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Advances on Copper v. Superbugs, Doctor’s Jackets, Face Creams & Healthy Heels
Native Copper Specimen (Cu, 29) - www.en.wikipedia.org Photo: Chris Ralph of Nevada-outback-gems.com
Copper’s diverse true worth is continuously being revealed, from employment in healing before Christ by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Aztecs to the Persians, Greeks and Romans, there is plenty of accruing historic evidence of its functional use. For example, Oetzi1 the Iceman’s functional copper-headed axe, the 5,300-year-old hunter who emerged from a melting glacier in 1991, to it being employed in early dental hygiene and the resumption of its current medical usages. (See article on Herbsphere www.herbsphere.com Copper’s ‘got a handle’ on the Superbugs!” There is endorsement for copper’s sanitizing value near the beginning of dental hygiene, when the wild-boar bristle toothbrush and later a softer horse-hair type that did not cause gums to bleed were invented.2 The toothbrush is said to have evolved in China from the ‘chewing-stick’, usually of aromatic medicinal wood still familiar in African countries, which eventually found its way through trade to Europe. However, the toothbrush was not favoured by Europeans, very few of whom brushed their teeth!3 Indeed, it was customary to use a toothpick after meals made of goose feather or metals, silver or copper – both the latter being bactericidal. Copper versus the Superbugs ‘Superbugs’, such as MRSA (Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) 3 and Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) 4 are the modern scourge of hospitals. Not unsurprisingly, at the present time there are members of the public, potential patients, who are probably more afraid of being infected by superbugs when hospitalized than of surgical procedures! However, further help is at hand from the magic metal ‘copper’. Using breakthrough technology, a new study has revealed that an interactive range of infection control products such as antimicrobial hand gels, hand soaps, surface cleaners and laundry additives in detergents5A made from copper can kill some of the most fatal bacteria within an hour. Perhaps it is no accident that before ‘time’ contracted and fast tracks had been laid the old wash-houses of yore used ‘copper boilers’, because even washing hospital sheets in a copper solution can keep them sterilized for several days, preventing harmful organisms from infecting wounds.5 Prior to use of labour-saving teccy gadgets and sophistication in carrying out some of our basic household chores like the use of washing machines, the idea of the poor washer-woman perspiring over an old copper boiler in the back-yard may be abhorrent to our modern world; yet how wise we often were in so many ways without even knowing it. A team of microbiologists at University College Hospitals (UCH) in London carried out research on three novel highly charged copper-based biocides for safety and efficacy against healthcare-associated organisms, 6 including MRSA, C. difficile spores and Legionella pneumophila7 that causes Legionnaire’s disease. Also the perhaps less familiar to the public Acinetobacter spp.8 (Acinetobacter calcoaceticus/baumannii (ACCB); for example, since the start of the Iraq War, over 700 US soldiers have been infected or colonized by A. baumannii. Four civilians undergoing treatment for serious illnesses at Walter Reed Army Medical Centre in Washington, D. C., contracted A baumannii infections and died – these infections appear to have been hospital acquired.9 Also, glycopeptide-resistant Enterococcus. Important clinical infections caused by Enterococcus include urinary tract infections, bacteremia, 10A bacterial endocarditis, 10B diverticulitis, 10C and meningitis.10 & 10D One of the experts, Dr Vanya Gant, who spent 18 months testing the copper-based medication, declared the remedy stopped the spread of some of the most dangerous bacteria including MRSA, C. difficile and Acinetobacter. Furthermore, the copper compounds were highly effective at disinfecting contaminated laundry.11 He stated that: “These novel copper compounds are exciting because they are effective against a wide range of bacteria and safer than current disinfectants such as chlorine,12A triclosan12B and polyquats.12C Antimicrobial compounds must not only control bacteria, they must also work in the complex hospital environment.”12 Professor Michael Wren, MBE, also involved in the research, who has been a biomedical scientist for over 40 years said that the remedy was the first major advance in decades: “These are the first truly novel and new antimicrobial compounds that I have seen that are effective against gram negative, gram positive and anaerobic bacteria such as Clostridium difficile.”13 The importance of these copper solutions cannot be undervalued as a potential combatant against such bacteria with MRSA killing about 5,000 patients per annum, the latter all too quickly beginning to be superseded by Clostridium difficile, which cases in 2006 rose by 69% to 3,800.14 Copper is thought to work in several ways. It appears to damage the outer membrane of bacteria, viruses or fungi in such a way as to cause inward collapse i.e. the cell literally implodes.15 The good news is that this kind of bacterial cellular demolition process means it is highly unlikely that superbugs will learn to become resistant to the treatment.16 Better still, copper also disrupts the process by which bacterial DNA replicates itself. 17 How wonderful is that! Given that we cannot possibly know other than is reported to be happening in the scientific world, nonetheless remedies for dealing with MRSA are inclined to be a case of “Now you see me, now you don’t.” For every time some really good potential bacterial killer is in sight it then seemingly disappears from view until the next batch of reported research papers rekindle hope. However, copper’s magnanimity is also emerging in other arenas. Anti-microbial Metallic Doctor’s Coats? We have already learned something about the power of metalized fabrics and clothing, as in ‘silver pyjamas’ (See Herbsphere’s “MRSA – Silver Pyjamas for Protection”). Now that the death of the doctors’ white coat18 has been announced, perhaps it is the turn of copper fabric and specialist clothing to do more than claim the Anti-Superbug Catwalk - why not? Metallic fabrics and clothing are all the rage from haute couture to High Street fashion this Autumn/Winter season! Frivolity aside, the Doctor’s ‘white coat’ first introduced in the 19th-century was actually filched from the Lab-coat worn by scientist’s who were making impressive medical breakthroughs in laboratories. Even if nowadays it may also commonly refer to a GP’s white jacket, the garment lent doctors ‘credibility‘ to their status.19 The white coat’s arrival on hospital wards coincided with a change in medicine, accenting the importance of hygiene as a means of greater success in combating illness, disease, infections, and ultimately survival. In fact, it was adopted for similar reasons as it is now being discarded. Although there has been a certain faction of the public who e.g. suffered from psychiatric problems and associated ‘the men in white coats’ with being symbolic of fear of capture, restraint and being incarcerated in an asylum (psychiatric hospital), the long-sleeved white coat became a symbol of the medical profession, generally inspiring confidence in doctors’ patients for more than a hundred years.20 The volte face of now abandoning ‘the white coat’ as a harbinger of infection is somewhat ironic, as its original intent was in part to prevent cross-contamination.21 Some NHS trusts have already banned the garment on the wards and the government expects all to follow suit by January 2008.22 The arguments against the white coats are many; from being carriers of deadly infections, being worn by other medical or auxiliary staff who are not doctors; the psychological aspect of them setting the doctor apart from the patient, which for some patients is preferable, to hospitals no longer having their own ‘in house’ laundries’ and total hygiene control &c.23 Be that as it may, from October 2007 as part of infection control at e.g. West Middlesex hospital all junior doctors will be sporting tunic-style, sleeveless, commodious bright blue uniforms made of an ‘infection fighting’ material with large pockets. Lady Doctors are reportedly keen on the large pockets as an alternative receptacle to carrying around a hand-bag all day.24 British hospitals are also banning neckties and jewellery, as well as long sleeves, in their efforts to stop the spread of deadly hospital-born infections.25 Whatever, the British decision to scrap one of the most recognizable symbols of the traditional doctor flies in the face of normal practice in other countries. Indeed, currently in Australia there has been a shift towards using white coats because they signify ‘purpose, pride and professionalism.’26 Nevertheless, the die has been cast, but there will likely be some earth-shattering rumbles of thunderous argument to retain some version of the ‘white coat’. Already the roar of rebellion has sounded; the abolition of the ‘white coat’ has not been well received. In fact, hot on the heels of Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s announced plans to ‘deep clean’ every hospital: “A ward at a time, walls, ceilings, fittings and ventilation shafts will be disinfected and scrubbed clean,” to return hospitals to the state they were in when they were built ‘experts’ in the medical fields, plus the most revered medical journal The Lancet and the national press and media, have trounced the proposals as political “pandering to populism”.27 All are aware that the public wants clean wards and crisp uniforms, but it is suggested by The Lancet that politicians listen to the evidence: “Disinfection of high-touch surfaces is what is needed, more so than removing visible dirt.”28 Although the return of ‘Matron’ to the wards to check on hygiene is welcomed, and the PM plans to double their number, when it comes to the subject of ‘long sleeves’ and eradication of the Superbugs it is suggested that it would be better to ensure doctors, nurses and visitors wash their hands properly, which is the tried and tested way to put a stop to hospital-acquired infections.29 Notwithstanding, infections with MRSA are falling from a peak in 2003, but C. difficile cases are still on the rise - the latest Office of National Statistics show C. difficile was a factor in more than 3,800 deaths across the country while MRSA contributed to 1,629 deaths, which brings home the importance of ‘getting it right’!29A Experts have stated that they found no conclusive evidence that uniforms or work clothes posed a hazard in spreading infection and ‘deep cleansing’ of hospitals would have little effect without other measures in place. The government’s Chief Nursing Officer, Christine Beazley, said: “The fact is there is no single remedy. Infection control is a complex problem that needs a complex solution.” 29B However, other experts have opined that simple person-to-person transference would remain the chief problem with MRSA transmission, although hospital cleansing might have more impact with C. difficile that can be passed through contact with faeces. 29C Interestingly, at the end of last year came reports that our good friend Copper has found its way into healing fabric, so perhaps doctors may yet be seen sporting metalized ‘white coats’ and running to the rescue in A&E like knights in shining armour! Coming to a Hospital near You? Although ‘performance’ textiles are big sellers, they have been rather a Cinderella when it comes to medical evidence for them. However, last year saw some definitive movement on the impregnated textiles front by the science establishment who are currently taking them very seriously indeed. No doubt, in the light of increasing hospital-born infections, they are gearing up for these innovations to standardize them for practical use in areas such as health-care. German scientists have been looking at the antimicrobial impregnation of textiles intended to provide protection of textiles against microbial corrosion, prevention of malodour or prophylaxis30A and therapy of infections, as every biocidal30B product requires a careful risk assessment for humans and the environment.30 Actively antimicrobial textiles have to be assessed for every agent, application and the balance to be found between a textile’s quality rating and potential risks, such as e.g. sensitization, toxic side effects, cytotoxicity,31A genotoxicity,31B carcinogenicity,31C &c.31 The researchers evaluated the applicability of copper and silver, as well as triclosan and several others. The aim and progress from the hygiene viewpoint is to establish declaration of any antimicrobial impregnation, development of international standards for ‘in vitro’ testing and preclinical evaluation of efficacy and tolerance; evaluation of the advantage of the antimicrobial properties for the intended use, including the risk-benefit assessment.32 At this point we may say ‘shalom’ to Jeffery Gabbay’s fabric ‘impregnated’ with the compound copper oxide called ‘Cupron’,33 & 33A which some deem helps to heal skin disorders.33 The company, Cupron Inc.’s priorities is to develop and test bioactive fibres in a variety of fields, including healthcare, industrial, military and consumer industries.34 It uses the unique qualities of its patented copper technology, to which arsenal it adds a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound to protect a wide range of products. 35 The copper oxide compound is natural and long lasting and is biocompatible for non-intrusive medical devices.36 Its properties permit the qualities of copper to bind to textile fibres, allowing the production of woven, knitted and non-woven fabrics containing copper-impregnated fibres with antimicrobial protection against micro-organisms such as bacteria and fungi.37 Furthermore, copper may similarly be integrated into latex and other polymeric38A products in the manufacturing process.38 The full impact of what this can mean in terms of hospital use and patient care is clear, the technology is functional in linens, carpeting, bedding, apparel, and medical devices.39 Despite early scepticism, and requirements for further scientific provenance, applications for Cupron are set to increase. There is huge commercial interest in these products, e.g. according to the Dean of the North Carolina State University College of Textiles in Raleigh, Dr. A. Blanton Godfrey: “Interest in antimicrobials, especially antiviral coating, is very, very high. Whoever gets it right will have a very nice business.”39 & 40 Gabbay is well aware of his silver-based competition, however he reckons copper’s future to be brighter because he reasons that: “silver pollutes the environment and is also dangerous to humans, who metabolize copper, but not silver.”41 With the rise in volume of Superbugs on the march such innovations may, sooner rather than later, have a major effect on the content and quality of our fabrics and the fabric of our lives, especially in relation to ill-health. A practical science abstract speaks for copper: - “Copper ions, either alone or in copper complexes, have been used for centuries to disinfect liquids, solids, and human tissue.”42 [Copper sulphate is used in wound treatment.43] “Today copper is used as a water purifier, algaecide, fungicide, nematocide, molluscicide, and antibacterial and antifouling agent. Copper also displays potent antiviral activity. We hypothesized that introducing copper into clothing, bedding, and other articles would provide them with biocidal properties. A durable platform technology has been developed that introduces copper into cotton fibres, latex, and other polymeric materials. This study demonstrates the broad-spectrum antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal), and anti-mite activities of copper-impregnated fibres and polyester products. This technology enabled the production of antiviral gloves and filters (which deactivate HIV-1 and other viruses), antibacterial self-sterilizing fabrics (which kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including MRSA i.e. methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci), antifungal socks (which alleviate symptoms of athlete’s foot), and anti-dust mite mattress covers (which reduce mite-related allergies). These products did not have skin-sensitizing properties, as determined by animal testings. Our study demonstrates the potential use of copper in new applications. These applications address medical issues of the greatest importance, such as viral transmissions; nosocomial, 44A or healthcare-associated, infections; and the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.”44 Now does the ‘idea’ of doctors and nurses wearing copper-sheened hospital outfits sound as if we are about to join a bunch of metal-clad aliens from another planet? “I don’t think so!”45 As a footnote, Jeffrey Gabbay declares he hasn’t washed his sports socks since 2004! No, it’s not a case of Phew! - the copper oxide impregnated socks kill bacteria and odour on contact. It’s more a case of seeing how far his socks can go – not on their own I hasten to add: “I’m not trying to encourage unhygienic habits, … Basically what I do is play golf, take off the socks, roll’em up, put them in my shoes and I’ve been doing it for two and a half years now,” – he says the socks can heal and prevent athlete’s foot and are one of Cupron’s best-sellers. The company includes the U.S. military and one of the world’s biggest sock makers, Renfro Corp., North Carolina, among its clients.46 In fact, the giant Renfo Corp. developed its ‘copper-sole’ brand using the Cupron technology. The U.S. Marine Corps is trying out the socks on new recruits, and last summer Gabbay donated socks to Israeli troops during the war against Hezbollah guerrillas.47 Although such contracts and success are very gratifying, Gabbay is most excited by independent research that reveals unforeseen medical benefits of copper oxide. So far, trial testing on Cupron socks has helped heal diabetic ulcers. 48 Gabbay may not have holes in his socks from running this marathon of his promising copper-bottomed medicinal discovery, but he does seem to have scored ‘a hole in one’! Copper, Malachite& Verdigris – In Your Face! Let’s face it, copper is ‘Big News’, or haven’t you noticed copper finding its way into the Beauty Industry and current cosmetics? Copper produces ‘malachite’, 49 an attractive bright green mineral substance, an oxide of copper, often resulting from the weathering of copper ores, with an extensive history going back to the 5th Millennium BC, when Egyptians were using it as a pigment, a cosmetic and in medicine. From antiquity until c.1800, malachite was used as natural mineral pigments in green paints and by artists. More to the point, malachite pigment was used by the ancient Egyptians to make the green eye-shadow depicted in tomb paintings.50 It is said to be particularly effective against staphylococci, a cause of skin diseases.51 The word the Egyptians used for their eye-shadow kits was similar to the phrase ‘to protect’; 52 so, within or without the eye malachite had a preventive and healing function. The use of verdigris, past and present, is a vast subject. Produced mainly from vinegar (acetic acid) and copper, verdigris53 as a by-product of copper was predominantly peculiar to the wine growing regions of France, where wine vinegar is plentiful.54 It is on record that for nearly 700 years the entire verdigris-making process was controlled by particular women of Montpellier.55 &56 Throughout that period, very much living in ‘a man’s world’, these women had a unique monopoly on the production and sale of verdigris throughout Europe.57 Cannily, the women kept their recipe a secret which was passed on from mother to daughter until World War I.58 However, in another era, copper’s verdigris was used by the Egyptians to treat eye infections, which runs parallel with its cosmetic use.59 To treat cataract of the eye an instillation of isinglass60A and verdigris was used, accompanied by the invocation: ‘Come verdigris! Come verdigris! Come thou Fresh One! Come, efflux [outflow] from the eye of Horus! It comes, that which issues forth from the eye of Tum! Come juice that gushes from Osiris!’60 Later, in the 1st –century AD, Dioscorides in his De Materia Medica described the process of exposing metallic copper to the vapours of boiling vinegar.61 Verdigris and blue vitriol (copper sulphate) were used in remedies for eye ailments such as bloodshot eyes, inflamed or ‘bleary’ eyes, cataracts and possibly trachoma.62 &63 The Egyptian remedy for ‘bleary eyes’ was the application of a paste, which recipe, before descending into dung and other currently considered noxious and nauseous ingredients, begins with myrrh, onions, verdigris, clear oil, and henna from the north.63A In fact, all the ancient and classic doctors64A and physicians64B knew about verdigris’ virtues. By the time the Roman encyclopaedist Aulus Cornelius Celsus came on the scene, said to have begun practicing medicine as a physician under Tiberius (14-37AD),64 copper and its derivatives had been firmly established as an important drug in the practitioner‘s pharmacopoeia. In his book series De Medicina, through six volumes, are listed many purposes for the uses of copper together with the preparation and the form of copper most effective for each ailment. In the Middle-East, the Assyrians left a legacy of 1500 years of herbal medicine (c.1900-400BC) in the form of 660 clay tablets praising the merits of 1000 medicinal plants and remedies.65 The Assyrian 8th-century physician,Yuhanna ibn Masawaih or Masawaiyh.66 & 66A His remedy Aegyptiacum or aegyptiacum,67 was used pharmaceutically as a kind of detersive,68 in an unguent69 which contained verdigris together with vinegar and honey boiled to a consistency that was for the most part used for debriding70 rotting flesh and cleansing foul ulcers, particularly venereal ones in the throat, and mouth ulcers.71 & 72 Leaving the ancients behind and moving on to cosmeceutical73 face creams, i.e. the lotions and potions of our modern times, enigmatic cosmetic copper is making a name for itself. Although ‘Copper peptide’74 products for tissue regeneration, often referred to as ‘the facelift in a bottle’, have been available to spas, salons and professionals since 1989, it only made its début onto the mass market in 1997.75 It has been frequently mentioned as being the most effective skin regenerative agent76 and is now available in chemists, department stores, by mail order and over the Internet.77 Studies have shown, mainly through wound healing researches,78 that copper peptide promotes collagen79 and elastin80 production in the skin; it also acts as an antioxidant.81 This helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can also help with improving facial sag because of the increase in elastin synthesis.82 It promotes production of glycoaminoglycans (GAGs),83 and importantly GAGs form an essential component of connective tissues.84 As the old song goes: ‘You’ve gotta have skin to hold your body in …’, equally you have to have connective tissues to both constitute and hold your insides together. The latest research this year by Polish scientists informs us that: “…The main reason that the usage of this element [copper] in this context [skin penetration by copper-amino acid complexes via emulsions i.e. creams etc.] is still increasing is its beneficial biochemical activity, although the mechanism that enables its complexes to permeate through skin barriers is largely unknown. The ability of copper complexes with amino acids to penetrate through the stratum corneum85A and participate in copper ion85B transport processes is ‘key’ to their cosmetic and pharmaceutical activities.”85 Clinical studies have found that copper peptides also remove damaged collagen and elastin from the skin and scar tissue because they activate the skin’s system responsible for those functions.86 Without entering into an out-and-out saga, it is important to acknowledge the work of Dr Loren R. Pickart Ph.D., “The Turn Back the Clock Doc”, 87 who made possible the use of copper in modern skin-care products. He has spent his life working on methods to reverse the effects of ageing in the human body. He is the discoverer of the role of remodelling copper peptides on the repair of human skin and other tissues such as bone, hair follicles, liver, stomach lining, and the intestinal tract, after his isolation of the human skin remodelling copper-peptide ‘GHK-Copper’ from human blood.88 When choosing an anti-ageing face cream with a copper peptide formula, remember that not all Copper Peptide skin-care products are created equal. It might be wise to choose one that contains the GHK-Cu Copper Peptide, also known as Active Copper or Copper Tripeptide that was developed by Dr. Pickart, founder of ProCyte (maker of the Neova Active Copper skin care line) and currently founder and CEO of SkinBiology. Products such as e.g. ‘Neova Crème De La Copper’ have his patent on them.89 Studies have shown that copper peptide-containing products are more effective than topical application of the more traditional dermatological treatments, such as Vitamin C, tretinoin or melatonin, on the ultra structure of the skin.90 As a result of Dr Pickart’s work, over 40 products based on copper-peptide-induced tissue regeneration have been marketed by at least 12 companies throughout the world.91 “Copper-peptides are also used in products that aid skin healing post-surgery, after laser resurfacing, dermabrasion and chemical peels; to simulate hair growth and during hair-transplantation; to aid skin conditions in persons with acne, diabetes and psoriasis;92A for use as sun tanning lotion for increasing the efficiency of melanogenesis and reducing post-tanning skin peeling; in after-shave lotions; and in veterinary wound cleanser and healing products” - and much more.92 The success story of usefulness and efficacy of GHK-Cu copper peptides for skin cosmetics, ailments and conditions is set to run a long way into the future. Get Well-Healed with Copper Foolish or fun? Beware! The most recent crazy fashion thrown at your feet for adoption by possibly the fashionistas93 looks destined to create some very real foot problems in later life - if you live to tell the tale! Don’t fall over backwards (and break your neck!) – or maybe that’s the first thing you’ll do if this latest fashion of back-to-front shoes94 with Dali-esque surreal heels, designed and introduction by Marc Jacob, catches on and impacts on the public. Image-wise it seems entirely detrimental to podiatry health. This latest ‘high heeled’ innovation has been described as ankle-threatening, ludicrous, impractical and over-priced, and certainly not going ‘on stream’ for little old ladies with diabetes! In total contrast, curative copper now takes another bow, thanks to over 40 years experience and the work of orthopaedic footwear specialist Tony Andrews.95 Research had already shown that copper is antimicrobial.96 However, Andrews, with copper healing in mind has gone from wrist-worn pain-relieving copper magnetic bracelets, which therapeutic values are well-known especially for arthritis and strongly anecdotally documented: (See Herbsphere’s archived article: “Attractive Magnetic Pain Relief”), to copper insoles. Having observed many people’s constant suffering and discomfort from arthritic damage, causing stabbing pains in their feet and knees to their hands and shoulders and other bodily locations, he determined to find a natural drug-free painkiller solution to ameliorate if not cure the cause of their wretchedness and to improve their ‘quality of life’.97 Inventor Andrews, who runs ‘Special Footwear & Orthotics’, 98A a specialist shoe shop in Marylebone, London, UK, took about two years testing different shapes, thicknesses and designs to develop his ultra-thin, light-weight, copper insole, “The Original Copper Heeler® “.98 The shape is very important and is specially moulded to the shape of the foot to ensure maximum comfort. Based on a money-back guarantee deal, he has some professional endorsements as well as many user fans, including Cleo Laine the legendary world of music singer who wears the insoles daily, and down-to-earth actress Maureen Lipman C.B.E. who “ … distributed them amongst some of her wincing friends” to good effect and received great feed-back.99 He has said: “A tiny trace of copper is absorbed through the skin and works on the aching joints in all parts of the body. I don’t know how it works, but it does.”100 Maybe copper will work one of its forms of remedial magic for you. References: 1. Oetzi the Iceman – http://en.wikipedia.org.wiki/Oetzi_the_Icemen 2. The History of Toothpaste and Toothbrushes – http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A2818686 3. MRSA (Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus): is a specific strain of Staphylococcus aureus bacterium that has developed antibiotic resistance, first to penicillin since 1947, and later to the antibiotic methicillin and related anti-staphylococcal drugs such as fluxlozacillin - [methicillin is an antibiotic drug of the penicillin family used in the treatment of certain staphylococcal infections]. However, in practice, MRSAs are generally resistant to many antibiotics and some are resistant to all but vancomycin. Popularly termed a ‘superbug’, it was first discovered in Britain in 1961 and is now widespread. 4. Clostridium difficile (C. difficile): A bacterium that is one of the most common causes of infection of the large bowel (colon) and is recognized as the major causative agent of colitis (inflammation of the colon) and diarrhoea that may occur following antibiotic intake and it can cause a serious illness called pseudo-membranous colitis, and can sometimes trigger reactive arthritis. Reactive Arthritis is arthritis resulting from infection elsewhere in the body i.e. there is no infection in the joint. The commonest type is HLA B27-related and may follow certain types of bowel or genitourinary infection. It can also be referred to as Reiter’s syndrome or Reiter’s disease and is quite distinct from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The usual causes are - sexually transmitted infection, acute infectious diarrhoea or food poisoning. In technical terms, C. difficile is an obligate anaerobic or microaerophilic, gram-positive, spore-forming, rod-shaped bacillus. 5. Call in the Coppers to Stop MRSA: Metallic Soap Can Beat Superbugs by Pat Hagan – Daily Mail, Good Health, 24th July 2007 - http://www.industrywatch.com/pages/iw2/Story.nsp?story_id=108699936&ID=iw&scategory=Food%3ASafety&P=&F=&R=&VNC=hnall & “A major breakthrough for infection control” - Media Release by Remedy Research Limited., 19th July 2007, http://www.remedyresearch.org/Remedy%20Research%20press%20release%2019th%20July%202007.pdf 5A. Detergent: a synthetic cleansing agent resembling soap; has the ability to emulsify oil and remove dirt; contains surfactants that do not precipitate in hard water. Surfactant: Surface-active agent which increases the emulsifying, foaming, dispersing, spreading and wetting properties of a product. 6. Three novel highly charged copper-based biocides: safety and efficacy against healthcare-associated organisms. Gant VA, Wren MW, et al. Dept. of Microbiology, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK. J. Antimicrob. Chemother. 2007 Aug; 60(2):294-9. Epub 2007 Jun 13. 7. Legionella pneumophila; the aquatic bacterium legionella, most notably L. pneumophila, thrives in warm environments (32o-45o C) causes over 90% of Legionnaires Disease in the USA. 8. Acinetobacter spp. Are widely distributed in nature and able to survive on various surfaces, both moist and dry, in the hospital environment, thereby being an important source of infection in debilitated patients. Strains may be isolated from foodstuffs and some on various medical equipment and even on human healthy skin. http://www.wordwebonline.com/search.pl?w=Acinetobacter+ 9. Ibid. 10. Three novel highly charged copper-based biocides: safety and efficacy against healthcare-associated organisms. Gant VA, Wren MW, et al. Dept. of Microbiology, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK. J. Antimicrob. Chemother. 2007 Aug; 60(2):294-9. Epub 2007 Jun 13. & http://www.wordwebonline.com/search.pl?w=Enterococcus+ - Ryan KJ, Ray CG (editors) (2004). Sherris Medical Microbiology, 4th ed., McGraw Hill, 294–5. ISBN 0-8385-8529-9. 10A Bacteremia : (Also called Bacillemia): The term ‘bacteremia’ is derived from ‘bacteria’ and ‘-emia’ (in the blood). It means the presence of live bacteria in the bloodstream and is analogous to viremia (the presence of a virus in the blood) and parasitemia (the presence of a parasite in the blood), which are all forms of sepsis (bloodstream infection). 10B Bacterial endocarditis: A bacterial infection of the inner layer of the heart. Endocarditis is an inflammation of the inner layer of the heart, the endocardium. Endocarditis can be classified as either infective or non-infective depending upon whether a micro-organism is the source of the problem. The most common structures involved are the heart valves. Infectious endocarditis may be caused by any of various bacteria, including streptococci, staphylococci, entreococci, gonococci, or gram-negative bacilli. 10C Diverticulitis: Inflammation of the diverticula (small sacs in the intestine’s inner lining); can cause fever, pain, and tenderness. 10D Meningitis: An infectious disease that strikes and inflames membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord (meninges). It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. It can follow another infection somewhere else in the body. If bacterial meningitis is not treated within hours, it can lead to death or permanent brain injury. There are several different types. 11. “A major breakthrough for infection control” - Media Release by Remedy Research Limited., 19th July 2007, http://www.remedyresearch.org/Remedy%20Research%20press%20release%2019th%20July%202007.pdf & “Call in the Coppers to Stop MRSA: Metallic Soap Can Beat Superbugs,” by Pat Hagan – Daily Mail, Good Health, 24th July 2007 - http://www.industrywatch.com/pages/iw2/Story.nsp?story_id=108699936&ID=iw&scategory=Food%3ASafety&P=&F=&R=&VNC=hnall 12. Ibid. 12A. Chlorine: A common non-metallic element belonging to the halogens; best known as a heavy yellow irritating toxic gas; used to purify water and as a bleaching agent and disinfectant; occurs naturally only as a salt (as in seawater). 12B. Triclosan: Regulated by both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and by the European Union, is a potent wide spectrum antibacterial and antifungal agent. It is found in soaps, deodorants, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and cleaning supplied and is infused in an increasing number of consumer products, such as kitchen utensils, toys, bedding, socks, and trash bags, &c. ‘Triclosan as a systemic antibacterial agent in a mouse model of acute bacterial challenge’ Sharma S, Ramya TN, Surolia A, Surolia N. Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2003 Dec; 47(12):3859-66. “… Triclosan not only significantly extends the survival time of the infected mice, it also restores blood parameters and check liver damage induced by the bacterial infection. We believe that the excellent safety track record of triclosan in topical use coupled with our findings qualifies triclosan as a candidate drug or lead compound for exploring its potential in experimental systems for treating systemic bacterial infections.” However, most recently, “FDA warns P&G (Procter & Gamble) about kids’ hand sanitizer,” the Associated Press, 18th September, 2007. Washington Federal health officials warned Procter & Gamble Co. that it is unlawfully marketing a new hand sanitizer aimed for use by children. Claims that Vicks Early Defense Foaming Hand Sanitizer prevents colds and provides up to three hours of antimicrobial activity are not allowed. It contains triclosan, an antimicrobial compound, and according to the company is meant to be rubbed into the hands and left on when soap and water are not available. Under the proposed FDA standards for antimicrobial products that use triclosan, their labelling must direct consumers to rinse with water after use. http://www.sacbee.com/832/story/386308.html Also, “Consumer antibacterial soaps: effective or just risky?” Aiello AE, Larson EL, Levy SB. Dept of Epidemiology and Centre for Social Epidemiology and Population Health, Uv. of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. Clin Infect Dis. 2007 Sep 1: 45 Suppl 2:S137 – 47. Conclusions: The lack of an additional health benefit associated with the use of triclosan-containing consumer soaps over regular soap, coupled with laboratory data demonstrating a potential risk of selecting for drug resistance, warrants further evaluation by governmental regulators regarding antibacterial product claims and advertising. Further studies of this issue are encouraged. 12C. Polyquats: Antimicrobial coating used on a medical devices. E.g. a contact lens, which comprises an antimicrobial coating including at least one layer of polyquat of formula I or II. The antimicrobial coating has a high antimicrobial efficacy against micro-organisms including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, a low toxicity, low coefficient of friction, and increased hydrophilicity while maintaining the desire bulk properties such as oxygen permeability and ion permeability of lens material. From: Medical Devices Having antimicrobial Coatings Thereon. European Patent EP1446170. http://www.freepatentsonline.com/EP1446170.html Hydrophilicity: Having a strong affinity for water; tending to dissolve in, mix with, or be wetted by water. 13. “A major breakthrough for infection control” - Media Release by Remedy Research Limited., 19th July 2007. http://www.remedyresearch.org/Remedy%20Research%20press%20release%2019th%20July%202007.pdf & “Call in the Coppers to Stop MRSA: Metallic Soap Can Beat Superbugs,” by Pat Hagan – Daily Mail, Good Health, 24th July 2007 - http://www.industrywatch.com/pages/iw2/Story.nsp?story_id=108699936&ID=iw&scategory=Food%3ASafety&P=&F=&R=&VNC=hnall 14. Ibid. 15. Ibid. 16. Ibid. 17. Ibid 18. ‘Death of the doctor’s white coat’ by Clare Murphy, Health Reporter, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6998195.stm & ‘End for traditional doctor’s coat’ http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6998877.stm BBC News Online, 17th September 2007 & ‘Doctors lose their white coats in fight against superbugs.’ D. Mail 17th September 2007. 19. Ibid. 20. Ibid. 21. Ibid. 22. Ibid. 23. Ibid. 24. Ibid. 25. Ibid. 26. Ibid. 27. ‘Superbug Plans Ignore Evidence’ BBC News Online 27th September 2007 & ‘The traditional white coat: goodbye, or au revoir?’ Lancet 2007; 370:1102 www.thelancet.com The Lancet 28.9.2007 ‘Hygiene in hospitals: Instead of Populismus material debate in demand’. Blitz on MRSA ‘is doomed to failure’ by Daniel Martin, Daily Mail, 27th September 2007. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/health/healthmain.html?in_article_id=484327&in_page_id=1774 ‘Lancet slams Brown on hospital hygiene’ by Tim Castle, PA Reuters London 28th September 2007 http://uk.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUKL277688520070928 ‘Lancet condemns hospital deep-clean proposals’ Press Association – The Guardian, 28th September 2007 http://www.guardian.co.uk/medicine/story/0,,2178978,00.html &c. 28. Ibid. 29. Ibid. 29A. Ibid. 29B. Ibid. 29C. Ibid. 30. ‘Hygienic relevance and risk assessment of antimicrobial-impregnated textiles.’ Kramer A, Guggenbichler P, Heldt P, et al. Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Ernst-Mortiz Arndt Uv., Friefswald, Germany. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006; 33:78-109 & ‘Antimicrobial textiles – evaluation of their effectiveness and safety’ Hofer D. Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology, Hohenstein Research Centre, Boennigheim, Germany. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006; 33:42-50. 30A. Prophylaxis: An attempt to prevent disease. Treatment to prevent the onset of a particular disease (‘primary’ prophylaxis, or the recurrence of symptoms in an existing infection that has been brought under control (‘secondary’ prophylaxis, maintenance therapy). 30B. Biocidal: A ‘biocide’ is a chemical designed to kill organisms, especially micro-organisms. 31. ‘Hygienic relevance and risk assessment of antimicrobial-impregnated textiles.’ Kramer A, Guggenbichler P, Heldt P, et al. Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Ernst-Mortiz Arndt Uv., Friefswald, Germany. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006; 33:78-109 & ‘Antimicrobial textiles – evaluation of their effectiveness and safety’ Hofer D. Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology, Hohenstein Research Centre, Boennigheim, Germany. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006; 33:42-50. 31A. Cytotoxicity - the degree to which something is toxic to living cells. 31B. Genotoxicity - the degree to which something causes damage to or mutation of DNA. 31C. Carcinogenicity: A carcinogen is a substance which can cause cancer. Carcinogenic means able to cause cancer. Carcinogenicity is the ability of a substance to cause cancer. 32. ‘Hygienic relevance and risk assessment of antimicrobial-impregnated textiles.’ Kramer A, Guggenbichler ‘Hygienic relevance and risk assessment of antimicrobial-impregnated textiles.’ Kramer A, Guggenbichler P, Heldt P, et al. Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Ernst-Mortiz Arndt Uv., Friefswald, Germany. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006; 33:78-109 & ‘Antimicrobial textiles – evaluation of their effectiveness and safety’ Hofer D. Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology, Hohenstein Research Centre, Boennigheim, Germany. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2006; 33:42-50. 33. Cupron: For information See Cupron Inc. http://www.cupron.com/ 33A. Copper: Latin name ‘Cuprum’, known in ancient Rome as aes cyprium meaning ‘ore from Cyprus’. The name later mutated to ‘cuprum’ form which its symbol is derived. Copper mining in Cyprus dates back to prehistoric times. 34. ‘Company claims copper clothes, fabrics heal.’ AP 24th December 2006 http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16347865/ 35. Cupron Information: From Cupron Inc. http://www.cupron.com/ 36. Ibid – (See also Peer-Reviewed Papers – http://www.cupron.com/Cupron-Reference-Materails/ 37. Cupron Information: From Cupron Inc. http://www.cupron.com/ 38. Ibid. 38A. Polymeric: of or relating to or consisting of a ‘polymer’. Polymer: a natural or man-made material formed by combining units, called monomers, into long chains. The word polymer means many parts. Examples of polymers are starch (which has many sugar units) and polyethylene (which has many ethylene units) the latter a conventional, non-biodegradable, plastic as used commonly in plastic carrier-bags. 39. Cupron Information: From Cupron Inc. http://www.cupron.com/ 40. Ibid. – Dr A. Blanton Godfrey (‘Blan’): Dean of the College of Textiles, North Carolina State University. The College is the leading college of its type in the world and produces over half of the doctorates in its field in the United States. At NC State Dr. Godfrey is the leader of their new Six Sigma Program, a joint program between the College of Engineering’s, Industry Extension Services and the College of Textiles. Amongst others, ‘Blan’ is a Fellow of the American Statistical Association, the American Society for Quality, and the World Academy of Productivity Sciences. He is also a member of Sigma Xi, the New York Academy of Sciences, The Fibre Society, and an academician of the International Academy for Quality. He is also listed in Who’s Who in America. He has published over 200 articles and book chapters and co-authored three books including Modern Methods for Quality Control and Improvement and Curing Health Care: New Strategies for Quality Improvement. The former book’s first edition was named “Book of the Year” by the Institute of Industrial Engineering and the second edition published in 2002. The Japanese edition and paperback edition of Curing Health Care was published this year (2007) etc., &c. 41. Cupron Information: From Cupron Inc. http://www.cupron.com/ 42. ‘Putting copper into action: copper-impregnated products with potent biocidal activities.’ Borkow G., Gabbay J. Cupron Inc., New York, NY, USA. FASEB.J. 2004 Nov; 18(14):1728-30. Epub 2004 Sep 2. 43. ‘Copper-induced vascular endothelial growth factor expression and wound healing.’ Sen CK, Khanna S, Venojarvi M, et al. Lab. of Molecular Medicine, Dept. of Surgery, Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State Uv. Medical Centre, Columbus, Ohio, USA. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol. 2002 May; 282(5):H1821-7. (See also: ‘Could chronic wounds not heal due to too low local copper levels?’ Bokrow G., Gabbay J., Zatcoff RC. Cupron Inc, PO Box 10973, Greensboro, NC 27404, USA. Med Hypotheses. 2007 Aug 3; [Epub ahead of print] 44. ‘Putting copper into action: copper-impregnated products with potent biocidal activities.’ Borkow G, Gabbay J. Cupron Inc., New York, NY, USA. FASEB.J. 2004 Nov; 18(14):1728-30. Epub 2004 Sep 2. Also, ‘Copper as a Biocidal tool.’ Borkow G, Gabbay J. Cupron Inc. Curr Med Chem. 2005; 12(18):2163-75. & ‘Neutralizing viruses in suspensions by copper oxide-based filters.’ Borkow G, Sidwell RW, Smee DF, et al. Ruth Ben-Ari Institute of Clinical Immunology, Kaplan Medical Centre, Israel. Antimocrob Agents Chemother. 2007 Jul; 51(7):2605-7. Epub 2007 Apr 30. 44A. Nosocomial infections: are those which are a result of treatment in a hospital or a Healthcare service unit, but secondary to the patient’s original condition. Nosocomial comes from the Greek work nosokomeion meaning ‘hospital’, (nosos ‘disease’) and komeo ‘to take care of’. The most common nosocomial infections are of the urinary tract, and various pneumonias. Nosocomial infections have become more distressing in the 21st –century, as antibiotic resistance spreads. http://www.wordwebonline.com/search.pl?w=nosocomial 45. “I don’t think so” famous expression of dynamic black female ‘stand up’ comedienne Gina Yashere, best known for her TV appearances on The Lenny Henry Show, Comic Relief Does Fame Academy and the current BBC radio comedy The Powder Room, etc. 46. Cupron Information: From Cupron Inc. http://www.cupron.com/ 47. Ibid. 48. Ibid. 49. Malachite: The stone’s name derives via Latin and French from Greek molochitis, “Mallow-green stone”. It is a carbonate mineral, Copper (11) carbonate hydroxide Cu2C03(OH)2, with a hardness between 3.5 and 4. Since the 1950’s malachite has been used in fish hatcheries to control parasitic water mould, which inhibit the incubation rate of fertilized eggs. It is the favourite gemstone of Louis XIV. During the Middle Ages malachite was worn to protect from sorcery and black magic. Today it is worn to attract money! 50. Chemistry of the Group 11 Elements – Copper, Silver and Gold. http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A20074529#footnote12 51. Ibid. 52A. Staphyloccoci (pl.) Staphylococcus: A spherical gram-positive parasitic bacterium of the genus Staphylococcus, causing boils, blisters, septicaemia, and other infections. 52. Chemistry of the Group 11 Elements – Copper, Silver and Gold. http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A20074529#footnote12 53. Verdigris: Its name comes from the Middle English ‘vertegrez’, from the Old French Verte grez, an alteration of vert-de-Grice – verd (green), de (of), and Grice (Greece) - “Green of Greece.” It is a basic copper ethanoate and the common name for the chemical Cu(CH3C00)2. The blue-green coating or patina that forms on copper or brass or bronze that has been exposed to the air or seawater for long periods of time. It may be formed on copper in contact with air and vinegar fumes, vinegar being a dilute acetic acid (syn. ethanoic acid) solution and a sour tasting liquid produced usually by oxidation of the alcohol in wine or cider and used as a condiment or food preservative. Copper (11) is used industrially as a fungicide, a catalyst for organic reactions, and in dyeing, acc. the Merck Index, 9th Edition, 1976). 54. ‘Verdigris’ by Professor Pi, 3rd March 2002 – http://everything2.com/index.pl?node=verdigris 55. Ibid. 56. Montpellier (Occitan Montpelhièr) is a University City in the South of France and capital of the wine-growing Languedoc-Roussillon région, as well as the administrative capital of the Hérault Département. The University of Montpellier is one of the oldest in France, having been granted a charter in 1220 by Cardinal Conrad von Urach and confirmed by Pope Nicholas IV in a Papal Bull of 1289. It was suppressed during the French Revolution but was re-established in 1896. Also: Book - European Women and Pre-industrial Craft by Daryl M Hafter, pub. 1955. [… Reed Benhamou analyzes the Montpellier verdigris industry, which produced copper acetate for use in dyes, paints, and medicines. … Examines key 18th - and 19th – century European industries – the production of verdigris, linen, and silk; spinning, weaving, lace-making, embroidery, calico painting; and the lingerie trade. 57. ‘Verdigris’ by Professor Pi, 3rd March 2002 – http://everything2.com/index.pl?node=verdigris 58. Ibid.
59.
[Eye of mummies treated with
verdigris; findings at the Blumental Cemetery in Bratislava.] 60. ‘Murder, Magic and Medicine’ by John Mann pub. Oxford University Press, USA; ISBN-10: 0198507445 & ISBN 13: 978-0198507444 – Page 130. 60A. Isinglass: A semi-transparent, whitish and very pure form of gelatine, a high quality fining agent that comprises proteins extracted and prepared originally from the swim bladders of certain fish, sturgeons, (especially Beluga sturgeon), now largely cod, ling and carp, used mainly for the clarification of wine (white wines) and beer. It is a form of collagen.79 61. ‘Copper in My Medicine Chest’ by William H Dresher, Ph.D. http://www.copper.org/innovations/2000/06/medicine-chest.html 62. Ibid. 63. Trachoma: an eye disease which may result in blindness caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. Derived from the ancient Greek, Trachoma means ‘rough eye’. It is blindness caused by ulceration and consequent scarring of the cornea. A highly infectious bacterial disease of the eyes, it is the second leading cause of blindness in Asia and Africa. Also described as a persistent contagious form of conjunctivitis. It is said to be spread by contact with eye discharge from an infected sufferer and that insects can also transmit the bacteria. 63A. Henna in the Ancient Egyptian Pharmacopoeia: The Ebers Papyrus by Catherine Cartwright-Jones c. 2004, Kent State University – http://hennapage.com/henna/encyclopedia/meica/ebers.html 64. Ibid. Aulus Cornelius Celsus (25BC-50) was a Roman encyclopaedist and possibly, although probably not, a physician. He probably lived in Gallia Barnonensis. His only extant work, the De Medicina, is the only surviving section of a much large encyclopaedia, and is a primary source on diet, pharmacy and surgery and related fields. Celsus’ De Medicina is one of the best sources on Alexandrian medical knowledge. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aulus_Cornelius_Celsus 64A. Doctor means teacher in Latin. It has been used continuously as an honoured academic title for over a millennium in Europe, where it dates back to the rise of the university. This us spread to the Americas, former European colonies, and is now prevalent in most of the world. 64B. Physician – the word physician always applies to a person who practices some type of human biological medicine. Physicians are traditionally considered to be members of a learned profession, because of the extensive training requirements and also because of the occupation’s special ethical and legal duties. 65. ‘Murder, Magic and Medicine’ by John Mann pub. Oxford University Press, USA; ISBN-10: 0198507445 & ISBN 13: 978-0198507444 – Page 130. 66. Yuhanna ibn Masawaih or Masawaiyh (Latin Mesue, Masua, Mesue Major, Msuya, and Mesue the Elder), an Assyrian physician born in 777AD was the son of a pharmacist and physician from Gundishapur and from the Academy of Gundishapur. According to The Canon of Medicine for Avicenna and ‘Uyun al-Anba for the medieval Arabic historian Ibn Abi Usaybi’a, Masawaiyh’s father was Assyrian and his mother was Slavic. He came to Baghdad and studied under Jabril ibn Bukhtishu and wrote mostly in Syriac and Arabic. He became director of a hospital in Baghdad and composed medical treatises on a number of topics in Arabic, including eye diseases (ophthalmology), fevers, headache, leprosy, melancholia, dietetics, the testing of physicians, and medical aphorisms. He was also the personal physician of four caliphs. Sources for his writings: J.-C. Vadet, “Ibn Masawayh” in, The Encyclopaedia of Islam, 2nd edition, ed. By H.A. R. Gibbs, B. Lewis, Ch. Pellat, C. Bosworth et al., 11 vols. (Leiden: E.J. Brill, 1960-2002) vol. 3.pp. 872-873. Manfred Ullmann, Diue Medizin im Islam, Handbuch der Orientalistik, Abteilung I, Erganzungsband vi, Abschnitt 1 (Leiden: E. J. Brill, 1970), pp. 112-115. Fuat Sezgin, Medizin-Pharmazie-Zoologie-Tierheilkunde bis ca 430 H., Geschichte des arabischen Schrifttums, Band 3 (Leiden: E.J. Brill, 1970), pp. 231-236. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masawaiyh 66A. The Second Part of the Popular Errors by Laurent Joubert Page 99. 67. Aegyptiacum or aegyptiacum – remedy incorporated from 1728 Cyclopaedia published by Ephraim Chambers in London. It was one of the first general encyclopaedias to be produced in English. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aegyptiacum 68. Detersive: having cleansing power – detergent and purifying, freeing from noxious matter. 69. Unguent: a soothing ‘salve’ preparation spread on sores, burns, irritations, or other topical injuries; an ointment. It is usually delivered as a semi-solid paste and is often oily (made from fat or oil) to suspend the medication or other active ingredients. 70. Debride: comes from the French ‘débrider’, to remove the bridle (as from a horse). It means to remove dead, contaminated or adherent tissue or foreign material. The purpose of wound debridement is to remove all materials that may promote infection and impeded healing. This may be done by enzymatic debridememnt (as with proteolytic enzymes), mechanical non-selective debridement (as in a whirlpool), or sharp debridement (by surgery). Recently the return of the use of maggots is employed for this purpose in some cases in UK hospitals. 71. Aegyptiacum or aegyptiacum – remedy incorporated from 1728 Cyclopaedia published by Ephraim Chambers in London. It was one of the first general encyclopaedias to be produced in English. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aegyptiacum 72. The Hygienic significance of verdigris (copper acetate). [Article in Undetermined Language] SROKA KH. PMID:13111159 [PubMed – OLDMEDLINE for Pre 1966] Munch Med Wochenschr. 1953 Oct 9; 95(41):1104-5 – MeSH Terms: Acetates/toxicity, Copper – Substances: Acetates, Copper. 73. Cosmeceutical: is a portmanteau of the words ‘cosmetic’ and ‘pharmaceutical’ and is a term for a product that combines features of both. Examples of products typically labelled as ’Cosmeceutical’ include anti-aging creams and moisturizers. The term has come to be associated with products that help reduce or prevent disease or conditions that affect the structure and function of the body. Criticism of the term ‘Cosmeceutical’ states that it is often used by the Beauty Industry in cosmetic advertising, and may be misleading to the consumer. One problem is if the consumer interprets a cosmeceutical to be similar to a pharmaceutical product, he or she may conclude that cosmeceuticals are required to undergo the same testing for efficacy and quality control as is required for medication! The term may also allow the retailer to charge the consumer more for a product which may actually be less effective and/or of poorer quality than perceived. Cosmeceuticals may contain purported active ingredients such as vitamins, phytochemicals, enzymes, antioxidants, and essential oils that are valid and efficacious to a certain degree. However, these ingredients may not necessarily be effective, and if they are effective, the cosmeceutical may not have the active ingredient(s) in an effective formulation or at effective concentrations. E.g. according to the United States’ Food & Drug Administration (FDA), the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act: “does not recognize any such category as “cosmeceuticals.” A product can be a drug, a cosmetic, or a combination of both, but the term “cosmeceutical” has not meaning under the law. [See http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-218.html - Drug Administration Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Office of Cosmetics and Colours 8th July, 2002] - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmeceuticals 74. Peptide: A peptide from the Greek ‘digestible’, is any of various natural or synthetic compounds containing two or more amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) linked by the carboxyl group of one amino aid and the amino group of another. 75. ‘Choosing Skin Care Products’ – http://www.webmd.com/solutions/sc/skin-care/skin-science Reviewed by doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology - http://cms.clevelandclinic.org/dermatology/ Edited by Tracy Shuman, MD, WebMD, April 2006. http://www.webmd.com/Tracy-C-Shuman Medical Reference provided in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic. Sources: American Academy of Dermatology. WebMd Feature “Nutrients for Healthy Skin: Inside and Out.” Copper and Your Skin: Facelift In A Bottle by William H Dresher, Ph.D., P.E. http://www.copper.org/innovations/2006/06/copper_your_skin.html#2 76. Ibid. 77. Ibid. 78. ‘The effect of topical tripeptide-copper complex on healing of ischemic open wounds.’ Canapp SO Jr, Farese JP, Schultz GS, et al. Dept.of Small animal Clinical Sciences, Uv. of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, and the School of Medicine Institute for Wound Research, Gainesville, Florida, USA. Vet Surg. 2003 Nov-Dec; 32(6):515-23. ‘In vivo stimulation of connective tissue accumulation by the tripeptide-copper complex glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-Cu2+ in rate experimental wounds.’ Maquart FX, Bellon G, Chaqour B, et al. Lab. of Biochemistry, CNRS ERS F0017, Faculté de Médicine, Reims, France. J Clin Invest. 1993 Nov; 92(5):2368-76. 79. Collagen: A fibrous natural protein chemical substance found in humans that forms connective tissue and provides strength, reliance and is the main support of skin, ligaments, tendon, bones, cartilage and other parts of the body. 80. Elastin: It is a coiling and recoiling protein, like a spring, within flexible elastic fibres of connective tissue accounting for the elasticity of structures such as the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, intestines, tendons and ligaments, and helps hold tissues in place; similar to collagen that is the principal structural component of resilient fibres, which enable skin to snap back when stretched. Elastin works with collagen, it provides elasticity, collagen provides rigidity; when these break down, and the result is ‘ageing’ of skin. 81. ‘Choosing Skin Care Products’ – http://www.webmd.com/solutions/sc/skin-care/skin-science Reviewed by doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology - http://cms.clevelandclinic.org/dermatology/ Edited by Tracy Shuman, MD, WebMD, April 2006. http://www.webmd.com/Tracy-C-Shuman Medical Reference provided in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic. Sources: American Academy of Dermatology. WebMd Feature “Nutrients for Healthy Skin: Inside and Out.” 82. Copper Peptides – the New Anti Aging Skincare Secret? By Joseph Giordano – http://ezinearticles.com/?Copper-Peptides-The-New-Angi-Agoing-Skincare-Secret?&id=722821 83. Glycoaminoglycans (GAGs): A family of carbohydrates that is essential or important for the life of vertebrates and several lower animals. 84. Connective tissue: Tissue of mesodermal origin consisting of e.g. collagen fibroblasts and fatty cells; supports organs and fills spaces between them and forms tendons and ligaments. 85. ‘ESI-MS method for in vitro investigation of skin penetration by copper-amino acid complexes: from an emulsion through a model membrane.’ Mazurowska L, Nowak-Buciak K, Mojski M. Warsaw Uv. of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Noakowskiego 3, Warsaw, Poland. Anal Bioanal Chem. 2007 Jul; 388(5-6):1157-63. Epub 2007 May 26. 85A. Stratum corneum: The outermost layer of the epidermis consisting of dead cells that slough off. 85B. Ion: A particle that is electrically charged (positive or negative); an atom or molecule or group that has lost of gained one or more electrons. 86. ‘Choosing Skin Care Products’ – http://www.webmd.com/solutions/sc/skin-care/skin-science Reviewed by doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology - http://cms.clevelandclinic.org/dermatology/ Edited by Tracy Shuman, MD, WebMD, April 2006. http://www.webmd.com/Tracy-C-Shuman Medical Reference provided in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic. Sources: American Academy of Dermatology. WebMd Feature “Nutrients for Healthy Skin: Inside and Out.” 87. ‘Reverse Skin Aging – Using Your Skin’s Natural Power’ by Loren Pickart Ph.D, ‘The Turn Back the Clock Doc’ book (See website - http://reverseskinaging.com/book.html ) 88. Ibid 89. NB: Neutrogena licensed its copper peptide technology from the ProCyte Corporation; ProCyte also sells higher-potency Neova copper peptide creams exclusively through doctor’s offices, which is also reflected in the prices. From Scientific Solution to Save Your skin by Claudia H Deutsch - http://www.sensualism.com/beauty/skin.html 90. ‘Studies of the effects of topical vitamin C, a copper binding cream and melatonin cream as compared with tretinoin on the ultra-strcuture of the skin’, Abulghani AA, Shirin S, Morales-Tapio A, et al. J Invest. Mematol. Vol. 110, No.4, 19998, p.686. 91. Copper and Your Skin: Facelift In A Bottle by William H Dresher, Ph.D., P.E. http://www.copper.org/innovations/2006/06/copper_your_skin.html#2 92. Ibid. 92A. Psoriasis is notoriously difficult to treat, Copper’s latest contributions are very welcome: ‘Antilipoxygenase activity of copper complexes of aminoalkanoate type.’ Ponist S, Valentova J, Bezakoa L, Oblozinsky M. Institute of Experimental Phamacology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia. Neuro Endocrino Lett. 2006 Dec; 27 Suppl 2:180-2. “OBJECTIVES: Lipoxygenases (EC 1.13.11.12, LOX) catalyze the hydroperoxidation of polyunsat |
