Science News: Our Weekly Picks From Around the Web

South African Daffodils may be a Future Cure for Depression
University of Copenhagen scientists have discovered that plant compounds from a South African flower may in time be used to treat diseases originating in the brain – including depression.
au.ibtimes.com (06/25/2012)

Using Brain Activity Patterns to Identify Autism in Kids as Young as 2
In a large new study, researchers at Boston Children’s Hospital used EEG to identify specific patterns of brain activity that can distinguish children with autism.
healthland.time.com (06/26/2012)

Stress Blocks Gene That Guards Brain Against Depression
Chronic stress appears to block a gene that guards against brain atrophy associated with depression, according to a study in rats that may help guide new treatments for mood disorders.
www.businessweek.com (06/25/2012)

Natural Antidepressant Discovered
A newly recognized chemical factor in the brain, called neuritin, regulates plasticity and may play a role in depression.
www.the-scientist.com (06/25/2012)

Neuroscientists Develop ‘Search and Destroy’ Brain Cell Technique
A team of William & Mary neuroscientists has developed a “search and destroy” method of identifying—then zapping—brain cells individually — a technique that researchers expect to drive important advances in the understanding of how cell loss affects neural function.
www.vagazette.com (06/27/2012)

Cancer Drug Shows Promise in Reversing Alzheimer’s Symptoms in Mice
The use of a drug now prescribed to treat cancer has been shown to reverse symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease in mice, according to a study from neuroscientists at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.
www.psychcentral.com (07/01/2012)