Search

Art that was entirely or partially produced by an autonomous system is referred to as generative art. An autonomous system is typically a non-human entity that is capable of making judgments on its own about aspects of a piece of art that would otherwise require direct input from the artist. We have created a GUI which lists the applications which are based on the concept of generative art. Our GUI contains applications like random password generation, abstract artworks, map generation, wallpaper generation. Password generator will provide randomly generated passwords which would be derived from the images created using image generation algorithms/scripts such as EPWT and python’s in-built random function which uses algorithms like mersenne twister, a pseudo-random number generator. This application aims to provide usefulness for old hashing algorithms which are getting obsolete day by day. Abstract artwork generator will generate random images for stimulating creativity of artists, designers, architectural and marketing firms for getting started on a new project. This generator uses general complex functions which contain scripts for different shapes and combinations. This approach is able to generate some innovative solutions and demonstrates the power of computational approach. A layout of the area with the requested coordinates and different constraints will be provided through map generating model. Wallpaper generation model will generate aesthetically pleasing wallpapers with adjustable features.

Sulphonated graphene oxide was used for cascade condensation and cyclization reactions towards accessing substituted pyrazolo pyrimidinones. Further, sulphonation and amination reactions were integrated through continuous flow chemistry to access PDE-5 inhibitors. Herein, we report a simple continuous synthetic platform that reduce tedious manual operations and accelerate the synthesis of several potent inhibitors of phosphodiesterase type-5. The developed platform enabled us to perform one-flow multi-step, multi-operational process to synthesize the PDE-5 inhibitors such as sildenafil and its analogues in 32.3 min of the reaction time, with minimal human intervention and single solvent.

A novel nanotextured Ni@Cu material embedded electro-microflow reactor with minimal electrode distance has been employed to synthesize biphenyls via the construction of a new C–C bond. The reported protocol is devoid of noble metals and involves co-reductant/oxidant-free conditions in a fast manner for the synthesis of substituted/unsubstituted biphenyl systems. The electro-reactor volume was optimized for gram-scale biphenyl synthesis and further extended for an integrated total process system reducing the tedious downstream process by selective removal of unwanted chemicals/solvent. The continuous microflow synthesis of daclatasvir has now been accomplished with a good yield.

Verrucous epidermal nevi (VEN) are cutaneous hamartomas characterized by keratinocytic hyperplasia. Majority are linear in distribution and tend to follow the Blaschko lines; however, some may have zosteriform (segmental) or systematized distribution involving widespread areas of skin. The systematized ones are further classified into "Nevus Unius Lateris" when one-half of the body is affected, and "Ichthyosis Hystrix" showing bilateral distribution, both being the uncommon forms. Although it can affect any body part, it rarely involves the head and neck region with seldom involvement of mucosae, scalp, and ear lobes. We saw a 6-year-old child with multiple hyperpigmented verrucous plaques predominantly present over left half of the body, ipsilateral alopecia scalp, and verrucous lesions involving mucosae of palate and tongue, which were present bilaterally. Previously, case reports of oral lesions related to VEN had demonstrated segmental, midline, or unilateral distribution. Hereby, we report this peculiar case of Nevus Unius Lateris with bilateral oral mucosal involvement, owing to its rarity.

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophilic disorder with an incidence rate of 3–10 cases per million per year, characterized by classically painful and aseptic ulcers, which may be associated with underlying systemic diseases. The pathergy reaction is seen in one-fourth of patients with PG. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial, as PG is known for its rapid progression. The management of PG is challenging and depends on its severity and rate of progression. An underlying systemic involvement should be sought even in spite of no symptoms. Herein, we report a case of giant pyoderma gangrenosum involving almost the entire left buttock with exceptionally raised c-ANCA levels, but no underlying systemic abnormality. The patient reported intense pain, rapid progression of the ulcers, an inability to perform daily activities, was significantly morbid and pathergy-positive. Aggressive and early management is required in cases such as this. A dramatic response was achieved with a combination of cyclosporine, dapsone, and methylprednisolone pulses.

Fast access to structurally diverse heteroaromatic compounds is demonstrated in an integrated continuous-flow manner without employing any expensive oxidant. The process involves an electro-flow heating reactor that uses electricity as the green oxidant to promote the reaction, leading to a fast (2 min) annulation reaction for the synthesis of heteroaromatic compounds.

Correction for ‘Sulphonated graphene oxide catalyzed continuous flow synthesis of pyrazolo pyrimidinones, sildenafil and other PDE-5 inhibitors’ by Vinay Kumar Sthalam et al., RSC Adv., 2022, 12, 326–330, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1RA08220E.

Sir, A 61-year-old female presented to us with a slowly progressive, asymptomatic, localized swelling in the proximal nail fold (PNF) of the left ring finger present for nine months. An examination revealed a discrete, well marginated, skin-colored, firm, non-tender nodule, 8 × 8 mm in size, between the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and the PNF of the left ring finger. Besides this, the concomitant nail plate also had longitudinal guttering originating from underneath the PNF and extending until the free edge of the nail plate, corresponding to the possibility of pressure effects of the lesion on the nail matrix (Fig. 1a). Polarized light dermoscopy revealed thick, white, linear structures intermingled with dotted vessels and short, linear, curved, comma-shaped vessels in the center of the lesion (Fig. 2a). High-resolution ultrasonography with power Doppler of the lesion revealed a hypoechoic area without any vascular component (Fig. 2b) and normal appearing interphalangeal joints. Under aseptic precautions, triamcinolone acetonide (TA) at 10 mg/mL was injected intralesionally from its lateral margin until the blanching of the lesion. A transparent, jelly-like material extruded through the entrance of the needle, thus confirming the clinical diagnosis of a digital myxoid pseudocyst (DMP) (Fig. 1b). No recurrence was observed within six months of follow-up (Fig. 1c). A DMP, also called a digital synovial cyst or ganglion cyst, is a benign tumor of the digit. It is not a true cyst as it lacks a cyst wall lined with epithelial cells. It is filled with mucoid materials overproduced by fibroblasts [1]. They arise due to repetitive trauma causing either focal mucinous degeneration of the connective tissue or the leakage of synovial fluid from the DIP joint. Two types of digital mucous cysts are distinguished: the myxomatous, or superficial, type and the ganglion, or deep, type. A DMP may sometimes compress the nail matrix, creating longitudinal depressions in the nail plate, as seen in this case. Nail changes may precede cyst formation by up to six months. Occasionally, the cyst may exert pressure on the nail matrix giving rise to a bluish-red lunula [2]. Salerni et al. described the dermoscopic features of a DMP as bright white areas with a linear, branched, serpentine vascular pattern [3]. Dermoscopy of our case, however, revealed white, linear structures intermingled with dotted vessels and short, linear, curved, comma-shaped vessels. These non-identical dermoscopic patterns could be attributed to the different depth of the DMP in our case to these observed by Salerni et al. The pseudocyst in our case also demonstrated compression effects on the proximal nail matrix indicated by longitudinal guttering in the nail plate, while no such finding was present in the former. In addition, arboriform and polymorphic vascular patterns have also been described. Repetitive puncturing, aspiration, sclerotherapy, and intralesional steroids have been attempted; however, recurrences may develop [4]. Although surgical excision of a DMP with synovectomy shows a lower recurrence rate, it may cause complications such as nail deformities, post-operative pain, and limited post-operative functional use. To conclude, the dermoscopic features of the DMP in the current case may hold an addition to the existing dermoscopic signs, hence aid in the diagnosis of the DMP.

The rapid transmission of viral diseases can cause massive economic damage and loss of life. The manufacture of most anti-viral drugs is normally carried out using batch synthesis which typically requires long production times (3–15 days) and significant manpower and infrastructure. The fabrication of fully integrated flow-based manufacturing systems offers an alternative approach that can be greener and more economical. In this regard, we have developed a compact manufacturing machine for the synthesis of the antiviral API daclatasvir which is easily reconfigured, has a much-reduced footprint, and enables multi-step synthesis using innovative reaction chemistry and post-synthesis purification equipment. The developed integrated system enabled the ultra-fast production of DCV as its free base (within 28.2 min.) with a throughput of 11.8 g per day (equivalent to 200 doses of Daklinza, 60 mg tablets) in 98% HPLC purity.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed daclatasvir (DCV), symmetrical arene, as one of the essential medicines for human health. DCV manufacturing is usually carried out in a non-continuous or "batch" approach over multiple locations and is severely limited by long production times (3-10 days), resulting in non-affordability (highly expensive) and disruption of the potential chain supply. Here, we report the total process system including the development of a novel electro-flow reactor containing patterned electrodeposited Ni or Pt nanoparticles over a copper electrode for a C-C coupling reaction in a co-reductant/oxidant-free, ultra-fast process for symmetrical substituted/unsubstituted biphenyl synthesis. This method was further extended to a new generation commercial batch synthetic route for continuous flow ultra-fast daclatasvir synthesis in 33.2 min. We envisage that this micro-electro-flow reactor (μ-EFR) system platform will substantially enable advances in continuous-μ-flow fine chemical manufacturing, multistep reaction sequences, reaction devising equipment, and real-time extraction.

An integrated photo-flow oxidative reaction (UV-FOR) platform approach is presented for the synthesis of phthalides. The current protocol is catalyst-free, and uses economical and abundant hydro-carbons and hydrocarbon derivatives such as benzoic acid, benzene, and xylene, as starting materials. The reaction is performed using oxygen as a green oxidant in a time- and labour-efficient manner. This integrated approach has been shown to be successful in making a UV-FOR platform suitable for the on-demand synthesis of phthalides and their further syntheses to 2-arylmethylbenzoic acids and arylogous Michael addition products under relatively mild conditions. The current protocol was further extended to the gram scale synthesis of an ischemic stroke-relevant active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), 3-N-butylphthalide (NBP), in a continuous flow process.

The discriminate etching chemistry (crystal engineering) of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offers promising opportunities for tailoring electron-hole separation, and charge-carrier utilization plays a central role in photocatalysis. Herein, the noble metal-free examples of polyaniline (PANI)-sensitized cobalt oxide functionalized perfect crystal UiO-66 and defective crystal UiO-66D photocatalysts were synthesized and evaluated for photocatalytic hydrogen generation from water under visible light irradiation. A viable route for the simple yet effective modification of UiO-66 by implanting PANI and cobalt oxide was demonstrated for the development of a series of UiO-66-based catalysts. The UiO-66-PANI-Co3O4 catalyst showed staggeringly enhanced photocatalytic activity, which was 24 times that of the pristine UiO-66(Zr).

Context: Herpes genitalis is a common sexually transmitted disease caused by herpes simplex virus for which no therapy is available which can cure its recurrence. Aims: Comparative evaluation of therapeutic efficacy of topical silver nitrate (AgNO3) in combination with oral levamisole in recurrent herpes genitalis. Methods and Material: A total of 60 patients clinically diagnosed as recurrent herpes genitalis (with 2 or more episodes in last 6 months) with a positive Tzanck smear were divided into 2 groups (test and control) of 30 patients each. Patients in test group were treated with topical application of 10% AgNO3, and then repeated every week, till lesions cleared, or for a maximum of 4 applications along with oral levamisole. In control group distilled water was applied. Patients were followed up for a total period of 24 weeks Results were analysed statistically. Results: In test group only 12 (40%) out of 30 patients showed recurrence, whereas in control group 21 (70%) out of 30 patients showed recurrence. Conclusion: Topical AgNO3 along with oral levamisole has been found to be an effective therapeutic modality not only for treatment but also for preventing recurrence of herpes genitalis and prolonging remissions.

Background: Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail unit and can be caused by dermatophytes, yeasts and non-dermatophyte moulds. None of the treatment modalities yield consistent results. Cryotherapy as a treatment modality has not been studied in its management.Methods: 80 clinically confirmed cases of onychomycosis were enrolled for the study. Cases in group 1 were given liquid nitrogen cryotherapy with dipstick method for 12 weeks at 2 weekly intervals and cases in group 2 were given oral terbinafine in a dose of 500 mg daily for a week/month for 3 months. After 12 weeks cases in both groups were followed up at intervals of 3 weeks till 24 weeks.Results: At week 12 ,40% of the patients in group 1 achieved clinical cure which was comparable to treatment with oral terbinafine pulse which was 45% and G3 response was attained by 20% of the patients in group 1 and 17.5% patients in group 2. The results at 12 weeks were comparable in two groups and p value was insignificant. At the end of study duration, clinical cure was achieved in 32.5% in group 1 and 62.5% of patients in group 2 and p value was highly significant.Conclusions: The results of cryotherapy were inferior to oral terbinafine pulse. Though results with cryotherapy were comparable to oral terbinafine pulse at 12 weeks, at 24 weeks oral terbinafine pulse proved to be a treatment option in finger nail onychomycosis.

The intent of our research paper is bringing to the attention the dire need of superseding our current energy source with solar energy. This is required for not just the major but minor cities of India as well. As we know India being a tropical country receives favorable amount of solar radiation in every nook and corner. This makes it possible to adapt solar energy as one of the main energy source. But such an adaptation requires time and thorough research. We can start by selecting the zones which receive enough amount of solar radiation so that it can be harnessed to generate power. This paper is a noble attempt in that direction. To calculate the Average Hourly Global Solar Radiation for each month of some cities viz. Vishakhapatnam (east zone), Port Blair (south zone), Pune (west zone), New Delhi (north zone), and Nagpur (central zone), the Angstrom correlation has been used. The aforementioned cities have been so selected that each city is in each of the five topographical zones of the country. Then a comparison has been drawn with the measured values by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The calculations have been simulated using MATLAB and validation is done between measured and calculated data using statistical error tests (MAD, BIAS, MSE, RMSE, and MAPE).

The increasing energy demands around the globe and depleting conventional energy sources has compelled us to think of alternate sources of energy. The energy available from sun in the form solar radiation is of paramount importance in context of supplying the energy needs. The utilization of solar energy solely depends on the obtainable solar radiation flux at a particular geographical location. In this study, a novel attempt of predicting solar radiation at Amravati, Maharashtra, India (20.9374oN,\ 77.7796oE) has been made using different empirical models based on Angstrom-Prescott model, considering sunshine hour as prime parameter using MATLAB tool. Several statistical tests are used as basis of comparison such as the mean bias error (MBE), the mean percentage error (MPE), the root mean square error (RMSE), correlation coefficient (r). Based on the statistical results, the best model for considered site can be ascertained and used for predicting solar power plant capacity for Amravati. Due to absence of meteorological data at the considered site, this work will thus prove to be beneficial in estimating the solar radiation at Amravati and also at various sites having similar climatic conditions where measured solar radiation data is absent.

Background: One of the most effective options available for treating psoriatic fingernails is intramatricial injection of triamcinolone acetonide. Efficacies of intramatricial methotrexate and cyclosporine have not been comparatively evaluated to date. Methods: Ninety fingernails in 17 patients were assigned to three groups of thirty nails each, and treated with intramatricial injections of triamcinolone acetonide (10 mg/ml), methotrexate (25 mg/ml) and cyclosporine (50 mg/ml) respectively. Each nail was given two injections with a 6-week interval, and graded at 24 weeks using the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index. Results: In both triamcinolone acetonide and methotrexate groups, 15 (50%) nails out of 30 showed >75% improvement. In the cyclosporine group, only ten (33%) nails showed >75% improvement. Side effects were most in the nails treated with cyclosporine. Limitations: The limited follow-up period of 24 weeks may have been insufficient for detecting delayed remissions. The number of patients was small and there was no randomization or blinding. The lack of a placebo/ no- treatment arm can be considered a limitation. Conclusions: Amongst the three drugs studied, intramatricial methotrexate injection yielded the most improvement with minimum side effects, results being comparable to intramatricial triamcinolone acetonide injection. Cyclosporine was the least effective drug, with the most side effects. Intramatricial injection therapy is a safe, economical, simple and effective therapeutic modality in the management of nail psoriasis.

Introduction: Hands are important organs of expression, communication, and are necessary for household and work-related activity. Thus, hand eczema can deteriorate quality of life. This study aims to find impact of hand eczema severity on quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done in a tertiary care hospital in Punjab from January to July, 2014. A total of 69 hand eczema patients of either gender aged ≥16 years were enrolled after taking an informed consent. Disease severity was assessed by hand eczema severity index (HECSI) score; and quality of life by dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire. The data was evaluated using statistical tests like frequency, chi-square, oneway ANOVA, t-test etc. Results: Out of 69 patients, 63.8% were males and 36.2% females. The commonest age group affected was 21-40 years (55.1% cases). Aggravating factors were reported by 76.8% patients, the commonest trigger being summer season (47.8%) followed by soaps and detergents (21.7%). The mean±S.D. for DLQI was 6.22±5.42 and for HECSI was 18.54±17.05. There was no statistically significant impact of age, occupation and duration of disease on DLQI or disease severity except gender (p-value being 0.028 for DLQI; 0.035 for HECSI). There was no significant correlation between HECSI score and DLQI. Conclusion: Majority of the patients with hand eczema had a significant impairment of their quality of life. There was a statistically significant impact of gender on hand eczema severity; although no correlation was found between DLQI and HECSI score in this study.

with the fast development of the information technology and enterprise business, the traditional desktop management system based on three-tier architecture could not satisfy the need of enterprises. In this project we develop a website for construction industry for a new solution of enterprises ERP which is based on construction field.

Context: Alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disorder, can affect any hair-bearing area. No treatment so far has produced a consistent response. Narrow band ultraviolet B (NBUVB) has not been studied in its management. Aims: Comparative evaluation of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection, NBUVB, and their combination in AA. Materials and Methods: Forty patients (28 males and 12 females) with at least three patches of hair loss were enrolled after obtaining written informed consent. Patches were subdivided as follows: Patch 1 was injected with triamcinolone acetonide 2.5 mg/ml (total of three injections) at 3 weeks interval. Patch 2 - NBUVB was given twice a week for a total of 12 weeks. Patch 3 - combination of injection and NBUVB. Therapeutic response was recorded as regrowth of terminal hair (G0 to G4). Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test. P < 5% was considered significant. Results: At the end of treatment and follow-up, that is, at week 12, more than 50% of hair regrowth was evident in 27 (67.5%) patients with intralesional steroid; 7 (17.5%) with NBUVB; and 25 (62.5%) patients with their combination. This difference in the clinical response was statistically significant. Conclusions: Intralesional steroid is more effective than NBUVB and their combination is not synergistic in terms of the clinical response in AA.

Circinate balanitis, although a common manifestation of reactive arthritis, is usually an associated finding present along with the triad of arthritis, conjunctivitis, and urethritis. It is rarely seen as the only preceding manifestation of reactive arthritis. We hereby report a case of circinate balanitis as alone preceding presentation of reactive arthritis that was successfully treated with topical pimecrolimus 1% cream.

Venerophobia is a lesser recognized entity in clinical practice though the prevalence is on the rise. Our observations of current trends in the Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STI) clinic indicate that venerophobia is not an uncommon presentation among youngsters following an isolated or multiple episodes of sexual contact. This has a major bearing on the mental as well as sexual health. So far, there is no published data available in literature on the prevalence and extent of the problem. In this paper, we have made an attempt to cover the various modes of presentation, laboratory investigations and have outlined an approach towards the management of venerophobia in males.

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome comprises of the triad of orofacial swelling, facial paralysis, and fissured tongue. It may present in monosymptomatic form as Meischer granulomatous cheilitis. Herein we report an unusual association of Meischer's cheilitis with Down syndrome.

Touraine-Soulente-Gole Syndrome (TSG) or pachydermoperiostosis is a rare disorder characterized by pachydermia, periostosis & digital clubbing. Herein, we report a case of a 27 year old male, with the looks of a 47 year old. He presented with excessive wrinkling on his face since past 8 years. TSG syndrome was suspected and examined by histopathological, endocrinological and radiological studies for the confirmation of clinical diagnosis.

Psoriasis is a chronic recurrent papulosquamous disorder characterized by epidermal hyperplasia. The management of psoriasis can be challenging. Although, there are many therapeutic modalities available but still there are no clear cut guidelines regarding the usage of different modalities depending on the severity of psoriasis evaluated by PASI score. Taking this into consideration, a randomized controlled trial was undertaken to clinically evaluate different therapeutic modalities in psoriasis by PASI scoring. We selected fifty clinically diagnosed cases of psoriasis and confirmed by histopathology. The patients were put on different modalities depending on the psoriasis area and severity index score (PASI score) and all the patients were followed up to 24 weeks for any relapse.

Reticulate acropigmentation of Kitamura (RAK) is a rare, autosomal dominant disorder first described in Japan characterised by a reticulate pattern of slightly atrophic, angulated, hyperpigmented macules affecting the acral areas of the body. We hereby report a case of RAK in a young Indian male with adermatoglyphia that has not been previously reported in the literature.

Diffuse systemic sclerosis is a multisystem autoimmune disease that is characterized by generalized vascular involvement that results in tissue necrosis and secondary fibrosis. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Both of these diseases are autoimmune in origin. Psoriasis is, however, rarely associated with systemic sclerosis, but few cases have been reported, and a common genetic and immunological background shared by these diseases has been suggested. Here we report a case of a 20-year-old female patient with diffuse systemic sclerosis who developed chronic plaque psoriasis with Psoriasis area and severity Index (PASI) of 14.0 and body surface area of 32% with diffuse skin sclerosis and respiratory involvement.

Psoriasis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease primarily involving skin, nails, and articular system with associated disease-related comorbidities including type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. In the past, studies had hypothesized that rapid nail growth of psoriatic nail plate with associated parakeratosis does not allow the fungus to lodge in the nail keratin, thereby the incidence of onychomycosis should have been low in nail psoriasis. However, current studies mention that psoriatic nails are predisposed to secondary onychomycosis, but the end result of manifesting as anonychia multiplex of these two coexistent nail diseases, further complicated by methotrexate, has not been reported in the literature till date. We hereby, report a case of anonychia multiplex of psoriatic nails with coexisting onychomycosis, probably induced by methotrexate-related immunosuppression, for its rarity.

Background: The collagen vascular disorders, particularly systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disorder, are often characterized by microangiopathic abnormalities of the nail folds. Nail fold dermoscopy is a well-established technique to assess these vascular changes. Aims: To evaluate finger nail capillary vascular abnormalities by dermoscopy and their correlation with cutaneous and systemic involvement in the patients of collagen vascular disorders. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving patients of collagen vascular disorders presenting to Government Medical College, Amritsar over a period of 2 years. Nail fold dermoscopy was done in these patients and correlated with cutaneous and systemic involvement. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 17.0 version. Results: A total of 30 patients were enrolled in the study. Sixteen (53.3%), 11 (36.7%) and 3 (10%) patients of systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disorder, respectively were included for nail fold dermoscopy. The commonest change recorded in our study was dilated capillaries in 21 (70%) patients, followed by capillary dropouts in 17 (56.7%) patients and avascular areas in 16 (53.3%) patients. Of 17 patients presenting with sclerodactyly, active, early and late patterns were seen in 7 (41.2%), 2 (11.8%) and 7 (41.2%) patients, respectively. Out of 13 patients with respiratory involvement, active, early and late patterns were seen in 1, 1 and 7 (53.8%) patients, respectively (P value = 0.004). Limitations: Owing to lesser number of patients in our study, it is difficult to draw conclusive recommendations, and more studies with a larger sample size are required. Conclusion: Dermoscopy is a valuable tool not only to diagnose collagen vascular disorders but also for prognostication by correlating with systemic involvement.

Condyloma acumianata is one of the most common virally transmitted diseases. Its prevalence has increased many fold throughout the world. Because all the currently available treatments yield low cure rates with side effects, the search for a new alternative continues. Topically, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) has been in used for many years to treat various skin diseases. When applied topically in condyloma acuminata, 5-FU results in low cure rates with high recurrences. Therefore, intralesional 5% 5-FU is being evaluated to determine its therapeutic efficacy in condyloma acuminata.

Terra firma-forme dermatosis or dermatosis neglecta is characterized by dirty brown plaques that can be removed by forceful rubbing or with an alcohol swab. Also known as Duncan’s Dirty Dermatosis, it is usually seen at the regions of the neck, trunk, and upper extremities in children as well as adults. Here we report a patient with complaints of multiple asymptomatic dirty brown-colored, flat-topped slightly raised lesions over the face in a young girl, and emphasize its unique expression. All the lesions completely disappeared with forceful rubbing using a spirit swab, with normal underlying skin without any recurrence till date.

Introduction: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a cutaneous viral infection caused by a poxvirus, manifested by discrete, papular, pearly lesions with central umbilication. Genital lesions are mainly transmitted sexually. Till date, several forms of medical and surgical therapies have been used with variable success. In the present study, an attempt was made to review all the female patients of genital MC attending the sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic of the Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy of Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Amritsar. Aims and Objectives: In the present study, therapeutic efficacy and comparative evaluation of topical 10% and 20% of potassium hydroxide (KOH) were undertaken. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 female patients of age group 18–50 years with clinically diagnosed MC and more than ten lesions were enrolled in this study. The lesions in each patient were divided into two equal Groups A and B. Topical 10% KOH was applied over lesions of Group A and 20% over lesions of Group B with the help of 26G needle. First, two applications were done by the doctor, and subsequent applications were done twice a week at bedtime at home by the patient herself until crusting. These cases were followed up at 4th day, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th week. Results were analyzed objectively and photographically at each follow-up and at the end of the study statistically. Results: Mean duration of treatment ± standard deviation in normal patients, HIV-positive patients, patients with associated STIs, patients with associated non-STIs, and pregnant patients in Group A and Group B was 6.83 ± 2.692, 9.33 ± 1.633, 6.83 ± 2.887, 8.20 ± 3.347, and 8.75 ± 2.121 weeks and 5.2 ± 2.156, 7.33 ± 1.633, 5.25 ± 2.050, 6.20 ± 2.864, and 6.50 ± 1.414 weeks, respectively. Conclusion: Topical 20% KOH is better than 10% KOH in genital MC in females.

Objectives. Although the incidence of skin cancers in India (part of South Asia) is low, the absolute number of cases may be significant due to large population. The existing literature on BCC in India is scant. So, this study was done focusing on its epidemiology, risk factors, and clinicopathological aspects.Methods. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted in Punjab, North India, from 2011 to 2013. History, examination and histopathological confirmation were done in all the patients visiting skin department with suspected lesions.Results. Out of 36 confirmed cases, 63.9% were females with mean ± SD age being60.9±14.2years. Mean duration of disease was 4.7 years. Though there was statistically significant higher sun exposure in males compared to females (Pvalue being 0.000), BCC was commoner in females, explainable by intermittent sun exposure (during household work in the open kitchens) in women. Majority of patients (88.9%) had a single lesion. Head and neck region was involved in 97.2% of cases, with nose being the commonest site (50%) with nodular/noduloulcerative morphology in 77.8% of cases. Pigmentation was evident in 22.2% of cases clinically. Nodular variety was the commonest histopathological variant (77.8%).Conclusions. This study highlights a paradoxically increasing trend of BCC with female preponderance, preferential involvement of nose, and higher percentage of pigmentation in Indians.

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory papulosquamous disorder, the treatment of which remains challenging. A variety of therapeutic modalities have been used with varying degree of success. But, there is no such therapeutic modality till date that can prevent the relapse in psoriasis. Aims: The present study is being undertaken to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of intralesional 5% 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as well as its role in preventing relapse in resistant localized plaque psoriasis. Study Design: An open, prospective, randomized-controlled study. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 patients of resistant localized plaque psoriasis were enrolled for the study. Intralesional injection of 5% 5-FU was given in a dosage of 0.1 mL/cm 2 of each plaque using an insulin syringe. In all patients, a single plaque was kept as control and was given intralesional injection of distilled water. A total of three injections were given in each plaque at weekly intervals. After that, patients were followed-up regularly at the interval of 2 weeks up to 12 weeks. All the lesions (both treated and control) were assessed clinically as well as photographically at each visit and graded using psoriasis severity index scoring. Results were analyzed statistically at the end of the follow-up period. Results: At 12 weeks follow-up, out of 40 patients treated, 4 (10%) patients had clearance (>90% resolution), 19 (47.5%) had excellent (70%-90%) improvement, whereas 12 (30%) patients were moderately (30%-70%) improved, and only 5 (12.5%) patients had mild or no improvement. Results were statistically significant in treated group in comparison to control group. Almost all patients complained of pain at the site of injection which subsided within 1-2 h. A total of 10 (25%) patients had necrosis after one or two injections which healed during the follow-up period within 6-8 weeks. Conclusion: Intralesional 5% 5-FU is found to be an effective therapeutic modality in resistant localized plaque psoriasis without much side effects.

Probiotics are live microbial food supplements that are beneficial to the host health when administered in adequate amounts. Probiotics do have an exciting concept in digestive functions, but these live microbes have wider applicability as evidenced by gut-brain-skin axis theory given 80years back. However, the details regarding use of probiotics for dermatological indications ranging from atopic dermatitis to acne and sexually transmitted infections is dispersed in the literature, herein we have tried to focus all under one heading. Overall, probiotics seem to be promising and safe therapeutic modality, but the evidence as of now, from the available published data is low. This review will stimulate readers to carry out well designed, larger population based trials, so as to validate its use in dermatology practice.

Spina bifida is a developmental anomaly characterized by defective closure of the bony encasement of the spinal cord through which the spinal cord and meninges may or may not protrude. We report a rare case of a very long faun tail, which was in the form of a 20 inch long tail originating from the lumbosacral area in a rhomboidal pattern, measuring 10 x 8 inches. The case is being reported for its rare presentation of a 20 inch long faun tail with underlying spina bifida occulta.

Background The Virtual Data Warehouse (VDW) was created as a mechanism for producing comparable data across sites for purposes of proposing and conducting research. The database is “virtual” in the sense that the data remain at the local sites; there is no multi-site physical database at a centralized center. At the core of the VDW are a series of standardized file definitions. Content areas and data elements that are commonly required for research studies are identified, and data dictionaries are created for each of the content areas, specifying a common format for each of the elements—variable name, label, description, code values, and value labels. Local site programmers have mapped the data elements from their HMO’s data systems into this standardized set of variable definitions, names, and codes, as well as onto standardized SAS file formats. This common structure of the VDW files enables a SAS analyst at one site to write one program to extract and/or analyze data at all participating sites.