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Science News for November 7, 2008


Even plants benefit from outsourcing

Using genetically diverse seed sources can improve revegetation outcomes for native flora, as local seed may be inbred and lead to poor results. The review recommends focusing on capturing high-quality seed to ensure restored populations have ample genetic diversity.

SourceWiley·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateNov 7, 2008

Bullies may enjoy seeing others in pain

Research using brain scans at the University of Chicago found that aggressive youth activated neural circuits underpinning pain processing when watching pain inflicted on others. The study suggests some aggressive youths' natural empathetic impulse may be disrupted, increasing aggression.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalBiological Psychology·DateNov 7, 2008

Could vitamin D save us from radiation?

Research suggests that vitamin D, specifically its active form calcitriol, could offer protection against radiation-induced damages by regulating cell cycle and proliferation. This could be a potential safe agent for protecting people before or after low-level nuclear incidents.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Low Radiation·DateNov 7, 2008

Children's Hospital study demonstrates how bone marrow transplant can cure sickle cell disease

A new study published in Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation demonstrates that a reduced-intensity conditioning bone marrow transplant can eliminate symptoms of sickle cell disease in six out of seven patients. This approach eliminates life-threatening side effects associated with traditional bone marrow transplants.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Pittsburgh·JournalBiology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateNov 7, 2008