The American biotechnology firm, Monsanto, has applied for a patent for pig breeding in 160 countries. The patent is for specific parts of the genetic material of pigs which Monsanto’s genetic researchers have decoded. If this patent is granted, pig breeding would be possible with the approval of the company. Farmers and breeders are naturally alarmed because these genes have long existed in the great majority of their pigs. Using DNA tests they can prove that there is no new invention in the patent applications but that, instead, granting this patent would be to allow a part of nature to fall into the hands of a single company. Monsanto’s influence on the patent offices is huge. If the patent is approved, money will have to be paid to Monsanto for every pig in the world carrying this genetic marker. This has long been the case for certain feedstuffs, such as genetically modified maize. Many farmers in the US have already become dependent on the company. It is not merely a question of money, however, but also a question of the risk posed to consumers. In America, as in Europe, cases of infertility in animals fed with genetically modified maize are becoming increasingly common. No-one yet knows what effects such products are having on humans. |
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Love, science, sex, infidelity, disease and comedy, the wild, mostly true story of the irrepressible Annie Parker and the almost discovery of a cure for cancer.
IMDb How did your body become the complicated, quirky, amazing machine it is today? Anatomist Neil Shubin uncovers the answers in this new look at human evolution. Using fossils, embryos and genes, he reveals how our bodies are the legacy of ancient fish, reptiles and primates — the ancestors you never knew were in your family tree. The three-part series premieres April 9, 2014.
PBS Bernadette was born with the biggest disease no one has ever heard of... until now. Watch as she rises from living in obscurity to becoming - in the words of her late father - the face of CMT (Charcot Marie Tooth disease). Affecting over 2.6 million worldwide, CMT is a nerve and muscle disorder that causes it's victims to deteriorate over time. There is no cure. It is a family secret. It goes undiagnosed and misdiagnosed way too often. In some cases, it can be fatal. This project is the first full length film on this subject. It uncovers the truths, frustrations, and misconceptions about CMT. Along the way, there is tragedy, spiritual rebirth, a beautiful female partnership, surgery, and yes, even a few laughs.
- Written by Anonymous IMDb Hard to believe it's possible for someone to die of Alzheimers disease at just 48, but sadly that was the case for 30 year old Ryan O' Neill's father. As well as eight of his father's brothers and sisters dying from the disease at young age. The documentary follows Ryan as he undergoes tests to find out if he too has inherited the gene. A great thought provoking watch if you're not into all the vikings action that is happening over on RTE 2.
1. Are black athletes genetically predetermined to dominate both sprinting and distance running, and are their abilities influenced by Africa’s geography?
2. Are there genetic reasons to separate male and female athletes in competition? 3. Should we test the genes of young children to determine if they are destined for stardom? 4. Can genetic testing determine who is at risk of injury, brain damage, or even death on the field? by Dabid Epstein http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1464191/?ref_=sr_1Love, science, sex, infidelity, disease and comedy, the wild, mostly true story of the irrepressible Annie Parker and the almost discovery of a cure for cancer.
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