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Science News for February 26, 2010


The pig and its pancreas

A team of LMU researchers has created a genetically modified strain of pigs that consistently develop the essential symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The pigs' physiology is similar to humans', making them an ideal model system for studying the disease, testing new treatments and diagnostic methods.

Offering hope for tissue regeneration

Scientists at Rhode Island Hospital have discovered a novel mechanism of cell-to-cell communication using microvesicles, which can reprogram stem cells to behave like healthy cells. This finding offers hope for tissue regeneration and potential treatments for diseases such as cancer.

SourceLifespan·JournalExperimental Hematology·DateFeb 26, 2010

Tackling the challenges of survival in a changing world

Leading researchers discuss challenges of identifying and protecting vulnerable species amidst unprecedented climate change, covering topics such as vegetation distributions, bird, insect, and marine populations. The collection provides insights into the responses of corals, amphibians, and other organisms to environmental changes.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 26, 2010

The most frequent error in medicine

A new study found that nearly a third of patients age 65 and older referred to a specialist do not receive treatment due to failed referrals. The study revealed that only 50% of those referred had the opportunity to receive treatment, highlighting the need for improved health information technology to address this issue.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice·DateFeb 26, 2010

Hiding the honeypots

Researchers reveal that honeypot traps are susceptible to detection by advanced Botnet malware, allowing attackers to disable or ignore them. This vulnerability highlights the need for secure honeypot deployment and research into covert honeypot building techniques.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Information and Computer Security·DateFeb 26, 2010

The new ID card

The new ID card features an RFID chip, cryptography, and a six-digit PIN for secure access to personal data. It enables citizens to validate their identity online and use the eID function for various services like banking and shopping, promoting confidence in digital transactions.

News brief: Poorer breast cancer survival associated with micrometastases in axillary lymph nodes

A systematic review of literature found that micrometastases in axillary lymph nodes are associated with reduced disease-free and overall survival in breast cancer patients. The study's findings suggest that even small metastatic lesions can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 26, 2010