What causes birthmarks? Karma? Torture?

Birthmarks explained
There are many old wives' tales about birthmarks, but scientists now think they know the truth. » Old mystery (Divine Caroline)

• Karma as cause of some birthmarks (Pravda)
• Edgar Cayce: Birthmarks as "Scars of the Soul"
• Search freckles?

Rice on the hot seat
Condoleezza Rice comes under fire in unusual places for Bush administration terror policies. Look at her while she's beautiful as her torture policies may have long term effects that even a child will point out. » Her reaction

• See 4th grader quiz Rice
• GOP attacks Obama terror strategy

If karma is responsible for subsequent unattractive markings on the skin, one can only imagine how this puppy came to be so adorable. Karma, after all, works to one's great gain and fortune as well as to one's detriment.

• Top pics from around the world (Reuters)