			Home About us Contact

Sun Exposure (sun + exposure)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Medical Sciences	83%
Life Sciences	14%
2 Other Domains	3%

Distribution within Medical Sciences

Dermatology	78%
Oncology & Radiotherapy	3%
9 Other Subdomains	19%

Selected Abstracts

Role of Sun Exposure in Melanoma

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2006
GIL B. IVRY BS
BACKGROUND Malignant melanoma is the third most common skin cancer in the United States. It is commonly thought that sun exposure is causative in these tumors. Recently, however, the significance of the role of sun exposure in melanoma has come into question. Some have suggested that other factors, such as genetics, play a larger role, and that sun protection may even be harmful. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS To investigate the role of sun exposure in melanoma etiology. An extensive review of basic science and clinical literature on this subject was conducted. RESULTS Although exceptions exist, sun exposure likely plays a large role in most melanomas. The pattern of this exposure, however, is not fully known, and controversy exists, especially in the use of sunscreens. Sun exposure may interact with genetic factors to cause melanomas, and sun protective measures appear to be prudent. CONCLUSIONS The cause of melanoma is probably variable and multifactorial. Sun exposure may play a primary or supporting role in most melanoma tumors. [source]

Expatriates in High,UV Index and Tropical Countries: Sun Exposure and Protection Behavior in 9,416 French Adults

JOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2007
Khaled Ezzedine MD
Background Overexposure to sunlight during long stays in tropical countries can reveal short- and long-term harmful effects on the skin of Caucasian residents, especially for fair-skinned subjects. The aim of this study was to describe sun exposure and sun protection behaviors during lifetime among French adults who declared having experienced at least one expatriation period in tropical or high,sun index areas for a duration of more than three consecutive months. Methods A self-reported questionnaire on sun exposure behavior was addressed two times, in 1997 and 2001, to the 12,741 French adult volunteers enrolled in the SU.VI.MAX cohort. A total of 8,084 subjects answered to the first survey and 1,332 additional responders answered to the second. Among the 9,416 individuals, 1,594 (652 women and 942 men) corresponded to expatriates and the remaining 7,822 to nonexpatriates (4,972 women and 2,850 men). A descriptive analysis of sun exposure and sun protection behaviors during lifetime of expatriates and nonexpatriates was performed by gender. Results Among women, 39% of expatriates belonged to the 50 to 60 class of age at inclusion, versus 33% in nonexpatriates (72 and 55% in men, respectively). In women, expatriates declared more frequently having during lifetime exposed voluntarily their skin to the sun, practiced tanning between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., less gradually exposed their skin, experienced intensive sun exposure, and exposed their skin during nautical sports and practiced naturism. In men, expatriates declared more frequently having experienced intensive sun exposure and exposed their skin during outdoor occupations and during nautical and mountain sports. Conclusions Although expatriates are aware of travel health advices concerning the countries where they planned to stay, they are usually poorly informed about sun exposure risk factors. Such individuals who planned to expatriate in countries with a high ultraviolet index should benefit from a visit to a travel clinic including specific health care information for risk related to sun exposure, ie, skin cancers and photoaging. [source]

Role of Sun Exposure in Melanoma

Influence of environmental stress on skin tone, color and melanogenesis in Japanese skin

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2005
K. Kikuchi
Introduction It is needless to say that one of the most potent environmental stress for melanogenesis of the human skin is the effect of ultraviolet (UV) light from the sunlight. Characteristic skin aging as a result of this UV light is recognized as photoaging. Clinical features in photoaging are wrinkles, skin laxity, coarseness, leathery, yellowing, lentigenes, mottled pigmentation, telangiectasia, sebaceous hypertrophy and purpura. There is an apparent difference in clinical features in photoaging among different races, i.e. between Caucasians, African American and Asians that include Japanese. Not only photo skin type but also environmental factors, such as climate, latitude, altitude and their habit of sunbathing, smoking and skin care influence the characteristic development of their photoaging. Racial difference in photoaging Caucasians tend to develop skin laxity and fine wrinkles more than Asians [1]. Asians tend to produce coarser wrinkles than the Caucasians although their development is rather late in life. There is also a difference in the skin color. Pigmentation is an earliest and prominent skin changes in Asians [1] and it increases with age [2]. In contrast, pigmentation is not apparent in the Caucasians although redness probably because of an increase in cutaneous vascularization becomes prominent in middle aged Caucasians [2]. Chung reported that seborrheic keratosis is a major pigmentary lesion in men, whereas hyperpigmented macules are prominent features in women in Koreans [3]. Melanogenesis pigmentation disorders in Japanese Ephelides (freckles) are commonly found in those with photo skin type I who have fair skin and red eyes and blond hair. They are also found in the Japanese. Clinical feature reveals that multiple small pigmentary macules on sun-exposed areas mainly on the mid-portion of the face. These lesions seem to be familial, becoming apparent even in early childhood after sun exposure. Melasma is an acquired pigmentary disorder commonly found in middle aged Japanese women characterized by irregular brown macules and patches on the sun-exposed areas on the face typically as bilaterally present macules on the cheeks. An increase in sex hormones as a result of pregnancy and intake of contraceptive pills is one of the etiological factors to develop melasma. Sun exposure also worsens it. Nevus of Ota is also a common pigmentary disorder found in the Japanese. It is usually unilateral, blue-brown to slate-gray pigmentary macules on the eyelid and cheek that appear in early childhood or in puberty. Acquired dermal melanocytosis is also a pigmentary disorder, in which dermal melanocytes are found as shown in nevus of Ota, characterized by bilateral brown to blue-gray macules on the forehead, temple, eyelid and malar areas in middle aged Japanese women. This tends to be misdiagnosed as melasma. Solar lentigo is an acquired pigmented macule induced by sun exposure. Solar lentigines are usually multiple, circumscribed brown macules. There are two types of solar lentigo. One is a small macular type, characterized by multiple, small brown macules whose diameter is less than 5 mm, being similar to ephelides (freckles). The other type is a large macular type, characterized by a few round to oval, brown macules whose diameter is beyond 1 cm. Some of their surface are hyperkeratotic and become elevated to produce seborrheic keratosis. Again, the early sign of photoaging in Japanese is pigmentated spots and these pigmentation disorders increase with age. Among the pigmentary changes, nevus of Ota, acquired dermal melanocytosis, melasma and large macular type of solar lentigo are characteristic skin changes found in the Japanese in addition to ephelides and small macular type of solar lentigo. Seasonal changes of the various functional properties of the skin including skin color assessed by non-invasive bioengineering techniques [4]. When we consider skin tone, color and melanogenesis, UV light from the sunlight is the most potent environmental stress, although we cannot forget also the important influence of environmental relative humidity affects our skin functions as well as its appearance. We investigated seasonal influences on the various properties of the skin in 39 healthy Japanese females consisting of different age groups. Their skin is thought to be affected by the UV light in summer, and by the exposure to the dry and cold air in winter. Materials and methods Biophysical, non-invasive measurements, including transepidermal water loss (TEWL) as a parameter for the barrier function of the stratum corneum (SC), high frequency conductance as a parameter for the hydration state of the SC, skin color and casual surface lipid levels, were conducted during late summer and winter months. Skin color was determined with a chromameter according to the L*a*b* CIE 1976 system, where L* is an attribute on the luminance scale, a* that on the red versus green scale and b* that on the yellow versus blue scale. All the measurements were conducted in an environment controlled-chamber (21 ± 1 °C room temperature, and 50 ± 3% relative humidity). Results The barrier function of the SC was found to be significantly impaired in winter on the cheek as compared with that measured in summer, whereas no such seasonal change was apparent both in the hydration state of the SC and sebum levels on the cheek. In the assessment of the skin color on the cheek, a significant increase in a* (redness) and a decrease in b* (yellowness) were observed in winter. In contrast, on the flexor forearm, the values of L* (luminescence) increased in winter, but no seasonal change was noted in the values of a* and b*. In this study, skin changes with aging were also found by the non-invasive bioengineering methods. The value of TEWL on the cheek tended to increase with age, whereas no significant change was observed in the value of TEWL on the forearm. In the assessment of skin color, b* value on the cheek significantly increased with age whereas a* and L* values on the cheek did not show any significant change with age. Summary of this study We think that such an increase in yellowness with aging of the cheek skin is a phenomenon unique to the Japanese (Asians) since an increase in b* value was not observed in Caucasians [2]. The facial skin that is always exposed shows barrier impairment in a dry and cold winter environment and demonstrates increased yellowness in skin color because of a prolonged exposure to the UV light from the sun in the summer season. The non-invasive bioengineering methods are useful to demonstrate even invisible seasonal changes occurring in the same individuals and changes with age occurring in the skin. References 1.,Goh, S.H. The treatment of visible signs of senescence: the Asian experience. Br. J. Dermatol.122, 105,109 (1990). 2.,LeFur, I., Numagami, K., Guinot, C. et al. Age-related reference values of skin color in Caucasian and Japanese healthy women according to skin site. Pigment Cell Res. 7, 67 (1999). 3.,Chung, J.H., Lee, S.H., Youn, C.S. et al. Cutaneous photodamage in Koreans: influence of sex, sun exposure, smoking, and skin color. Arch. Dermatol. 137, 1043,1051 (2001). 4.,Kikuchi, K., Kobayashi, H., Le Fur, I. et al. Winter season affects more severely the facial skin than the forearm skin: comparative biophysical studies conducted in the same Japanese females in later summer and winter. Exog. Dermatol. 1, 32,38 (2002). [source]

Objective determination of fatigue development following sun exposure using Advanced Trail Making Test

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2004
T. Horikoshi
Synopsis Sun exposure during leisure activity evokes fatigue. We employed the Advanced Trail Making Test (ATMT), a recently developed objective method of evaluating brain function performance used to measure mental fatigue, for objective determination of fatigue development caused by solar exposure to the human body. First, a survey of consumer awareness was performed, and fatigue development from solar exposure was generally recognized in both summer and spring. In the field test, 15 males (26,41 years old) received sun exposure equivalent to 100 kJ m,2 of ultraviolet radiation three to four times each day for 3 days, during which the subjects wore a short sleeve shirt and a short pant, and covered their head with a towel. A significant increase in scores for subjective sense of fatigue was observed in the evening of all 3 days following sun exposure and on the fourth day, which had no exposure, as well as in the morning of the third and fourth days, as compared with those periods during the control week, which did not have experimental solar exposure. ATMT showed a significant increase in average value in the evening of the first and second days following sun exposure, as well as in the morning of the third and fourth days. In addition, increases in body temperature and heart rate were observed during the exposure periods. The results of multiple regression analysis of subjective feelings showed that fatigue caused by solar exposure was qualitatively different from that in the control week. These results suggest that brain function performance declined following solar exposure as did fatigue development. ATMT results may be useful for quantitative and objective evaluation of mental fatigue caused by sun exposure, along with development of sun care products for the prevention of solar-caused fatigue. Résumé L'exposition au soleil pendant les activités de loisir provoque la fatigue. Nous avons utilisé la méthode ,Advanced Trail Making Test (ATMT)', une méthode d'évaluation objective de la faculté du fonctionnement du cerveau, récemment développée pour mesurer la fatigue mentale, dans le but de déterminer objectivement le processus de la fatigue du corps humain causée par l'exposition au soleil. Premièrement, nous avons mené un sondage sur la conscience du consommateur, et une évolution de la fatigue venant de l'exposition au soleil a été notée dans l'ensemble au printemps et en été. Lors des expériences sur le terrain, 15 sujets mâles (de 26 à 41 ans) ont été exposés au soleil, 3 à 4 fois par jour, pendant 3 jours. L'exposition était égale à 100 kJ m,2 de radiation ultraviolette. Pendant ces 3 jours, les sujets étaient vêtus d'une chemize à manches courtes et d'un pantalon court, et avaient la tête couverte d'une serviette. Nous avons observé une augmentation considérable du score représentant la sensation subjective de fatigue le soir des 3 jours suivant l'exposition au soleil, et le soir du quatrième jour, sans exposition, de même que le matin des troisième et quatrième jours, en comparaison avec les mêmes périodes de la semaine de contrôle, sans exposition expérimentale au soleil. Les résultats du test de l'ATMT ont montré une augmentation considérable de la valeur moyenne le soir des premier et second jours suivant l'exposition au soleil, aussi bien que le matin des troisième et quatrième jours. De plus, nous avons observé une augmentation de la température du corps et du pouls pendant les moments d'exposition. L'analyse de régression multiple des résultats de la sensation subjective a montré que la fatigue causée par l'exposition était qualitativement différente que celle de la semaine de contrôle. Ces résultats suggèrent que la faculté de fonctionnement du cerveau baisse après l'exposition au soleil, comme le fait la fatigue. Les résultats de l'ATMT peuvent être utiles pour l'évaluation quantitative et objective de la fatigue mentale causée par l'exposition au soleil, ceci allant de pair avec le développement des produits de soin contre le soleil pour la prévention de la fatigue causée par le soleil. [source]

Spatio-temporal variation in fruit production and seed predation in a perennial herb influenced by habitat quality and population size

JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 2 2008
Jon Ågren
Summary 1In patchily distributed plant species, seed production is likely to be influenced both by local abiotic factors affecting plant size and conditions for fruit maturation, and by population characteristics affecting the intensity of interactions with mutualists and antagonists. However, the relative importance of these effects is poorly known. 2We used multiple regression and path models to examine the importance of abiotic factors (sun exposure, soil depth) and population characteristics (size, density and connectivity) for variation in flower and fruit production and intensity of seed predation among 39 populations of the long-lived herb Vincetoxicum hirundinaria in three consecutive years. In addition, we manipulated water availability in a field experiment and recorded short-term and long-term effects on fruit output, and conducted a supplemental hand-pollination experiment. 3Flower production varied little, while fruit initiation, fruit abortion and fruit predation varied considerably among years. Sun exposure and soil depth affected fruit production per plant indirectly and positively through their effects on flower number. Population density affected fruit production negatively through its effect on flower number. Both fruit initiation and the proportion of fruits attacked by the tephritid fly Euphranta connexa were related positively to population size. 4The number of full-size fruits per plant was related positively to sun exposure and population size in two years each, and related negatively to population density in one year. However, because of seed predation, the number of intact mature fruits was related significantly to population characteristics in only one of three years. 5The field experiments showed that both shortage of water and insufficient pollination may limit fruit set in V. hirundinaria. 6Synthesis. These results demonstrate that the relative importance of local abiotic conditions and population characteristics may vary considerably along the chain of events from flower formation to intact fruit, and also among years. They further show that, at least in species with a naturally patchy distribution, connectivity may be relatively unimportant for variation in reproductive output compared to effects of habitat quality, population size and density. [source]

Aggravating factors for melasma: a prospective study in 197 Tunisian patients

JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 9 2010
C Guinot
Abstract Background, Melasma is a frequent cause of consultations at dermatology departments by dark-skinned patients in Tunisia. Objective, To investigate factors that influence melasma severity in a large Tunisian population. Methods, A total of 197 patients (188 women and 9 men), who attended Tunis Military Hospital for a consultation were included prospectively from August 2005 to August 2006. Disease severity was estimated using the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI). Aggravating factors were investigated using multiple logistic regressions. Results, Of the women included, 14% presented phototype III, 45% phototype IV and 41% phototype V; 76% presented a centrofacial melasma phenotype, 23% a malar and 1% a mandibular phenotype. About 60% developed melasma before thirty. Sun exposure was reported as a triggering factor by 51% of women and as an aggravating factor by 84%. Pregnancy was reported as an aggravating factor by 51% of women who had been pregnant, and oral contraceptive use reported by 38% of women exposed to oral contraceptives. The risk of severe melasma was about three times higher for women with age at onset under 30, phototype V and major lifetime sun exposure and about 8 times higher for women exposed to oral contraceptives. Conclusion, This study identifies a number of factors associated with the severity of melasma. Further epidemiological studies in this type of population, in particular, to investigate triggering factors, are justified by the aesthetic damage caused by melasma in dark-skinned patients, lack of efficacy of existing treatments, non-compliance with photoprotection recommendations and the challenge of treatment. [source]

Darier's disease in Singapore

BRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2005
B.K. Goh
Summary Background, Darier's disease is a rare, dominantly inherited genodermatosis. Although it has been well studied in caucasians, very little is known about the clinical spectrum of this disorder among Asians. Objectives, To determine the demographic and clinical profile of Asian patients with Darier's disease. Methods, This is a retrospective study of all new cases of Darier's disease seen in our centre over a 20-year period (1982,2002). Results, Twenty-four nonrelated cases of Darier's disease were studied. The incidence rate was 3·1 per million per decade. The gender distribution was 19 males and five females, and the ethnic origin was 21 Chinese, two Malays and one Nepalese. The peak age of onset was between 11 and 20 years. Sun exposure exacerbated the disease in 13 of the patients, and three had neuropsychiatric disorders. The disease affected predominantly seborrhoeic areas in 19 patients, flexural in three, acral in one and was segmental in one patient. Hand involvement was common and included palmar pits in nine patients, acrokeratosis verruciformis in four and nail changes in 12 patients. Haemorrhagic macules were not seen. Rare features included oral mucosal lesions (two patients) and guttate leucoderma (three patients). Pathogens involved in cutaneous infections included herpes simplex virus, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species and Morganella morgani. All patients treated with oral retinoids had improvement of clinical signs. In contrast, the response to topical retinoids was poor. Conclusions, Compared with western studies, our results show a similar incidence rate, age of onset, distribution of disease patterns and association with neuropsychiatric disorders. Features that differ include co-occurrence of guttate leucoderma, rarity of acrokeratosis, absence of haemorrhagic macules and poor response to topical retinoids. [source]

Photopatch testing , a retrospective review using the 1 day and 2 day irradiation protocols

CONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 2 2006
R. J. Batchelor
Photopatch testing is indicated in the investigation of patients with eczematous eruptions, affecting mainly light-exposed sites and in those who give a history of worsening of their condition with sun exposure. 3 different protocols are described by the British Photodermatology Group (Br J Dermatol 1997:136:371,376), 1 of which includes irradiation of allergens 1 day after application and 2 using irradiation of allergens 2 days after application. There is no evidence for superiority of any of these protocols. We reviewed the records of all patients who underwent photopatch testing in Leeds over a 50-month period, who had had the allergens applied in triplicate with 1 set irradiated after 1 day occlusion and another after 2 days. The control was occluded for 2 days. Readings were performed at 2 days and 4 days. 15 of 74 patients photopatch tested during this period had 49 positive results between them. 43 of these were felt to be of current relevance to their clinical problem. 34 of the positive results were indicative of photoallergy. Additional photoallergic reactions were detected following 2 days occlusion and irradiation compared with 1 day occlusion (16 versus 5). In conclusion, our case series suggests that 2 days occlusion before irradiation of allergens is more sensitive at detecting photoallergy. [source]

Role of Sun Exposure in Melanoma

Upper Eyelid Full-Thickness Skin Graft in Facial Reconstruction

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 1 2005
Dogan Tuncali MD
Background The potentially available upper eyelid skin, as an alternative donor site, deserves more attention in clinical use. Objective The objective of this study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical behavioral characteristics of upper eyelid full-thickness skin grafts in facial reconstruction. Methods Sixteen patients who concluded the 12-month follow-up period were included in the study. Graft dimensions were measured in place before the graft harvest. Defect sizes were measured following lesion excision and postgrafting. Graft sizes were measured postoperatively at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Results The largest and smallest grafts were 46 × 22 mm and 40 × 15 mm (average 43.1 × 19.3 mm) in size, respectively. The largest and smallest defect dimensions were 33 × 23 mm and 17 × 9 mm (average 22.6 × 15.6 mm), respectively. The average postgrafting size was 21.1 × 14.6 mm. Grafts and donor sites healed very well. Generally, an acceptable to good texture and color match was observed beyond 6 months. Wound bed contraction was not observed beyond the first month (p < .05). Conclusion Special characteristics of hairless skin, good color and texture matching, and inconspicuous and hidden donor scar make the upper eyelid a good alternative donor site for small- to medium-sized facial skin defects. The main disadvantages that limit its clinical use are the age of the patient, a lack of adnexal structures, comparatively limited sun exposure, and possible insufficient thickness, especially when deep defects are of concern. DOGAN TUNCALI, MD, LEVENT ATES, MD, AND GÜRCAN ASLAN, MD, HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS. [source]

Human Papillomavirus and Overexpression of P16INK4a in Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2004
Ingo Nindl PhD
Background. P16INK4a overexpression has been identified as a specific biomarker in high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV),infected cervical (pre)cancer lesions. Objective. To evaluate the overexpression of this cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor in skin tumors depending on HPV infections, we analyzed normal skin, benign skin disease, and skin cancer specimens. Methods. Biopsies of 23 patients with normal histology (3), psoriasis (2), verrucae vulgaris (2), actinic keratoses (5), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in situ (3), Bowen's carcinoma (1), and SCC (7) were analyzed. Specimens of 23 patients were immunostained using the monoclonal antibody E6H4 specific for p16INK4a. HPV status was assessed by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system to detect all currently known HPV types. MY (MY09/MY11 and MYN9/MYN10)-, CP (CP65/CP70 and CP66/CP69)-nested PCR, and three single PCR methods CN1, CN3, and CN4 were used in a first step, and HPV typing was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Only ,-globin,positive patients were included in this study. Results. HPV DNA was detected in all actinic keratoses, SCC in situ, Bowen's carcinoma, and SCC, in 50% (one of two) of verrucae vulgaris, in 66% (two of three) of normal skin, and in none of two psoriasis. P16INK4a expression was not detected in normal skin, psoriasis, and verrucae vulgares. Overexpression of p16INK4a was detected in a subset of dysplastic cells (10% to 80%) of all skin (pre)cancer lesions such as actinic keratoses, SCC in situ, Bowen's carcinoma, and SCC infected with HPV independent of sun exposure. Conclusion. P16INK4a appears to be overexpressed in a portion of dysplastic cells from actinic keratoses and SCC. Further studies to examine the association of HPV infection and the overexpression of p16INK4a are warranted. [source]

Environmental Risk Factors Predisposing to the Development of Basal Cell Carcinoma

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2004
Malgorzata Zak-Prelich MD
Background. Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are the most common malignancies in white people. The incidence varies depending on the region of the world, with the highest rate of 1% to 2% per year noted in Australia. It is estimated that BCC incidence increases by 5% annually. An increasing incidence of BCC is in line with the changes in the living style and exposure to various environmental factors. Objective. To present the environmental factors that may influence the development of BCCs. The influence of ultraviolet radiation exposure alone and in connection with immunosuppression, smoking, occupational factors, as well as arsenic and ionizing radiation exposure, was described. Conclusion. BCC is a very complex disease, with many factors influencing its development. Environmental factors are very important for the prevalence of BCC, and most of them can be avoided. The exposure to ultraviolet radiation is undoubtedly of great risk; therefore, the national campaigns against aggressive, seasonal sun exposure, especially in children and adolescents, as well as using sunscreens, are of great value in the fight against BCC development. [source]

Pigmentary Changes After Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2003
Noah Kawika Weisberg MD
Background Postinflammatory pigmentary changes are a frequently encountered problem with numerous dermatologic procedures. Limited literature is available that documents this complication with laser hair removal. Objective It is important for all physicians performing laser hair removal to be aware of this potential complication. We present our experience with postinflammatory pigmentary change and discuss some potential etiologic factors. Methods Seven patients who experienced postinflammatory complications after alexandrite laser hair removal are presented. These are all the patients who developed this complication in our office over the past 2.5 years. Results The patients who we describe in this article all developed a similar pattern of initial hyperpigmented rings, later developing into a thin wafer-like crust followed by hypopigmentation with gradual return to their normal skin color. Conclusion In general, the alexandrite laser is both safe and effective for hair removal in patients of varying skin types. Complication rates will increase as skin pigment increases and as the power used increases. However, even in light-skinned individuals without recent pretreatment or posttreatment sun exposure, with proper treatment parameters, complications, and side effects can arise. We have found this to be especially true when treating areas other than the face. [source]

Axillary Basal Cell Carcinoma: Literature Survey and Case Report

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 11 2001
Erin S. Gardner MD
Background. Primary basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in the axilla has rarely been reported in the literature. No systematic review has yet been conducted. Objective. To present a case of basal cell carcinoma of the axilla. This is a rare presentation of a common disease in a non-sun-exposed part of the body. Methods. An extensive literature search for axillary BCCs was performed. An additional case is reported. Results. Only 14 cases of primary axillary BCC have been reported in the literature. Metastatic axillary BCC is also rarely reported. Conclusion. BCC in the axilla is extremely uncommon. Factors other than sun exposure are likely involved in tumorigenesis. [source]

New insights into the mechanisms of polymorphic light eruption: resistance to ultraviolet radiation-induced immune suppression as an aetiological factor

EXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2009
Peter Wolf
Abstract:, An abnormal immune response has long been thought responsible for the patho-aetiology of polymorphic light eruption, the most common photodermatosis. Recent evidence indicates that polymorphic light eruption patients are resistant to the immune suppressive effects of sunlight, a phenomenon that leads to the formation of skin lesions upon seasonal sun exposure. This immunological abnormality in polymorphic light eruption supports the concept of the biological significance and evolutionary logic of sunlight-induced immune suppression, i.e. the prevention of immune responses to photo-induced neo-antigens in the skin, thereby preventing autoimmunity and skin rashes. This article focuses on the immunological alterations in polymorphic light eruption and the pathogenic significance to the disease state and skin carcinogenesis. [source]

Sunlight ultraviolet irradiation and BRAF V600 mutagenesis in human melanoma,

HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 8 2008
Ahmad Besaratinia
Abstract The incidence of melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, continues to increase in the Western world. In addition to genetic alterations in high- and low-susceptibility genes identified for melanoma, somatic mutations in BRAF gene occur frequently in human melanoma and are distinctively linked to sun exposure. Of significance is a single hotspot codon, i.e., BRAF V600, wherein up to 92% of all mutations arise. Recent work in our laboratory has demonstrated that solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation triggers mutagenesis through induction of various DNA lesions, many of which capable of producing similar types of mutations, as those seen in BRAF V600 variants in human melanoma. In this review article, we have discussed application of "DNA damage-targeted mutagenicity" of solar UV-irradiation for determining the mechanistic involvement of sunlight UV in BRAF V600 mutagenesis in human melanoma. We envision that establishing "DNA-damage derived mutagenesis" in this exceptionally unique target gene may resolve the underlying mechanism(s) of melanoma-genesis, thus helping define preventive and therapeutic measures against this malignant disease. Hum Mutat 0, 1,9, 2008. © 2008, Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

The association of use of sunbeds with cutaneous malignant melanoma and other skin cancers: A systematic review

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 5 2007
Article first published online: 27 NOV 200
Abstract Exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known cause of skin cancer. Sunbed use represents an increasingly frequent source of artificial UV exposure in light-skinned populations. To assess the available evidence of the association between sunbed use and cutaneous malignant melanoma (melanoma) and other skin cancers, a systematic review of the literature till March 2006 on epidemiological and biological studies on sunbed use was performed in Pubmed, ISI Web of Science, Embase, Pascal, Cochrane library, Lilacs and Medcarib. Search for keywords in the title and in the abstract was done systematically and supplemented by manual searches. Only case,control, cohort or cross-sectional studies were selected. Data were abstracted by means of a standardized data-collection protocol. Based on 19 informative studies, ever-use of sunbeds was positively associated with melanoma (summary relative risk, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.00,1.31), although there was no consistent evidence of a dose,response relationship. First exposure to sunbeds before 35 years of age significantly increased the risk of melanoma, based on 7 informative studies (summary relative risk, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.35,2.26). The summary relative risk of 3 studies of squamous cell carcinoma showed an increased risk. For basal cell carcinoma, the studies did not support an association. The evidence does not support a protective effect of the use of sunbeds against damage to the skin from subsequent sun exposure. Young adults should be discouraged from using indoor tanning equipment and restricted access to sunbeds by minors should be strongly considered. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Characteristics of skin aging in Korean men and women

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2005
J. H. Chung
Introduction Korea is located between Japan and Mainland China. The people of these three countries have similar appearances and it is difficult to differentiate between them. Although the population of Asia is more than half of the total population of the Earth, the inherent characteristics of Asian skin have not been well investigated. Commercial markets for cosmetics and drugs for photoaged skin are rapidly expanding in many Asian countries. Therefore, many investigators in the field of dermatology and cosmetology have become interested in brown Asian skin. Clinical characteristics of skin aging and photoaging in Asians Skin aging can be divided into two basic processes: intrinsic aging and photoaging [1]. Intrinsic aging is characterized by smooth, dry, pale, and finely wrinkled skin, whereas photoaging, which indicates premature skin aging in chronically photodamaged skin, is characterized by severe wrinkling and irregular pigmentation. The pattern of wrinkling in Asians seems to differ from that in Caucasians. Asians have coarser, thicker and deep wrinkles, particularly in the forehead, perioral and Crow's foot areas. In contrast, Caucasians usually have relatively fine cheek and Crow's foot wrinkles. The reasons for these differences are not known and need further investigation. There are racial, ethnic and genetic differences, and differences of skin structure and function, between the brown skin of Asians and the white skin of Caucasians. As Asian skin is more pigmented, acute and chronic cutaneous responses to UV irradiation differ from those in white skin. Many people believe, based on clinical impressions, that the main process of photoaging in Asians involves pigmentary changes, rather than wrinkling. However, no study has been performed to confirm this belief. Risk factors for skin wrinkles and their relative risks in Korean skin [2] Various factors such as age, sun-exposure, and smoking are known to be important risk factors for wrinkles. However, the relative risks of each factor on wrinkles in the brown skin of Asians have not been investigated, and they could differ from those in Caucasians. An evaluation system for skin wrinkling is necessary for Asian skin [3]. Thus, we developed an eight-point photographic scale for assessing wrinkles in both Korean genders [2]. This scale can probably be applied to the populations of other Asian countries, at least to the Japanese and Chinese. The pattern of wrinkles in both genders appears to be similar. Age Age is an important risk factor for wrinkling in Asians, as in Caucasians. Korean subjects in their 60s showed a 12-fold increased risk of wrinkling, while subjects in their 70s have a 56-fold increased risk compared with young age group. UV light It is well known that the UV component in sunlight can cause and accelerate photoaging. The pigmented skin of Asian may better protect skin from acute and chronic UV damage. However, we found a strong association between sun-exposure and the development of wrinkling in Koreans. It was found that sun exposure of more than 5 h per day was associated with a 4.8-fold increased risk in wrinkling versus less than 2 h of sun-exposure in Koreans. Estrogen deficiency Korean females have more wrinkles than men, after controlling for age, sun exposure, and smoking, it was found that they have a 3.6-fold increased risk of developing wrinkles than their male counterparts [2]. It has also been reported, that the relative risk for wrinkling in women is higher than in men as for in white Caucasians [4]. The reason why women show more wrinkles remains to be determined. It is possible that a reduction in skin collagen because of estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal woman may aggravate wrinkling severity. Korean women with more than 10 years since menopause showed a 3.9-fold higher risk of wrinkling than the women 5 years of beyond menopause [5]. We demonstrated that women with a history of HRT have a significantly lower risk, more specifically, one fifth of the risk of facial wrinkling relative to those who had no history of HRT. Interestingly, we found that wrinkle severity significantly increased with an increasing number of full term pregnancies. The relative risk for severe wrinkling is increased by approximately 1.8-fold per full term pregnancy. Smoking It is known that smoking causes skin wrinkling in Caucasians, and that it plays no role in Blacks [6, 7]. Koreans with have a smoking history of more than 30 pack years showed a more than 2.8-fold increased risk of wrinkles [2]. The relative risks of wrinkles associated with a 30,50 pack-years history of smoking were 2.8- and 5.5-fold, respectively. Dyspigmentation in Asian skin To follow pigmentary changes, six photographic standards for both genders were developed for Korean skin, to produce a 6-point scale [2, 8]. Hyperpigmented spots, mostly lentigines, were prominent among women, while seborrheic keratosis tended to be more prominent in men. Seborrheic keratosis in Korean men Seborrheic keratoses (SKs) are benign cutaneous tumors. They have diverse clinical and histopathological appearances and are very common in the elderly (over 50 years old). The etiology of SKs is not well understood, although patients with a great number of lesionsshow a familial trait with an autosomal dominant pattern, and human papilloma virus has been suggested as possible cause because of verrucous appearance of the lesions. Exposure to sunlight has been suggested to be a risk factor for SKs. However, there is still some debate in terms of the role of sunlight. Recently, we have investigated the clinical characteristics of SKs and relationship between SKs and sunlight exposure in Korean males [9]. The prevalence of SKs in Koreans increases with age; it rose from 78.9% at 40 years, to 93.9% at 50 years and 98.7% in those over 60 years. Exposed areas, i.e. the face, neck and dorsum of the hands, demonstrate a significant increase in the prevalence of SKs by decade, whereas partly exposed areas, although SKs tended to increase in prevalence with age, this trend was not significant. When the estimated body surface area (BSA) is taken into account, the number of SKs on both the face and dorsum of the hands (0.51 ± 0.08 per 1% BSA) was over-represented compared with the trunk. SKs were also concentrated on the neck (0.38 ± 0.07 per 1% BSA) and in the V-area (0.47 ± 0.09 per 1% BSA). Outer forearms also showed 3-fold more SKs per unit area than neighboring arms and inner forearms, which are classified as partly exposed area (0.09 ± 0.02, 0.03 ± 0.01, respectively). The total area covered by SKs on exposed area also became significantly larger with aging than on intermittently exposed areas. These results indicate that exposure to sunlight might be related to SK growth. Our results indicated that excessive sun exposure is an independent risk factor of SKs. After controlling for age, smoking, and skin type, subjects with a sun exposure history of more than 6 hours per day showed a 2.28-fold increased risk of having severe SKs (n , 6) compared with those exposed for less that 3 h per day. These findings indicated that sun-exposure may play an important role in SK development. In summary, SKs are very common in Korean males and represent one of the major pigmentary problems. SKs concentrate on exposed skin, especially on the face and dorsum of the hands. Both age and lifetime cumulative sunlight exposure are important contributing factors and may work in a synergistic manner. Conclusion Many people tend to believe that wrinkles are not a prominent feature of Asian photoaged skin, and that dyspigmentation is a major manifestation in Asian skin. Contrary to this impression, wrinkling is also a major problem in the photoaged skin of Asians, and Korean people showing severe pigmentary changes usually tend to have severe wrinkles. In conclusion, the wrinkling patterns and pigmentary changes of photoaged skin in East Asians differ from those of Caucasians, and the relative risks of aggravating factors may be different from those of Caucasian skin. References 1.,Gilchrest, B.A. Skin aging and photoaging: an overview. J. Am. Acad. Dermatol. 21, 610,613 (1989). 2.,Chung, J.H. et al. Cutaneous photodamage in Koreans: influence of sex, sun exposure, smoking, and skin color. Arch. Dermatol. 137, 1043,1051 (2001). 3.,Griffiths, C.E. et al. A photonumeric scale for the assessment of cutaneous photodamage. Arch. Dermatol. 128, 347,351 (1992). 4.,Ernster, V.L. et al. Facial wrinkling in men and women, by smoking status. Am. J. Public Health. 85, 78,82 (1995). 5.,Youn, C.S. et al. Effect of pregnancy and menopause on facial wrinkling in women. Acta Derm. Venereol. 83, 419,424 (2003). 6.,Kadunce, D.P. et al. Cigarette smoking: risk factor for premature facial wrinkling. Ann. Intern. Med. 114, 840,844 (1991). 7.,Allen, H.B., Johnson, B.L. and Diamond, S.M. Smoker's wrinkles? JAMA. 225, 1067,1069 (1973). 8.,Chung, J.H. Photoaging in Asians. Photodermatol. Photoimmunol. Photomed. 19, 109,121 (2003). 9.,Kwon, O.S. et al. Seborrheic keratosis in the Korean males: causative role of sunlight. Photodermatol. Photoimmunol. Photomed. 19, 73,80 (2003). [source]

Influence of environmental stress on skin tone, color and melanogenesis in Japanese skin

Objective determination of fatigue development following sun exposure using Advanced Trail Making Test

Global classification of human facial healthy skin using PLS discriminant analysis and clustering analysis

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 2 2001
C Guinot
Synopsis Today's classifications of healthy skin are predominantly based on a very limited number of skin characteristics, such as skin oiliness or susceptibility to sun exposure. The aim of the present analysis was to set up a global classification of healthy facial skin, using mathematical models. This classification is based on clinical, biophysical skin characteristics and self-reported information related to the skin, as well as the results of a theoretical skin classification assessed separately for the frontal and the malar zones of the face. In order to maximize the predictive power of the models with a minimum of variables, the Partial Least Square (PLS) discriminant analysis method was used. The resulting PLS components were subjected to clustering analyses to identify the plausible number of clusters and to group the individuals according to their proximities. Using this approach, four PLS components could be constructed and six clusters were found relevant. So, from the 36 hypothetical combinations of the theoretical skin types classification, we tended to a strengthened six classes proposal. Our data suggest that the association of the PLS discriminant analysis and the clustering methods leads to a valid and simple way to classify healthy human skin and represents a potentially useful tool for cosmetic and dermatological research. Résumé Les classifications actuelles qui définissent une peau saine sont fondées principalement sur un nombre très limité de caractéristiques cutanées telles que l'aspect gras de la peau ou sa sensibilité au soleil. Cette analyse a pour but d'établir une classification globale de la peau humaine saine du visage à l'aide de modèles mathématiques. Une recherche de typologie a été effectuée à partir des caractéristiques cliniques et biophysiques de la peau du visage des individus tout en tenant compte d'une classification théorique, reflet de l'expertise des dermatologues, appréciée sur les zones frontale et malaire du visage. Pour accroître l'efficacité prédictive des modèles avec un minimum de variables, la méthode d'analyse discriminante PLS (Partial Least Square) a été utilisée. Des méthodes de classification ont été appliquées aux composantes PLS obtenues afin de déterminer le nombre le plus vraisemblable de classes et pour regrouper les sujets selon leurs proximités. Grâce à cette approche, quatre composantes PLS ont pu être construites et six classes se sont avérées pertinentes. Ce travail a abouti à une proposition de classification à six classes plus vraisemblable et acceptable que les 36 combinaisons possibles de la classification théorique proposée. Nos données suggèrent que l'association de l'analyse discriminante PLS aux méthodes de classification permet d'obtenir de façon simple et appropriée une classification de la peau humaine saine et représente un outil potentiel utile dans le domaine de la recherche en cosmétologie et en dermatologie. [source]

Two Japanese cases of lichen planus pigmentosus-inversus

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 7 2007
Aki Kashima MD
Case 1 was a 51-year-old Japanese woman. She presented with an asymptomatic brown macule located on the right axilla of 2 months' duration. The smooth macule was 2 cm in diameter with a sharp demarcation (Fig. 1A). Figure 1. Photographs of skin lesions in two patients. (A) Case 1. Well-circumscribed brown macule without an active red border in the central portion of the right axilla. (B) Case 2. Symmetric distribution of brown macules without an active red border in the popliteal fossae Case 2 was a 62-year-old Japanese man. He presented with asymptomatic, symmetric, gray,brown macules located on the groin, axillae, and popliteal region of 6 months' duration. The smooth macules were several millimeters to centimeters in diameter and sharply demarcated (Fig. 1B). Oral or nail lesions, previous inflammatory processes in affected areas, and internal malignancies were absent. A causal relationship with drugs, recent sun exposure, or trauma could not be identified. Findings for work-up, including blood cell count, fasting blood sugar levels, liver function, serum electrolyte levels, serum electrophoresis, urinalysis, antinuclear antibodies, and serological examinations for human hepatitis viruses and syphilis, were within normal limits or negative. The lesions gradually disappeared without medication within 6 months. Biopsy specimens showed a lymphocytic infiltrate with basal vacuolar changes and prominent melanin incontinence in the upper dermis (Fig. 2A). The band-like lymphocytic infiltrate was moderate in Case 1 and mild in Case 2. Immunohistochemistry showed infiltrative CD8+ T lymphocytes with keratinocytic damage, indicating cytotoxic injury of the keratinocytes (Fig. 2B). Both the epidermis and the upper dermis contained CD1a+ cells (Fig. 2C). The keratinocytes focally and weakly expressed HLA-DR (Fig. 2D). These findings were identical in samples from both patients. Figure 2. Light and immunohistochemical microphotographs. (A) Mild, band-like, lymphocytic infiltrate with basal vacuolar change and prominent melanin incontinence in the upper dermis with apoptosis or necrosis of keratinocytes. (B) Epidermal infiltrate of CD8+ T lymphocytes with keratinocytic damage. (C) CD1a+ cells in the upper dermis. (D) Keratinocytes focally and weakly express HLA-DR (original magnifications: A, ×200; B,D, ×400) [source]

Coexistence of a systemic lupus erythematosus and porphyria cutanea tarda: case successfully improved by avoidance of sun exposure

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2006
Junko Murata
No abstract is available for this article. [source]

4% hydroquinone versus 4% hydroquinone, 0.05% dexamethasone and 0.05% tretinoin in the treatment of melasma: a comparative study

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 7 2005
Reyhaneh Astaneh PharmD
A randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical study was conducted on 64 patients (phototypes III to V) with melasma, in order to compare 4% hydroquinone cream with a combination product, containing 4% hydroquinone, 0.05% tretinoin and 0.05% dexamethasone, that can be applied as a single cream. The aim of this study was to determine whether hydroquinone provides additional improvement when combined with tretinoin and dexamethasone. Patients were randomly divided into two groups of 32 individuals. One group received 4% hydroquinone (group A) in a cream base. The other received a cream that contains 4% hydroquinone, 0.05% tretinoin and 0.05% dexamethasone (group B). The creams were applied once daily at night and a broad spectrum sunscreen (sun protection factor 15) was used every morning. Patients were evaluated by a clinical investigator subjectively at baseline and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks of therapy. At the baseline visit, the history of melasma, such as duration of disease, patient's age, type of melasma, distribution of melasma, family history, association with pregnancy, sun exposure, genetic factors and oral contraceptive consumption, was taken. Improvement was determined subjectively compared with baseline, on a three-point scale as follows: worse, same and improved (excellent, good, moderate and slight). Descriptive statistics (the ,2 test) were used to report the characteristics of the patients in the two groups. [source]

Practical and experimental consideration of sun protection in dermatology

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 7 2003
William W. Ting MD
Much is known regarding the deleterious effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV) on the skin. As more epidemiologic and basic research continues to characterize the impact of sun exposure and other sources of UV radiation upon the development of cutaneous neoplasm and a variety of photosensitive dermatoses, it is crucial for the dermatologist to promote sun protection among his/her patients as well as the primary care physician who has a greater reach of the community than the skin specialist. Practical steps to achieve optimal sun protection include avoidance of UV radiation, avoidance of photosensitizing drugs, use of photo-protective clothing, and diligent application of broad-spectrum sunscreens. In recent years, novel agents and experimental modalities with the potential to offer enhanced protective effects against deleterious sequelae of sun exposure have been elucidated, e.g. antioxidants, alpha-MSH, polyphenol in green teas, genistein, NF-kB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides, pTpT vaccination, and IL-12. As these new photo-protective tools are being developed by scientists around the world, greater concerted effort is needed to engage public health officials and the media to promote sun protection awareness throughout the general public. [source]

An interesting case of colocalization of segmental lichen planus and vitiligo in a 14-year-old boy

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 8 2002
Kabir Sardana MD
A 14-year-old boy had segmental vitiligo (L3,4) on the right thigh and leg for 4 years, and was advised to apply topical clobetasol propionate, 0.05%, in the night, with daily sun exposure for 10 min, as he refused to comply with topical psoralens. As there was no response to therapy even after 3 months, the patient stopped the steroid cream but continued with the sun exposure. Subsequently, the patient noticed gradual-onset, itchy, violaceous, pigmented, raised lesions superimposed on the vitiligo macules. Cutaneous examination revealed violaceous, polygonal papules, 0.5 × 0.5 cm in size, some of which coalesced to form discrete violaceous plaques, confined to areas of vitiligo, with a clear-cut demarcation from normal skin (Fig. 1). The scalp, palms, soles, nails, and mucosa were normal. Histopathology of the polygonal papules revealed hyperkeratosis, wedge-shaped hypergranulosis, irregular acanthosis with saw toothing of the rete ridges, basal cell liquefaction, and a band-like lymphocytic infiltrate (Fig. 2), consistent with lichen planus. The patient was subsequently prescribed fluticasone propionate (0.05%) ointment once daily for the lesions of lichen planus. There was a marked improvement in the lesions of lichen planus after 1 month. Figure 1. Violaceous papules of lichen planus colocalized on vitiligo macules with associated leukotrichia seen on the right leg Figure 2. Histopathology reveals hyperkeratosis, wedge-shaped hypergranulosis, irregular acanthosis with saw toothing of the rete ridges, basal cell liquefaction, and a band-like lymphocytic infiltrate (hematoxylin and eosin, × 40) [source]

Rickets and osteomalacia in northeast Iran: report of 797 cases

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES, Issue 2 2008
Mohammadhassan JOKAR
ABSTRACT Aim:, To study the clinical, biochemical and radiographic features of rickets and osteomalacia in north-east of Iran. Methods:, We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients with diagnosis of rickets and osteomalacia during the past 20 years (1986,2006) in the rheumatology outpatient clinic of Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad, Iran. Results:, There were 797 patients (795 female, 2 male). Their ages were between 8,74 years. Most cases were in their second decade of life. The most common clinical findings were: bone pain 96.4%, muscle weakness 81%, abnormal gait 43%, and bone deformity 19.6%. The most common laboratory finding was high serum alkaline phosphatase (92%) followed by hypophosphatemia 54.6%, and hypocalcemia (21%). Radiographic findings were: epiphyseal growth plate alterations 74.4%, osteopenia 63%, ground glass appearance 28.6%, and Looser's zones 26.5%. All except four patients were cured with vitamin D and calcium. Conclusion:, Rickets and osteomalacia are common disorders in our region. Females especially in the growing years are often involved. The most common cause of rickets and osteomalacia in our region is vitamin D deficiency probably due to inadequate sun exposure. [source]

Recovery of anuran community diversity following habitat replacement

JOURNAL OF APPLIED ECOLOGY, Issue 1 2010
David Lesbarrères
Summary 1.,Recently habitat degradation, road construction and traffic have all increased with human populations, to the detriment of aquatic habitats and species. While numerous restoration programmes have been carried out, there is an urgent need to follow their success to better understand and compensate for the decline of amphibian populations. To this end, we followed the colonization success of an anuran community across multiple replacement ponds created to mitigate large-scale habitat disturbance. 2.,Following construction of a highway in western France, a restoration project was initiated in 1999 and the success of restoration efforts was monitored. The amphibian communities of eight ponds were surveyed before they were destroyed. Replacement ponds were created according to precise edaphic criteria, consistent with the old pond characteristics and taking into account the amphibian species present in each. The presence of amphibian species was recorded every year during the breeding period for 4 years following pond creation. 3.,Species richness initially declined following construction of the replacement ponds but generally returned to pre-construction levels. Species diversity followed the same pattern but took longer to reach the level of diversity recorded before construction. Pond surface area, depth and sun exposure were the most significant habitat characteristics explaining both amphibian species richness and diversity. Similarly, an increase in the number of vegetation strata was positively related to anuran species richness, indicating the need to maintain a heterogeneous landscape containing relatively large open wetland areas. 4.,Synthesis and applications. We highlight the species-specific dynamics of the colonization process, including an increase in the number of replacement ponds inhabited over time by some species and, in some cases, an increase in population size. Our work suggests that successful replacement ponds can be designed around simple habitat features, providing clear benefits for a range of amphibian species, which will have positive cascading effects on local biodiversity. However, consideration must also be given to the terrestrial buffer zone when management strategies are being planned. Finally, our study offers insight into the successful establishment of anuran communities over a relatively short time in restored or replacement aquatic environments. [source]

Photoprotection: where do we stand?

JOURNAL OF COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2006
Electra Nicolaidou MD
Summary Ultraviolet sun radiation can cause several deleterious effects on the skin, including photoaging and carcinogenesis. Physical protection and sunscreens are currently the two main types of photoprotection. Overall, people seem informed about the dangers of sun exposure, but sometimes they are not willing to implement the right sun-protection measures. Sunscreens are reported to be the most frequently used method worldwide, but they cannot substitute physical protection and a proportion of people do not apply them correctly. Public campaigns, together with fashion and the right role models, can still offer a lot in persuading people to change their habits towards a more sun-protected life. [source]