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Science News for May 30, 2010


From butterflies' wings to bank notes -- how nature's colors could cut bank fraud

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully mimicked the colorful wing scales of tropical butterflies using nanofabrication techniques. This innovation has promising applications in security printing, enabling more secure authentication and anti-forgery measures on banknotes and other valuable items.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 30, 2010

Immune cell's role in lupus nephritis demonstrated

Researchers discovered that activated basophils cause kidney damage in a mouse model of lupus nephritis, potentially leading to new treatments with an asthma medication. The study found increased IgE responses and activated basophils in people with SLE, strongly associated with disease activity.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 30, 2010

U of A discovery offers promising research for spinal-cord injury treatments

Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a natural self-repair mechanism that kick-starts after spinal-cord injuries, offering promising new treatments. Serotonin receptors remain active after injury, but are permanently turned on, contributing to muscle spasms; blocking these receptors could help alleviate symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 30, 2010

Researchers find gene linked to birth defects

A recent study has identified a gene linked to severe birth defects, specifically Meckel-Gruber and Joubert syndromes. The research found that mutations in the TMEM216 gene can cause these conditions by disrupting cellular signaling pathways.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 30, 2010
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Faulty gene stops cell 'antennae' from transmitting

Researchers have identified a genetic cause of inherited conditions causing severe fetal abnormalities, potentially leading to treatments for related disorders. The study found that the faulty gene stops cells' 'antennae' from transmitting information.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 30, 2010

Liquid method: pure graphene production

Researchers have developed a liquid-based method to produce high-quality graphene, which could lead to novel carbon composites and more affordable touch screens. The new technique yields very pure material and has the potential to drive down costs in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 30, 2010

Acupuncture's molecular effects pinned down

Researchers at University of Rochester Medical Center discover adenosine's role in paralyzing pain signals, tripling acupuncture effects in mice by adding medication. The study identifies molecular mechanism underlying acupuncture's pain-relieving properties.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 30, 2010