[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/2021/8382761.].
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/2021/8382761.].
Objectives: Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, somatic (VEXAS) syndrome is an autoinflammatory disease with a wide spectrum of manifestations and no standard treatment. Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK-I) are small-molecule drugs that affect many molecular pathways. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of JAK-I in the treatment of VEXAS syndrome. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using MeSH terms/keywords related to JAK-I and VEXAS syndrome through PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase until July 6, 2025. Results: We included 29 articles: 8 cohort, 8 case series, and 13 case reports. Our study includes data for 186 cases. The mean age was 69.64 years, and 83.33% were male. The most frequent manifestations were skin lesions (64.51%), fever (64.51%), arthritis and arthralgia (61.29%), lung involvement (31.72%), and venous thrombosis (24.19%). In general, 33.87% had a complete response, and 29.57% had a partial response. Ruxolitinib was used in 117 patients. Thirty-four out of 117 (29.06%) experienced complete to partial remission. Tofacitinib was used in 31 patients. About 29% of them showed complete to partial remission. Baricitinib was used in 25 patients; 12% had complete remission, and 16% had partial remission. Upadacitinib was used in 13 patients, which led to a complete remission in 38.46%. Filgotinib was used in four patients, leading to partial remission in one case. Among all, 36.55% showed adverse effects. Of these, eight were on Ruxolitinib, two on Tofacitinib, two on Baricitinib, and three on Upadacitinib. Conclusion: JAK-I seems to be a promising treatment option with tolerable adverse effects for VEXAS syndrome.
Background: Vitiligo is a hypopigmentation skin disease that is easy to diagnose but difficult to treat. The etiology of vitiligo is unknown, which may be related to genetic and immune factors. Objective: To provide potential targets for the treatment of vitiligo through identifying signature genes based on an artificial neural network (ANN) model. Methods: We downloaded two publicly available datasets from GEO database and identified DEGs. We trained the random forest and ANN algorithm using training set GSE75819 to further identify new gene features and predicted the possibility of vitiligo. In addition, we further validated the performance of our model through the test set GSE53148 and verified the diagnostic value of our model with the validation set GSE53148. Finally, we used RT-qPCR to compare the expression of two genes randomly selected in this study in patients with vitiligo and healthy people. Results: Two genes were randomly selected from the 30 key genes identified by ANN and validated through RT-qPCR in 6 vitiligo patients. The results showed that compared with the control group, the mRNA expression of FLJ21901 in the disease group was significantly upregulated, and the mRNA expression of MAST1 was significantly downregulated, with statistical significance. Conclusions: Through the identification of characteristic genes and the construction of a neural network model, it was found that the differentially expressed genes can provide a new potential target for the treatment of vitiligo.
Background: Primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PH) is a chronic condition characterized by excessive sweating in the palms, significantly affecting the quality of life (QOL) of affected individuals. Despite the availability of various treatment modalities, the long-term efficacy and safety of these interventions remain unclear, warranting a comprehensive evaluation. This systematic review aims to assess the efficacy, safety and patient-reported outcomes of treatments for PH. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library from their inception until March 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria focused on prospective and retrospective studies examining PH treatments published in English. Data from eligible studies were extracted, analysed qualitatively and reported based on outcomes, including efficacy, QOL improvements and adverse effects. Results: Fourteen studies, including 1733 patients aged 4-77 years, were included in the final review. The treatments assessed included oral and topical oxybutynin, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin A injections, photodynamic therapy (PDT) and endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS). Oral oxybutynin demonstrated symptomatic relief in 60%-97% of the patients although anticholinergic side effects were frequently reported. ETS, while providing the highest rates of complete sweat cessation, was associated with compensatory hyperhidrosis. Noninvasive treatments like iontophoresis showed moderate efficacy with minimal side effects but required ongoing sessions for maintenance. Conclusion: This review highlights the efficacy of several therapeutic approaches for PH though most treatments are hindered by significant adverse effects or practical limitations. Future research should prioritize long-term studies and standardized outcome measures to guide clinical decision-making more effectively.
Human hair fibers are mainly composed of proteins, lipids, and water. In particular, lipids play an important role in keeping hair healthy, stabilizing its structure, affecting shine, feel, manageability, and strength. In addition to each person's physical condition and constitution, the cause of reduction and loss of hair lipids also comes from external causes such as UV, pollution, and specially styling chemicals. A decrease in hair lipid content correlates with reduced tensile strength, diminished shine, increased breakage, and hair damage. In this study, we focus on Lipid Bond Technology with small molecule real lipids derived from plant oil triglycerides, known as 369LAB Lipid Bond, reverse chemical and environmental damage by restoring lipid bonds in hair, regenerates hair structure, and improves hair strength. Research results show that 369LAB Lipid Bond has an average particle size of 39.83 nm, helping to penetrate deeply into the hair; replace lost lipids, restore lipids to damaged hair. After one use, the total amount of lipid restored is equivalent to natural hair before damage. It is nonsticky and does not clog hair follicles. SEM images show morphological improvement in the integrity of the epidermis and regeneration of lipid layers immediately, with lasting repair even after discontinuation of use. The amount of force that breaks individual hair strands in testing shows that 369LAB Lipid Bond makes hair stronger. The Lipid Bond Technology not only strengthens hair while using the product but also maintains its healthy resilience long after. The current research will provide the breakthrough for new applications in cosmetic, skin, and hair care products, to address the remaining difficulties and challenges in the treatment of damaged hair.
Background: Acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation (ADMH) includes lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), ashy dermatosis (erythema dyschromicum perstans), and Riehl's melanosis (pigmented contact dermatitis/pigmented cosmetic dermatitis). The conditions that make up ADMH overlap in clinical and histopathological features. Objective: To conduct a bibliometric analysis to identify the top 100 most cited publications in ADMH. Methods: A Web of Science search was conducted on September 18, 2024, using the search terms "lichen planus pigmentosus," "ashy dermatosis," "erythema dyschromicum perstans," "riehl melanosis," "pigmented cosmetic dermatitis," "pigmented contact dermatitis," "acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation," or "acquired macular pigmentation of unknown aetiology" in the title or abstract of articles published between 1998 and 2024. The search was filtered to include articles, letters, reviews, and editorials in English. Data collected included title, author, publication year, times cited, journal of publication, affiliations, and country of origin. The top 100 most cited publications were ranked based on annual citation score. Results: The top 100 most cited publications consisted of 62 articles, 24 letters (i.e., letter to the editor and comments), 8 editorials, and 6 reviews published between 1998 and 2023. The most articles were published in 2018 with 14 publications. The top contributing journals were the International Journal of Dermatology (n = 15, 15%) and the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (n = 14, 14%). India, South Korea, and the United States contributed the most publications (n = 61, 61%) on ADMH (32, 17, and 12, respectively). India also led in having the top three corresponding authors, Muthu Sendhil Kumaran (n = 8, 8%), Keshavamurthy Vinay (n = 4, 4%), and Vinod Kumar Sharma (n = 3, 3%). Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis reveals a geographical concentration in ADMH research, emphasizing the need for increased research on these conditions with more global representation in future studies.
The pathophysiology of lichen planopilaris (LPP), a lymphocytic primary cicatricial alopecia, is largely unknown. We evaluated RNA expression of lesional scalp biopsies taken before and after 6 months of treatment monotherapy with oral hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), narrow band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB), or low level laser light therapy (LLLLT). PTGER4 and DOCK2 were significantly increased in all patients after treatment. CYP1A2, a drug metabolism enzyme, and SSR2, a gene involved in B cell activation and maturation, were increased posttreatment for the HCQ arm. VEGFA, which has been reported to be downregulated by phototherapy was decreased post NB-UVB treatment, while SAA1, an apolipoprotein gene present in plasma that is upregulated in response to tissue injury, was increased posttreatment for the NB-UVB arm. No significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the LLLLT arm before and after treatment. The expressions of CD68, COL5A1, MMP9, COL6A3, and CD44 were significantly higher at the baseline in biopsies from patients with a Lichen Planopilaris Activity Index (LPPAI) score ≥ 4 compared with those with an LPPAI < 4. These genes are involved in extracellular matrix organization and M2, or profibrotic, macrophage polarization, which is congruent with follicular scarring. Our data identify potential RNA biomarkers of LPPAI and suggest that M2 macrophages may play a role in LPP immunopathogenesis.
Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging technology for the effective treatment of cutaneous hemangioma and vascular malformation. However, there are few histopathological studies on the treatment of this disease with RFA. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of RFA and associated histopathological changes in a cockscomb model of cutaneous hemangioma and vascular malformation. Methods: Thirty-two Leghorn chickens were randomly divided into two groups: RFA group (treated with RFA; 220 V, pulse rate: 15 ms) and control group (treated with 1 mg/mL bleomycin). At 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after treatment, histopathological changes in the cockscomb tissues were observed visually and microscopically using hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson's trichrome staining. The rates of capillary reduction and collagen proliferation were examined. Results: The cockscomb in the RFA group developed scabs earlier than that in the bleomycin group, and the scabs were darker and more clearly defined. The RFA group showed a more severe inflammatory reaction than the bleomycin group. At 28 days, most scabs had fallen off in both groups, and the boundary was clearer in the RFA group. At 3, 7, and 14 days, the number of capillaries decreased in both groups, with a more obvious decrease in the RFA group. From Days 3 to 28, the number of capillaries in the RFA group showed a trend of gradual increase, whereas that in the bleomycin group showed a trend of gradual decrease, but there was no significant difference between the two groups at 28 days (p > 0.05). The collagenous fibers of cockscomb showed a trend of gradual increase in both groups. The collagenous fiber hyperplasia was higher in the RFA group than in the bleomycin group at 14 and 28 days (p < 0.01). Conclusion: RFA significantly reduced the capillary number and promoted tissue fibrosis. Compared with bleomycin, RFA showed a better effect and with no obvious side effects in treating a cockscomb model of cutaneous hemangioma and vascular malformation.
Background: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a prevalent skin disorder characterized by frequent recurrences. While its pathogenesis is closely associated with histamine and vascular activating mediators released by mast cells, some research suggests cytokines, notably tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), could play a pivotal role in its pathology and symptom presentation. Objective: This study evaluated serum levels of TNF-alpha in CSU patients and explored its correlation with clinical symptoms and severity at the University Medical Center at Ho Chi Minh City. Methods: We enrolled 60 adult patients (age ≥ 18) with CSU, assessing their clinical symptoms using the UAS7 scoring system. TNF-alpha levels were determined utilizing the Avi Bion Human TNF-alpha kit. For comparative purposes, we also studied TNF-alpha levels in 30 healthy adult participants as a control group. Results: The male-to-female ratio stood at roughly 1:2.3, and the median age was 36 (28-42). Notably, the mean serum concentrations of TNF-alpha in the patient group were considerably elevated compared to the control group (p < 0.001). A significant positive moderate correlation was found between serum concentrations of TNF-alpha and UAS7 score (r = 0.57; p < 0.001). Similarly, a notable positive moderate correlation between serum levels of TNF-alpha and pruritus scores was observed (r = 0.45; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Serum levels of TNF-alpha are markedly increased in patients with CSU and show a moderate correlation with both UAS7 and pruritus scores. These findings suggest that TNF-alpha might play a potential role in the pathogenesis of CSU. However, further research involving a more extensive sample size is essential to draw definitive conclusions.
Background: Acne is a common and often chronic skin condition that requires prolonged treatment. Conventional topical therapies are limited by their inability to effectively penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, reducing their effectiveness in treating comedones and inflammatory acne lesions. This study aimed to fabricate dissolvable microneedles (MNs) as a novel approach for delivering clindamycin directly to the obstructed sebaceous glands beneath the skin's surface. Methods: MNs were fabricated using 3D-printed molds of various shapes and lengths, employing materials such as chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Pyramid-shaped MNs, 2500 μm in length, were created using PVA soaked in sodium sulfate. Their physical properties, insertion capabilities, and dissolution profiles were evaluated through texture analysis, in vitro penetration testing, and drug release studies. Results: Pyramid-shaped MNs made from PVA demonstrated the highest mechanical strength and structural integrity, confirmed through scanning electron microscopy and texture analysis. In vitro penetration testing showed that these MNs penetrated beyond four layers of Parafilm, simulating their ability to breach the stratum corneum. Dissolution studies indicated complete MN dissolution within 7-8 min, with rapid drug release occurring within 3 min. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the feasibility of creating dissolvable MNs for delivering clindamycin, offering a promising alternative to conventional therapies by improving drug penetration and providing rapid drug release for the treatment of acne.

