Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive January 2013 - Page 13


Page 13 of 27

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

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

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

Breakthrough for solar cell research

Researchers from Lund University have made a significant breakthrough in solar cell technology, demonstrating the potential for nanowires to produce 13.8% efficient energy. The nanowire solar cells can absorb sunlight more efficiently than traditional silicon cells, offering higher efficiency at a lower cost.

SourceLund University·JournalScience·DateJan 18, 2013

Severe abuse at home linked to dating violence

A study by Michigan State University researcher Angie Kennedy found that severe abuse within families is strongly associated with dating violence among young female high school students. The research highlights the need for discussions about family abuse and its impact on individuals, particularly those exposed to violence in their homes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateJan 18, 2013

Severity of emphysema predicts mortality

A Norwegian study found that emphysema severity is a strong predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in ever-smokers with or without COPD. The study also showed that airway wall thickness is associated with respiratory mortality in patients with severe emphysema.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 18, 2013

Which nutritional factors help preserve muscle mass, strength and performance in seniors?

A new review by the International Osteoporosis Foundation's Nutrition Working Group highlights the importance of protein intake (1.0-1.2 g/kg body weight) and vitamin D supplementation for maintaining muscle mass and strength in seniors. The review also suggests avoiding dietary acid loads and incorporating more fruits and vegetables i...

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJan 18, 2013

Exposure to COI policies during residency reduces rate of brand antidepressant prescriptions

A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that psychiatrists exposed to COI policies during residency are less likely to prescribe brand-name antidepressants after graduation. The results suggest that COI policies can lower rates of prescribing heavily promoted antidepressants, potentially reducing cost growth.

Increasing concerns surrounding surrogacy

The UK's rapid increase in surrogate births over the past six years poses a risk of exploitation, particularly in informal arrangements lacking professional back-up. Overseas surrogacy arrangements are also a concern due to potential financial, physical and emotional risks to adults and children involved.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Social Welfare and Family Law·DateJan 18, 2013

Cell: Protein folding via charge zippers

Researchers discovered a novel charge zipper principle used by membrane proteins to form functional units, allowing them to be immersed into hydrophobic cell membranes. The mechanism involves the assembly of amino acids with positive or negative charges, forming an uncharged ring that lines the TatA pore.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCell·DateJan 18, 2013

The cell that isn't

Researchers have developed a new technique to study cell division without a cell membrane, allowing them to uncover physical forces and constraints involved in the process. By using this method, they discovered that squeezing the 'cell' into tighter quarters does not lead to smaller spindles, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Protocols·DateJan 18, 2013

U Alberta researchers move Barkhausen Effect forward

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a new technique to analyze the Barkhausen Effect, providing critical information for rapid prototyping of magnetic computational devices. The method measures magnetic jumps in a special 'vortex' pattern and converts it into a probe of magnetic interactions on an atomic scale.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience·DateJan 17, 2013

Fighting sleep: UGA discovery may lead to new treatments for deadly sleeping sickness

Researchers at the University of Georgia have identified a specific receptor regulating calcium release in the trypanosome parasite, which could lead to new therapies for sleeping sickness. The discovery may also have applications beyond treating this disease, including new treatments for blood clotting disorders.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2013

Titan gets a dune 'makeover'

Research using Cassini spacecraft observations reveals that Titan's craters are being filled by exotic sand dunes, suggesting a much older surface. The team compared craters on Titan to those on Ganymede and found that Titan's craters were significantly shallower, indicating erosion from windblown sand.

Study findings have potential to prevent,reverse disabilities in children born prematurely

Researchers at OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital report that low blood flow to the premature brain does not cause irreversible loss of brain cells, but rather disrupts their ability to mature. This discovery opens up new avenues for potential therapies to promote regeneration and repair of the premature brain.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 17, 2013