Use of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis in young transplant patients—A case series of 3 patients

Patients who undergo solid organ transplantation are at an increased risk of developing atopic dermatitis, potentially due to long-term use of calcineurin inhibitors which results in a shift towards the Th2 immune response. The effectiveness and safety of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis in posttransplant patients is not established. Previous reports of dupilumab use in posttransplant patients have been in adult patients. In this series, we report three young posttransplant patients treated successfully with dupilumab.     

Impact of public exhibition on the perception of birthmarks

Background

The importance of photographs in social media, the steep rise in popularity of tattoos, and the prominence of individuals with visibly different skin in fashion are likely to be changing the landscape of self- and public perception of birthmarks. Study objectives were to assess the impact of a photoshoot and public exhibition on the self-perception of individuals with extensive birthmarks, and to explore the viewing public's reactions.

Methods

Thirty individuals with congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) were recruited internationally. Each had a professional photoshoot portrait with their skin exposed, resulting in a public exhibition in London entitled “How do you C Me Now?” Participants/parents completed pre- and post-questionnaires relating to self-perception and the impact of their birthmarks on behavior. Over 8000 members of the public viewed the exhibition, 464 completing an on-site questionnaire on its effects.

Results

All participants/parents rated the experience as positive, valuable and helpful. Scores on self-appreciation and self-confidence were significantly higher after the photo shoot. Members of the general public overwhelmingly reported the exhibition increased their positive feelings towards people with birthmarks. The majority of public respondents also reported that the exhibition made them feel better about their own skin and about their looks in general.

Conclusion

This unique exhibition and the associated research has provided a striking new perspective on potential psychological interventions for individuals with birthmarks.     

Prevalence of delayed puberty and low bone density in patients with epidermolysis bullosa: Insight from a large single center's experience

Background

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of rare genetic skin conditions that result in skin fragility. EB can be quite severe with chronic inflammation and malnutrition impairing growth and pubertal development. These factors have potential consequences for skeletal health. We aimed to determine the prevalence of delayed puberty and low bone mineral density (BMD) for age in children and young adults with EB.

Methods

Electronic medical records (EMR) of patients with confirmed EB <30 years of age at time of initial encounter at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center between January 1, 2010 and September 30, 2020 were reviewed. Natural language processing software was used to categorize pubertal status of patients with EB as early, normal or delayed. BMD was measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and categorized as low if height adjusted Z-score was <−2.0 using age, sex and race specific reference ranges.

Results

29% of individuals with EB had low BMD with most cases occurring prior to 10 years of age. Of patients who reached adolescence, 23% failed to develop any signs of puberty in the normal range (before age 13 in females or 14 in males) and BMD Z-scores further declined in these individuals.

Conclusion

Delayed puberty is an under-recognized comorbidity of individuals with EB, especially in those with recessive dystrophic EB, and can have a significant impact on BMD.     

Determinants of consumer adoption of halal cosmetics: A systematic literature review

Background

The global halal cosmetics market is projected to grow during the forecast period. However, the factors that influenced consumers in the world to opt for halal cosmetics remain ambiguous.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to understand the universal concept of halal cosmetics and a framework of critical points that influence consumers in purchasing halal cosmetic products.

Method

The method used was Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement by using Web of Science and Scopus databases. This study extends the systematic literature review covering all variables in purchasing halal cosmetics as halal cosmetic is not simply a religious issue, but it is also an opportunity to increase sales and acquire a competitive advantage.

Results

This study found 14 articles that mainly discussed the critical points related to religiosity and product factors, that is, ingredient, halal logo, and halal certification as the highest driver in influencing consumers to purchase halal cosmetics. Other related factors in this study are price, promotion, place, social factors, and characteristics of consumers. These factors should be taken into consideration as they provide a plus point and an extra edge to local or international manufacturers to tap the global markets for halal cosmetic products that cater to both Muslims and non-Muslims communities.

Practical Implications

Cosmetic manufacturers and marketers must ensure that their products suit the expectation of consumers as todays halalan and tayyiban products are being searched rather than branded products due to their cleanliness, safety, and hygienic.

Originality/Value

This study is among the earliest study examining the factors of purchase intention in halal cosmetics using a systematic literature review method that integrates marketing stimulus (product, price, promotion, and place) and other stimuli (social, religious, and characteristics).