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Skin: An additional tool for the versatile elephant trunk

Researchers found that an elephant's folded skin plays a crucial role in its flexible and strong trunk, enabling it to grasp fragile vegetation and rip apart tree trunks. The study suggests that wrapping soft robotics with a skin-like structure could give machines protection and strength while maintaining flexibility.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2022

Taking Vitamin D during pregnancy could lower the risk of eczema in babies

A new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that taking Vitamin D supplements during pregnancy can substantially reduce the chances of babies developing atopic eczema. Babies who were breastfed for more than a month showed a lower risk of eczema, suggesting that supplementation may have long-lasting benefits.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 5, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Skin’s protective chains uncovered

Researchers at Hokkaido University identified over 1,300 types of ceramides in the top layer of human skin, including their chain lengths and fatty acid compositions. The discovery could improve understanding of skin barrier function and disease pathology.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2022

Scientists craft living human skin for robots

Researchers have developed a method to create living human skin on robots, providing a realistic texture and self-healing properties. The skin is made up of collagen and human dermal fibroblasts, which conform to the robot's surface and can even repair wounds with the help of a collagen bandage.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Human skin can be damaged by exposure to thirdhand smoke and electronic cigarette spills

Researchers discovered that dermal contact with nicotine concentrations found in thirdhand smoke and electronic cigarette spills can impair wound healing, increase susceptibility to skin infections, and cause oxidative stress in skin cells. The study suggests that even a short exposure of 24 hours is sufficient to cause skin damage.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAtmosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Dietary fibre in the gut may help with skin allergies: Monash study

A Monash University study found that microbial fermentation of dietary fibre in the gut protects against allergic skin disease. The researchers used mice with a diet high in fermentable fibre or purified SCFAs, showing that butyrate enhances the metabolism of keratinocytes and fortifies the skin barrier.

SourceMonash University·JournalMucosal Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2022

The right moisturiser for children with eczema is the one that they like to use, study finds

A study has found that there is no single best moisturiser for children with eczema, highlighting the importance of patient education and choice. The trial, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, compared four types of moisturisers and found that reactions were common regardless of type.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 23, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Aging-US: new insights on skin aging gleaned from naked mole-rats

Researchers studied naked mole-rats' skin using single-cell RNA-seq to understand its remarkable stability against aging. They found no changes in epidermal gene expression with age and a unique keratinocyte differentiation trajectory that remained intact.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Human skin has evolved to allow maximum durability and flexibility

Researchers at Binghamton University have discovered that human skin's unique structure allows it to maximize both durability and flexibility. The team created artificial skin membranes that mimicked the structure of mammalian skin, testing their puncture toughness and deformability.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalSoft Matter·DateApr 27, 2022

Touchy subject: 3D printed fingertip ‘feels’ like human skin

Researchers at the University of Bristol created a 3D-printed artificial fingertip that produces nerve signals similar to those from human tactile nerves. The innovation could improve robot dexterity and prosthetic hand performance by giving them an in-built sense of touch.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Latest JAK inhibitor trials for severe skin disease are a success

A new study led by Yale University shows that one in three patients with a severe skin disease called alopecia areata were able to regrow hair after being treated with a common arthritis drug. The Phase 3 clinical trials used baricitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor, to treat the condition.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 31, 2022

Detailed molecular map of skin layer creates pathways for treatments

Researchers from the University of Nottingham have created a detailed molecular map of the skin's stratum corneum using 3D mass spectrometry imaging. This discovery provides fundamental understanding in skin biology and enables the development of new skin products and treatments.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2022

Microneedle approach to address peanut allergy shows promise in mice

Researchers developed a microneedle treatment that increased desensitization rates to peanut allergy in mice, outperforming existing immunotherapy methods. The novel approach achieved significant results using lower doses of allergen, offering new hope for millions suffering from peanut allergy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalImmunotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Bile acids may improve skin inflammation in patients with psoriasis

A UC Davis Health study found that taking bile acids or treatments regulating their production levels can help control psoriasis inflammation. Bile acids inhibited skin inflammation by stopping immune T cells from producing proinflammatory protein IL-17A and blocking immune cell movement to the site.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateFeb 2, 2022

Antifreeze cream prevents frostbite injuries to skin

Researchers have developed a cream that prevents frostbite injuries in mice when applied to the skin before severe cold exposure. The cream, called SynAFP, reduces frostbite wound size and speeds healing compared to no treatment. Further studies are needed to determine its effects on humans.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateJan 19, 2022

First melanoma test to offer reassurance of low risk of cancer spread

A pioneering test called AMBLor has been developed to predict the spread or return of skin cancer. By analyzing primary tumor biopsies, the test identifies patients at low risk of disease progression, providing them with more accurate information and personalized prognosis.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2022

Study links eczema to rare gene variants

Researchers identify eleven rare genetic variants associated with eczema, accounting for over 20% of the disease's heritability. The variants are found in genes that code for proteins involved in inflammatory reactions, providing promising targets for new therapeutic approaches.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Defense or repair: How immune cells are controlled during wound healing

Researchers discovered that wound macrophages undergo different metabolic programs to coordinate tissue repair, including the use of reactive oxygen radicals for blood vessel growth. Macrophages also utilize a different type of mitochondrial exchange for anti-inflammatory and reparative functions in late-stage wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021

A novel protein therapy for efficient skin wound healing

Researchers at A*STAR's Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology have discovered a novel protein therapy using Agrin to promote wound healing and repair. The study found that timely induction or exogenous supplementation of Agrin accelerates the healing process, preserving the mechanical architecture of injured skin layers.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New imaging technology developed by UCLA research team may reduce need for skin biopsies

A new virtual histology technology may reduce the need for invasive skin biopsies, providing a biopsy-free solution for rapid diagnosis of malignant skin tumors. The technology uses deep-learning frameworks to transform images of intact skin into detailed, virtually stained images.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021

Pregnancy stretch marks cause stress and emotional burden, study finds

Researchers found that nearly 75% of pregnant women with stretch marks reported moderate to prominent embarrassment, which impacted their social activities, self-esteem, and clothing choices. The study highlights the need for open discussions about stretch marks to normalize them and identify potential mental health issues.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Women’s Dermatology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 9, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Study finds more inflammation in Black patients with chronic skin disease

Researchers identified two distinct clusters of patients with Prurigo nodularis: those with increased inflammation and those with a higher likelihood of spinal disease. This study suggests that personalized treatment approaches can be tailored to specific patient profiles.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateNov 8, 2021

Urgent changes needed to global guidelines designed to stop surgical infection

A new study revealed that global guidance for preventing Surgical Site Infections (SSI) is not effective and needs revision. The FALCON trial found no superiority of interventions like alcoholic chlorhexidine skin preparation and triclosan coated sutures over lower-cost alternatives.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2021

New, promising opportunities for treating skin fibrosis

Scientists have shown that applying an electric field to the skin affects collagen pathways, temporarily reducing production and increasing degradation. This opens new therapeutic perspectives for the topical treatment of skin fibrosis characterized by excessive collagen deposition.

SourceCNRS·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateOct 21, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

This laser is supposed to rejuvenate vaginal tissue. But scientists say it’s no better than a placebo

A new trial has found that vaginal laser therapy treatments claim to reduce negative vaginal symptoms of menopause – experienced by about half of all women – by up to 100 per cent. However, the study shows they might not work at all, with no difference found between the laser treatment and a placebo.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 12, 2021

Glycerin is safe, effective in psoriasis model

Researchers found glycerin, a natural ingredient in many skin lotions, reduces psoriasis symptoms by calming scaly patches and promoting healthy skin cell maturation. The study's results support anecdotal reports from patients with psoriasis, providing objective evidence of glycerin's effectiveness in combatting the condition.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateOct 4, 2021

UCI-led research uncovers new mechanism that promotes wound healing in skin

A UCI-led study identifies a new molecular pathway that promotes wound healing in the skin by relaxing cell-cell adhesions between migrating keratinocytes. This finding may improve understanding of wound healing biology and lead to new therapies for non-healing wounds like diabetic ulcers.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJCI Insight·DateSep 8, 2021

A skin crawling treatment for acne?

A team of scientists at McGill University has invented a smart device for personalized skin care inspired by the male diving beetle. The device collects and monitors body fluids while sticking to the skin's surface, paving the way for more accurate diagnostics and treatment for skin diseases like acne.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

For psoriasis, targeting skin protein may help control inflammation

A Michigan Medicine study found that altering interferon kappa levels in mice with psoriasis-like lesions reduced disease severity. The research suggests using therapies to modulate interferon states may limit inflammation in psoriasis patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Switching from Western diet to a balanced diet may reduce skin, joint inflammation

A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that a Western diet rich in sugar and fat disrupts gut microorganisms, leading to psoriasis flares. Switching to a balanced diet restores gut health and suppresses skin inflammation, offering a potential solution for managing the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJun 22, 2021

Detecting skin disorders based on tissue stiffness with a soft sensing device

A research team from City University of Hong Kong has designed a simple electromechanical device that can detect skin disorders such as psoriasis by measuring tissue stiffness. The device provides real-time evaluations of deep tissue stiffness, allowing for accurate targeting of lesions and monitoring of skin health status.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 28, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

NTU Singapore scientists turn aquaculture waste into new biomaterial for tissue repair

The researchers developed a biomaterial made from discarded bullfrog skin and fish scales that acts as a scaffold for bone-forming cells to multiply, leading to the formation of new bone. The biomaterial has shown low risk of triggering an inflammatory response and could be used to assist with bone growth around surgical implants.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering C·DateMay 27, 2021

Itch insight: Skin itch mechanisms differ on hairless versus hairy skin

Studies show distinct neuron populations control itching in hairy and hairless skin, offering hope for targeted therapies. Researchers aim to develop treatments that block itch-inducing neurons, improving quality of life for patients with chronic skin itch conditions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

5:2 diet helps reduce skin symptoms in Psoriasis patients

A modified 5:2 diet has shown promising results in reducing scaling and thickness of skin symptoms in psoriasis patients. The study found a significant reduction in Psoriasis severity after following the MIF diet, with 30% of patients reporting a decrease in itching.

SourceSay Communications·DateMay 6, 2021

First of its kind study links wildfire smoke to skin disease

A new study found that short-term exposure to hazardous air quality from wildfire smoke can harm skin health, particularly for those with eczema. The research, conducted during the Camp Fire in 2018, saw a significant increase in patients visiting clinics with concerns of eczema and general itch.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateApr 21, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Neural network could help clinicians look for 'ugly duckling' pre-cancerous skin lesions

A neural network system analyzes photographs to rank and distinguish suspicious skin lesions, suggesting it can aid clinicians in spotting precancerous marks during clinical visits. The platform's performance was demonstrated with a sensitivity and specificity of 90.3% and 89.9%, respectively, in identifying 'ugly duckling' lesions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2021

Identifying "ugly ducklings" to catch skin cancer earlier

A new CAD system uses convolutional deep neural networks to identify skin cancer earlier, analyzing multiple lesions and comparing them to a 'ugly duckling' metric. The technology improved upon previous systems with 90.3% sensitivity and 89.9% specificity.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Grape consumption may protect against UV damage to skin

A recent human study found that consuming grapes protected against ultraviolet (UV) skin damage by increasing resistance to sunburn and reducing markers of UV damage. The study attributed these beneficial effects to the natural components polyphenols in grapes, which may act as an edible sunscreen offering additional protection.

SourceRomano & Associates, LLC·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateFeb 5, 2021

Benvitimod cream: a new topical treatment for plaque psoriasis

A new topical treatment, benvitimod cream, has been proven safe and effective for mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis. In a phase III clinical trial, the cream achieved a 75% decrease in psoriasis size and severity compared to pre-treatment levels.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateJan 19, 2021