Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Reduced skin infections in Northern Australian Aboriginal children

A three-year study in remote communities found a significant reduction in skin sores among Aboriginal children, with over 6000 assessments conducted on nearly 2500 children. The program's success highlights the importance of local education and treatment, but ongoing efforts are needed to address underlying causes such as poor housing ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 24, 2009

Discovery of new type of immune cells regulating inflammation in chronic diseases

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered Th22 cells, a previously unknown subset of T helper cells that aid in tissue repair and prevent inflammation. The newly found cells hold promise for developing new treatment methods for inflammatory skin diseases and potentially also allergic respiratory diseases.

A second skin

A Tel Aviv University-developed dressing can eradicate infection-causing bacteria after just two days, protecting wounds until they heal. The biodegradable, antibiotic-infused material mimics skin's protective properties and helps doctors administer high doses of antibiotics locally, reducing toxicity issues.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateNov 17, 2009

Study of DuraPrep versus chlorhexidine

A recent study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that iodine-based skin preparation solutions, such as 3M's DuraPrep Surgical Solution, may be superior to chlorhexidine in preventing surgical-site infections. The study of over 3,200 general surgery patients suggests a significant reduction in morbidity and ...

SourceWeissComm Partners·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateOct 5, 2009

Study reveals new role of vitamin C in skin protection

A new study reveals that vitamin C helps promote wound healing and protects skin cells from DNA damage, a finding with great relevance to the cosmetics industry. The research also suggests that vitamin C can help remove DNA damage caused by free radicals, leading to potential advances in skin regeneration and cancer prevention.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateSep 9, 2009

Caltech, UCSF scientists determine how body differentiates between a scorch and a scratch

Scientists identify distinct subsets of pain-sensing neurons responsible for detecting heat and mechanical pain, challenging conventional wisdom that the brain disentangles these sensations. The study's findings have potential implications for understanding and treating conditions like diabetic neuropathy.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2009

Web-based consultations may reduce referrals to dermatologists

A web-based system allowing general practitioners to confer with specialists about skin conditions has been shown to reduce referrals to dermatologists by approximately 20%. The study found that in-person consultations were preventable for 39% of patients who received teledermatologic consultations, compared to 18.3% in the control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateMay 18, 2009

Why does eczema often lead to asthma?

Scientists discovered that a substance secreted by damaged skin can trigger asthmatic symptoms in mice exposed to eczema-causing agents. Early treatment of skin rash and inhibition of the trigger substance may block asthma development in young patients with eczema.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 18, 2009

Researchers discover why eczema often leads to asthma

Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine discovered a substance called TSLP, which is secreted by damaged skin and circulates through the body to trigger asthmatic symptoms. Early treatment of skin rash and inhibition of TSLP production may block asthma development in young patients with eczema.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 18, 2009

Feather color is more than skin deep

Researchers found carotenoids produced in the liver of Common Crossbills, contradicting previous assumptions about skin synthesis. The discovery highlights inter-specific variation in mechanisms of color production, shedding light on evolutionary pathways involved in color signaling.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateApr 15, 2009

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern outline best treatments for post-burn itching

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern recommend a hierarchy of treatment strategies to alleviate chronic itching caused by burn scars. Topical creams and ointments are often effective, while oral antihistamines may be necessary for more severe cases. Other non-medicinal treatments like lasers and massage can also provide relief.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Burn Care & Research·DateFeb 26, 2009

Advancement in tissue engineering promotes oral wound healing

A research team developed an autologous full-thickness oral substitute that mimics the characteristics of gingiva, providing a promising solution for oral cavity reconstruction. The study's results support the need for larger clinical trials to further evaluate the effectiveness of this new tissue-engineered product.

Even natural perfumes may cause allergies

Natural aromatic oils can trigger allergic reactions, according to a study by Lina Hagvall at the University of Gothenburg. The research found that common perfume substances, like geraniol and lavender oil, can become allergens through autoxidation and skin enzyme reactions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalContact Dermatitis·DateFeb 3, 2009

Newly described contaminant sources in Katrina-flooded homes pose health risks

A modeling study reveals that Katrina-flooded homes can harbor hazardous contaminants in the air, posing significant health risks to residents and first responders. The study identifies inhalation exposure routes through volatile and semi-volatile organic pollutants, highlighting the need for better preparation and safety protocols.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateFeb 2, 2009