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Science News for January 20, 2013


UT MD Anderson scientists find protein that reins in runaway network

Researchers identified the protein OTUD7B as TRAF3's protector, revealing its role in regulating a molecular pathway implicated in immune system-related diseases. OTUD7B suppressed non-canonical NF-kB signaling, leading to increased lymphoid cell growth and hyper-responsiveness to antigens.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateJan 20, 2013

Mature T cells can switch function to better tackle infection

Researchers have discovered that mature CD4+ helper T lymphocytes can reprogram into killer-like CD8+ T lymphocytes, gaining killing functions. This unexpected plasticity expands the functional capabilities of CD4+ T cells, suggesting they may play a direct protective role in immune responses.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 20, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

La Jolla Institute identifies molecular switch enabling immune cells to better fight disease

The study found that CD4 helper T cells can transform into killer cells by overcoming a suppression mechanism triggered by a transcription factor. This transformation enables the helper cells to take on the role of killer cells in mounting an immune attack against viruses, cancerous tumors, and other damaged or infected cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 20, 2013

'Quadruple helix' DNA discovered in human cells

A team of scientists has discovered quadruple helix DNA structures in human cells, which may be a new target for cancer treatment. The discovery was made using fluorescent biomarkers and shows clear links between quadruplexes and DNA replication.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 20, 2013
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

A new type of volcanic eruption

Researchers describe a previously undocumented type of eruption in underwater volcanoes, characterized by a unique bubble structure that defies explosive or effusive categories. The study proposes a new eruptive style, named Tangaroan, which occurs when magma forms a buoyant foam that rises to the seafloor and detaches from the volcano.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 20, 2013

Wind in the willows boosts biofuel production

Researchers have identified a genetic trait that enables willow trees to produce more biofuel when grown at an angle, increasing yields by up to five times compared to naturally growing trees. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more productive and sustainable bioenergy crops.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels·DateJan 20, 2013

Researchers turn one form of neuron into another in the brain

Scientists have successfully reprogrammed one type of neuron into another within the brain, challenging the long-held notion that neurons are immutable. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 20, 2013

Developing microbial cell factories by employing synthetic small regulatory RNAs

A new strategy uses synthetic small RNA to regulate multiple genes at the translation level, allowing for efficient development of microbial cell factories. This method enables fine control of gene expression levels, transferability to different host strains, and identification of essential genes.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 20, 2013