Research involving 14 young adults found that those who used tanning beds with artificial UV light experienced greater relaxation and lower tension compared to those without UV exposure. The study suggests that the release of endorphins in response to UV light may contribute to the reinforcing effects of tanning.
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System found that pulsed dye laser therapy was not effective in treating acne. Researchers compared the changes in acne severity on both sides of the face, with no significant difference between treated and untreated sides.
A Stanford study found that a sting-inhibiting cream reduced swelling and discomfort after exposure to jellyfish tentacles. The cream works by repelling water, disrupting communication systems, and mimicking a substance found in the jellyfish bell.
A new study found that even a small amount of psoriasis can significantly affect daily life, impacting over 4.5 million Americans with the disease. Psoriasis patients often feel like their condition is a burden and are dissatisfied with treatment options.
Penn researchers have isolated stem cells in adult mice responsible for hair growth, leading to the development of potential treatments. The findings also hold promise for burn treatments, where current skin grafting methods fail to generate hair growth.
Researchers have found that the lack of response occurs because IGF-I does not activate its receptor molecule on the surface of the cells, triggering a signaling feedback loop. Integrins, which regulate growth factors in other cells, are also impaired due to skeletal unloading.
A recent study provides new hope for understanding autoimmune diseases like pemphigus foliaceus by identifying an inexpensive blood test that can detect antibodies and intervene to halt disease progression. Environmental factors, including mercury exposure, ultraviolet radiation, and female hormones, are also being investigated as pote...
A study found that skin cancer patients experience improved mental and emotional health after surgery, but general quality of life remains unchanged. Patients also showed increased use of sunscreen and protective behaviors like wearing hats.
Researchers at OHSU are conducting a study to investigate whether early treatment with the eczema drug Elidel can prevent asthma in children with a family history of allergic disease. The study aims to enroll 200 infants with eczema and assess whether early intervention reduces the incidence of asthma.
A new survey reveals that people with psoriasis experience severe effects on self-confidence, work, and social life. The study found that three-quarters of those with severe psoriasis reported low self-confidence, while 48% of those with moderate psoriasis also suffered from it.
Research at Ohio State University found that acute stress can significantly boost the immune system's response, with stressed animals showing a two-to-four times higher reaction to chemical or protein antigens. This effect was observed even after several weeks to months of re-exposure without further restraint.
A study found that efalizumab significantly improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The medication reduced the frequency and severity of psoriasis symptoms, including itching and scaling, while also improving mental health and daily functioning.
A recent study found that efalizumab, a new biologic drug, significantly improves psoriasis symptoms and quality of life for adult patients. The treatment reduced the frequency and severity of itching and scaling, offering a potential breakthrough for those suffering from this chronic skin condition.
Researchers at the Medical College of Georgia found that glycerin helps skin cells mature properly, which can aid in treating diseases like psoriasis and non-melanoma skin cancers. Glycerol was shown to produce a signal that directs normal skin cell maturation, and its absence may lead to hyper-proliferative, thick skin.
A six-year prospective study will investigate whether early treatment with pimecrolimus can reduce or prevent the need for corticosteroids and subsequent development of asthma. Researchers hope that effective topical treatment of eczema in its early stages may help prevent later allergic diseases, such as asthma.
A study published in Archives of Dermatology found that people with psoriasis are at a higher risk for developing certain types of cancers, including lymphoma. The research suggests an almost three-fold increased rate of lymphoma in patients with psoriasis compared to those without the condition.
Researchers have identified three genes on chromosome 17 that play a significant role in psoriasis susceptibility. The findings are expected to lead to more successful management of the disease and potentially identify other genes involved. Further research is underway to investigate the precise role of these genes in psoriasis.
A study by Victoria Werth and Kathleen E. Sullivan identified a variant of the TNF-alpha promoter that shows increased activity when exposed to sunlight, leading to cellular death and inflammation in lupus patients. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for photosensitivity in lupus patients.
A new model of cancer development suggests that Id1 activation may be crucial for tumor growth, contradicting previous research. The study, which used mice exposed to carcinogens, found that tumors developed faster in mice without the Id1 gene.
Researchers have made significant progress in isolating skin stem cells, with the discovery that these cells can be found in the basal epidermis layer. This breakthrough has the potential to treat wounds, including burns, by transplanting stem cells directly onto the damaged area.
A randomized clinical trial will test whether daily tenofovir prevents HIV infection in 800 high-risk, uninfected Cambodian women. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the antiviral drug for preventing HIV-1 transmission in people.
Experts warn that taxing tanning may lead to increased use of indoor tanning beds among teens, who already receive too little UV light. The lack of proper sunscreen use is a major concern for public health.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers found approximately 7.8 million Americans living with hyperhidrosis, which can cause anxiety, depression, isolation, and reduced quality of life. The study also revealed that axillary hyperhidrosis affects 4 million Americans, leading to feelings of less confidence and frustration.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have identified honokiol, a compound found in magnolia cones, as a potent inhibitor of tumor growth. Honokiol reduces endothelial cell growth and inhibits angiogenesis, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.
In a global, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, ENBREL demonstrated significant improvements in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) scores after 12 weeks of treatment. Nearly half of patients treated with 50mg or 25mg of ENBREL twice weekly achieved PASI 75 versus 3% of placebo-treated patients.
A new study suggests that PTEN dysfunction is responsible for 30-60% of melanomas and offers a potential therapeutic approach to kill cancer cells. The introduction of PTEN into melanoma cells could be a useful treatment option, but the cancer cells may eventually learn to evade this approach.
Researchers found that brief activation of beta-catenin in resting hair follicles can stimulate complex changes leading to normal hair growth. The discovery may hold potential for inducing hair growth, but caution is needed due to risks of uncontrolled beta-catenin activity.
A newly discovered protein called desmoglein 4 (DSG4) holds cells together as they change into different types of hair follicle cells. The gene's absence leads to thin, sparse hair that breaks easily in people and mice, highlighting its potential role in treating excessive or absent hair growth.
A combination of celecoxib and a common cream used to treat nonmelanoma skin cancer was found to be up to 35% more effective in reducing skin tumors than using the cream alone. The researchers hope to reduce side effects while increasing efficacy by exploring different treatment regimens.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new DNA chip that can rapidly detect and identify dangerous pathogens. The chip uses a simple method to analyze genetic material quickly and accurately, eliminating time-consuming steps typically used in traditional techniques.
A study of over 339 patients found that 77% of those continuing Raptiva therapy had a PASI 50 score and 51% achieved a PASI 75 score. Long-term treatment showed improved response rates, with 22% achieving a 90% or greater improvement in their PSASI score.
A study of 664 patients with moderate papulopustular facial rosacea found that azelaic acid 15% gel significantly reduced redness and the number of inflammatory lesions. The treatment also showed promise for improving overall quality of life, with patients reporting comfort and satisfaction with the product.
Researchers found that female participants experienced reduced tension and increased relaxation when exposed to pheromones from male underarm secretions. The study also showed a shift in blood levels of luteinizing hormone, with the onset of smaller pulses shortened by an average of 20 percent.
A study by Duke University researchers found that outpatient Mohs micrographic surgery is safe, with a complication rate of 1.64% out of 1,343 procedures performed in 2000. The results counter concerns raised by lobbyists and policymakers about the safety of outpatient surgeries.
Researchers found that UV radiation triggers melanoma formation by dismantling the Rb pathway in skin pigment-producing cells. This discovery suggests a new way to distinguish cancerous moles from non-cancerous ones, potentially saving lives.
Researchers found that cancer cells can migrate through protein matrices by reverting to a more rounded shape, allowing them to continue moving even when inhibitors are present. This 'salvage' pathway could be targeted by new drugs to combat cancer spread.
USC researchers have successfully used gene therapy to prompt mouse cells to produce human collagen, a crucial step towards treating patients with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for this debilitating skin condition, which causes blisters and permanent scars.
Researchers discovered that the Id1 gene regulates angiogenesis in melanoma, breast, head and neck, brain, cervical, prostate, pancreatic, and testicular cancers by reducing thrombospondin-1 production. This reduction leads to increased tumor blood vessel formation.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that higher levels of the molecule HDM2 are associated with a better prognosis in patients with melanoma. Patients with high levels of HDM2 lived significantly longer after treatment than those with low levels, even ten years after diagnosis.
The Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology will bring together researchers to develop new technology that enables scientists and physicians to see living cells in real-time. Applications of biophotonics include selectively treating tumors, sequencing DNA, and identifying single biomolecules within cells.
Researchers have found that topical retinoids, such as tazarotene, may be a safer alternative for preventing skin cancer in individuals at risk. The study used mice with basal cell nevus syndrome, a genetic disorder that predisposes them to developing large numbers of basal cell carcinomas.
A novel gene therapy technique developed by Stanford researchers allows for the integration of large genes into human chromosomes, enabling continuous production of proteins. This technique has the potential to treat a variety of diseases, including Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and cystic fibrosis.
A new study found that DEET-based insect repellents were significantly more effective than plant-based alternatives in preventing mosquito bites. The study tested 16 representative products and found that DEET-based products provided the longest-lasting protection, with some lasting up to five hours.
The study found that mortality from melanoma remained relatively stable in Scotland between 1979 and 1993, with a slight decrease in women under 65. Meanwhile, the number of people diagnosed with melanoma has increased each year. The researchers attribute the decline in death rates to improved treatment seeking behavior.
Researchers created a mouse model of hair loss syndrome, which sheds light on the complex interactions between genes and their effects on human diseases. The study found that genetic background plays a significant role in determining the severity of the condition, and could potentially inform gene therapy approaches.
Researchers at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences have developed a new treatment for common warts, which was successful in 74 percent of patients in a pilot study. The treatment involves injecting approved skin test antigens into a wart to stimulate the body's immune response and destroy the virus.
Researchers found HMO patients with capitation payment received 17% more health counseling and preventive services, but spent an average of 2 minutes less time with doctors. This study dispels fears about capitation payment's impact on quality care.
Research suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help prevent chronic wounds, such as pressure ulcers and venous leg ulcers, in elderly female patients. Studies have shown a 35% lower risk of developing these wounds among HRT recipients.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help prevent venous leg ulcers and pressure sores in elderly women. Researchers analyzed data from over 45,000 patients and discovered a 35% lower risk of developing these chronic wounds among HRT users.
A statewide study found that people who used tanning lamps were 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma than non-users. The risk of these skin cancers increased with younger age at use.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new procedure for delivering vaccines by manipulating dendritic cells in the skin, reducing production time from 10 days to just 24 hours. This breakthrough could lead to more effective cancer treatments and broader clinical applications.
A recent study found that most popular melanoma web sites had incomplete facts about the disease, with around one in eight sites having inaccuracies. The study suggests that Web users should be cautious when searching for health information online and guide themselves toward reputable sources.
Researchers found that proteins produced by melanocytes trigger attacks on immune cells, leading to hair loss. The discovery could pave the way for more effective treatments for alopecia areata.
A new study found that only a third of clothing items offer adequate protection against UV light, with many fabrics lacking even minimal levels of protection. The researchers suggest standardizing UV protection ratings for summer clothing to protect consumers from the damaging effects of UV light.
The Vienna centre of excellence in biomedicine is researching into the genetic causes of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatism and arteriosclerosis. The centre brings together leading university institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and start-ups to achieve rapid transfers of research results from the laboratory to patients.
Researchers at UCSD and VA San Diego Healthcare System discovered a natural antibiotic peptide called cathelicidin, which inhibits microbe growth and plays a crucial role in mammalian innate immunity. The study provides hope for developing new treatments and a blood test to identify individuals susceptible to bacterial infections.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh identified Langerhans cell precursors that can be targeted to initiate or down-regulate the immune response, potentially leading to novel treatments for asthma and transplant rejection. The discovery could also enhance vaccine development.
A two-year study found that first-year medical students who received visual training on detailed artworks improved their observational skills by 10 percent. This improvement enabled them to make correct diagnoses without relying on costly blood tests and x-rays.
Researchers found that gamma-delta T cells play a crucial role in local immunity and can kill tumor cells by expressing NKG2d protein. In contrast, alpha-beta T cells surprisingly promote skin cancer development and progression in models of skin cancer.
The skin's acid coating, composed of fatty acids, helps maintain strength and cohesiveness. The discovery could aid in developing therapies for skin problems like psoriasis.