Thursday, December 24, 2015

Health Research: Space lab technology may help researchers detect early signs of cataract ♦ Blocking fat transport linked to longevity ♦ Call to regulate starvation of 'Paris thin' models

Space lab technology may help researchers detect early signs of cataract As we age, proteins in the lenses of our eyes start misbehaving: They unfold and congregate in clusters that block, scatter and distort light as it passes through the lens. A cloudy area, or cataract, forms.Scientists found that throughout our lifetime, levels of a key protein decline, and may be an early warning sign of a developing cataract. The study suggests that there is a window before cataracts develop when there may be time to intervene and prevent them.
Research links inorganic mercury exposure to damaged cell processes Inorganic mercury, which was previously thought to be a less harmful form of the toxic metal, is very damaging to key cell processes.
Blocking fat transport linked to longevity Everybody knows that a buildup of the wrong kind of fats can cause cardiovascular disease. A new study in nematode worms and mice also finds that a protein that transports fats around the body can hinder protective processes in cells and affect life span.
Call to regulate starvation of 'Paris thin' models Prohibiting runway models from participating in fashion shows or photo shoots if they are dangerously thin would go a long way toward preventing serious health problems among young women -- including anorexia nervosa and death from starvation.

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