃, the color of the prepared solution did not change within 5 hours and the pH value was in the range of 4.43 ± 0.06, indicating that the pH of the prepared solution did not change markedly. The concentrations of cinnamazide maleate and dopamine hydrochloride were (98.23 ± 1.09)% and (99.96 ± 0.41)% respectively, indicating good stability.Conclusion:The prepared solution using cinepazide maleate injection and dopamine hydrochloride injection can be used within 5 hours at 25 ℃.

Effectiveness of ultraviolet C-light in eliminating microbial pathogens from stethoscopes used in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of East Avenue Medical Center

Background@#Instruments used to examine infected patients may be contaminated by disease- causing microorganisms during contact. If these instruments are not sterilized properly prior to being used on other patients, pathogen transfer may occur via this route. Stethoscopes are the most commonly used equipment by healthcare providers. Microbes and viruses may be transmitted from one patient to another and from healthcare worker to patient via stethoscope membranes.@*Objective@#To determine the effectiveness of ultraviolet c-light in eliminating microbial pathogens from stethoscopes used in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of East Avenue Medical Center.@*Methodology@#This is a two-arm, double blind, randomized controlled trial. The minimum sample size computed for this study was 26 stethoscopes. Thirteen (13) stethoscopes each were randomly allocated to Ultraviolet C (Group A) and standard of care (Group B) groups.@*Data Analysis@#Summary statistics were reported in tables as means, standard deviations, percentages and frequencies min-max for quantitative discrete outcome measures or percentages for qualitativemeasures.@*Results@#The predominant microbial pathogens colonized in the stethoscopes were different species of Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (CONS) namely: Staphylococcus Heamolyticus (34.62%), Staphyloccocus Epidermidis (26.92%) and Staphylococcus Hominis (19.23%). Both UVC light and standard of care were equally effective in decreasing the CFUS on the stethoscopes. There was no significant difference in the post-test colony-forming units (CFUs) between the two groups (t = .594, p >.05).@*Conclusion@#UVC light sterilization is comparative to the standard of care in eliminating microbial pathogens. It works faster and is more reliable, durable and cost-effective. It is recommended as an alternative method for decontaminating stethoscopes used at the EAMC-NICU due to its numerous advantages.Keywords: ultraviolet c light, neonatal intensive care unit, stethoscope

Research progress on roles of ultraviolet irradiation in diseases / 环境与职业医学

The electromagnetic spectrum emitted by the sun includes visible light, infrared, and ultraviolet (UV). Among them, UV is one of the hotspots of research. Previous studies have paid more attention to the impact of UV on the skin because UV is one of the causes of skin damage. The physiological effects of UV on the skin are well understood, but its impacts on other organs of the body and other human diseases are unclear yet. This review pointed to the benefits of UV exposure in reducing weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. In addition, UV exposure may be helpful in reducing the incidence of diseases such as diabetes and colitis. UV may also play a role in inhibiting the development of myopia and depression. These findings provide new ideas for applying UV in the treatment of human diseases in the future. This paper reviewed the impacts of UV exposure on human non-skin diseases and explored the possibility of damage of acute UV exposure to organs, not only at the skin level, clarified the benefits and harms of UV for human body, and provided theoretical reference and research directions for deep UV exploitation and UV dose control.

Inhibitory effect of long non-coding RNA Neat1 on ultraviolet B-induced pyroptosis of human lens epithelial cells and its mechanism / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective:To investigate the role of long non-coding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (Neat1) in pyroptosis of ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced human lens epithelial cells (LECs) and to explore the possible mechanism.Methods:The human lens epithelial cell line HLE-B3 was cultured in vitro, and cells at log phase were exposed to ultraviolet B for 0, 2, 4 and 8 hours, respectively.The expression of cysteine aspartic acid-specific protease-1 (caspase-1), a protein related to pyroptosis, was detected by Western blot.The relative expression level of Neat1 in cells after different irradiation durations was determined by real-time quantitative PCR.Cell viability was determined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) method to screen the optimal irradiation duration for UVB-induced LECs pyroptosis, which was finally determined to be 4 hours.HLE-B3 cells were divided into negative siRNA transfection group, siRNA Neat1 transfection group, negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group and siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group, and were transfected with corresponding reagents for 24 hours.The negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group and siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group were irradiated with UVB for 4 hours after transfection.The cell viability was detected by the CCK-8 method.The pyroptosis rate was detected by flow cytometry.The expression levels of caspase-1, gasdermin D (GSDMD) and nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) proteins were detected by Western blot.The concentration of interleukin (IL)-1β was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Ultrastructural changes in HLE-B3 cells were observed under a transmission electron microscope. Results:The grayscale of caspase-1 protein bands increased with the extension of irradiation duration.The relative expression levels of caspase-1 protein at 0, 2, 4 and 8 hours of irradiation were 0.05±0.01, 0.25±0.07, 0.51±0.04 and 0.74±0.02, respectively, with a statistically significant overall difference ( F=168.223, P<0.001), and significant differences were found in paired comparisons (all at P<0.05). With prolonged irradiation, the relative expression level of Neat1 mRNA increased and the cell viability decreased, with statistically significant differences in paired comparisons (all at P<0.05). Compared with negative siRNA transfection group, the cell viability was increased in siRNA Neat1 transfection group and decreased in negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group, with statistically significant differences (both at P<0.01). Compared with negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group, the cell viability was increased in siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group, showing a statistically significant difference ( P<0.05). The pyroptosis rate was significantly lower in negative siRNA transfection group and siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group than in negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group, and the differences were statistically significant (both at P<0.01). The relative expression levels of caspase-1, NLRP3 and GSDMD proteins in negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group were higher than those in negative siRNA transfection group and siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.01). The concentration of IL-1β was significantly higher in negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group than in negative siRNA transfection group and siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group, and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.05). Cell swelling, formed cell membrane pores, vacuolated cells and fuzzy mitochondrial cristae were seen in negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group and siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group by transmission electron microscopy.Compared with negative siRNA transfection+ irradiation group, slighter cell swelling, fewer cell membrane pores and lighter mitochondrial swelling were seen in siRNA Neat1 transfection+ irradiation group. Conclusions:Neat1 is involved in human LECs pyroptosis induced by UVB through the classic pyroptosis pathway mediated by caspase-1.Knockdown of Neat1 can inhibit the pyroptosis of human LECs.

Characteristics of corneal stromal demarcation line after different cross-linking methods in keratoconus and its influence on the cross-linking effect / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective:To compare the characteristics of corneal stromal demarcation line after different surgical methods of riboflavin/ultraviolet A corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) in early keratoconus, and analyze the influence of the demarcation line on the cross-linking effect.Methods:A non-randomized controlled clinical study was conducted.Sixty-nine eyes of 69 patients treated with riboflavin/ultraviolet A CXL in the Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University from May 2019 to February 2021 were included.According to the cross-linking methods, the patients were divided into epithelium-on treatment group (21 eyes) and epithelium-off treatment group (48 eyes). There were 25 eyes in 5.4 J energy group and 44 eyes in 7.2 J energy group.The morphology and changes of corneal stromal cross-linking reaction (corneal stromal demarcation line) were observed at 2 weeks, 1, 3 and 4 months after operation.Changes in the thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA, LogMAR), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, LogMAR) and corneal maximum curvature (Kmax) were recorded.This study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki.The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (No.2019.05). Written informed consent was obtained from each subject.Results:Of the 69 eyes after operation, 44 eyes (63.77%) had demarcation lines, and 25 eyes (36.23%) had no demarcation lines.The occurrence rate of demarcation lines in the epithelium-on treatment group was 79.17%(38/48), which was significantly higher than 28.57%(6/21) in the epithelium-off treatment group ( χ2=16.186, P<0.01). The occurrence rate of demarcation line in 5.4 J energy group was 72.00%(18/25), and the 7.2 J energy group was 56.80%(25/44), with no significant difference ( χ2=1.565, P=0.302). Slit lamp microscopy and anterior segment-optical coherence tomography showed that the demarcation line appeared at 1-2 weeks after operation, gradually converged and strengthened after 1 month, turned diffuse, blurred and faded by degrees after 2-3 months, and basically disappeared after 4 months.The depth of the demarcation line reached 141-423 μm, with an average depth of (263.44±84.22)μm.Scanning laser confocal microscopy showed that corneal stromal cells were activated and light reflection was enhanced after CXL.Collagen fibers extended vertically and horizontally, crisscrossed, and were in a reticular arrangement.The TCT decreased from preoperative (458.69±38.28)μm to (443.86±36.54)μm at 4 months after operation, showing a statistically significant difference ( t=6.705, P<0.001). There was no significant difference in the TCT reduction between groups with and without demarcation lines ( t=1.684, P=0.100). At 4 months postoperatively, the UCVA of all eyes increased from preoperative 0.74±0.37 to 0.69±0.38, and the difference was statistically significant ( t=2.109, P=0.039). There was no significant difference in BCVA between before and after operation ( t=1.006, P=0.319). There was no significant difference in change of UCVA and BCVA between groups with and without demarcation lines ( t=0.065, P=0.949; t=0.346, P=0.730). There was no significant difference in Kmax in all patients between before and after operation ( t=0.050, P=0.950). There was no significant difference in the Kmax change between groups with and without demarcation lines ( t=-0.739, P=0.464). The change in TCT in the epithelium-off treatment group was significantly greater than that in the epithelium-on treatment group ( t=2.815, P=0.008). There was no significant difference in UCVA, BCVA and Kmax changes between epithelium-on and epithelium-off treatment groups (all at P>0.05). There was no obvious corneal scarring, infectious keratitis, corneal endothelial decompensation or other complications. Conclusions:The demarcation line after CXL may be a sign of the depth of cross-linking reaction, which is more prone to occur after the epithelium-off operation method.Both the epithelium-on and epithelium-off operation methods have similar therapeutic effects.Demarcation line after different cross-linking methods has no significant influence on the cross-linking effect in keratoconus.

Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation quantitative proteomics research of human lens epithelial cells after ultraviolet-B irradiation / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To investigate the changes of protein expressions in human lens epithelial cells(SRA01/04)undergoing oxidative damage, hoping to provide new protein target for the pathogenesis of age-related cataract(ARC).METHODS: SRA01/04 cells were divided into experimental group and control group. In the experimental group, cells were irradiated with ultraviolet-B(UVB)for 10min to establish the model of oxidative damage, whereas cells in the control group were untreated. Protein expression profile from the two groups was sequenced by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation(iTRAQ). The filtering criteria that fold change &#x0026;#x003E;1.2 and p&#x0026;#x003C;0.05 was used to determine the differentially expressed proteins(DEPs). Gene Ontology(GO)and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)database were utilized for functional enrichment analysis of the top 50 DEPs with either up-regulated or down-regulated significance. Furthermore, Pathway commons software was used to establish the protein-protein interaction(PPI)network.RESULTS: Overall, 552 DEPs were screened out. A total of 176 DEPs were up-regulated in the experimental group compared with the control group, including HMGB1 and USP1, while 376 DEPs were down-regulated, including POLR2A and POLR2B. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the top 50 DEPs with up-regulated or down-regulated significance were involved in various crucial biological processes and signaling pathways. PPI network revealed that oxidative damage repair(ODR)-related proteins might play a key role in UVB-induced oxidative damage.CONCLUSIONS: The expressions of multiple proteins, especially ODR-related proteins, can be altered in SRA01/04 cells via UVB irradiation. These findings may provide cellular-related insights into the pathogenesis of ARC and into proteins or pathways associated with therapeutic targets.

Systematic review of factors influencing sunburn from population-based studies / 环境与职业医学

Sunburn is an acute phototoxic reaction caused by excessive exposure of skin to solar ultravilet (UV) or artificial UV light sources. Studies show that sunburn is common in the general population, so that associated financial burden cannot be ignored. Meanwhile, sunburn at any age increases the risk of melanoma. Only by clarifying the influencing factors of sunburn can precise preventive measures be formulated. Although many studies have been conducted on the influencing factors of sunburn worldwide, there are great heterogeneity in reported influencing factors. In this paper, by means of systematic review, factors affecting sunburn were sorted out and summarized from four aspects, including demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, photosensitive phenotypes, UV-related environmental factors, and sun protection knowledge, attitude & behavior. Combined with population characteristics and data availability in China, our review provided reference for subsequent research and development of precise prevention and control strategies.

Xeroderma pigmentosum: case report / Xeroderma pigmentoso: relato de caso

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the disease and treatment and to alert health professionals for the identification of signs and symptoms and the need for an early diagnosis in patients with xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). Case description: An 8-year-old male patient was referred to the Joana de Gusmão Hospital (HIJG) in 2021 for evaluation and specialized care. Previously, the child was followed in his place of origin by oncologic and palliative care, where he was submitted to surgeries and chemotherapy. He was admitted to the HIJG using vismodegib, acitrein, tramadol, and solar protective measures. On physical examination, there were tumors and disseminated macular verrucous and ulcerated lesions. The imaging examination showed solid and expansive lesions on the face, and atelectasis and fibroscarring changes in the lung. The histopathological report proved the existence of melanocanthoma, carcinoma, and pyogenic granuloma. After the evaluation of the case, no surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy was performed. It was decided to maintain the palliative treatment and to continue the use of tramadol for pain, and vismodegib and acitretin were used to control carcinomas and prophylactic measures. Comments: The XP is a rare disease of autosomal recessive inheritance whose mechanism comes from failure in the DNA repair by exposure to ultraviolet rays, resulting in lesions on the skin and mucous membranes. They start as sunburns and can progress to melanosis, areas with altered pigmentation, premature aging, poikiloderma, and areas of high risk for neoplasms.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a patologia e o tratamento realizado e alertar profissionais de saúde sobre os sinais e sintomas e sobre a necessidade de diagnóstico precoce em pacientes com xeroderma pigmentoso (XP). Descrição do caso: Paciente do sexo masculino, oito anos, foi encaminhado ao Hospital Joana de Gusmão (HIJG) em 2021, com dianóstico de XP, para avaliação e atendimento especializado. Anteriomente, encontrava-se em serviço de oncologia e de cuidados paliativos em sua cidade de origem, mas já realizara cirurgias e quimioterapias previamente. Foi internado no HIJG em uso de vismodegibe, acitretina, tramadol e medidas de proteção solar. Ao exame físico, apresentou lesões maculares, verrucosas, ulceradas e tumores pelo corpo. Os exames de imagem revelaram lesões sólidas e expansivas na face e atelectasias e alterações fibrocicroscópicas no pulmão. O laudo histopatológico comprovou a existência de melanocantoma, carcinoma e granuloma piogênico. Após a avaliação do caso, optou-se por não realizar cirurgias, quimioterapia nem radioterapia. Decidiu-se manter o tratamento paliativo, continuando o uso de tramadol para dor, vismodegibe e acitretina para o controle de carcinomas e profilaxia à exposição ao sol. Comentários: O XP é uma doença rara de herança autossômica recessiva, cujo mecanismo provém de falha no reparo do DNA pela exposição à luz ultravioleta, resultando em lesões de pele e mucosas. Inicia-se como queimaduras solares e pode avançar para melanoses, áreas com pigmentação alterada, envelhecimento precoce, poiquilodermia e áreas de alto risco neoplásico.

UV-C light as an alternative for disinfecting orthodontic pliers / Luz UV-C como alternativa para desinfecção de alicates ortodônticos

Objetivo: Os ortodontistas usam alicates ortodônticos continuamente, e essas ferramentas têm um forte potencial para infecções nosocomiais. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar a eficiência de três métodos de desinfecção de alicates ortodônticos. Material e Métodos: As pontas ativas de 26 alicates ortodônticos (cortadores distais e alicates Weingart) foram contaminadas com microrganismos, vírus e esporos S. aureus, E. coli e C. albicans. Os métodos de controle microbiano foram desinfecção com álcool 70%, esterilização com esferas de vidro (250 °C calor seco) e irradiação com luz ultravioleta (250 nm UV-C) por 30 e 60 segundos. O número de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC) e unidades formadoras de placas (UFP) foi quantificado e comparado para cada microrganismo após incubação em placas de cultura. Resultados: Todas as pontas do alicate dos grupos que receberam luz ultravioleta ou foram submetidos à esterilização com esferas de vidro apresentaram número significativamente menor de esporos, bactérias e fungos do que suas respectivas amostras controle (p<0,001). A desinfecção física com luz UV-C pode representar uma alternativa confiável em comparação com outros métodos químicos e físicos devido ao aumento de microrganismos resistentes a produtos químicos e à emissão de subprodutos nocivos após o tratamento químico. Conclusão: Os métodos de controle microbiano testados foram eficazes na desinfecção de alicates ortodônticos, tornando a luz ultravioleta-C uma alternativa promissora para eliminar os microrganismos dos alicates (AU)

Objective: Orthodontists use orthodontic pliers continuously, and these tools have a strong potential for nosocomial infections. This study aimed to compare the efficiency of three methods for disinfecting orthodontic pliers. Material and Methods: The active tips of 26 orthodontic pliers (distal end cutters and Weingart pliers) were contaminated with S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans microorganisms, viruses, and spores. The microbial control methods were 70% alcohol disinfection, glass bead sterilization (250 °C dry heat), and ultraviolet light irradiation (250 nm UV-C) for 30 and 60 seconds. The number of colony-forming units (CFU) and plaque-forming units (PFU) was quantified and compared for each microorganism after incubation in culture plates. Results: All tips of the pliers in the groups that received ultraviolet light or were subjected to glass bead sterilization showed a significantly lower number of spores, bacteria, and fungi than their respective control samples (p<0.001). Physical disinfection with UV-C light may represent a reliable alternative compared to other chemical and physical methods due to the increase in microorganisms resistant to chemical products and the emission of harmful by-products after chemical treatment. Conclusion: The tested microbial control methods were effective in the disinfection of orthodontic pliers, making ultraviolet-C light a promising alternative to eliminate microorganisms from pliers (AU)

Plants with antioxidant activity and their potential use as sun protector agents in Costa Rica

SUMMARY Aims: To carry out a bibliographic review related to plants available in Costa Rica that have demonstrated antioxidant power and a sun protection factor (SPF) suitable to be used in sunscreen products. Methods: The bibliographic review was carried out using different descriptors and by consulting different databases. Results: Information about antioxidant power about acerola, avocado, carrots, passion fruit, moringa, banana, pumpkin and amaranth, guava, matico, ginkgo, blackberry, mango, coffee was obtained. The information obtained suggests that the mentioned plants could be used for the formulation of sunscreens. Conclusion: Sun protection products should be used every day to prevent skin damage; some sunscreens produce allergic reactions, so it is necessary to investigate natural options to be used in sun protection products. Some natural products exhibit SPF values that allow their incorporation as sun protection agents, adjuvants, or enhancers in sunscreens.

Objetivo: llevar a cabo una investigación bibliográfica sobre plantas disponibles en Costa Rica que han demostrado su poder antioxidante y un factor de protector solar (SPF) apto para ser utilizados en protectores solares. Métodos: la revisión bibliográfica se realizó utilizando diferentes descriptores y mediante la consulta en diferentes bases de datos. Resultados: se obtuvo información sobre el poder antioxidante de las plantas: acerola, aguacate, zanahoria, maracuyá, moringa, banano, calabaza y amaranto, guayaba, matico, ginkgo, mora, mango, café. La información obtenida sugiere que las plantas mencionadas podrían ser utilizadas para la formulación de protectores solares. Conclusiones: los protectores solares deben ser utilizados diariamente para prevenir el daño sobre la piel. Algunos de estos productos generan reacciones alérgicas y por esta razón es necesario investigar posibles opciones naturales para ser incorporadas en bloqueadores solares. Algunos productos naturales exhiben valores de SPF que permiten su uso como agentes protectores solares, adyuvantes o potenciadores en los bloqueadores solares.

Objetivo: realizar uma pesquisa bibliográfica sobre plantas disponíveis na Costa Rica que demonstraram poder antioxidante e um fator de proteção solar (FPS) adequado para uso em protetores solares. Métodos: a revisão bibliográfica foi realizada usando diferentes descritores e consultando diferentes bases de dados. Resultados: foram obtidas informações sobre o poder antioxidante das plantas: acerola, abacate, cenoura, maracujá, moringa, banana, abóbora e amaranto, goiaba, matico, ginkgo, amora, manga, café. As informações sugerem que as referidas plantas poderiam ser utilizadas para a formulação de protetores solares. Conclusões: protetores solares devem ser usados diariamente para prevenir danos à pele. Alguns desses produtos geram reações alérgicas e por isso é necessário investigar possíveis opções naturais para serem incorporadas aos protetores solares. Alguns produtos naturais apresentam valores de FPS que permitem seu uso como protetores solares, adjuvantes ou potencializadores em protetores solares.

El rol epigenético de la radiación ultravioleta y estrés oxidativo en la formación de cataratas / The Epigenetic Role of Ultraviolet Radiation and Oxidative Stress in Cataract Formation

El ojo humano es altamente expuesto a luz de todo tipo de ondas electromagnéticas, la tensión metabólica en la eliminación del daño celular, así como su acumulación, constituyen el mayor estrés oxidativo debido a radiación ultravioleta. El objetivo del la revisión fue documentar la nueva evidencia científica en epigenética con respecto a la radiación ultravioleta y estrés oxidativo en la formación de cataratas. Se realiza una revisión de la literatura comprendida del 1ro de mayo del 2021 al 1ro de mayo 2022 con meta buscadores en inglés y español. El daño bioquímico acumulable a nivel de las histonas es considerado el primer insulto ambiental en la formación de cataratas. El potencial inmunomodulador de las células del epitelio del lente humano es un blanco terapéutico prometedor, debido a ser la principal línea celular afectada en radiación por rayos ultravioleta. El avance tecnológico, bioquímico y fisiológico permitirá promover una solución diferente, por otro concepto distinto de cirugía, para la cura de la entidad más prevalente en el mundo por ceguera reversible: catarata(AU)

The human eye is highly exposed to light of all types of electromagnetic waves, the metabolic stress in the elimination of cellular damage, as well as its accumulation, constitute the major oxidative stress due to ultraviolet radiation. The objective was to document the new scientific evidence in epigenetics regarding ultraviolet radiation and oxidative stress in cataract formation. A review of the literature from May 1, 2021 to May 1, 2022 was performed with meta-search engines in English and Spanish. Cumulative biochemical damage at the histone level is considered the primary environmental insult in cataract formation. The immunomodulatory potential of human lens epithelium cells is a promising therapeutic target, due to being the main cell line affected in ultraviolet radiation. The technological, biochemical and physiological advance will allow promoting a different solution, by a different concept of surgery, for the cure of the most prevalent condition in the world for reversible blindness: cataract(AU)

Sunlight Exposure vs Oral Vitamin D Supplementation for Prevention of Vitamin D Deficiency in Infancy: ARandomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To compare the efficacy of sunlight exposure and oral vitamin D3 supplementation to achieve vitamin D sufficiency in infants at 6 months of age. Design: Open-label randomized controlled trial. Setting: Public hospital in Northern India (28.7°N). Participant: Breastfed infants at 6-8 weeks of age. Intervention: Randomized to receive sunlight exposure (40% body surface area for a minimum of 30 minutes/week) or oral vitamin D3 supplementation (400 IU/day) till 6 months of age. Outcome: Primary - proportion of infants having vitamin D sufficiency (>20 ng/mL). Secondary - proportion of infants developing vitamin D deficiency (<12ng/mL) and rickets in both the groups at 6 months of age. Results: Eighty (40 in each group) infants with mean (SD) age 47.8 (4.5) days were enrolled. The proportion of infants with vitamin D sufficiency increased after intervention in the vitamin D group from 10.8% to 35.1% (P=0.01) but remained the same in sunlight group (13.9%) and was significant on comparison between both groups (P=0.037). The mean (SD) compliance rate was 72.9 (3.4)% and 59.7 (23.6)% in the vitamin D and sunlight group, respectively (P=0.01). The geometric mean (95% CI) serum 25(OH) D levels in the vitamin D and sunlight group were 16.23 (13.58-19.40) and 11.89 (9.93-14.23) ng/mL, respectively; (P=0.02), after adjusting baseline serum 25(OH)D with a geometric mean ratio of 1.36 (1.06-1.76). Two infants in sunlight group developed rickets. Conclusion: Oral vitamin D3 supplementation is more efficacious than sunlight in achieving vitamin D sufficiency in breastfed infants during the first 6 months of life due to better compliance.

Fibroblast morphology, growth rate and gene expression in facial melasma

Abstract Background: In addition to melanocytic hyperfunction, changes are observed in the upper dermis of melasma, and fibroblasts play a central role in collagen synthesis and pigmentation induction. Objective: To explore the morphology, growth rate, and gene expression profile of fibroblasts from the skin with melasma in comparison to fibroblasts from the adjacent healthy skin. Methods: Ten women with facial melasma were biopsied (lesion and adjacent healthy skin), and the fragments were processed for fibroblast culture. Samples from five participants were seeded to evaluate growth (days 2, 5 and 8) and senescence (SA-β-gal) curves. The samples from the other participants were submitted to real-time PCR to comparatively evaluation of the expression of 39 genes. Results: Cultured fibroblasts from melasma skin were morphologically less fusiform in appearance and on average a 34% (95% CI 4%-63%) greater proportion of cells labeled with SA-β-gal than the fibroblasts from the adjacent skin. The cell growth rate was lower for the melasma samples after eight days (p < 0.01). The WNT3A, EDN3, ESR2, PTG2, MMP1, and SOD2 genes were up-regulated, whereas the COL4A1, CSF2, DKK3, COL7A1, TIMP4, CCL2, and CDH11 genes were down-regulated in melasma skin fibroblasts when compared to the ones from adjacent healthy skin. Study limitations: Small sample size; absence of functional tests. Conclusions: Fibroblasts from the skin with melasma showed a lower growth rate, less fusiform morphology and greater accumulation of SA-β-gal than those from adjacent photo exposed skin. Moreover, their gene expression profile comprised factors that may contribute to upper dermis damage and sustained melanogenesis.

Milium coloide: reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Colloid milium: a case report and review of the literature

Resumen El milium coloide (MC) es un trastorno de depósito cutáneo poco común, asociado a cambios degenerativos secundarios a la radiación ultravioleta, que provoca degeneración de las fibras elásticas en la dermis. Tiene dos formas de presentación definidas como juvenil y del adulto. Es más común en hombres que realizan oficios al aire libre. Clínicamente se caracteriza por numerosas y pequeñas pápulas de distintos colores (amarillo, ámbar, café) o translúcidas, que suelen agruparse y se localizan en zonas fotoexpuestas. El diagnóstico se confirma mediante el estudio histopatológico y pudiera requerir tinciones especiales para diferenciar la mucina y el amiloide. Para su tratamiento se han empleado técnicas como dermoabrasión mecánica, láseres, terapia fotodinámica, entre otros.

Abstract Colloid milium is a rare skin deposition disorder associated with degenerative changes secondary to ultraviolet radiation, which causes degeneration of elastic fibers in the dermis. It has two forms of presentation defined as juvenile and adult. It is more common in men who work outdoors. Clinically it is characterized by numerous small yellow, brown, amber or translucent papules that are usually grouped together, located over photo-exposed areas. The diagnosis is confirmed by histopathological study and may require special stains to differentiate mucin and amyloid. Techniques such as mechanical dermabrasion, lasers, photodynamic therapy, among others, have been used for its treatment.

UVB irradiation differential regulate miRNAs expression in skin photoaging

Abstract Background: UVB irradiation can cause acute damage such as sunburn, or photoaging and melanoma, all of which are major health threats. Objective: This study was designed to investigate the mechanism of skin photoaging induced by UVB radiation in mice through the analysis of the differential expression of miRNAs. Methods: A UVB irradiation photoaging model was constructed. HE and Masson special stains were used to examine the modifications in the epidermis and dermis of mice. The miRNA expression profiles of the mouse skin model exposed to UVB radiation and the normal skin of mice were analyzed using miRNA-sequence analysis. GO and Pathway analysis were employed for the prediction of miRNA targets. Results: A total of 23 miRNAs were evaluated for significantly different expressions in comparison to normal skin. Among them, 7 miRNAs were up-regulated and 16 were down-regulated in the skin with photoaging of mice exposed to UVB irradiation. The differential expression of miRNA is related to a variety of signal transduction pathways, among which mmu-miR-195a-5p and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathways are crucial. There was a significant differential expression of miRNA in the skin of normal mice in comparison with the skin with photoaging induced by UVB irradiation. Study limitations: Due to time and energy constraints, the specific protein level verification, MAPK pathway exploration, and miR-195a-5p downstream molecular mechanism need to be further studied in the future. Conclusions: UVB-induced skin photoaging can be diagnosed and treated using miRNA.