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Science News Archive May 2010 - Page 6


Page 6 of 26

Ultraviolet radiation not culprit killing amphibians, research shows

Despite decades of research suggesting UV radiation was a major contributor to amphibian declines, new findings reveal that natural water conditions and female behavior are more significant factors in protecting embryos from harm. Amphibians exhibit adaptations such as laying eggs in shaded areas when water clarity puts them at risk.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2010

Signatures of kidney transplant rejection and acceptance

Researchers identified biomarkers associated with stable kidney graft function in patients without immunosuppressants and a molecular signature indicative of future organ failure. These findings may help design personalized treatment regimens for kidney transplant recipients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 24, 2010

JCI table of contents: May 24, 2010

Two teams of researchers identified biomarkers that predict excellent graft function in kidney transplant recipients who stop taking immunosuppressive drugs. A molecular signature indicative of future organ failure was also found. The signatures may help physicians design personalized treatment regimens for kidney transplant recipients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 24, 2010

Coastal birds carry toxic ocean metals inland

A Queen's University study found that Arctic seabirds' diets can funnel toxic ocean metals to terrestrial ecosystems, affecting other organisms. The research analyzed sediment cores from two Canadian Arctic ponds and linked bird diets to specific metal contaminants.

SourceQueen's University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2010

When helper cells aren't helpful

A new study suggests that T helper cells, previously thought to mediate autoimmunity, actually suppress the development of experimental immune encephalomyelitis in mice. The findings indicate that these cells can inhibit the growth of Th17 cells, which are believed to be responsible for causing multiple sclerosis.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMay 24, 2010

Gene pattern may identify kidney transplant recipients who don't need life-long anti-rejection drugs

Researchers have discovered a distinct gene expression pattern in kidney transplant recipients who didn't reject their transplanted kidneys despite stopping immunosuppressive therapy. The finding may help identify other transplant recipients who can safely reduce or end their use of anti-rejection drugs.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 24, 2010

Technique yields potential biological substitute for dental implants

A new technique developed by Dr. Jeremy Mao and his team can orchestrate stem cells to migrate to a three-dimensional scaffold infused with growth factor, holding the potential to yield an anatomically correct tooth in nine weeks once implanted. This approach avoids the need for harvested stem cell lines or creating environments outsid...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMay 24, 2010

Straw residue helps keep nitrogen on the farm

A new study finds that adding straw residue to hairy vetch cover crops can reduce nitrogen loss into waterways. However, this method also results in reduced crop yields due to the straw's removal from the field for sale. The research suggests integrating legume cover crops with synthetic fertilizers could improve sustainability.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMay 24, 2010