ABSTRACT
In the early days of mankind, at a time when various other human species populated the earth coexisting with Homo sapiens, the genetic mixing of mankind had already begun. Today, paleogenetics-as a branch of human genetic research-can prove that individuals from the most diverse human species already produced offspring together long before our era. This intermixing was supported from the beginning by massive migratory movements that started in East Africa and led first Homo neanderthalensis and much later also Homo sapiens to as far as Europe-two human species of which we know today that they were lighter-skinned than their ancestors. The adaptation to life in different climatic zones led to development of specific characteristics, which, in addition to physique and physiognomy, also affect specific features of the skin and the integumentary system. The most striking feature among these is the skin color and all associated skin-specific characteristics. These characteristics ensure special protection, but can also be the origin for specific diseases. Any division of Homo sapiens into races has been scientifically refuted. Due to ongoing genetic mixing of mankind, skin color, hair color and all associated characteristics should always be considered individually.
Subject(s)
Hominidae , Neanderthals , Animals , Humans , Hominidae/genetics , Skin Pigmentation/genetics , Africa, Eastern , Hair Color/geneticsABSTRACT
Beetles of the genus Anthrenus are widespread worldwide and are quite common as grain and stock pests, especially in rural regions and suburban areas. The larvae of the beetles can trigger skin and occasionally mucosal reactions upon contact. The unfamiliar but typical image of "Anthrenus dermatitis" can easily be misinterpreted if beetle larvae are not detected or a causal link with them is not suspected. In the present article, the causes of Anthrenus dermatitis are discussed using as an example the larva of the woolly flower beetle (Anthrenus verbasci). For the examination of allergic causes, a prick-to-prick test with native larval material was performed in a patient and the specific IgE was determined by CAP coupling as well as in addition to a commercially available ImmunoCAP against larvae of a related beetle species. With the help of an immunoblot, an attempt was made to determine the responsible allergens in the native larval tissue. Important anatomical fine structures of the larva of a woolly herb flower beetle were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy to understand functional processes that lead to the clinical picture of Anthrenus dermatitis. Our allergological findings suggest an IgE-mediated, immediate-type allergy.
Subject(s)
Coleoptera , Dermatitis , Hypersensitivity , Allergens , Animals , Humans , Larva , Skin , Skin TestsABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Fishing is an important economic activity worldwide, but there are only a few studies on the skin health of fishermen. Daily activities in fishing communities expose fishermen to risks of traumatic, actinic, and sea dermatoses. METHODS: A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to 388 fishermen from 2014 to 2015 at their workplace (Z-8 to Z-13 fishing communities). The data collected were evaluated for descriptive analysis. In the bivariate analysis of the data, the Pearson chi-square test was used. The multinomial logistic regression was used to obtain estimates of odds ratios and adjusted confidence intervals for confounding variables. RESULTS: Three hundred and nine (79.6%) fishermen reported accidents during their fishing activity. The main fish species implicated were Genidens genidens and Scorpaena brasiliensis. Inappropriate or potentially harmful traditional treatments without scientific evidence of efficacy were recorded as main/auxiliary treatment. Other significant skin injuries were due to trauma from fishing tackle and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Three hundred and twenty (82.5%) fishermen reported that they had never used any sun protective devices or sunscreen. CONCLUSIONS: Traumatic injuries due to fish stings were the most common accidents in this group. Despite chronic occupational sun exposure and its hazards, most fishermen did not adopt any method of photoprotection. Health educational activities as well as a specific health program for these professionals are necessary to improve the health of fishermen in Guanabara Bay area.
