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Science News for March 23, 2012


New epilepsy gene located in dogs

A new epilepsy gene has been discovered in dogs, specifically in Belgian Shepherds, which is associated with a seven-fold increased risk of epilepsy. The research also suggests that other genetic risk factors may be present in the breed, and ongoing studies aim to identify the specific gene causing epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 23, 2012

Plant DNA speaks English, identifies new species

Researchers have successfully diagnosed a new species of plant using DNA barcoding, a method that relies on short DNA sequences for identification. The study marks a significant shift towards English-language diagnoses, which will enable scientists to more easily share and verify findings.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateMar 23, 2012

Danes top international health study

A new international study on healthy heating found that Danes are most willing to accept economic interventions to promote healthy eating habits, with 70% prepared to pay more tax for healthier food. Danish consumers also show a positive attitude towards public authorities and high taxes, leading to higher support for nutritional changes.

'Bed-of-nails' breast implant deters cancer cells

Researchers have developed a breast implant with a 'bed-of-nails' surface at the nanoscale that reduces cancer cell growth and promotes healthy endothelial breast cells. The implant's unique surface features deter cancerous cells from dwelling and thriving, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments.

SourceBrown University·JournalNanotechnology·DateMar 23, 2012

Biomarkers for autism discovered

Researchers at Uppsala University have identified potential biomarkers for autism spectrum disorder using advanced mass spectrometry. The study found disruptions in the nervous system and a connection between protein C3 and ASD, which may lead to a reliable blood-based diagnostic tool.

SourceUppsala University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateMar 23, 2012

Scorpio rising

Researchers have discovered a new species of scorpion in Death Valley National Park, California. The species, Wernerius inyoensis, is small and closely related to other species found in Joshua Tree National Park and along the lower Colorado River.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateMar 23, 2012

In the final years of Franco's regime television acknowledged the republican's bravery

A study by Complutense University of Madrid found that Spanish public television began to portray republicans as brave combatants in the final years of Franco's regime. The researchers analyzed TVE archives and concluded that the topic of peace replaced war, highlighting a shift in how the Civil War was portrayed on TV.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalComunicación y Sociedad·DateMar 23, 2012

Researchers validate the potential of a protein for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

A study published in PNAS reveals that a deficiency of Mitofusin 2 protein causes insulin resistance and glucose intolerance in mice, highlighting its potential as a target for treating type 2 diabetes. The researchers also note that the protein plays a crucial role in maintaining normal glucose homeostasis.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2012