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PurposeCarotenoids, especially lutein and zeaxanthin isomers (L/Zi), filter blue light and protect skin from environmental factors including high-energy sources. These carotenoids may be able to block the formation of melanin pathways, decrease cytokines, and increase antioxidants.Subjects and methodsThis is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial over a 12-week supplementation period. Fifty healthy people (50 healthy subjects were recruited and 46 subjects completed the study) (males and females, age: 18–45 years) with mild-to-moderate dry skin were included in this study. Skin type of the subjects was classified as Fitzpatrick skin type II–IV scale. Subjects were administered with either an oral dietary supplement containing 10 mg lutein (L) and 2 mg zeaxanthin isomers (Zi) (L/Zi: RR-zeaxanthin and RS (meso)-zeaxanthin) or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The minimal erythemal dose and skin lightening (L*) were measured via the Chromameter®. The individual typological angle was calculated. Subjective assessments were also recorded.ResultsOverall skin tone was significantly improved in the L/Zi group compared to placebo (P<0.0237), and luminance (L*) values were significantly increased in the L/Zi group. Mean minimal erythemal dose was increased with L/Zi supplementation after 12 weeks of supplementation. L/Zi supplementation significantly increased the individual typological angle.ConclusionL/Zi supplementation lightens and improves skin conditions.

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The morphology of the inferior olivary complex was determined in the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta). The position, configuration, and relations of each of its components were ascertained in serial transverse sections extending from caudal through rostra1 poles of the complex. The medial accessory nucleus was divided into seven cell groups (labeled a through 9). The principal nucleus consisted of well-developed dorsal, ventral, and lateral lamellae and a criterion was established for distinguishing the boundaries of each. This distinction was based upon the pattern of invagination that developed in the principal nucleus in progressing rostrally from its caudal pole. The dorsal and lateral lamellae each presented a characteristic pattern of major invaginations, while the ventral lamella did not. Finally, a detailed comparison was made of the inferior olivary complex of the monkey with that of the cat as determined by other investigators. It was shown that the medial and dorsal accessory nuclei of the two species appeared similar and that the major difference between these species concerns the principal nucleus.