Archive for August 09, 2007

Revisiting the “Gay Gene”: Does It Exist? Can—and Should—It Be Reversed?

Revisiting the “Gay Gene”: Does It Exist? Can—and Should—It Be Reversed?

Some scientists are claiming that they may be able to identify the genetic predisposition toward homosexuality in fetuses and test-tube embryos. Some speculate further, claiming that eventually there may be a way to reverse homosexuality in utero.

As if We Needed More Reasons to Love BOTOX® Therapy: Treatment of TMJ Disorder and Jaw Tension

As if We Needed More Reasons to Love BOTOX® Therapy: Treatment of TMJ Disorder and Jaw Tension

By now, most everyone is familiar with the benefits of BOTOX® therapy for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. But did you know that some dentists are now certified to use BOTOX® injections as a solution for jaw pain and tension, and TMJ disorder?

What You Should Know Before You Decide To Tan

What You Should Know Before You Decide To Tan

Researchers, dermatologists, physicians and surgeons all agree that tanning is harmful to your health. Despite this people continue to lie out in the sun or hit the local tanning salon. But before you head off to the beach, remember that protecting your skin is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and appearance.

Addiction: From Drugs to Donuts, Brain Activity May be the Key

Addiction: From Drugs to Donuts, Brain Activity May be the Key

Researchers are gathering a body of evidence that supports a link between overeating and brain activity associated with addictive behaviors. Studies conclude that changes and variations in brain metabolism, reward sensitivity, and dopamine receptors may affect obese people’s desire to overeat.

Age and the Fertility Question

Age and the Fertility Question

Many modern women are choosing to wait before starting a family, focusing first on attaining their educational, career, and personal goals before making the leap into motherhood. What many women don’t realize is that their age is one of the single most significant factors in their ability to become pregnant.

Fertility Treatment: Why Wait? A New Generation of Women Take Reproductive Health into Their Own Hands

Fertility Treatment: Why Wait? A New Generation of Women Take Reproductive Health into Their Own Hands

Recent government studies show that 23 percent of college-educated women in their twenties are seeking help from fertility specialists. A surprising statistic, considering that women are shown to be most fertile in their early-to-mid twenties.

Is Your Computer Blurring Your Vision? Computer Vision Syndrome and Possible Solutions

Is Your Computer Blurring Your Vision? Computer Vision Syndrome and Possible Solutions

Unfortunately, for all of the benefits computers provide, there are also some negative consequences involved with computer use. Among these is the effect of computer use on vision. Computer vision syndrome (or CVS) is the commonly used term for vision problems caused by extensive computer use.

Stem Cells Could Spell the End of Male Infertility

Stem Cells Could Spell the End of Male Infertility

Scientists are exploring ways to create sperm from stem cells, providing hope for infertile men who wish to father their own children. In a 2006 study, it was reported that the stem cells of mice became mature sperm that successfully fertilized eggs. But while six of the seven mice born survived to adulthood, each mouse exhibited some variety of abnormal development.

Of Mice and Men (and Women) — Is a Cure for Hair Loss on the Horizon?

Of Mice and Men (and Women) — Is a Cure for Hair Loss on the Horizon?

While scientists remain cautiously optimistic, recent findings by Dr. George Cotsarelis and his colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania may point the way to the elusive cure for baldness. Dr. Cotsarelis and his team have shown that new, fully functional hair follicles can be generated in the skin of mice.

Healthy Smiles and a Healthy Planet

Healthy Smiles and a Healthy Planet

When one thinks of major polluters, the mind usually goes immediately to huge factories belching smoke, to chemical companies dumping waste, to oil tankers spilling their black cargo over the surface of the ocean. One of the most overlooked examples of this is the pollution associated with some traditional forms of dentistry.

The Basics of Baby-making: Five Ways to Improve the Pregnancy Odds

The Basics of Baby-making: Five Ways to Improve the Pregnancy Odds

Due to the cautionary sex education most of us received in our youth, it can be startling to discover how long it can take to get pregnant. Experts estimate that there is only a 25 to 30 percent chance of conception and implantation in any given cycle, even if everything is functioning perfectly.

“Mommy Makeovers” – Changing the Shape of Motherhood

“Mommy Makeovers” – Changing the Shape of Motherhood

The term makeover has taken on a whole new meaning in recent years, with reality TV series, daytime talk shows, and tabloid photo spreads dedicated to the botched and the beautiful in the realm of plastic surgery. And the “mommy makeover” is topping the list of cosmetic “must-haves” for the modern matron.

Eating For Three: How Dietary Changes Can Improve the Likelihood of Conception

Eating For Three: How Dietary Changes Can Improve the Likelihood of Conception

While no food in and of itself can ensure that you and your partner will be successful in achieving pregnancy, eating a balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can definitely help to promote the successful fertilization of an embryo.

Is White Right? Ethnic Cosmetic Procedures

Is White Right? Ethnic Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic surgery gives men and women the option to change their appearance far more dramatically and permanently than was possible with hair dye or colored contact lenses. Despite this, many of today’s men and women of color are eschewing the “classic” beauty of whiteness, opting instead to pursue a look that alters, but maintains, their distinct ethnic features.

Eye Exams Can Detect Early Stages of Serious Diseases

Eye Exams Can Detect Early Stages of Serious Diseases

The windows to the soul can provide physicians with an extraordinary look at your overall health. Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are all diseases that eye care specialists can detect from an eye exam.