Search Results (432)

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate sociodemographic factors, features of the acute infection, and post-infection health status in survivors of COVID-19, assessing their association with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). Methods: A multidisciplinary public clinic in Brazil assessed COVID-19 survivors between June 2020 and February 2022. Patients were classified as having PACS or subacute infection (SI). Data on the history of the acute infection, current symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory findings were collected and analyzed using multivariate models with PACS as the outcome. Results: Among the 113 participants, 63.71% were diagnosed with PACS at a median of 130 days (IQR: 53–196) following acute symptom onset. Admission to the intensive care unit was more frequent among individuals with PACS than those with SI (83.3% vs. 65.0% respectively; p = 0.037). Symptoms significantly more prevalent in the PACS group when compared to the SI cohort included hair loss (44.4% vs. 17.1% respectively; p = 0.004), lower limb paresthesia (34.7% vs. 9.8% respectively; p = 0.003), and slow thinking speed (28.2% vs. 0.0% respectively; p < 0.001). Logistic regression revealed that only the time interval between the onset of acute symptoms and the clinical evaluation was independently associated with a PACS diagnosis (β = 0.057; 95% CI: 1.03–1.08; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patients with PACS had a higher frequency of intensive care unit admission compared to those with subacute infection. However, in the multivariate analysis, the severity of the acute infection did not predict the final diagnosis of PACS, which was associated only with the time elapsed since symptom onset. Full article

Heavy metals are a major toxicological concern due to their adverse effects on human health, particularly in children exposed to contaminated areas. This study evaluated biomarkers of exposure in 253 children aged 6 to 12 from Magangue, Achi, and Arjona (Bolivar, Colombia), analyzing their relationship with neurotoxicity and hematological markers. The mean Pb concentrations at the study sites were 1.98 µg/g (Magangue) > 1.51 µg/g (Achi) > 1.24 µg/g (Arjona). A similar pattern was observed for Cd concentrations for Magangue (0.39 µg/g) > Achi (0.36 µg/g) > Arjona (0.14 µg/g). In contrast, Se concentrations followed a different trend for Arjona (0.29 µg/g) > Magangue (0.21 µg/g) > Achi (0.16 µg/g). The proportion of Se/Pb molar ratios > 1 was higher in Arjona (3.8%) than in Magangue (0.9%) and Achi (2.0%). For Se/Cd ratios, values > 1 were also more frequent in Arjona (70.7%), exceeding 20% in the other two locations. Significant differences were found among locations in red and white blood cell parameters and platelet indices. Neurotransmitter-related biomarkers, including serotonin, monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), and acetylcholinesterase levels, also varied by location. Principal component analysis showed that Pb and Cd had high loadings on the same component as PLT, WBC, and RDW, and while Se loaded together with HGB, PDW, MCHC, MCH, and MCV, suggesting distinct hematological patterns associated with each element. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant inverse association between hair Pb levels and serotonin concentrations. Although MAO-A and Cd showed negative β coefficients, these associations were not statistically significant after adjustment. These findings highlight the potential impact of toxic element exposure on key hematological and neurochemical parameters in children, suggesting early biological alterations that may compromise health and neurodevelopment. Full article

Mineral imbalances in livestock can critically impair growth, immunity, and productivity. Yaks inhabiting the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau face unique environmental challenges, including high-altitude-induced nutrient variability. This study investigated the status of mineral elements and their correlations with altitude in healthy yak calves across five regions in Ganzi Prefecture, located at elevations ranging from 3100 to 4100 m. Hair and serum samples from 35 calves were analyzed for 11 essential elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Co, and Se). The results revealed widespread deficiencies. Key deficiencies were identified: hair Na and Co were significantly below references value (p < 0.05), and Se was consistently deficient across all regions, with deficiency rates ranging from 35.73% to 56.57%. Serum Mg and Cu were generally deficient (Mg deficiency > 26% above 3800 m). S, Mn (low detection), and Co were also suboptimal. Serum selenium deficiency was notably severe in lower-altitude areas (≤59.07%). Significant correlations with altitude were observed: hair sodium levels decreased with increasing altitude (r = −0.72), while hair manganese (r = 0.88) and cobalt (r = 0.65) levels increased. Serum magnesium deficiency became more pronounced at higher elevations (r = 0.58), whereas selenium deficiency in serum was more severe at lower altitudes (r = −0.61). These findings indicate prevalent multi-element deficiencies in yak calves that are closely linked to altitude and are potentially influenced by soil mineral composition and feeding practices, as suggested by previous studies. The study underscores the urgent need for region-specific nutritional standards and altitude-adapted mineral supplementation strategies to support optimal yak health and development. Full article

In recent decades, there has been a marked surge in the development of marine-by-product-derived ingredients for cosmetic applications, driven by the increasing demand for natural, sustainable, and high-performance formulations. Marine animal by-products, particularly those from fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, represent an abundant yet underutilized source of bioactive compounds with notable potential in cosmeceutical innovation. Generated as waste from the fishery and seafood-processing industries, these materials are rich in valuable bioactives, such as chitosan, collagen, peptides, amino acids, fatty acids, polar lipids, lipid-soluble vitamins, carotenoids, pigments, phenolics, and mineral-based substrates like hydroxyapatite. Marine by-product bioactives can be isolated via several extraction methods, and most importantly, green ones. These compounds exhibit a broad spectrum of skin-health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-wrinkle, anti-hyperpigmentation, and wound-healing properties. Moreover, applications extend beyond skincare to include hair, nail, and oral care. The present review provides a comprehensive analysis of bioactives obtained from marine mollusks, crustaceans, and fish by-products, emphasizing modern extraction technologies with a focus on green and sustainable approaches. It further explores their mechanisms of action and documented efficacy in cosmetic formulations. Finally, the review outlines current limitations and offers future perspectives for the industrial valorization of marine by-products in functional and environmentally-conscious cosmetic development. Full article

Perilla seed has long been recognized in traditional diets for its health-promoting properties, but its potential role in hair loss prevention remains underexplored. This study compared three extraction methods—maceration (MAC), screw pressing (SC), and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE)—to determine their efficiency in recovering bioactive compounds and their effects on androgenetic alopecia (AGA)-related pathways. The SFE extract contained the highest levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids and tocopherols, while MAC uniquely recovered a broader range of polyphenols. Among all extracts, SFE-derived perilla seed extract showed the most consistent biological effects, promoting proliferation of human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) by 139.4 ± 1.1% at 72 h (p < 0.05). It also reduced TBARS and nitrite levels in HFDPCs to 66.75 ± 0.62% of control and 0.87 ± 0.01 μM, respectively, indicating strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Importantly, the SFE extract significantly downregulated SRD5A1-3 and TGF-β1 expression—key genes involved in androgen-mediated hair follicle regression—outperforming finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil in vitro by approximately 1.10-fold, 1.25-fold, and 1.50-fold, respectively (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that perilla seed extract obtained via supercritical fluid extraction may offer potential as a natural candidate to prevent hair loss through multiple biological mechanisms. These in vitro results support its further investigation for potential application in functional food or nutraceutical development targeting scalp and hair health. Full article

Background and purpose: Indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon are exposed to mercury by eating methylmercury-contaminated fish. The lack of information on the health effects of prolonged exposure to mercury hinders the implementation of mitigation programs offered by the Brazilian government. This article aims to evaluate the studies that have investigated mercury exposure in indigenous people living in the Brazilian Amazon. Methods: A scoping review of the literature was conducted from studies published between 1995 and 2024 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish that evaluated mercury (Hg) concentrations in hair samples in indigenous people from the Brazilian Amazon. Results: Using total mercury (TotalHg) values in hair samples, we analyzed exposure levels, prevalence, and toxic effects. We found 15 epidemiological studies with a cross-sectional design and sample sizes ranging from 31 to 910 participants. Four studies involved children and mothers, four of which were associated with clinical outcomes and three of which analyzed genetic polymorphism. Most of the communities evaluated had a high prevalence of mercury exposure, showing levels ranging from 0.8 to 83.89 µg/g, and the highest average TotalHg concentration was found among the Kayabi. Mercury was associated with hypertension, cognitive disorders, worse mental health indicators and central and peripheral neurological disorders. Conclusions: It is concluded that indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon experience exposure levels that are causing damage to their health, and control measures must be adopted to prevent the situation from worsening. Full article

Background and Objectives: Intimate hygiene is essential in every woman’s cleaning routine and is strongly associated with women’s health. Unfortunately, there is minimal data available on correct intimate hygiene. Materials and Methods: This systematic review was conducted as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Multiple electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science) were searched. Results: We included 33 studies published between 2000 and 2022 that investigated washing habits, various products, underwear preferences, and pubic hair grooming habits among women. A total number of 21 (64%) articles discussed topics associated with washing habits, including douching, washing product usage, and the choice between bathing and showering. Out of 33 articles, 7 (21%) discuss underwear, clothing, and panty liner usage as a feminine, everyday intimate hygiene routine. A total number of 11 (33%) studies included pubic hair removal methods, reasons, and associated complications in their article. Conclusions: The majority of women have basic knowledge about correct intimate hygiene, including showering at least once a day and regularly changing their underwear. Douching remains one of the most popular intimate hygiene habits among women. Pubic hair shaving became the primary preferred grooming method. Full article

This study focuses on the stabilization of a natural hair dye derived from Lawsonia inermis L. (henna) and Indigofera suffruticosa (indigo). Although various formulations already exist, they are designed for immediate use and cannot be stored. Lawsonia, a primary component of the dye, tends to degrade after release. To ensure its stability, freeze-drying was implemented as a protective measure. Colorimetric analysis confirmed the dye’s ability to maintain an intense, uniform coloration even after multiple washing cycles. Stability tests demonstrate that freeze-drying effectively enhances the dye’s stability and capacity to retain its physical properties and color under various environmental conditions, demonstrating its potential for long-term use. The dye’s pH (5.05) aligns with the natural pH of hair, promoting cuticle sealing and improving hair health. Cytotoxicity tests confirmed the dye’s safety, showing no harmful effects. Gray hair exhibited a total color difference (ΔE) of 64.06 after the initial application, using natural gray hair as a reference. By the third application, ΔE increased to 69.86 and gradually decreased to 68.20 after 15 washing cycles, highlighting its long-term durability. Gray hair exposed to 720 h of UV radiation showed a ΔE of 17.34, whereas dyed gray hair exhibited a ΔE of 2.96 compared to non-UV-exposed samples. This indicates superior resistance to color degradation in dyed hair. Also, SEM imaging revealed the dye’s restorative effects, progressively improving hair cuticle structure with each application. Full article

Excessive hair loss can negatively impact psychological well-being and personal appearance. Providing effective hair growth products containing natural ingredients to people with hair loss can solve this problem. This study investigates Biosea^® Revive serum (BRS), a novel hair care product containing biotinoyl tripeptide-1 and Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract as the main ingredients, as a natural intervention for hair growth. Results from the in vitro study demonstrates that BRS not only increased human hair dermal papilla cell (HHDPC) cell proliferation, but also reduced reactive oxygen species generation and 5α-reductase expression when compared to the control group, with BRS showing similar effect to the positive control, minoxidil. In addition, a 90-day clinical trial with 40 participants (KMUHIRB-F(I)-20230125; approval date: 18 August 2023) was conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of BRS. The results revealed that BRS can improve hair density and quality in both men and women participants, with a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in women (p < 0.05). Moreover, there were no adverse effects on blood parameters or scalp irritation reported after BRS treatment. In conclusion, we suggest that BRS offers a safe and effective solution for improving hair follicle health and is suitable for long-term use. Full article

Background: Over the last 30 years, stress and anxiety in children have risen exponentially, especially as a result of school expectations. As no studies have examined the effect of increased outdoor recess on children’s chronic stress levels, this preliminary work focused on comparing hair cortisol concentration (HCC) scores of elementary children who received varied amounts of daily recess. Methods: HCC scores were collected from 4th grade elementary children (N = 130) from three intervention schools (45 min daily recess) (N = 64; M = 35; F = 29) and three control schools (30 min daily recess) (N = 66; M = 31; F = 35). Results: A two-way ANOVA, F(1, 123) = 5.47, p = 0.021, ω² = 0.034, showed that the intervention group reflected lower HCC levels (marginal M = 5.69, 95% CI [−1.92, 13.30]) than the control group (marginal M = 18.22, 95% CI [10.83, 25.61]). Post hoc analysis revealed an estimated marginal mean difference of −12.53 (SE = 5.36, p = 0.021). Sample t-tests compared HCC levels against the pre-COVID normative value of 7.5 pg/mg. The intervention group HCC mean (M = 5.85, SD = 6.26) was significantly lower than the normative value, t(61) = −2.08, p = 0.042. The control group’s mean HCC (M = 18.22, SD = 41.39) was significantly higher than the normative value, t(64) = 2.09, p = 0.041. Conclusions: Increasing daily recess may contribute to lower chronic stress levels among 4th grade children. With obesity and mental health disorders on the rise and American students’ academic performance on the decline, these pilot results cannot be overlooked or dismissed. Full article

Trace elements, which may have harmful health effects, are present in the environment at varying concentrations. In Albania, data on exposure risks are limited. This study aimed to assess and compare the concentrations of various trace elements (aluminum, arsenic, boron, calcium, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, nickel, lead, and zinc) in the hair of cattle and sheep raised in Central Albania (Tirana and Elbasan Counties). Hair samples were collected from 25 cattle and 25 sheep per county and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy. Zinc concentrations were significantly higher in cattle than in sheep (p = 0.029), while no differences were observed between counties (p > 0.05), indicating similar environmental conditions. Copper (17.84, 95%CI: 13.63–16.34 and 15.84, 95%CI: 14.00–17.69 mg/kg in cattle, and 15.58, 95%CI: 13.61–17.56 and 14.14, 95%CI: 12.07–16.20 mg/kg in sheep, in Elbasan and Tirana County, respectively), arsenic (2.08, 95%CI: 1.45–1.21 and 1.51, 95%CI: 1.19–1.81 mg/kg in cattle, 1.73, 95%CI: 1.38–2.07 and 1.39, 95%CI: 1.02–1.75 mg/kg in sheep, in Elbasan and Tirana County, respectively), and cadmium (2.36, 95%CI: 1.63–2.07 and 2.00, 95%CI: 1.68–2.32 mg/kg in cattle, 2.00, 95%CI: 1.59–2.40 and 1.71, 95%CI: 1.39–2.02 mg/kg in sheep, in Elbasan and Tirana County, respectively) concentrations exceeded the values reported in the literature, likely due to contamination from local mining and metal processing activities. Further research is needed to determine the sources of contamination and assess potential risks to animal and human health. Full article

Background: Finasteride, a 5α-reductase inhibitor, is used for androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, concerns have emerged about its psychiatric side effects, including suicidality. This study analyzed finasteride-related reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) to identify potential safety signals. Methods: Adverse events reported from 2015 to 2024 were extracted using preferred terms, quantified using Bayesian analysis and disproportionality metrics, including empirical Bayesian geometric mean (EBGM), information component (IC), reporting odds ratio (ROR), and proportional reporting ratio (PRR). Results: Most were male (87%), with 43% aged 18–40 years, primarily using finasteride for hair loss. Disproportionality metrics for suicidality-related events fluctuated between 2019 and 2024. In 2019, the ROR was 27.51 (95% CI: 23.22–32.58), the PRR was 21.96 (95% CI: 18.54–26.01), the EBGM was 20.50, and the IC was 4.36. A slight decline was observed in 2020, a surge in 2021, and a peak in 2022 (ROR 34.64 (95% CI: 28.36–41.88), PRR 27.82 (95% CI: 22.30–34.61), EBGM 24.96, IC 4.64). Although a sharp rise in suicidality reports was noted in 2024, the rates of ROR and PRR dropped to 19.04 (95% CI: 17.02–21.30) and 16.53 (95% CI: 14.78–18.50), respectively. Serious outcomes such as disability (18.7%), life-threatening events (12.9%), and death (7.5%) were also noted. Conclusions: The upward trend in suicidality-related safety signals among young male users since 2019, which peaked in 2024, reflects emerging safety concerns among finasteride users, reinforcing the need for pharmacovigilance. Collaborative action among healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities, and pharmaceutical companies, along with clear warnings and mental health assessments before and throughout finasteride therapy, can mitigate potential psychiatric risks and enhance patient safety. Full article

Toxic elements are considered a significant threat to public health in oil-producing countries. Western Kazakhstan is experiencing serious environmental problems due to the development of the oil and gas industry. This study aimed to assess the concentrations of toxic trace elements—aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), beryllium (Be), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb)—in the hair of children residing in Kazakhstan’s oil and gas-producing region, and to evaluate the relationship between the concentration of toxic elements and the remoteness of their residence from oil and gas fields. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted involving 1595 school-aged children. Element levels in hair samples were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The association between trace element concentrations and residential distance from oil and gas fields was examined across three distance-based groups and further analyzed through multiple linear regression. The highest concentration of Al = 4.824 μg/g and Hg = 0.096 μg/g was found in the hair of children living close to oil and gas fields (0–16 km). A decrease in levels of Al (−0.072 (CI: −0.109; −0.036)) and Hg (−0.293 (CI: −0.343; −0.243)) is associated with increasing distance from oil and gas fields. As, Cd, and Pb had the lowest median concentrations in the hair of children living near oil and gas fields (0.030, 0.010, and 0.122 µg/g, respectively). There is a tendency for levels of As, Cd, and Pb to increase with distance from the fields (0.064 (CI: 0.039; 0.089), 0.093 (CI: 0.045; 0.141), and 0.244 (CI: 0.202; 0.287), respectively). Our findings indicate the need for biomonitoring of toxic elements to determine long-term temporal trends in the influence of toxic trace elements on the health of the child population of Western Kazakhstan. Full article

Alcohol abuse is a widespread addiction globally, leading to long-term health issues and social consequences. Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl palmitate (EtPa) are frequently requested by local authorities, solicitors, or private individuals to assess long-term chronic excessive alcohol consumption. In this paper, we present a validation process aimed at developing sensitive methods for detecting EtG and EtPa in hair samples. EtG was extracted by overnight sonication in water followed by sample clean-up using solid phase extraction (SPE) and analysis by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). EtPa was extracted using a simple ultrasonication extraction followed by analysis using gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The analytical method was validated by assessing linearity, precision, accuracy, recovery, sensitivity, and selectivity. Both EtG and EtPa methods obtained a coefficient of determination (r2) above 0.999 across concentration ranges of 4, 8, 16, 24, 48, and 96 pg/mg and 120, 240, 360, 480, 600, and 720 pg/mg. Extraction recoveries were both close to 100% with stable retention times and proven sensitivity and selectivity. These methods were validated according to the standards set by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) Lab51 and ISO 17025. Full article

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of patterned hair loss, exhibiting gender-specific clinical features. Recent studies highlight the importance of the skin microbiome in maintaining skin health, but the relationship between the hair follicle microbiome and hair loss, particularly AGA, remains understudied. Hair follicle layer samples were collected directly from the crown region of female pattern hair loss (FPHL), male pattern hair loss (MPHL), and healthy adult women (control) groups. Microbial DNA was extracted and analyzed using Illumina 16S rRNA V3–V4 gene amplicon sequencing. Alpha-diversity and beta-diversity analyses and taxonomic and functional profiling were conducted through relative abundance, LEfSe, and PICRUSt2 analyses. The alpha-diversity analysis showed a significant decrease in microbial richness in the hair loss groups. Unweighted UniFrac-based beta-diversity analysis revealed significant clustering between the control group and the FPHL group. Taxonomic profiling and LEfSe analysis identified differences in microbial composition and biomarkers. PICRUSt2 analysis further revealed altered pathways related to porphyrin metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and steroid hormone metabolism. Additionally, differences in microbiome composition and potential functions were found between the FPHL and MPHL groups. This study provides comprehensive insights into the hair follicle microbiome, revealing unique microbial patterns and functional alterations associated with FPHL. Understanding these microbiome characteristics may contribute to targeted approaches for addressing AGA. Further research is warranted. Full article