The multifaceted role of autophagy in skin autoimmune disorders: a guardian or culprit?

Autophagy is a cellular process that functions to maintain intracellular homeostasis via the degradation and recycling of defective organelles or damaged proteins. This dynamic mechanism participates in various biological processes, such as the regulation of cellular differentiation, proliferation, survival, and the modulation of inflammation and immune responses. Recent evidence has demonstrated the involvement of polymorphisms in autophagy-related genes in various skin autoimmune diseases. In addition, autophagy, along with autophagy-related proteins, also contributes to homeostasis maintenance and immune regulation in the skin, which is associated with skin autoimmune disorders. This review aims to provide an overview of the multifaceted role of autophagy in skin autoimmune diseases and shed light on the potential of autophagy-targeting therapeutic strategies in dermatology.

Protective effects of sugarcane polyphenol against UV-B-induced photoaging in Balb/c mouse skin: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-glycosylation Effects.

Although the benefits of sugarcane polyphenol (SP) are well documented, its function in preventing photoaging has not yet been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of SP in preventing ultraviolet (UV)-B-induced skin photoaging in Balb/c mice, as well as the underlying mechanism. Chlorogenic acid was determined to be the primary component of SP by using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. SP and chlorogenic acid were orally administrated to mice for 56 days, and UV-B radiation exposure was administered 14 days after SP and chlorogenic acid administration and lasted 42 days to cause photoaging. SP and chlorogenic acid administrations significantly alleviated the UV-B-induced mouse skin photoaging, as indicated by the decrease in epidermal thickness, increase in the collagen (COL) volume fraction, and elevation in type 1 and type 3 COL contents. Notably, both SP and chlorogenic acid effectively reversed the overexpression of matrix metalloproteinase induced by UV-B exposure in the mouse skin. Furthermore, SP and chlorogenic acid reduced the expression of receptor for advanced glycosylation end products in the mice; amplified the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase; reduced malondialdehyde levels; and decreased inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1ß, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α levels. SP could be a prospective dietary supplement for anti-photoaging applications due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-glycosylation attributes, and chlorogenic acid might play a major role in these effects. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study can provide a scientific basis for the practical application of sugarcane polyphenols. We expect that sugarcane polyphenols can be used in food and beverage products to provide flavor while combating skin aging.

S100A9 Exacerbates the Inflammation in Rosacea through Toll-Like Receptor 4/MyD88/NF-κB Signaling Pathway.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by immune response-dependent erythema and pustules. S100A9, a proinflammatory alarmin, has been associated with various inflammation-related diseases. However, the specific role of S100A9 in rosacea remains unexplored. Therefore, our objective was to unravel the role of S100A9 in the pathogenesis of rosacea and its underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, we show that expression levels of S100A9 were elevated in both the lesions and serum of patients with papulopustular rosacea as well as in lesions of the LL37-induced rosacea-like mouse model. Moreover, the upregulation of S100A9 was correlated with clinical severity and levels of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, we demonstrated that S100A9 promoted the production of proinflammatory factors in HaCaT cells by activating toll-like receptor 4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathways. Notably, inhibition of S100A9 suppressed the progression of rosacea-like dermatitis and inflammatory responses in the LL37-induced rosacea-like mouse model through toll-like receptor 4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathways. In conclusion, this study illustrated that S100A9 participates in the pathogenesis of rosacea by upregulating toll-like receptor 4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathways, thereby promoting rosacea-associated skin inflammation. These results not only expand our understanding of the potential role of S100A9 in the development of rosacea but also offer greater insight toward targeted therapies.

Emerging Role of Fibroblasts in Vitiligo: A Formerly Underestimated Rising Star.

Vitiligo is a disfiguring depigmentation disorder characterized by loss of melanocytes. Although numerous studies have been conducted on the pathogenesis of vitiligo, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Although most studies have focused on melanocytes and keratinocytes, growing evidence suggests the involvement of dermal fibroblasts, residing deeper in the skin. This review aims to elucidate the role of fibroblasts in both the physiological regulation of skin pigmentation and their pathological contribution to depigmentation, with the goal of shedding light on the involvement of fibroblasts in vitiligo. The topics covered in this review include alterations in the secretome, premature senescence, autophagy dysfunction, abnormal extracellular matrix, autoimmunity, and metabolic changes.

Efficacy and safety of the combination of oral tranexamic acid and intense pulsed light versus oral tranexamic acid alone in the treatment of refractory Riehl's melanosis: A prospective, comparative study.

BACKGROUND: There is no standardized and effective treatment modality for Riehl's melanosis. AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of oral tranexamic acid (TXA) combined with intense pulsed light (IPL) versus TXA alone in the treatment of refractory Riehl's melanosis. METHODS: A prospective study of 28 subjects with refractory Riehl's melanosis and Fitzpatrick Skin Types III or IV was conducted. All subjects received oral TXA 500 mg daily and 11 of them were treated in combination with monthly IPL therapy for 6 months. The primary outcome measure was mean melanin index (MI), erythema index (EI) and acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation area and severity index (DPASI). The Physician Global Assessment (PGA) and patient satisfaction scale were documented. RESULTS: After treatment, DPASI, mean MI, and EI were significantly reduced in both groups. The group treated with combination therapy showed better improvement according to MI (p = 0.0032) and DPASI (p = 0.00468). PGA and patient satisfaction scale showed superior efficacy in the combination group. No significant difference was observed in treatment-related side effects. CONCLUSION: The combination of oral TXA and IPL proves to be a safe and satisfactory treatment strategy for refractory Riehl's melanosis.

Expert consensus on perioperative integrated skincare for noninvasive energy-based device aesthetic procedures in clinical practice in China.

BACKGROUND: Noninvasive energy-based device (NI-EBD) aesthetic procedures has recently gained widespread usage for treating various skin conditions, enhancing skin texture and performing rejuvenation-related procedures. However, practically all NI-EBD procedures result in variable degrees of damage to the skin barrier, inducing pathological and physiological processes such as oxidative stress and inflammation, and only a small percentage of individuals possess the innate ability to restore it. OBJECTIVE: To introduce the concept of integrated skincare and establish standardized operational procedures for perioperative integrated skincare, and furnish a theoretical basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment performed by professional medical aestheticians. METHODS: The author leveraged domestic and international guidelines, clinical practice expertise and evidence-based research, adapting them to suit the specific circumstances in China. RESULTS: The consensus were provided four parts, including concept and essence of integrated skincare, integrated skincare significance during the perioperative phase of NI-EBD procedures, active ingredients and functions of effective skincare products, standardized perioperative skincare procedure for NI-EBD procedures and precautions. For the standardized perioperative skincare procedure, four recommendations were listed according to different stages during NI-EBD procedures. CONCLUSION: These recommendations create the 'Expert Consensus on Perioperative Integrated Skincare for Noninvasive Energy-Based Device Aesthetic Procedures in Clinical Practice in China'.

Improvement of astrocytic gap junction involves the anti-depressive effect of celecoxib through inhibition of NF-κB.

CONTEXT: Celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, has been shown to exhibit anti-depressive effects in clinical trials. However, the direct mechanism underlying its effect on neuroinflammation remains unclear. Neuroinflammatory reaction from astrocytes leads to depression, and our previous study found that gap junction disorder between astrocytes aggravated neuroinflammatory reaction in depressed mice. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential mechanism of celecoxib's effects on astrocytic gap junctions during the central nervous inflammation-induced depression. MATERIALS & METHODS: Stereotaxic injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into the prefrontal cortex (PFC) to establish a model of major depressive disorder (MDD). Celecoxib was administrated into PFC 15 min after LPS injection. The depressive performance was tested by tail suspension test and forced swimming test, and the levels of proinflammation cytokines were determined at mRNA and protein levels. Resting-state functional connection (rsFC) was employed to assess changes in the default mode network (DMN). Additionally, astrocytic gap junctions were also determined by lucifer yellow (LY) diffusion and transmission electron microscope (TEM), and the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) was measured by western blotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence. RESULTS: LPS injection induced significant depressive performance, which was ameliorated by celecoxib treatment. Celecoxib also improved rsFC in the DMN. Furthermore, celecoxib improved astrocytic gap junctions as evidenced by increased LY diffusion, shortened gap junction width, and normalized levels of phosphorylated Cx43. Celecoxib also blocked the phosphorylation of p65, and inhibition of p65 abolished the improvement of Cx43. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: Anti-depressive effects of celecoxib are mediated, at least in part, by the inhibition of nuclear factor- kappa B (NF-κB) and the subsequent improvement of astrocytic gap junction function.

Awareness of sun exposure risks and photoprotection for preventing pigmentary disorders in Asian populations: Survey results from three Asian countries and expert panel recommendations.

BACKGROUND: In this article, we review and discuss the photoprotection behavior of Asians based on the literature, along with a subanalysis of an original online survey, and make recommendations to optimize photoprotection for Asian populations to prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders. METHODS: An international panel of eight dermatologists from Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam) met to discuss sunscreen photoprotection for Asian patients. Additionally, a subanalysis of an online survey by 3000 respondents from three Asian countries (China, Indonesia, and Japan) investigated general public awareness and attitudes to sun exposure. RESULTS: A pre-meeting survey of the eight experts from Asia showed key concerns of Asian patients consulting dermatologists are pigmentary disorders, especially actinic/senile lentigo, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, vitiligo, and Hori's nevus. The survey subanalysis of participants from China, Indonesia, and Japan with predominantly Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) II to IV revealed that they are particularly concerned about sun exposure causing photoaging and pigmentary disorders. Most of the respondents indicated they have limited knowledge on sunlight radiation and appropriate sunscreen protection factors. Only 22%, 13%, and 3% for China, Indonesia, and Japan, respectively, systematically use multiple protective measures (using sunscreen, avoiding midday sun, staying in the shade, wearing a hat, protective clothing, and sunglasses) when exposed to the sun. CONCLUSIONS: Further education is needed for Asian populations on the importance of comprehensive daily photoprotection, including broad-spectrum sunscreen, with high UVA and visible light protection, to reduce and prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.

The underestimated role of mitochondria in vitiligo: From oxidative stress to inflammation and cell death.

Vitiligo is an acquired depigmentary disorder characterized by the depletion of melanocytes in the skin. Mitochondria shoulder multiple functions in cells, such as production of ATP, maintenance of redox balance, initiation of inflammation and regulation of cell death. Increasing evidence has implicated the involvement of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Mitochondria alteration will cause the abnormalities of mitochondria functions mentioned above, ultimately leading to melanocyte loss through various cell death modes. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a critical role in mitochondrial homeostasis, and the downregulation of Nrf2 in vitiligo may correlate with mitochondria damage, making both mitochondria and Nrf2 promising targets in treatment of vitiligo. In this review, we aim to discuss the alterations of mitochondria and its role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo.

Insights into the rapid start-up of an inoculated municipal sludge system: A high-height-to-diameter-ratio airlift inner-circulation partition bioreactor based on CFD analysis.

The utilization of municipal sludge as a seed sludge for initiating the autotrophic nitrogen removal (ANR) process presents a challenge due to the negligible abundance of anaerobic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB). Here, a computational fluid dynamics model was used to simulate sludge volume fraction and sludge particle velocity. A high-height-to-diameter-ratio airlift inner-circulation partition bioreactor (HHAIPBR) was operated for 175 d to enrich AnAOB from municipal sludge, and the performance of the ANR process was investigated. The start-up period of HHAIPBR inoculated with municipal sludge required approximately 69 d. A high nitrogen removal performance, with a mean total nitrogen removal efficiency of 82.1%, was obtained for 1 month. The simulation results validated the presence of sludge circulation and revealed the distribution characteristics of dissolved oxygen inside the reactor, further supporting the promotion of sludge granulation via the high height-to-diameter ratio. Nitrosomonas (3.31%) of Proteobacteria and Candidatus Brocadia (6.56%) of Planctomycetota were dominant in the HHAIPBR. This study presents a viable approach for the industrial cultivation of anammox sludge and the rapid start-up of the partial nitritation-anammox system.

The Emerging Role of Visible Light in Melanocyte Biology and Skin Pigmentary Disorders: Friend or Foe?

Electromagnetic radiation, notably visible light (VL), has complicated effects on human skin, particularly pigmentation, which have been largely overlooked. In this review, we discuss the photobiological mechanisms, pathological effects, clinical applications and therapeutic strategies of VL at varying wavelengths on melanocyte biology and skin pigmentary disorders. Different VL wavelengths may impose positive or negative effects, depending on their interactions with specific chromophores, photoaging, ROS production, circadian rhythm and other photon-mediated reactions. Further in vivo and in vitro studies are required to establish the pathologic mechanisms and application principles of VL in pigmentary disorders, as well as optimal photoprotection with coverage against VL wavelengths.

Application of integrated skincare in medical aesthetics: A literature review.

Integrated skincare combines clinically proven skincare products with professional medical aesthetics to provide a comprehensive solution for beauty pursuers. Studies have demonstrated that a combination of medical aesthetic procedures and maintenance therapies is more effective than either treatment alone. This review outlines the current applications of integrated skincare, including different regimens of energy-based aesthetic devices and active ingredients in cosmeceuticals or chemical peels. Additionally, the benefits and limitations of integrated skincare are discussed. Lastly, this review highlights the potential for improved satisfaction and long-term maintenance of the desired outcomes through appropriate integrated skincare procedures.

Corrigendum: Dynamic risk prediction of BK polyomavirus reactivation after renal transplantation.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.971531.].

Effect of Ultrasonic Irrigation Combined with Epoxy Resin Paste in Single Visit Root Canal Treatment in Chronic Pulpitis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical efficacy of ultrasonic irrigation combined with epoxy resin-based sealer in single visit root canal treatment of chronic pulpitis. STUDY DESIGN: Randomised controlled trial. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Stomatology, Hefei BOE Hospital, Hefei, China, from March 2019 to December 2021. METHODOLOGY: Ninety patients with chronic pulpitis, comprising 104 affected teeth, were enrolled. Using a random number table, they were divided into Group A (n = 30, 35 teeth), Group B (n = 30, 35 teeth), and the control group (n = 30, 34 teeth). All underwent single visit root canal treatment. Group A received ultrasonic irrigation followed by sealing with epoxy resin-based paste; Group B had conventional syringe irrigation followed by the same sealing; the control group had syringe irrigation and closure with zinc oxide-eugenol paste. Pain during treatment, posttreatment clinical outcomes, and differences in inflammatory markers (IL-4, IL-6, hs-CRP), and quality of life (QOL) scores pre- and posttreatment over two months were observed. RESULTS: After the treatment, improvement rates for Groups A, B, and the control group were 91.4%, 65.7%, and 61.7%, respectively. Pain occurrence rates were 6.7%, 30.0%, and 36.7%, respectively. Group A outperformed both Group B and the control group in improvement and pain incidence with statistical significance (p<0.016). Posttreatment, Group A had lower IL-4, IL-6, hs-CRP levels than Groups B and the control group (p<0.05), and had higher scores for sleep, mood, and appetite (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Ultrasonic irrigation combined with epoxy resin-based paste yields better results for chronic pulpitis treatment, reducing postoperative pain, mitigating inflammation levels, and enhancing quality of life. KEY WORDS: Chronic pulpitis, Ultrasonic irrigation, Epoxy resin paste, Root canal treatment, Therapeutic effect.

The Role of Biogeography in Shaping Intestinal Flora and Influence on Fatty Acid Composition in Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii).

Intestinal microbiota plays an important role in promoting digestion, metabolism, and immunity. Intestinal microbiota and fatty acids are important indicators to evaluate the health and nutritional composition of Procambarus clarkii. They have been shown to be strongly influence by environmental and genetic factors. However, it is not clear whether environmental factors have a greater impact on the intestinal microbiota and fatty acid composition of crayfish. The link between the intestinal microbial communities and fatty acid (FA) compositions of red swamp crayfish from different geographical has not yet been studied. Thus, the current paper focuses on the influence of different environments on the fatty acids in muscles of crayfish and the possible existence between gut microbiota and fatty acids. Therefore, in this study, we compared the fatty acid compositions and intestinal microbiota of five crayfish populations from different geographical locations. The results were further analyzed to determine whether there is a relationship between geographical location, fatty acid compositions and intestinal microbiota. The gut microbial communities of the crayfish populations were characterized using 16S rRNA high-throughput gene sequencing. The results showed that there were significant differences in FA compositions of crayfish populations from different geographical locations. A similar trend was observed in the gut microbiome, which also varied significantly according to geographic location. Interestingly, the analysis revealed that there was a relationship between fatty acid compositions and intestinal microbes, revealed by alpha diversity analysis and cluster analysis. However, further studies of the interactions between the P. clarkii gut microbiota and biochemical composition are needed, which will ultimately reveal the complexity of microbial ecosystems with potential applications in aquaculture and species conservation.

Effects of Different Sources of Culture Substrate on the Growth and Immune Performance of the Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii).

The substrate in the aquatic environment plays a crucial role in nutrient deposition and recovery for the growth of aquatic organisms. In order to optimize the culture medium of Procambarus Clarkii, culture media from different sources were selected in this study to explore their effects on the growth and immune performance of red swamp crayfish. The results showed that the weight gain rate (WGR), body length growth rate (BLGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) in group I2 were the highest, followed by group I1 and group I3. The WGR and SGR of crayfish in the I1 and I2 groups were significantly higher than those in the I3 group (p < 0.05). The activities of acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were the highest in group I2, followed by group I3, and the lowest in group I1. The expression trends in growth-related genes, nuclear hormone receptor (E75), molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH) and chitinase genes were similar, and the expression levels in the I2 group were higher than those in the I1 and I3 groups. It was noted that the expression levels of E75 and MIH genes in the I2 group were significantly higher than those in the I3 group (p < 0.05). α diversity analysis of 16S rRNA data showed that there was no statistically significant difference in the abundance of intestinal flora among the three culture substrate groups. The ß diversity in the Xitangni group, crayfish Tangni group and Shuitangni group was significantly different. These changes in microbiota suggest that using different substrates to culture crayfish leads to differences in gut microbiota diversity. To sum up, the growth in crayfish and immune performance influenced by the culture substrate condition and aquatic breeding sediment substrates, rather than crab pool and paddy field pond sediment substrates, showed a better effect.

Effect of Dietary Selenium on the Growth and Immune Systems of Fish.

Dietary selenium (Se) is an essential component that supports fish growth and the immune system. This review attempts to provide insight into the biological impacts of dietary Se, including immunological responses, infection defense, and fish species growth, and it also identifies the routes via which it enters the aquatic environment. Dietary Se is important in fish feed due to its additive, antioxidant, and enzyme properties, which aid in various biological processes. However, excessive intake of it may harm aquatic ecosystems and potentially disrupt the food chain. This review explores the diverse natures of dietary Se, their impact on fish species, and the biological methods for eliminating excesses in aquatic environments. Soil has a potential role in the distribution of Se through erosion from agricultural, industrial, and mine sites. The research on dietary Se's effects on fish immune system and growth can provide knowledge regarding fish health, fish farming strategies, and the health of aquatic ecosystems, promoting the feed industry and sustainable aquaculture. This review provides data and references from various research studies on managing Se levels in aquatic ecosystems, promoting fish conservation, and utilizing Se in farmed fish diets.

Communicating and understanding statistical measures when quantifying the between-group difference in competing risks.

Competing risks issues are common in clinical trials and epidemiological studies for patients in follow-up who may experience a variety of possible outcomes. Under such competing risks, two hazard-based statistical methods, cause-specific hazard (CSH) and subdistribution hazard (SDH), are frequently used to assess treatment effects among groups. However, the outcomes of the CSH-based and SDH-based methods have a close connection with the proportional hazards (CSH or SDH) assumption and may have an non-intuitive interpretation. Recently, restricted mean time lost (RMTL) has been used as an alternative summary measure for analysing competing risks, due to its clinical interpretability and robustness to the proportional hazards assumption. Considering the above approaches, we summarize the differences between hazard-based and RMTL-based methods from the aspects of practical interpretation, proportional hazards model assumption and the selection of restricted time points, and propose corresponding suggestions for the analysis of between-group differences under competing risks. Moreover, an R package 'cRMTL' and corresponding step-by-step guidance are available to help users for applying these approaches.