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BACKGROUND: Contact allergy is increasingly recognized as being important in children with eczema. OBJECTIVES: To retrospectively analyse the patch test results in children over the past 10 years, aiming to (1) evaluate demographic characteristics and lesion locations, (2) describe frequencies of positive patch test reactions, and (3) investigate the relationship with atopic dermatitis (AD). METHODS: A total of 329 children were patch tested between January 2010 and December 2019 with the European (children) baseline series and/or other series, and the personal product(s) used. RESULTS: A total of 119 (36%) children presented with at least one positive reaction. Children with AD had a higher prevalence of positive reactions compared with the non-AD group (P = .002), but without statistically significant difference regarding sensitization to more than one hapten (P = .39). The face (20.2%), hands (19.3%), feet (16.8%), arms (12.6%), and body folds (10.9%) were the most common sites of primary localizations. The most frequent contact allergens were nickel sulfate and linalool hydroperoxide (both 16%), limonene hydroperoxide (13.5%), and para-phenylenediamine (10.9%). No statistically significant difference for nickel sulfate was found between the AD and non-AD group (P = .20). CONCLUSIONS: Contact allergy in children with eczema was frequently observed in our tertiary referral centre in Belgium as well, confirming the need for patch testing. ispartof: Contact Dermatitis vol:86 issue:1 pages:3-8 ispartof: location:England status: accepted

Background and objectives Dermoscopy has proven its value in the diagnosis of skin cancer and, therefore, is well established in daily dermatology practice. Up until now, analogue white light dermoscopy is the standard. Multispectral dermoscopy is based on illumination of the skin with narrowband light sources with different wavelengths. Each of these wavelengths is differently absorbed by skin chromophores, such as pigment or (de)oxygenated blood. Multispectral dermoscopy could be a way to enhance the visualization of vasculature and pigment. We illustrate possible additional information by such "skin parameter maps" in some cases of basal cell carcinoma and Bowen's disease. Methods Using a new digital multispectral dermatoscope, skin images at multiple wavelengths are collected from different types of skin lesions. These particular images together with the knowledge on skin absorption properties, result in so called "skin parameter maps". Results A "pigment contrast map," which shows the relative concentration of primarily pigment, and a "blood contrast map" which shows the relative concentration of primarily blood were created. Especially, the latter is of importance in diagnosing keratinocyte skin cancer hence vascular structures are a characteristic feature, as further illustrated in the study. Conclusions Skin parameter maps based on multispectral images can give better insight in the inner structures of lesions, especially in lesions with characteristic blood vessels such as Bowen's disease and basal cell carcinoma. Skin parameter maps can be used complementary to regular dermoscopy and could potentially facilitate diagnosing skin lesions.

Listeria monocytogenes is a human pathogen. It is the causative agent of listeriosis, the leading cause of bacterial‐linked foodborne mortality in Europe and elsewhere. Outbreaks of listeriosis have been associated with the consumption of fresh produce including vegetables and fruits. In this review we summarize current data providing direct or indirect evidence that plants can serve as habitat for L. monocytogenes, enabling this human pathogen to survive and grow. The current knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the interaction of this bacterium with plants is addressed, and whether this foodborne pathogen elicits an immune response in plants is discussed., In this review, we summarize current data providing direct or indirect evidence that plants can serve as habitats for Listeria monocytogenes, the causative agent of the food‐borne life‐threatening disease listeriosis. The mechanisms involved in the complex interplay between plants and this bacterium are addressed, and whether this pathogen elicits an immune response in plants is discussed. The combination of plant intrinsic factors, extrinsic biotic factors, and abiotic environmental factors draws the boundaries of plant habitat colonization by L. monocytogenes.

Background Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common type of cancer among Caucasians, however, few data exist on its incidence. Because of a sheer volume of these tumours, NMSC is often not systematically registered. Objective To describe and analyse the incidence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in Belgium. Methods Incidence data of BCC and SCC, including multiple primary skin tumours in the same patient, were extracted from the Belgian Cancer Registry from 2004 to 2012 (predominantly coming from pathology notifications). Belgian legislation makes cancer registration compulsory for oncological care programmes and for all pathological anatomy laboratories. Results Between 2004 and 2012, 113 254 BCC and 33 153 SCC cases were reported in Belgium. A total of 130 339 patients had 146 407 tumours. Approximately, 10% of the patients (12 759 patients) had multiple tumours. The world age-standardised incidence rate (WSR) for BCC increased from 36.9 in 2004 to 98.4 per 100 000 person years in 2012 for males and from 34.2 in 2004 to 102.0 in 2012 for females. For SCC, the WSR increased from 14.9 in 2004 to 24.7 in 2012 for males and from 6.8 in 2004 to 13.5 in 2012 for females. Conclusions From 2004 to 2012, the incidence of BCC and SCC markedly rose in Belgium, as also seen worldwide. Known causes are increased sun exposure caused by changed sunlight-related behaviour (increased outdoor activities and holidays, use of tanning beds and changes in clothing style), ageing and improved registration. Because of their high and increasing incidence, these cancers will have major implications on healthcare planning and preventive measures. Therefore, we recommend compulsory registration, whenever is possible, of BCC and SCC, although it is an ambitious objective, especially in countries with a high burden of these tumours and in countries where registration is currently unavailable.

Background BRAF inhibitors frequently cause significant cutaneous adverse reactions. Objective To study the timing, prevalence and response to treatment of skin lesions in patients receiving V-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF) inhibitors. Methods We prospectively studied the cutaneous side-effects of patients with a BRAF mutant (V600E, V600K, V600R) metastatic malignant melanoma treated with a BRAF inhibitor. We systematically registered prevalence, timing of onset and response to treatment. Results Twenty patients were treated for 2–52 weeks with a BRAF inhibitor. Eleven patients on vemurafenib (58%) developed cutaneous side-effects and 10 patients (42%) had more than one cutaneous adverse event. Verrucous papillomas were observed in eight patients (42%), after 1–12 weeks. We diagnosed four keratoacanthomas in two patients (11%) after 6–10 weeks and two squamous cell carcinomas in two patients (11%) after 10–16 weeks. Seven patients (37%) developed a hyperkeratotic, folliculocentric eruption after 2–8 weeks, resolving quickly under topical steroids. Four patients (21%) presented a facial erythema, two patients (11%) a seborrhoeic dermatitis-like eczema on the scalp. Three patients (16%) developed cystic lesions after 2–11 weeks. Three patients (16%) presented a hand–foot skin reaction after 4–6 weeks, which was successfully treated with topical steroids and keratolytics. Hyperkeratosis of the nipples was seen in one patient (5%). We observed phototoxic reactions after UV exposure in five patients (26%) and alopecia in two patients (11%) after 8–10 weeks. One patient on dabrafenib developed curly hairs (24 weeks), keratotic papules (1 and 36 weeks), a keratoacanthoma (4 weeks) and a hand–foot skin reaction (31 weeks). Conclusion Multiple cutaneous toxicities were observed in patients under BRAF inhibitors, mostly well controlled with adequate treatment. We recommend a multidisciplinary approach with regular assessments of the skin by a dermatologist. This allows early identification and adequate treatment to avoid premature discontinuation of a life-prolonging therapy.

Select, Choice and Certified Angus Beef (CAB) strip loin steaks were sold in Lubbock, TX to determine consumer acceptability. A home survey was attached to each package of steaks (return = 191 steak evaluations). Consumers did not detect differencesintendernessorflavor,butratedCABsteaksjuicier(P 0.05) between grades. Trained sensory panelistsratedCABsteakshigher(P < 0.05)thanChoiceorSelectforallpalatability traits except flavor intensity. Shear force decreased (P < 0.05) by quality grade as CAB steaks sheared with the least resistance. These results showed marbling influenced objective palatability measures and decreased the variation in both objective and consumer measures of palatability.

Summary Beef is considered to be an excellent source of dietary iron. However, little is known about the genetic control of beef iron content. We hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms in transferrin receptor 2 (TFR2) and solute carrier family 40 (iron-regulated transporter), member 1 (SLC40A1) could influence skeletal muscle iron content. The objective of this study was to use Angus cattle to identify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the exons and flanking regions of the bovine TFR2 and SLC40A1 genes and to evaluate the extent to which genetic variation in them was associated with bovine longissimus dorsi muscle iron content. Ten novel SNPs were identified in TFR2, of which one SNP tended to be associated (P 0.99), from which two haplotypes, TGC and CAT, were defined. Beef from individuals that were homozygous for the TGC haplotype had significantly (P < 0.001) higher iron content than did beef from CAT homozygous or heterozygous individuals. The estimated size of effect of the identified haplotypes was 0.3% of the phenotypic variance. In conclusion, our study provides evidence for genetic control of beef iron concentration. Moreover, SNPs identified in SLC40A1, rs134388440, rs136347850 and rs137555693 might be useful markers for the selection of Angus cattle for altered iron content.

Background: Photoallergic contact dermatitis from topical ketoprofen (KP), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, is a well-known side effect. Objectives: To investigate photo-contact allergic reactions to KP and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), sunscreens, and fragrance components as well as the presence of prolonged photosensitivity related to it. Patients/Methods: From June 1993 to June 2007, 42 patients were patch tested and photopatch tested with the ingredients of a KP preparation and other relevant substances. A questionnaire was performed in order to determine the importance of prolonged photosensitivity; 40/42 did respond. Results: 38 patients showed photo-contact reaction, 1 photoaggravated reaction, and 3 contact allergic (CA) reaction to KP. Simultaneous photo-contact allergic reactions were frequently observed not only to structurally related but also to non-structurally related NSAIDs and sunscreens. Simultaneous CA to fragrance components was common. 1/3 of the patients reported prolonged photosensitivity, i.e. from 1 up to 14 years after having stopped KP application. Conclusions: The history is often not a good guidance to determine KP-related (photo) allergic contact dermatitis and the severe clinical symptoms sometimes require hospitalization, and/or systemic corticosteroids. As for the association between KP and sunscreen intolerance (being 1 of the possible causal factors for recurrent dermatitis), routine standard photopatch testing with KP might be indicated.

We previously reported that 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] protects primary human keratinocytes against ultraviolet (UV)B-induced apoptosis. Here, we confirmed the anti-apoptotic effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 in keratinocytes, using cisplatin and doxorubicin as apoptotic triggers. We further showed that 1,25(OH)2D3 activates two survival pathways in keratinocytes: the MEK/extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K)/Akt pathway. Activation of ERK and Akt by 1,25(OH)2D3 was transient, required a minimal dose of 10−9 M and could be blocked by actinomycin D and cycloheximide. Moreover, inhibition of Akt or ERK activity with respectively a PI-3K inhibitor (LY294002) or MEK inhibitors (PD98059, UO126), partially or totally suppressed the anti-apoptotic capacity of 1,25(OH)2D3. Finally, 1,25(OH)2D3 changed the expression of different apoptosis regulators belonging to the Bcl-2 family. Indeed, 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment increased levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and decreased levels of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Bad in a time- and dose-dependent way. Induction of Bcl-2 by 1,25(OH)2D3 was further shown to be mediated by ERK and, to a lesser extent, by Akt. In conclusion, 1,25(OH)2D3 clearly protects keratinocytes against apoptosis (1) by activating the MEK/ERK and the PI-3K/Akt survival pathways and (2) by increasing the Bcl-2 to Bax and Bad ratio. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

We describe two patients in whom chronic radiodermatitis with therapy-resistant ulceration of the right scapular region developed, following percutaneous coronary intervention with fluoroscopic imaging. Contrary to most reported cases in the literature, which involve numerous cardiac catheterization procedures, in both patients described here the total radiation dose was given during two successive procedures, involving difficult and prolonged coronary intervention with stent implantation. In both cases, local treatment of the ulcerative lesions was insufficient, necessitating excision of the radiodermatitis area and replacement with a skin graft, with good therapeutic result. The incidence of radiodermatitis after percutaneous coronary interventions is rising with the increasing number and complexity of these procedures. The main risk factor is a long duration of fluoroscopy using the same incidence. The skin lesions encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from erythema, telangiectasia, atrophy, hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation to necrosis, chronic ulceration and squamous cell carcinoma. The lesions can appear from 15 days to 10 years after the procedure. To prevent radiation-induced injury, the radiation dose has to be limited and monitored. Also, careful inspection of the skin at the site of exposure is necessary and the radiographic beam has to be restricted to the smallest field size. A good clinical follow-up at regular intervals is important after long and complicated procedures.

In this study, we show that ultraviolet B radiation (UVB)-induced apoptosis of human keratinocytes involves mainly cytosolic signals with mitochondria playing a central role. Overexpression of Bcl-2 inhibited UVB-induced apoptosis by blocking the early generation of reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial cardiolipin degradation and cytochrome c release, without affecting Fas ligand (FasL)-induced cell death. It also prevented the subsequent activation of procaspase-3 and -8 as well as Bid cleavage in UVB-treated cells. Comparative analysis of UVB and FasL death pathways revealed a differential role and mechanism of caspase activation, with the UVB-induced activation of procaspase-8 only being a bystander cytosolic event rather than a major initiator mechanism, as is the case for the FasL-induced cell death. Our results suggest that Bcl-2 overexpression, by preventing reactive oxygen species production, helps indirectly to maintain the integrity of lysosomal membranes, and therefore inhibits the release of cathepsins, which contribute to the cytosolic activation of procaspase-8 in UVB-irradiated keratinocytes. ispartof: FEBS Letters vol:540 issue:1 pages:125-32 ispartof: location:England status: published

The increased concern for accountability and quality improvement is inducing universities throughout Europe to evaluate and control performance. The establishment of criteria for educational quality, a requirement for a successful evaluation, was studied as part of an evaluation of the dental education programme at the Catholic University of Leuven. Criteria suggested by different groups (members of the internal evaluation commission including graduate and postgraduate students; members of the academic staff of the School of Dentistry, Oral Pathology and Maxillo-facial Surgery, and other members of the academic staff, not directly belonging to the school), were analysed by means of ANOVA with Scheffe posthoc tests to identify intergroup differences. It was hypothesized that a closer connection to the dental curriculum or a higher responsibility in the evaluation process would result in stricter criteria. For 108 different questions (in the form of statements with a six point Likert-type scale), members of the three groups had to indicate the score below which the quality would be considered suboptimal. Except for one question, no significant differences were found between ratings given by the members of the internal evaluation commission and other members of the School. Significant differences were found between non-school members and school- and/or commission-members. This study indicates that agreement on educational quality may be presupposed within an academic faculty and between members of the internal evaluation commission. However, the study also indicated that some caution should be exercised when 'external' teachers are included in the evaluation process.

The acute molecular response of human keratinocytes to solar simulated radiation or UVB includes modulation in gene expression of various cytokines and growth regulatory proteins. This genetic response is consistent with the immunemodulating effect of UV and an effect of UV on cell kinetics, including growth arrest and subsequent hyperproliferation. The ultimate signal and signal transduction pathway resulting in the induction or suppression of gene transcription after UV will further elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of acute photodamage of human skin. Photoaging appears to decrease the expression of differentiation associated genes. Photocarcinogenesis, the ultimate consequence of chronic photodamage, is associated with permanent changes in growth regulatory genes and differentiation associated genes. This may be caused by gene (in)activation through mutations, amplifications or deletions, as demonstrated for the tumor-suppressor gen p53 and the ras proto-oncogenes.

Adequate photoprotection is essential to control UV-related disorders, including sunburn, photoaging and photocarcinogenisis. Sun avoidance, protection of skin with clothing, and sunscreens are presently the best way of photoprotection, assuming that they are used properly. However, new strategies, which are based on or make use of the endogenous protective response to UV light, may further improve currently used photoprotective means. The addition of repair enzymes and/or antioxidants has a positive effect on skin's recovery from UV-induced DNA-damage. Several botanical agents, mainly vitamins and polyphenols, have shown to influence signal transduction pathways leading to photoprotective effects. Also stimulation of endogenous UV-response pathways via irradiation with a low UV dose or via simulation of UV-induced DNA-damage results in photoprotective effects. Future research in this field and combination of different photoprotective strategies will hopefully lead to improved photoprotection.