Non-Cicatricial Alopecia and Its Association with Anthropometric Measurements and Nutritional Laboratory Markers.

Alopecia constitutes one of the most common dermatological disorders, and its steadily increasing prevalence is a cause for concern. Alopecia can be divided into two main categories, cicatricial/scarring and non-cicatricial/non-scarring, depending on the causes of hair loss and its patterns. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between anthropometric and nutritional laboratory parameters in Caucasian adult women and men with non-cicatricial alopecia. A total of 50 patients (37 with non-cicatricial alopecia and 13 healthy controls) were included in the study. Clinical examination and scalp trichoscopy were performed. The anthropometric and nutritional laboratory parameters were collected and analyzed. No statistically significant differences in the laboratory findings were found. The patients with non-cicatricial alopecia were statistically significantly younger as compared to the controls. An elevated risk of hair loss, which was detected among the younger participants, might be associated with a modern lifestyle and the so-called 'Western diet'. It seems safe to assume that suboptimal nutrition and poor eating habits during childhood might constitute risk factors for early hair loss.

The Role of Cosmetology in an Effective Treatment of Rosacea: A Narrative Review.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory facial skin disease usually occurring in middle-aged patients. It manifests itself as an inflammatory condition with perivascular infiltrate, dilated blood vessels, lymphoedema, hyperplasia of sebaceous glands, and disorders of connective tissue structures brought on by fibrosis. Rosacea is characterized by multifactorial inflammatory mechanisms, and therefore it requires an interdisciplinary approach including adequate skin care, topical and/or systemic therapy, and physical modalities to successfully treat the various symptoms and disease subtypes. However, data regarding the possible role of cosmetologists in rosacea remains scanty and equivocal. The objectives of cosmetology therapy include restoration and regeneration, anti-inflammatory effects, the strengthening of blood vessels and regulation of their permeability, and the regulation of keratinization. Vascular abnormalities can be targeted with specific light and laser devices. Therefore, the present paper aims to review the latest advances and summarize different aspects concerning skin care in rosacea. Particular attention has been paid to the co-operation of cosmetologists with other specialists in order to bring about the interdisciplinary management of rosacea. It is also important to keep in mind that it is usually necessary to combine various methods of treatment, as this approach is more effective than monotherapy for attaining satisfactory cosmetic results in rosacea patients.

Evaluation of Skin Biophysical Parameters and Angiogenesis Using CD34 as a Biomarker in Older Diabetic Women Treated with Radiofrequency.

Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (t2DM) has been steadily increasing. Patients with t2DM need to slow down the skin ageing processes and to obtain a rejuvenating effect. Treatments that do not damage the superficial layers of the epidermis could be a promising solution for those patients. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of radiofrequency therapy on the biophysical parameters and angiogenesis of facial skin, using CD34 as a biomarker in older diabetic women treated with metformin. Patients and Methods: A total of 45 subjects with phototype 2 or 3 (Fitzpatrick scale) were investigated (25 t2DM - study group, 20 - healthy controls). A series of 6 treatments (once a week) with a Radio Frequency Skin Rejuvenation System device was used on facial skin. Measurements of skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), melanin and erythema index, temperature, and pH, at baseline and after radiofrequency therapy were performed with the Courage + Khazaka MPA-9 device. Immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded sections was used to evaluate the intensity of CD34 expression. Results: Radiofrequency treatment significantly improved facial skin hydration (p < 0.0001). Enhancement of the epidermal barrier observed, by reduced TEWL as a result of a series of treatments with radiofrequency on the facial skin (p < 0.0001), was observed. CD34 was more abundantly expressed after radiofrequency treatment. No side effects were observed. Conclusion: Treatment with radiofrequency is an effective and non-invasive method of facial skin rejuvenation in older women with t2DM, with a relatively short post-procedure recovery time and low potential for severe adverse effects.

Phytoecdysteroids from Serratula coronata L. for Psoriatic Skincare.

Phytoecdysones from Serratula coronata seem to be promising agents for skincare in patients with psoriasis. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of creams containing the extract of S. coronata on psoriatic lesions. Creams with different formulas were prepared: 0-Lekobaza®, 1-Lekobaza®, S. coronata, 2-Lekobaza®, Salicylic acid, 3-Lekobaza®, S. coronata, Salicylic acid. After examination of skin penetration and biosafety, the designated cream was applied twice daily for 6 weeks on 72 psoriatic plaques located on elbows or knees. The lesions were assessed at baseline and follow-up of 6 weeks. The lesions area was measured, and severity of scaling, erythema, and infiltration was assessed using a 5-point scale (from 0-none to 4-very severe). Skin hydration and structure, pH, transepidermal water loss, erythema, and melanin index were analyzed instrumentally. Creams 1, 2, and 3 significantly reduced the area of psoriatic plaques. Improvement in erythema and infiltration was observed for creams 1 and 3. Creams 1-3 reduced scaling. Our study confirmed a beneficial effect of creams containing S. coronata extract on psoriatic lesions.

Treatment of melasma with a low-fluence 1064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser: Laser toning in Caucasian women.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Melasma is a common, therapeutically challenging, and very often relapsing disorder of hyperpigmentation most often observed in women. Low-fluence, multipass technique with Q-switched-mode laser-"laser toning" is broadly used to treat melasma, especially in Asia. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of a series of laser treatments with very short, nanosecond pulses in the treatment of melasma in Caucasian women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty polish females with Fitzpatrick skin phototype II-III and melasma were treated with 1064 nm Q-switched neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (QSNY) laser (pulse with 5 ns; spot size, 6-8 mm; fluence, 1.7-3.2 J/cm2 ; 2-8 passes; nine treatments). Melanin index (MI), erythema index (EI) by Mexameter MX18®, the modified Melasma Area Severity Index (mMASI), and the participant's self-assessment were used to evaluate the treatment results. Twenty-one patients were subjected to a 1-year follow-up. RESULTS: Significant improvement in melasma pigmentation was observed in the mean MI and mMASI score; both were significantly reduced (p < 0.0001). Significant erythema reduction was achieved (p < 0.001). In total, 70% of participants rated the laser as a method that met their expectations for treating melasma. Clinical follow-up after one year showed that the reduced melasma effect was still maintained. Patients also noticed improved skin conditions (radiance, smoothness, brightness, hydration, regeneration). No serious adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Low-fluence 1064 nm QSNY laser is an effective, safe, and noninvasive method with long-term results in melasma treatment. QSNY (1064 nm) improves the condition of melasma patients with erythema.

Respiratory Function and Muscle Strength Vs. Past Work Type: a Cross-Sectional Study Among Retirees.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the effects of past occupational activity on muscle strength and respiratory function among retirees. METHODS: A total of 205 community-dwelling older adults participated in the study. Age (≥60 years) and cessation of professional activity (retirement) constituted the inclusion criteria. The International Standardized Classification of Occupations (ISCO-08) was used to stratify the participants into white- or blue-collar groups. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV) in the first second, inspiratory vital capacity (IVC) parameters, and hand grip strength were tested. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences in IVC and FVC scores were found in white- and blue-collar workers after adjusting for sex and age (ANCOVA). White-collar men had significantly higher IVC as compared to blue-collar men. CONCLUSIONS: Blue-collar male workers may be prone to deteriorating respiratory function in older age. It is vital to promote physical activity and educate blue-collar workers about the need to use respiratory protective equipment.

Bioactive Hemp Clothing Modified with Cannabidiol (CBD) Cannabis sativa L. Extract.

Hemp fiber variety, Bialobrzeskie, contains phenolic acids in its chemical composition giving it inherent antioxidant and antibacterial activity. The use of this raw material in fabric manufacture allows the creation of functional clothing with a positive effect on human skin. The aim of the study was to develop biologically active functional clothing made of pure industrial hemp raw materials, where cannabidiol (CBD) extract applied on the fabric surface strengthened the fiber bioactivity. The design of the clothing technology was focused on keeping the hemp inherent properties on a steady level and avoiding the use of chemicals in each stage of the value chain from plant cultivation up to garment manufacture. The research covered the evaluation of phenolic acids content and The Ferric Ion Reducing Antioxidant Power FRAP antioxidant activity of the hemp fabric. The hemp fabric enriched with CBD was used for clothing preparation. The human trials covered wearing of the clothing by 15 volunteers for six weeks and evaluation of hemp garment effect on human skin. The skin parameters were tested twice, before and after six weeks of clothing wearing, according to the own methodology that included measurements of skin biophysical properties including tests of skin moisture, transepidermal water loss, and sebum. Also, the effect of the active substances present on the fabrics on the in vitro culture of human keratinocytes was evaluated. Results of the research proved, that the wearing of developed functional hemp clothing with CBD extracts applied on the fabric surface was safe and caused improvement of skin condition, which can have an influence on slowing down of skin aging. The invention covering the pure hemp functional clothing with hybrid bioactivity resulting from the joined activity of fiber and cannabidiol was applied for a patent, Patent Application No: P.438388, 2021.

Taxifolin as a Promising Ingredient of Cosmetics for Adult Skin.

Active substances, effective in the reduction in or delay of skin changes caused by aging occurring in natural compounds, are desirable. Taxifolin (TXF), a flavonoid of strong antioxidant activity found in the plant Stizolophus balsamita (S. balsamita), has been tested for its biological effects on adult human skin. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of two creams: 3% S. balsamita extract and 3% TXF on the function of adult skin. In total, 97 Caucasian women with clinical signs of skin aging were investigated. The biophysical and biomechanical skin parameters were measured before and after applying the creams, using Colorimeter CL400, Mexameter MX16, Skin-pH-Meter PH900, Skin-Thermometer ST 500, Glossymeter GL200, and Cutiscan SC100. Patch tests were performed with the investigated products to assess their potential irritant properties. The percutaneous penetration of creams was examined with the use of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and confocal Raman spectroscopy. The 3% S. balsamita extract cream reduced hyperpigmentation, erythema, and elevated pH. All the tested preparations were proven to be nonirritant. A higher penetration rate was revealed for the 3% TXF cream than for the 3% S. balsamita extract cream. A total of 3% TXF cream improved skin viscoelasticity. The obtained results suggested that S. balsamita extract and TXF may be considered as ingredients of skincare products for adults.

Body adaptation to Dance: A Gerontological Perspective.

A number of studies have investigated the effectiveness of dance in older adults in the context of healthy aging. Analysing results across studies is important to understand whether dance in older adults is an effective adjunctive intervention for the healthy aging. To summarize the current research results about the effectiveness of dance in older adults in the context of healthy aging, and to identify key areas for future research. The search was conducted in Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar databases, using the following search string and Boolean logic ('AND', 'OR') locating studies published between database inception and September 2018: Dance OR contemporary dance OR ballroom dance OR Latin dance OR standard dance OR hip-hop dance OR tango AND Cardiovascular OR circulation AND Emotion OR well-being OR blood pressure OR disease OR thrombosis OR vascular OR glucose OR blood OR cardiac OR mental OR heart rate. Two reviewers independently extracted studies data. Eight suitable publications were included. The results showed that dance promote improvements in cognitive parameters when compared to other types of exercise or no-exercise. Significant effects were found on some physiological parameters, even after a short intervention period. Dance proved to be able to assist older adults in the context of healthy aging. The improvements in the cognitive, physiological and motor control parameters are very relevant for this population, due to the impact in a better quality of life.

The Effect of a Mixed Circuit of Aerobic and Resistance Training on Body Composition in Older Adults-Retrospective Study.

Ageing is inevitably associated with body composition changes, such as loss of muscle mass, increase in the total fat mass, and unfavorable reduction of subcutaneous fat. Physical activity exerts significant effects on the body composition. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of two different weekly doses of resistance-aerobic training on the body composition in older people. The study consisted in a retrospective data analysis of fitness club members aged ≥60. The trainees participated in resistance-aerobic training sessions two or three times/week for a minimum of two months. A body composition analysis was performed before and after the training sessions. Group 1 (36 subjects) and Group 2 (28 subjects) had two and three training sessions/week, respectively. A higher skeletal muscle mass was found in Group 1 and lower waist-hip-ratio indices were observed in Group 2. No statistically significant differences were found in the body mass, skeletal muscle mass, fat mass, total body water, lean mass, body mass index, visceral fat area between both groups. The number of training session/week proved to be statistically insignificant for all investigated variables. Resistance-aerobic training with two sessions/week may be as effective in maintaining proper body composition in older people as the same training at the dose of three sessions/week.

Correlation between Handgrip Strength and Depression in Older Adults-A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Depression remains an important health problem among older adults and it may be correlated with the deterioration of physical fitness, whose chief indicator is hand grip strength (HGS). The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between depression and HGS among older populations using the available literature. METHODS: PubMed, Web of Science and Science Direct databases were searched. The inclusion criteria were as follows: written in English and published after 2009, subject age: ≥60 years, HGS measured using a hand dynamometer, assessment of the depressive symptoms using a validated tool. The following articles were excluded: studies conducted among institutionalized subjects and/or populations with a specific disease. RESULTS: The total combined effect of 33 results presented in 16 studies included in the meta-analysis, converted to the correlation coefficient, was OEr = -0.148 (SE = 0.030, 95%CI: -0.206--0.091), indicating a weak, negative correlation between HGS and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: The review of the literature and the meta-analysis demonstrated a relationship between low muscle strength and intensified depressive symptoms in older populations. Bearing in mind that depression is often unrecognized or underdiagnosed among older patients, lowered muscle strength should be an important sign for physicians and an incentive to screen them for depression.

The Mechanism of Physical Activity-induced Amelioration of Parkinson's Disease: A Narrative Review.

Physical activity, together with its ameliorative effects on Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms, remains a relatively unappreciated factor which may be beneficial for the treatment outcome. Contemporary evidence supports the positive effects of non-pharmacological approaches to PD symptom management, in particular the effects of the exercise on both, motor and non-motor symptoms. The aim of the study was to review the mechanisms of exercise-induced amelioration of PD symptoms. Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar) were searched using the following key words: "Parkinson and physical activity" OR "Parkinson disease and exercise" OR "Parkinson disease and lifestyle factors" OR "Parkinson disease and longevity". A total of 97 studies which investigated PD genetics and various forms of exercise and their etiologic impact on PD were reviewed. The studies were subdivided into four topic groups: 1) genetics of PD, 2) exercise and the brain, 3) physical activity and PD, 4) mind-body interventions, and discussed accordingly. Adequate levels of physical activity are associated with higher quality of life in PD patients. Physical activity may have protective and stimulatory effects for better functional efficiency in higher-level cognitive networks. It can also improve balance and motor functions by improving muscle strength. Given the etiologic evidence of the beneficial effects of physical activity on PD, albeit tentative, a concerted effort to elucidate the processes and outcomes of physical activity on ameliorating symptoms of PD must be undertaken.

The Impact of Lifetime Work and Non-work Physical Activity on Physical Fitness Among White - and Blue - Collar Retirees: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objective: The literature offers significant amount of data on the effects of occupational activity on health, with a distinct link between retirement and health among the most frequently tackled topics. Studies on the relationship between past occupational activity and physical fitness among older retirees remain scarce. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of physical activity on physical fitness in white- and blue-collar retirees. Methods: A total of 200 participants (aged ≥60) were included in the study. Lifetime physical activity was assessed using the Lifetime Physical Activity Questionnaire. Mean MET/week/year values of total Physical Activity and for each domain separately (occupational, sports, household) were calculated. Participants were stratified to blue- or white- collar group. Physical performance, hand-grip strength (HGS) and pulmonary function were assessed. Results: Mean total MET/week/year values for the blue- and the white-collar workers were 140.48 ± 55.13 and 100.75 ± 35.98, respectively. No statistically significant differences in physical performance scores were found between the white- and blue- collar groups. Adjustment for age, sex weight and height revealed a statistically significant association between work-related PA FEV*1 in the blue-collar group. White - collar workers presented higher odds ratio for membership in highest quartile in regard to short physical performance battery test score. Conclusion: Only minimal association of type of occupation on physical fitness were found despite statistically significant differences between mean intensity and duration of sports- and work-related lifetime physical activity. These findings may indicate that the type of past work is not an independent factor influencing the state of a person in old age. Large-scale investigations with physically fit and unfit participants, are necessary.

Polish Translation and Validation of the SARC-F Tool for the Assessment of Sarcopenia.

INTRODUCTION: Completion of the SARC-F questionnaire constitutes the obligatory first step in the diagnostic process of sarcopenia, according to the revised European consensus on the definition and diagnosis of sarcopenia published by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People2 (EWGSOP2). SARC-F has been recognized as the most up-to-date and coherent screening tool for sarcopenia. The aim of the study was to translate and to validate the Polish version of the SARC-F questionnaire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The validation process was performed in two stages: 1) translation and intercultural adaptation and 2) clinical validation. The inclusion criteria were as follows: age ≥65 years, unimpaired mobility, and no cognitive impairment. The EWGSOP2 criteria were used to diagnose sarcopenia. Hand grip strength measurement, physical fitness test, and body weight composition analysis were conducted. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy-likelihood ratios, and SARC-F predictive values were calculated using the EWGSOP2 criteria. RESULTS: Sixty-seven people participated in the study of whom 21% were diagnosed with sarcopenia (SARC-F score: ≥4). The reliability of the questionnaire based on the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.784. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive values were 92.9%, 98.1%, and 98.1%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The process of validating the SARC-F questionnaire against Polish conditions demonstrated its applicability as a simple and reliable tool for diagnosing sarcopenia in daily clinical practice with older adults.

Subjective Evaluation of the Results of Injectable Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for the Face.

BACKGROUND: Skin ageing is a physiological process, progressive and irreversible. Hyaluronic acid injection treatments are used to correct the signs of skin ageing. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Hyaluronic acid was implanted in the area of the cheek and the forehead aesthetic units in 57 women, aged 35-55 years. Apart from the clinical observation, self-assessment of the therapeutic results was conducted. The "My skin" questionnaire was used for subjective evaluation of the treatment results. RESULTS: Mean wrinkle score in the pre-menopausal group changed after the treatment, from 3.2±0.6 to 1.1±0.3 and from 3.2±0.6 to 0.8±0.6 for the forehead and the cheek esthetic units, respectively. In the post-menopausal group, the score decreased from 3.8±0.4 to 1.7± 0.7 and from 3.2±0.617 to 0.8± 0.6 for the forehead and the cheek esthetic units, respectively. The changes were age-dependent. Improved appearance of the facial skin - higher satisfaction with skin tone and scent - was reported after hyaluronic acid injections. Higher subjective perception of improvement corresponded to older age, irrespectively of the menopausal status. Correlations between age and the effect of the treatment on maintaining proper skin hydration as well as between improved appearance of the forehead area and feelings of autonomy and well-being were found. CONCLUSION: Hyaluronic acid injections significantly improved the subjective perception and overall assessment of the scent and appearance of the facial skin.

Is the outcome of frailty syndrome gender dependent?

We assessed the relationship between the stages of the frailty syndrome and the development of limitations in the activities of daily living, hospitalization, and death among women aged ≥80 as compared to men over the course of 12 months. The Fried criteria and selected tests of comprehensive geriatric assessment were performed in 213 participants (phase 1). After 12 months, detailed feedback on the general health and functioning was collected (phase 2). Statistically significantly higher mortality (p < .05) was found among men as compared to women. The number of deaths in the frail group was higher among frail men than frail women (p < .007).

Sexual satisfaction and self-esteem in women with acne.

BACKGROUND: A significant number of problems related to mental and social functioning is a common occurrence in patients with acne. AIMS: The aim of our study was to determine how acne affects self-esteem and sexual satisfaction in the affected women. PATIENTS/METHODS: The study was conducted among 90 women, aged 18-51 years (mean 30.29 ± 7.10), diagnosed with acne. Demographic data, medical history and information concerning their sexual life were obtained from all study participants. After dermatological assessment of lesion location and severity, all subjects completed the following questionnaires: Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Sexual Self-Esteem Inventory, Body Attitudes Questionnaire, and Whitley Sexual Satisfaction Inventory. RESULTS: Two factors-lesion severity and self-assessment of the body-proved to shape the sexual satisfaction of women, but the influence turned out to be mediated through self-esteem. CONCLUSION: Acne proves to play an important negative role in female sexuality and satisfaction.

Physical Activity and Fitness in White- and Blue-Collar Retired Men.

The average life expectancy has increased and despite a distinct feminization of aging, the number of older males continues to grow. Physical activity has a positive effect on health and helps to slow down the negative consequences of aging. The aim of the study was to evaluate possible relationships between physical fitness, physical activity and type of work during occupational activity among retired men (aged ≥65 years), no longer professionally active. The study included 104 men (aged from 65 to 90 years), further stratified into blue- and white-collar groups (66 and 38 subjects, respectively). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to assess their physical activity levels. Physical performance was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery test (SPPB) and handgrip strength (HGS) measurement. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was used to identify the risk for depression. Mean physical activity in the study population was moderate in almost 70%, high in 19% and low in 11% of the subjects. Men with high physical activity levels had better SPPB and GDS scores (p = .01 and p = .001, respectively). In the blue-collar group, the IPAQ scores were lower than in the white-collar group, although the differences were statistically insignificant. The SPPB scores and mean HGS for the dominant hand were similar in both groups. Occupational physical activity should not substitute other forms of physical activity. Regardless of the type of work performed before retirement, the men obtained similar results in terms of their physical activity.