First cloned human embryo created from skin cell

This appears to be a major breakthrough. Even though the egg in questions was never actually fertilized, it is still an embryo, which means it could conceivably be born. So the right-to-lifers are not gonna be on board with this. Though, the fact that the embryo is a clone of the donor does add an interesting variable. The embryo in this case is not a separate organism in the same sense that an embryo taken from a fertility clinic is. It is made from the donor's DNA and no joining of egg and sperm was involved. Bioethicists sure have their work cut out for them these days. 

As an aside, if stem cell therapies result in dramatically increased lifespans or dramatically decreased morbidity, how will this affect the planet? If people continue to reproduce at the same rate, but fewer die, will the population increase exponentially? Will only the wealthy or those in wealthy countries have access to the therapies? Will it lead to increased or decreased costs of healthcare, thus either draining our resources further or freeing them up for other things?

Antidepressants' benefits may be exaggerated

This is a major issue. I heard about it on NPR the other day. A fairly high percentage of studies done on anti-depressants of all types concluded that they did not work nearly as well as claimed. It is interesting because the effectiveness of St. John's Wort was dismissed some time back as a result of one clinical study that had equivocal results. It is likely that many people are experiencing placebo effects when taking these drugs. They make a huge amount of money for the pharmaceutical industry. I have long thought mild to moderate depression was a lifestyle issue. Good diet and exercise along with stress management is probably a better route for those with mild to moderate depression. Severe depression with suicidal ideation is another thing altogether. In any event, no one should discontinue their meds without discussing it with their doctor. It could probably be argued that much of the stress that leads to depression is caused being overworked, living in a polluted environment, not having time to "smell the roses," etc. 

Probiotic bacteria could keep us slim

More good news for the yogurt makers and eaters.

Low Carb Diet Proven Most Effective at Weight Loss

A new study confirms what many have been reporting anecdotally for years. However, long term risk may be involved. Low-carb diets appear to adversely affect intestinal flora (which often feed on carb metabolites and fiber). Taking flora supplements may not help much if there is nothing to feed on, but taking fiber supplements might. From what I recall, they like psyllium, but look it up before you go this route. I'll investigate further.

Cranberries Really Are a Miracle Cure for Women

Some support for the long-held belief that cranberries are good for urinary tract infections. Turns out that's not all.