In today’s Good News, after more than 10 years of research, a 3D-printed, sustainable alternative to colorful plastic beads proves successful at Mardi Gras. And at Stanford University, an experiment yields thrilling results, with scientists able to cure type 1 diabetes in mice through an innovative double-method transplant.

Catherine Garcia
The Week Digital

Scientists at Stanford University say they have cured type 1 diabetes in mice using a dual transplant of insulin-producing islet cells and blood stem cells. The approach created a hybrid immune system that prevented rejection and halted the autoimmune attack. Treated mice required no insulin or immunosuppressive drugs for six months. Researchers called the results “very exciting,” but cautioned that further work was needed before human trials could begin.

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Finnish children are keeping the endangered Indigenous language Inari Sámi alive. Only a handful of people could speak the language in 1995, so the government set up immersive Inari Sámi language programs at three schools in Finland’s northern Lapland region. Nursery school students in the programs sing Inari Sámi songs and learn about cultural traditions, and teachers say that within a few months, kids switch from speaking Finnish to Inari Sámi. Today, an estimated 100 young people are fluent in the language.

Plastic to possibilities

An estimated 25 million pounds of plastic-bead necklaces are discarded at Mardi Gras in New Orleans each year. But 3D-printed biodegradable beads could soon become the standard. Louisiana State University researchers spent a decade working on a solution to the bead pollution problem, and during Mardi Gras last month, they introduced their PlantMe beads. Made of polylactic acid, the beads contain okra seeds, which help them biodegrade faster in the soil. More than 3,000 necklaces were distributed.

A donated classic car helped 700 students in Australia learn various automotive skills, including body work and engine repair. The 1986 VL Holden Commodore was given to TAFE NSW vocational school in Wollongbar 15 years ago, and over time, students completely rebuilt the vehicle. This hands-on learning helped them land jobs in the automotive repair industry, and now that the car is back to its original state, it will be auctioned off to raise money for a local rescue helicopter service.

The whirling flame could be faster and cleaner

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