IU is leading dementia research

Indiana University School of Medicine and Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering are co-leading the new Microphysiological Systems to Advance Precision Medicine for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.

The initiative will develop brain organoids — three-dimensional cellular models derived from human pluripotent stem cells that can be developed into any type of cell in the body — to study Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Researchers will also lead preclinical and pharmacological studies for drug development.

“This center speaks to exciting areas of scientific investigation in the research community that is developing microphysiological systems to better understand human disease,” said Jason Meyer, the A. Donald Merritt professor of medical and molecular genetics at the IU School of Medicine, in a press release. “MAP-AD is a testament to the team and infrastructure that have been built up at the IU School of Medicine to support Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegeneration research.”

Investigation opened

The Federal Communications Commission has opened an investigation into Comcast, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported recently.

The investigation involves the handling of local television affiliates. A letter to the company indicated that the investigation is to “ensure compliance with FCC regulations as well as the public interest standard.”

“FCC has an interest in and the authority to promote the public interest and to ensure that local broadcast TV stations retain the economic and operational independence necessary to meet their public interest obligations,” FCC chair Brendan Carr wrote to Comcast and its subsidiaries. “I want to ensure that Comcast’s relationships with local broadcast TV stations comply with all of the relevant federal regulations — again, regulations designed to ensure that local stations meet their public interest obligations.”

Courses offered

Indiana Chamber of Commerce is hosting 10- and 30-hour Occupational Safety and Health Administration courses in August.

Courses covering general industry standards will be held Aug. 19 through 22 in the chamber conference center in Indianapolis. It will include sessions regarding inspections, most-cited violations, record keeping, fire protection, personal protective equipment and machine guarding.

To register, or for more information, visit indianachamber.com.

Team changing

Dollar Tree has named John S. Mitchell Jr. as its new chief legal officer and corporate secretary.

Mitchell will take over for Jonathan B. Leiken, who is leaving the company after two years. Mitchell is a graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law.

“John is a highly respected attorney whose sharp legal acumen and steady leadership have guided us through moments of significant change,” said Dollar Tree CEO Mike Creedon in a press release. “He understands our business, our people, and the importance of protecting and advancing our mission. This promotion from within our ranks is the result of thoughtful succession planning and a clear demonstration of something our Dollar Tree associates often hear me say, ‘show it’s a career, not just a job.’”

Partnering

Walmart recently signed a new agreement to partner with Major League Soccer.

The deal signed last week makes Walmart an official partner of MLS and Leagues Cup. It will involve Walmart providing gameday experiences, gear, watch parties and other features.

“Soccer is more than a sport. It’s a culture and a community, and one that’s growing rapidly in the U.S.,” said William White, chief marketing officer at Walmart, in a press release. “Walmart is focused on celebrating the game and making it more personal for fans. It’s about celebrating the passion of soccer lovers and creating opportunities for them to connect with the game they love. By partnering with MLS and the Leagues Cup, we’re not just supporting soccer — we’re empowering fans to shape its future in the U.S.”