13 citations
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February 2019 in “Zoology” Lustre mutant sheep have normal hair structure and proteins but differ in felting properties.
February 2026 in “Cureus” This review highlights that castor oil has potential dermatological uses, including enhancing hair luster, reducing hyperpigmentation, and improving skin hydration and elasticity, although rare side effects like contact dermatitis occur, necessitating further research to confirm its effectiveness in these applications.
July 2026 in “Scientific Reports” This study found that wool felting in Ukrainian Carpathian Mountain sheep is linked to significant changes in fatty acid composition, particularly highlighting a decrease in 18-methyleicosanoic acid in bound lipids, suggesting it as a potential marker for cuticle lipid layer damage during felting.
This study observed that treating human hair with NaOH led to partially removed cuticles, resulting in better fiber cohesion and mechanical properties similar to wool, unlike bleach or formic acid treatments, which weakened the fibers.
June 2026 in “Studia Biologica” This study found that in semi-coarse wool sheep of the Ukrainian Carpathian Mountain breed, changes in microflora and grease composition are linked to increased felting in wool, due to wetter, more alkaline fleece conditions that promote bacterial and mold growth and alter fatty acid balances.