Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 8, 2006


'Looking' at Eyeless from two directions

A team of scientists has identified 21 key genes that are targets of the Eyeless protein, which plays a crucial role in eye development. This breakthrough could lead to new insights into how eyes develop in fruit flies and humans, potentially shedding light on diseases related to vision.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 8, 2006

Corrective cosmetics may not boost quality of life for women with severe facial blemishes

Women who used corrective cosmetics to cover severe facial blemishes reported lower health-related quality of life than those who didn't wear makeup. The study found no difference in quality of life based on the type or size of the blemish, but highlighted the psychological impact of facial marks on self-image and social functioning.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Dermatology·DateMar 8, 2006

Formula feeding, early introduction of infant food may not contribute to childhood obesity

Researchers used dual-energy X-ray absorpiometry (DXA) to measure adiposity, finding no significant difference in fat mass between breastfed and non-breastfed children. Early introduction of complementary foods did not lower fat mass either. Breastfeeding still provides numerous benefits for mother and child.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 8, 2006

State children's health insurance program affects access to dental care and use of dental services

A study examining six years of data from the National Health Interview Survey found that SCHIP implementation increased the use of dental services by 49.5% and reduced unmet dental needs by 21.2% among low-income children. These effects resulted in a measurable improvement in access to dental care for the entire low-income population.

Think twice before exercising when getting that PET scan

A study in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology found that physical activity, even minor exercises like turning a page or shoveling snow, can impact PET scan results and lead to false positives. To minimize this effect, patients should avoid excessive muscle activity 48 hours before scanning and inform their technologist.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine Technology·DateMar 8, 2006