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PGA on a tour under the skin

S. epidermidis produces poly-gamma-glutamate (PGA) to protect itself from innate host defenses during infection. The findings suggest PGA as a promising target for drug development to combat related illnesses.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 3, 2005

On the horizon of glucose monitoring: A review

Researchers review new glucose monitoring technologies, including non-invasive options that could lead to better compliance with testing recommendations. Continuous glucose monitoring systems also hold promise for early detection of hidden glucose trends.

SourcePenn State·JournalCanadian Journal of Diabetes·DateSep 15, 2003

Researchers find a molecule that improves wound repair

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a molecule that accelerates wound healing, providing a potential treatment option for millions of Americans suffering from burns and chronic skin ulcers. The growth factor progranulin has been shown to improve skin repair, offering new hope for individuals affected by these conditions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 16, 2003

Drinking through your pelvic region?

A new study investigates blood flow in toads' pelvic skin while absorbing water, finding a significant increase in red cell velocity prior to water exposure and a seven-fold increase within one minute. The results support the initial hypothesis that increased blood flow is associated with water absorption behavior.

Chemistry of tanning

Self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which interacts with skin proteins to create a brown glow. Newer sunscreens offer greater protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, including those developed by Craig Bonda, who found that adding DEHN to avobenzone extends its effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 25, 2002

Study first to confirm acupuncture's effect

Researchers measured the force required to overcome tissue-needle connection during acupuncture needling, finding a significant pullout force when needles were rotated. The study suggests that layers superficial to muscle may be involved in the body's response to acupuncture, with future research focusing on connective tissue's role.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateNov 19, 2001

Swoap at Williams receives NSF and NIH awards

Steven J. Swoap, an assistant professor of biology at Williams College, has been awarded a $497,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to investigate the mechanism of how restricting caloric intake lowers blood pressure. He will also receive a $95,783 NIH award to study why skeletal muscle becomes more fatiguable under disuse.

UV Radiation Induces Vitamin A Deficiency In Skin

Researchers discovered that UV radiation blocks the ability of skin cells to recognize retinoic acid, a nutrient made from vitamin A. This triggers a cascade of biochemical changes, causing a functional vitamin A deficiency in human skin. Pretreating skin with retinoic acid before UV exposure can limit the damage.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 30, 1999

Managed-Care Systems Could Save By Eliminating Restricted Access To Dermatologists

Two studies presented at the American Academy of Dermatology meeting suggest that primary care doctors often refer patients with skin problems to dermatologists, wasting time and resources. Dermatologists diagnose skin diseases more quickly than other doctors, saving money for both patients and healthcare systems.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateMar 19, 1999

Medication Used To Stop Organ Rejection Found to Successfully Treat The Most Common, Chronic Skin Disease In Children

Researchers have found that tacrolimus can effectively treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in children, with a success rate of 67-70% and minimal systemic side effects. This treatment approach offers an alternative to corticosteroid ointments, which can cause skin thinning and other complications.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 29, 1998

Dermatologists Should Provide Primary Care For Skin Disease, Wake Forest Study Shows

A Wake Forest University School of Medicine study found that patients with skin problems receive inadequate comprehensive care from primary care doctors, who focus solely on the skin issue. Dermatologists provide superior treatment due to their specialized expertise, and previous studies have shown they are cost-effective as well.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateAug 1, 1998

Extreme Heat More Stressful For Elders Even At Rest

A recent Penn State study reveals that older adults have a decreased ability to cool their bodies and pump blood efficiently in extreme heat, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Even healthy older individuals with heart disease should take precautions to stay cool and minimize strain on their hearts.