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Science News for May 2, 2003


Early diagnosis of Usher syndrome type 1 made possible by new findings

A new mutation, R245X, has been identified as a significant cause of USH1 in the Ashkenazi Jewish population. Early diagnosis through molecular screening can lead to earlier intervention, including cochlear implants and ophthalmologic evaluations, improving the quality of life for affected children.

Bedwetting may be linked to social status

A recent study published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics suggests that bedwetting may be associated with low socioeconomic status in children. The research found that almost 39% of children with bedwetting problems came from low socioeconomic backgrounds, compared to 23% of non-bedwetters.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateMay 2, 2003

What goes wrong in older eggs?

Researchers used fruit flies to study how age affects meiosis, a specialized cell division that gives rise to eggs and sperm. The study found that as fruit fly eggs 'age', errors in cell division increase, mirroring the phenomenon in humans, where birth defects like Down syndrome rise with maternal age.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 2, 2003