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We propose a general method to produce orthogonal polynomial dualities from the ∗ -bialgebra structure of Drinfeld–Jimbo quantum groups. The ∗ -structure allows for the construction of certain unitary symmetries, which imply the orthogonality of the duality functions. In the case of the quantum group U q (gl n + 1) , the result is a nested multivariate q-Krawtchouk duality for the n-species ASEP (q , θ) . The method also applies to other quantized simple Lie algebras and to stochastic vertex models. As a probabilistic application of the duality relation found, we provide the explicit formula of the q-shifted factorial moments (namely the q-analogue of the Pochhammer symbol) for the two-species q-TAZRP (totally asymmetric zero range process). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the asymmetric brownian energy, a model of heat conduction defined on the one-dimensional finite lattice with open boundaries. The system is shown to be dual to the symmetric inclusion process with absorbing boundaries. The proof relies on a non-local map transformation procedure relating the model to its symmetric version. As an application, we show how the duality relation can be used to analytically compute suitable exponential moments with respect to the stationary measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is poorly investigated in oral pathology due to the peculiar anatomical and topographical oral mucosa features. A dedicated handheld confocal microscope with an intra‐oral probe was developed for oral mucosa imaging. The main objective was to describe the healthy oral mucosa and the cytoarchitectural findings detectable in different oral disorders by means of the newly designed handheld confocal microscope. Secondary aim was to identify the main RCM criteria that differentiate oral lesions in order to provide algorithm for a rapid non‐invasive evaluation. This observational retrospective study included all consecutive patients with oral disorders and volunteers with healthy oral mucosa who underwent RCM examination in our outpatient clinic from September 2018 to December 2021. Three different investigators examined together the RCM images to detect the key features and secondary criteria for each type of oral lesion collected. The study population included 110 patients affected by oral lesions and seven volunteers with healthy oral mucosae. A total of 15 oral disorders were imaged and divided in three main groups: white, red and pigmented lesions. Key features and secondary criteria were identified for every single type of oral disease. RCM permits a cytoarchitectural evaluation of the oral mucosae affected by inflammatory, dysplastic and neoplastic diseases, thus orienting the clinicians towards non‐invasive diagnosis and enhancing the diagnostic management. The "tree diagrams" proposed allow a schematic and simplified view of confocal features for each type of oral disease, thus drastically reducing the diagnostic timing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider a stochastic process of heat conduction where energy is redistributed along a chain between nearest neighbor sites via an improper beta distribution. Similar to the well-known Kipnis–Marchioro–Presutti (KMP) model, the finite chain is coupled at its ends with two reservoirs that break the conservation of energy when working at different temperatures. At variance with KMP, the model considered here is integrable, and one can write in a closed form the n-point correlation functions of the non-equilibrium steady state. As a consequence of the exact solution one, can directly prove that the system is in "local equilibrium," which is described at the macro-scale by a product measure. Integrability manifests itself through the description of the model via the open Heisenberg chain with non-compact spins. The algebraic formulation of the model allows us to interpret its duality relation with a purely absorbing particle system as a change of representation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinic keratosis is an intraepithelial proliferation of atypical keratinocytes that could progress into invasive squamous cell carcinoma. Most evidence suggests an important role of the dermal matrix metalloproteinases in the progression of atypical skin epithelial lesions. We evaluated the clinical efficacy of three different therapeutic modalities (a medical device containing 0.8% piroxicam cream and 50+ sunscreen, photodynamic therapy, and ingenol mebutate gel) to treat suspicious actinic keratoses, which were biopsied for histopathological examination and then analyzed for the expression of matrix metalloproteinases by immunohistochemistry. Clinical, dermoscopic, and reflectance confocal microscopy evaluations revealed a gradual decrease in all standard scores validated for actinic keratosis assessment at the end of the treatments. From a histopathological point of view, we documented the substantial restoration of normal skin architecture, while the immunohistochemical evaluation of matrix metalloproteinases showed a reduction in expression in the treated skin lesions compared to the baseline. As actinic keratoses are considered the precursors of squamous cell carcinoma, their treatment is crucial to prevent the development of a more aggressive disease. Our study monitored the evolution of actinic keratoses subjected to three different topical therapies, with the value of correlating clinical and histopathological findings. Moreover, as the matrix metalloproteinases are largely recognized factors involved in the pathogenesis and evolution of actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma, the demonstration by immunohistochemistry of a reduction in their expression after the treatments adds new valuable concern to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gel formulation of chlormethine (CG) has gained a preeminent role among therapies available for mycosis fungoides (MF). To evaluate the frequency of use of CG for MF treatment and to determine the limits and potentialities of CG in a real‐world setting. A systematic review of articles published prior to October 2021 was performed. Articles were included in the review if a full‐text English version was available. MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science were each queried from their date of inception with the following terms: "mechlorethamine gel", "chlormethine gel", and "mycosis fungoides". The reference lists of the studies retrieved were searched manually. Moreover, this study included all consecutive patients with different stages of MF (from IA to IIB) who started treatment with CG gel between July 2020 and May 2021. Data of the literature were compared to our single‐center real‐life experience. Of the surveyed literature, 11 publications were included in the final analysis describing a total of 548 patients with MF. Eleven patients with a median (standard deviation) age of 66 years (15.1) were enrolled and followed up, receiving CG (0.02% chlormethine HCl). Response to treatment resulted higher (90.1%) in our study population than in other real‐world experiences published in literature. This systematic review supports the role of CG for MF treatment, showing its limits and potentialities. Our single‐center real‐life experience revealed an elevated percentage of clinical response with high safety and tolerance, demonstrating its versatile use with dose and application rate adaptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of a cream containing purified omental lipids 10% and three anti-itching substances (polidocanol/stimutex/palmitoylethanolamine) in elderly subjects with chronic pruritus/prurigo nodularis (CP/CPN). Patients and Methods: Thirty-five subjects (6 men; mean age 67± 4 years) with CP/CPN were enrolled in a prospective, assessor-blinded, 4-week study. The cream was applied twice daily in the most affected body area. The primary endpoints were the evolution of the 10-cm visual analogue itch severity scale (VAS) and the 4-point verbal itching rating scale (VRS) (from 0 to 3). Secondary endpoints were the evolution of optical coherence tomography (OTC) of four skin parameters (acanthosis/hyperkeratosis/scale/dermal vascular pattern), assessed in a target lesioned area, and the transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Study endpoints were evaluated at baseline and after 2 and 4 weeks by an investigator unaware of the type of treatment. Results: All the enrolled subjects concluded the trial. At baseline, the mean±SD scores for VAS and VRS were 4.9± 2.2 and 1.7± 0.7, respectively. The treatment was associated with a significant reduction (p=0.0001) of VAS score of 60% at week 2 and of 86% at week 4. VRS score was significantly reduced by 49% after 2 weeks and by 81% after 4 weeks, in comparison with baseline. TEWL (expressed as g/m2/h) mean values were 18± 5.4 at baseline and 12.7± 4.4 at week 2 and 9.8± 4.7 at week 4 (P=0.0001 vs baseline). All the OCT parameters evaluated improved during active treatment; acanthosis grade was 0.22 mm at baseline, 0.19 mm at week 2 and 0.17 mm at week 4 (p=0.0005), representing a 23% reduction in comparison with baseline. The product was very well tolerated. Conclusion: This purified omental lipid with three anti-itching components cream reduces significantly itch intensity in subjects with chronic pruritus/prurigo nodularis, improving the skin barrier function and skin structure. Trial Number: ISRCTN869561669. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Small‐sized pigmented lesions (SSPL) <3 mm in diameter are common pitfall in the daily dermatology practice. Dermoscopy alone is hampered by the lack of specific features inversely proportional to the diameter of the lesions and its performance is highly operator‐dependent. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) has been demonstrated to be effective in the diagnosis of several difficult lesions where dermoscopy lacks to provide conclusive information. Materials and Methods: A total of 179 lesions with uncertain or equivocal clinical and dermoscopy appearance were selected. Dermoscopist has been requested to express a diagnostic suspect when possible. Equivocal lesions underwent RCM performed by expert for second‐level evaluation before surgical excision for histological diagnosis. Results have been later statistically analysed. Results: Dermoscopy was not diagnostic in large number of lesions with low concordance histology (39.1%) instead of a much high concordance when combined with RCM (93.9%). Conclusions: Small‐sized pigmented lesions were more likely to be located on the face area. Diagnosis of pigmented BCC was relatively easy on dermoscopy and also in the case of small lesions showing typical signs of BCC. LM and MM have been seen to be particularly difficult to be diagnosed using only dermoscopy. The combination of digital dermoscopy and RCM represents the correct approach of SSPL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemotherapy‐induced alopecia (CIA) affects 65% of patients receiving chemotherapy regimens and is often identified with the massive hair loss stage. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a noninvasive technique used in alopecia assessment for disease characterization and state of activity. Objective: To describe RCM features of CIA in different timing and identify specific phases of alopecia development. Methods: A total of 16 patients treated with chemotherapy underwent dermoscopy and RCM evaluations four times during the observation: 2 and 4‐6 weeks after starting and 3 and 6 months after the end of chemotherapy. Ten examinations for each stage were performed. Results: Four phases of CIA have been identified. Initial hair loss showed specific dots not previously described, named CIA dots. massive hair loss phase was characterized by black dots (10/10 pt), CIA dots (8/10 pt) and hair shaft abnormalities. Three months after the end of chemotherapy, during the partial regrowth phase, 10/10 patients showed thin hair in regrowth and 8/10 presented black and yellow dots. At 6 months, normal hair in regrowth appears in all patients (total regrowth phase). Conclusions: Chemotherapy‐induced alopecia has to be considered as a dynamic process with specific phases characterized by distinctive dermoscopic and confocal features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Actinic keratosis (AK) is considered an "in situ" non-melanoma skin cancer induced by ultraviolet chronic exposure. Sunscreen and topical anti-inflammatory agents like diclofenac could improve the evolution of this kind of lesions. A topical product containing piroxicam 0.8% and sun filters (50 SPF) (ACTX) has been shown to be very effective in reducing AK lesions. So far, no data are available regarding the effects of this product on skin modifications evaluated by reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and dermoscopy at the lesion sites and on the skin around the lesions (field cancerization). Study aim: To evaluate in a two-center, assessor-blinded, prospective trial the effect of ACTX on AK number, RCM and dermoscopy parameter evolution of a target lesion in subjects with multiple AK lesions. Subjects and methods: A total of 54 subjects (42 men and 12 women; mean age 65 years) with AK lesions grade I-III located on the scalp (n = 36) or face (n = 18) were enrolled after their written informed consent. ACTX was applied twice daily on the face and scalp for six consecutive months. AK lesion count was performed at baseline and after 3 and 6 months. Lesion count was assessed in a blind fashion evaluating digital color high definition images performed at each visit and coded in a blinded fashion. RCM evaluations were performed at the same time-points. A dermoscopy evaluation was performed at baseline and after 6 months. RCM and dermoscopy were assessed on a pre-specified target lesion. The RCM severity score was used evaluating 11 items, examining stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinous and dermal layers (maximum score 11 points). The dermoscopy score evaluated erythema, scaling and follicular plugs (from 0 to 4 for each item) and pigmentation (from 0 to 5). Results: Forty-nine subjects (90%) concluded the trial. At baseline, the mean (SD) number of AK lesions was 9.6 (5.2). AK lesions significantly decreased to 5.9 and to 5.6 after 3 and 6 months of ACTX treatment (p = .001; intention to treat analysis), representing a -42% reduction. A reduction of AK lesion numbers >50% in comparison with baseline was observed in 51% of subjects at month 6. New AK lesions appeared in five subjects (9%). The RCM mean (SD) severity score at baseline was 6.4 (2.0). ACTX treatment was associated with a progressive and significant (p = .002) reduction to 4.9 after 3 months and to 4.8 (2.3) at month 6 (a -25% reduction). The dermoscopy score at baseline was 5.5 (2) and it was reduced significantly (p = .007) to 4.5 (2) at the end of the study. The product was in general very well tolerated. Conclusion: A 6 month application of ACTX in subjects with AK lesions was associated with an improvement in AK lesion count and with a reduction in the RCM/dermoscopy severity scores of the target lesion. Trial registration number: ISRCTN22070974. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims: The association between hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and multiple comorbidities has been widely investigated but data about the coexistence of Down syndrome (DS) are scarce. We sought to evaluate the prevalence of DS among a population of HS patients and assess their clinical features.Methods: We collected demographic and clinical data of patients affected with HS referred to three Italian outpatient dermatology clinics.Results: A total of 257 HS patients were enrolled, 62% females and 38% males (mean age [±SD]: 23.3 ± 10.7 years); 9 of the 257 patients (3.5%), 7 females and 2 males, had concomitant HS and DS. The patients with DS and HS had a significantly earlier age of onset (mean age: 14.3 ± 3.6 vs. 23.4 ± 12.31 years; p = 0.029), a significantly younger age at diagnosis (mean age: 21.1 ± 11.1 vs. 31.8 ± 13.5 years; p = 0.015), and were significantly younger (mean age: 23.3 ± 10.7 vs. 34.6 ± 13.07 years; p = 0.005). No significant differences about other clinical data were found between the two groups.Conclusion: The prevalence of DS in HS patients corresponds to a not negligible 3.5% of cases, who experienced an onset of HS at a younger age compared to patients with HS only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation (HBVr) in chronic HBV carriers, in occult HBV patients or in acute HBV patients affected by psoriasis and treated with antitumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a agents is a clinical practice issue to face with, particularly if the treatment has a long-term maintenance finality. The aims of this review are to examine the current knowledge on HBVr incidence in chronic HBV carriers and potential occult carriers undergoing therapy with biologics for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis; analyze the prophylactic measure to prevent HBV reactivation and define how to manage HBVr in patients treated with biologics. We searched through PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus databases and evaluated all published manuscripts concerning HBVr in psoriatic patients, both plaquetype and psoriatic arthritis, in treatment with any indicated anti-TNF-α. Although anti-TNFs are considered moderate immunosuppressive drugs, the incidence of HBVr in psoriatic patients is lower compared to patients affected by other immune-mediated diseases treated with TNF inhibitors. HBV prophylaxis should be probably reserved to anti-HBs+/anti-HBc+ patients with a viral load <2000 IU/mL and alterations in serum liver enzymes, in order to prevent HBVr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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An introduction is presented in which the authors discuss the issue's focus on the thematic classification and ordering of five historical documentary photograph collections in theory and practice, including the Index of Christian Art (ICA) of Princeton University, the Photothek of the Kunsthistorisches Institut (KHI), and the Bettman Archive.

The article examines the painting by Michelangelo known as the "Doni tondo," which scholars believe he created for his friend Agnolo Doni and Doni's wife Maddalena. According to the author, the private devotional context of the Doni family and their belief in the resurrection of unbaptised people is key to understanding some of the painting's unusual elements such as the nude youths pictured behind the Virgin Mary. The author also compares the Doni tondo to other paintings by Luca Signorelli, Fra Bartolomeo and Mariotto Albertinelli. Topics discussed include the painting's frame, the role of Saint John the Baptist in the painting, and the Christian concept of limbo.

We present a theorem which elucidates the connection between self-duality of Markov processes and representation theory of Lie algebras. In particular, we identify sufficient conditions such that the intertwining function between two representations of a certain Lie algebra is the self-duality function of a (Markov) operator. In concrete terms, the two representations are associated to two operators in interwining relation. The self-dual operator, which arise from an appropriate symmetric linear combination of them, is the generator of a Markov process. The theorem is applied to a series of examples, including Markov processes with a discrete state space (e.g. interacting particle systems) and Markov processes with continuous state space (e.g. diffusion processes). In the examples we use explicit representations of Lie algebras that are unitarily equivalent. As a consequence, in the discrete setting self-duality functions are given by orthogonal polynomials whereas in the continuous context they are Bessel functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk of air quality degradation is of considerable concern particularly for those airports that are located near urban areas. The ability to quantitatively predict the effects of air pollutants originated by airport operations is important for assessing air quality and the related impacts on human health. Current emission regulations have focused on local air quality in the proximity of airports. However, an integrated study should consider the effects of meteorological events, at both regional and local level, that can affect the dispersion and the deposition of exhausts. Rigorous scientific studies and extensive experimental data could contribute to the analysis of the impacts of airports expansion plans. This paper is focused on the analysis of the effects of meteorology on aircraft emission for the Marco Polo Airport in Venice. This is the most important international airport in the eastern part of the Po’ Valley, one of the most polluted area in Europe. Air pollution is exacerbated by meteorology that is a combination of large and local scale effects that do not allow significant dispersion. Moreover, the airport is located near Venice, a city of noteworthy cultural and architectural relevance, and nearby the lagoon that hosts several areas of outstanding ecological importance at European level (Natura 2000 sites). Dispersion and deposit of the main aircraft exhausts (NOx, HC and CO) have been evaluated by using a Lagrangian particle model. Spatial and temporal aircraft exhaust dispersion has been analyzed for LTO cycle. Aircraft taxiing resulted to be the most impacting aircraft operation especially for the airport working area and its surroundings, however occasionally peaks may be observed even at high altitudes when cruise mode starts. Mixing height can affect concentrations more significantly than the concentrations in the exhausts themselves. An increase of HC and CO concentrations (15–50%) has been observed during specific meteorological events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a rare genetic autosomal recessive metabolic disease characterized by progressive mineralization and fragmentation of elastic fibers from soft connective tissues. The objective of our study was to analyze the epidemiological, genetic, cutaneous, and extracutaneous clinical data from the largest Italian monocentric cohort of PXE patients., Methods: We included all patients diagnosed with PXE and referred to Neurocutaneous Rare Diseases at Umberto I Polyclinic Hospital (Rome, Italy) between January 1983 and February 2024. A retrospective analysis of their data was performed., Results: We enrolled 86 patients (77.9% women), revealing compound heterozygosity in 19.8% of cases and homozygosity in 5.8%. Missense (34.9%), non-sense (5.8%), splice-site (5.8%), deletion (4.7%), and frameshift (2.3%) mutations were disclosed. Cutaneous alterations were noted in the neck (69.7%), axilla (33.7%), inguinal (17.5%), and cubital folds (11.7%). The most common ocular findings were angioid streaks (64.0%) and choroidal neovascularization (18.6%), with blindness reported in 5.8% of cases. Thicker intima-media was observed around the mid-fifties in the supra-aortic trunks (40.7%), lower limb arteries (32.6%), and renal arteries (4.7%). Regurgitation was more common in atrioventricular valves (48.8%) than in semilunar ones (10.5% and 9.3%). Dyslipidemia (19.8%), hypertension (18.8%), and fatty liver disease (12.8%) were prevalent, with calcifications found in the kidneys (25.6%), liver (15.1%), spleen (11.6%), and testicles (8.1% of males). Autoimmune diseases and depression were observed in 11.6% and 4.7% of cases, respectively., Conclusions: Enhanced understanding of PXE can improve patients' quality of life and facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.

Introduction: Folliculitis decalvans (FD) is a rare scarring alopecia mainly affecting middle-aged men, characterized by recurring episodes of follicular pustules, crusts, erythema, tufted hairs, and scars., Objectives: This study investigates the effectiveness of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) compared to trichoscopy for diagnosing and monitoring FD., Methods: The study involved 24 Caucasian patients diagnosed with FD. Patients were examined using trichoscopy and RCM, with a focus on specific features like erythema and inflammatory cell distribution. A subgroup of 16 patients was followed up after 3 months of therapy. The reproducibility of RCM and trichoscopy was assessed using Cohen Kappa Test., Results: RCM and trichoscopy consistently detected features such as tufted hairs, pustules, and perifollicular fibrosis. However, RCM provided more detailed insights into inflammatory activity and types of fibrosis, often overlooked by trichoscopy. It showed a reduction in vessels and inflammatory cells, which trichoscopy failed to detect. The concordance between RCM evaluations was excellent, indicating high reproducibility., Conclusions: RCM is effective in diagnosing and monitoring FD, offering detailed insights into inflammation and fibrosis. It complements trichoscopy, especially in aspects where trichoscopy is limited, such as precise measurement of inflammation. The study suggests that combining RCM with trichoscopy could enhance the accuracy of diagnosis and monitoring of FD, leading to tailored therapeutic approaches. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal designs are recommended to confirm these findings.

Background: Enlarging melanocytic lesions with peripheral globular pattern (EMLPGP) are a pitfall in dermoscopy. Our aim was to evaluate the meaning of EMLPGP and to assess the use of dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in order to improve the clinical management of this subtype of melanocytic lesions., Methods: A total of 135 EMLPGP were recruited and, accordingly to the dermoscopy features, were removed; later, an expert dermoscopist reviewed the lesions blinded to histology. Moreover, a subgroup of 63 lesions who underwent also to RCM, were reviewed by an expert confocalist., Results: Patients had a median age of 41 years old and a female prevalence (61.5%). The main anatomic site was the trunk (86%). Histology of the 135 excised EMLPGP disclosed 116 nevi (86%; P<0.0001) and 19 melanomas (14%). On dermoscopy, statistical significance was detected for small globules that were observed in 106 cases (78.5%; P<0.0001), while globules distribution and color did not impact the diagnosis prediction, as well as age, sex or any other patient profile. Considering the RCM, atypical cytology and irregular architecture were detected in 100% of melanomas (P<0.0001)., Conclusions: Our study shows that EMLPGPs are detectable in every age and can be a pitfall in especially in high risk patients with an over-excision of lesions. The presence of peripheral globules should be evaluated considering the overall dermoscopic features. RCM can contribute significantly in the management of lesions trough the detection of cyto-architectural atypia. Therefore, RCM in combination with dermoscopy can optimize the reduction of harmless lesions.

Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a high-resolution, noninvasive imaging technique being increasingly used as an aid to diagnosis in the dermatology setting. RCM is applied in the diagnosis of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin tumors, but also in the interpretation and management of inflammatory skin diseases. Two different devices with different designs for specific indications are available in the market: a static and a handheld probe. Several clinical presentations of the lesion could affect the examination, such as the presence of ulceration or hyperkeratosis; moreover, the anatomical site can drive the probe selection as well as the effective indication to RCM examination. In this review article, indications for the use of RCM are described in detail with a schematic approach for practical purposes., Competing Interests: Competing interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (©2020 Franceschini et al.)

Competing Interests: Competing interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Background: Xerosis and atopic dermatitis (AD) are chronic skin conditions that occur in children and adults which can result in scaling, flaking and itching. Risk factors for xerosis include sunlight, friction, low humidity and use of soaps. Xerosis is also a symptom of cutaneous conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis and ichthyosis. AD has a complex pathogenesis but there is increased evidence that a genetically-impaired skin barrier plays a primary role in its development., Methods: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the combination of a product for topical application to be used for daily cleansing and an emollient cream with colloidal oatmeal, avenanthramides, shea butter and oat oil in patients with xerosis and AD. Indeed, emollients play a key role in the treatment of xerosis and of mild to moderate AD because help to restore and maintain the skin barrier function. Topical emollients are considered first-line treatment in those conditions. Outcomes included Investigators' Global Assessment (IGA) (0=clear, 5=very severe), Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) composite score, Itch severity (0=none, 4=severe), and Infant's Dermatitis Quality of Life Index (IDQOL). The evaluation of the response to treatment was also measured through the use of photographic documentation and examination by Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM) performed at baseline and after therapy., Results: The evaluation of the response to treatment was also measured through the use of photographic documentation and examination by reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) performed at baseline and after therapy. Our results showed improvement in epidermal thickness, skin dryness, itching and cracking after one month of use of the oat cleanser and lotion., Conclusions: Colloidal oatmeal has been shown to safely reduce itching and irritation associated with AD and the severity of dry skin. These benefits, mediated by colloidal oatmeal's natural components, help to restore and maintain skin barrier function. This compound is safe, well tolerated, and can be effective as adjuvant treatment in AD. Moisturizers can reduce the dependency on topical corticosteroids and their potential adverse effects.

The risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation (HBVr) in chronic HBV carriers, in occult HBV patients or in acute HBV patients affected by psoriasis and treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α agents is a clinical practice issue to face with, particularly if the treatment has a long-term maintenance finality. The aims of this review are to examine the current knowledge on HBVr incidence in chronic HBV carriers and potential occult carriers undergoing therapy with biologics for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis; analyze the prophylactic measure to prevent HBV reactivation and define how to manage HBVr in patients treated with biologics. We searched through PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus databases and evaluated all published manuscripts concerning HBVr in psoriatic patients, both plaque-type and psoriatic arthritis, in treatment with any indicated anti-TNF-α. Although anti-TNFs are considered moderate immunosuppressive drugs, the incidence of HBVr in psoriatic patients is lower compared to patients affected by other immune-mediated diseases treated with TNF inhibitors. HBV prophylaxis should be probably reserved to anti-HBs+/anti-HBc+ patients with a viral load <2000 IU/mL and alterations in serum liver enzymes, in order to prevent HBVr., Competing Interests: Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) allows real-time, noninvasive microscopic view of the skin at nearly histologic resolution serially over time. RCM increases the sensibility and sensitivity of the diagnosis of skin tumours. RCM evaluates descriptive features of psoriasis, lupus erythematosus, contact dermatitis, and others. Three groups of optical histology have been described: psoriasiform, spongiotic, and interface dermatitis. In a multicenter study, RCM patterns of spongiotic, hyperkeratotic, and interface dermatitis have been analyzed and an algorithmic method of analysis for fast application in the clinical setting based on a multivariate analysis has been proposed. A tree decision diagram has been also established., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, disabling, skin disorder. Because of renewed scientific interest in HS, different aspects of the condition, such as disease severity assessment, are being investigated and better defined. The aim of this study is to provide a novel tool for the assessment of disease severity., Methods and Materials: An HS-tailored, composite, dynamic score, named the Acne Inversa Severity Index (AISI) was designed to include a physician-rated assessment that considers the type of lesions occurring and the affected body sites. Additionally, a 0-10 visual analog scale (VAS), named Illness-VAS, was created to assess a patient's pain, discomfort, and disability due to HS. The authors compared AISI with other validated measurements, namely the Hurley staging classification, modified Sartorius score, and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)., Results: The AISI was tested in 46 patients with HS, demonstrating a significant correlation with Hurley staging (r: 0.70856; P = 0.0021), modified Sartorius score (r: 0.9730; P = less than 0.00001), and DLQI (r: 0.8257; P = 0.0221). According to AISI cut-offs, HS may be defined as mild (AISI less than 10), moderate (AISI 10 > 18), and severe (AISI > 18). Additionally, comparing the 2 dynamic scores, AISI and Sartorius, AISI proved significantly faster than the Sartorius score (46.44 ± 19.24 seconds vs 83.2 ± 19.04 seconds; P =1.31 x 10-6)., Conclusions: Being simple, fast, dynamic, and accurate, the AISI could represent the ideal measurement for HS severity in both real-life and clinical trial settings.