Latest news with #Thymus
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Youthful Immune System in Old Age Can Apparently Be Harmful
Immune defenses that function in old age as they did in youth are considered desirable. However, a recent study shows that a youthful immune system in older age can also cause harm. Follow the FITBOOK channel on WhatsApp now! As part of the natural aging process, the human immune system weakens over the years.1 One reason for increased susceptibility to infections in old age is that fewer new T-cells are produced, as the thymus—the maturation organ for T-cells—shrinks. T-cells recognize and destroy harmful cells in the body and activate other parts of the immune system. Because the immune system weakens with age, people with an active immune system seem to have an advantage. But: This supposed immune youthfulness can apparently also be harmful. Also interesting: Certain diets could cripple the immune system Details of the Study A research team from the U.S. Mayo Clinic found, after evaluating health records of about 22 million people, that many autoimmune diseases only appear in older age. At the same time, it is known that general immune defense weakens with age.2 From this paradox, the researchers concluded that the immune system in older age is not just still active but sometimes possibly too active. In autoimmune diseases, a malfunction of the immune system is known to occur, leading the body to attack its own tissue. Researchers Found Immune Cells in Diseased Tissue of Giant Cell Arteritis Patients In the next step, the scientists examined aortic sections from more than 100 patients over 50 years old, who are being treated for giant cell arteritis at the U.S. Mayo Clinic. This is a rarer, inflammatory autoimmune disease of the large and medium arteries, often affecting the cranial arteries and aorta. The Mayo Clinic is globally renowned for its expertise in complex diseases, including giant cell arteritis (GCA).3 The researchers found an increased presence of specialized immune cells, known as stem cell-like T-cells, in the diseased tissue of the patients. To recap: The previously mentioned T-cells are normally responsible for fighting infections as part of the immune system. These special T-cells behave similarly to T-cells in young organisms, as they can renew themselves and continuously produce new defense cells. However, in the presence of giant cell arteritis, this seemingly beneficial effect appears to be misguided. Instead of protecting the body from invaders, these cells continuously supply new T-cells that attack the blood vessels of those affected. Their efficiency thus causes significant damage. How a Youthful Immune System Attacks Its Own Cells As people age, more new, unusual protein forms accumulate in the body, the study authors write: so-called neoantigens. The immune system has not yet developed tolerance to these proteins. 'This is likely to inevitably lead to an increase in autoimmune diseases in old age,' the study continues. Normally, the immune system prevents these neoantigens from attacking its own cells. However, with age, these control mechanisms can be disrupted—a possible explanation for why autoimmune diseases occur more frequently in old age. The study's results suggest that autoimmune diseases in old age are not solely a result of weaker defenses. In summary, a combination of 'youthful' T-cells and an increasing number of new antigens seems to lead to the immune system being unable to stop certain inflammations in old age. Part of the immune system remains overly efficient, and this can be harmful to the aging body. Significance of the Study and Limitations The observations could offer new perspectives for medical practice—at least if the findings are confirmed in further studies. The research team plans to develop diagnostic tests that could potentially predict autoimmune diseases later in life based on the high activity of immune stem cells in currently healthy individuals. For study author Dr. Jörg Goronzy, these findings are already significant. 'Contrary to popular belief, an immune system that ages with the body does have advantages,' he explains in a press release.3 He suggests that moderate aging of the immune system can be protective, as it dampens the response to one's own cells. It should be noted that the study is based on existing studies. No new experiments were conducted; rather, existing data were interpreted. This limitation may slightly affect the reliability of the results. Additionally, only tissue from giant cell arteritis patients was analyzed. Whether the observations can be applied to other autoimmune pathologies remains unclear—likewise, how the specific, stem cell-like T-cells that are beneficial for tissue repair differ from those that contribute to autoimmune pathology in older patients. FITBOOK has reached out to the authors with these and other questions. A response is still pending. The post Youthful Immune System in Old Age Can Apparently Be Harmful appeared first on FITBOOK.
The Irish Sun
15-06-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
B&Q's selling a gorgeous summer plant that needs no watering – it blooms all summer & stops cats pooing in your garden
IN the UK, cats are free to roam, and they are said to travel several miles a day when out and about. Whether it be strolling the streets or visiting your garden to do their business, and if it's the latter you're struggling with then there's a plant or two that can help. Advertisement 1 The Melissa Officinalis Lemon Balm pictured is sold at B&Q Credit: B&Q Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) and lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) are known to ward off felines. Lemon balm is a relatively easy herb to grow, thriving in various conditions. With antiviral and antibacterial properties, the leaves of this bushy, perennial herb release a strong lemon fragrance when they are bruised. It prefers full sun or partial shade with well-drained, moist soil, and can grow quickly, dominating free space. Advertisement READ MORE GARDENING STORIES It's a perennial which means it returns every year with its deliciously lemon-scented leaves, and produces creamy-white or pale purple flowers in summer which honey bees love. It can also be used around the house and in cooking - the leaves give a lemony kick to salads, sauces and fish dishes, make a refreshing herb tea, and can be added to summer drinks like Pimms. The crushed leaves are also said to help As for Advertisement Most read in Fabulous You can plant it in pots around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where cats are likely to visit. Everyone can see flowers but you have high IQ if you spot the cat in 12 secs B&Q sells Lemon Balm in a 9cm pot for £13.99. Lemon thyme is a hardy plant that thrives in a range of conditions, so it is a practical choice for gardeners who are looking for natural ways to keep cats out of their gardens and want a plant that will last for years. It produces small, tubular flowers in shades of pink or pale lilac, typically appearing in whorls at the stem tips in early to mid-summer. Advertisement These flowers are known to be attractive to bees and butterflies. Similarly to the lemon balm, lemon thyme gives off a citrus scent which Other fragrant plants to deter cats: Lavender Rosemary Rue Catnip Pennyroyal Oregano Curry plant Laws around deterring cats The RSPCA says: "Cats are protected by law and are free to roam meaning they might go into other people's gardens or allotments. It is understood that some may wish to deter other people's cats from those areas. "But attempting to prevent cats from entering a garden or an allotment, it is important to make sure that any deterrent methods used are non-harmful and don't cause pain, suffering, injury or distress." Advertisement June gardening jobs The Sun's Gardening Editor, Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you should take this month. Stake out leggy perennials With all the dramatic weather we've been having, it's definitely time to stake out your leggy perennials (the ones that come back every year). Heavy rain and growth spurts, can make them collapse and flop. Picking out the slugs and snails Hopefully as we move into summer they will do less damage as the plants get bigger. The best way is still to go out at night with a head torch to find them. Pick elderflower heads You can use them to make your own cordial, or add to cakes, champagne or even fry them in batter. Get on top of weeds It's around now that weeds really ramp up in the garden, so keep on top of them with hoe-ing - or just the traditional 'on your knees with a hand fork'. Try and avoid chemicals - remember weeds are just plants in the wrong place. Up the mowing You'll need to mow your lawn weekly now - if you've got time, weed it beforehand as once you mow you chop off the leaves and its harder to see them. Check on your tomatoes Your tomato plants will need attention - water, feed and regularly and pinch out the sideshoots. Chelsea Chop There's still time for the Chelsea Chop - plants like Rudbeckia's, Asters, Penstemons, Sedums and other perennials can be cut back by a third to help them get a bit more bushy, and prolong the flowering period. Sort out your tulips If you can be bothered and have space - lift and story your tulip bulbs to ensure colour next Spring. Deadheading your roses Take them down to the first set of healthy leaves - which will ensure more flowers for longer. Enjoy your space Take some time to sit and enjoy your garden or outside space - it's great for your mental health. Even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference. Homeowners are warned that causing unnecessary suffering to a cat is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (AWA). It may also be an offence to put down snares, poison or an unlicensed deterrent. The AWA also prohibits poisoning protected animals. The maximum penalty for anyone found guilty of an offence under the AWA is up to six months imprisonment and/or a £20,000 fine. Advertisement
CBS News
20-05-2025
- Health
- CBS News
"Bubble Family" quarantines to protect immunocompromised baby
A Santa Clarita family could be freed from their self-imposed isolation after their immunocompromised newborn received approval for a life-saving implant. "It's very scary," father Alex Landron said. "So far, it's been terrifying and lonely." For almost nine months, the Landrons have quarantined themselves to protect their daughter, Syanne, who was born without any immunity, meaning that any exposure to germs or infections could be deadly. The diagnosis changed the way they lived, with Alex working from home and opting to homeschool their son, Dean. They've celebrated holidays and birthdays from afar while family and friends drop off deliveries of food and supplies. "We don't see anybody," mother Marilyn Landron said. "There is no six feet apart. You don't go near anybody. We wear a mask anywhere and everywhere. Even if we're going to the trash, we put a mask on ... We don't go to stores. We couldn't even do our own laundry for a good minute at our old apartment." Syanne was born without a thymus gland, which prevented her body from adapting its T cells. T cells are a crucial part of a person's immune system. Without them, the baby's body cannot defend itself against infections, cancers and other diseases. "This little girl, her body is trying to make these immune cells, but they don't have a place to get educated," Syanne's immunologist, Dr. Caroline Kuo, said. "They can't function properly. We know that babies that don't have T cells, they cannot usually live past a year of life or a little longer than a year." Every second Syanne is not at home, except when she goes to the doctor, she is inside a plastic shield. "When we say that we want this baby to be free of infections, we mean all infections," Kuo said. "I don't just mean the really serious ones, I mean common viruses that we all come into contact with. So, that means that this family has had to have very minimal contact with the outside world." Just a few weeks ago, Syanne was approved to get a Thymus implant from a healthy baby who is undergoing surgery. The procedure could save her life. However, the family will have to wait to get a call from Duke University, the only facility in the United States to perform the implant. It's unclear when she might get a match, but the Landrons are prepared to stay in a bubble for as long as it takes. "We are very, very big on the power," Marilyn said. "God's listening and that's all that we are hoping for." Once they get the call from Duke, Marilyn and Syanne will board a medical plane and fly in isolation to North Carolina. Now that their insurance provider has approved them for the $3.2 million surgery, they could get the call within a month.
The Irish Sun
24-04-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
Experts recommend carrying out an essential gardening step right now to prevent weeds – it doesn't have to cost a penny
EXPERTS have recommended carrying out an essential gardening step right now to prevent weeds and it doesn't have to cost a penny. It also gives your garden a neat, tidy appearance and can reduce the amount of time spent on tasks such as watering. Advertisement 6 Experts have recommended carrying out an essential gardening step right now to prevent weeds and it doesn't have to cost a penny Credit: Getty 6 Mulches are loose coverings or sheets of material placed on the surface of soil Credit: Getty Pesky weeds that are taking over your garden and destroying all your hard work in a matter of weeks - is a gardener's worse nightmare. But although purchasing a weed barrier to may seem like a quick and easy solution - but Mulches are loose coverings or sheets of material placed on the surface of soil or to cover the surface of compost in garden containers. There are many benefits to mulching including - helping soils retain moisture, reducing watering, suppressing weeds, improving soil organic matter and nutrients, and even deterring some garden pests. Advertisement Gardening Mulches can be split into two main groups; biodegradable and non-biodegradable explain the Both types suppress weeds by blocking sunlight which is needed to germinate and grow weed seeds, and conserve moisture by reducing evaporation from the soil surface. When to apply Mulch 6 Mulches are best applied from mid- to late spring before weeds have germinated Credit: Getty Mulches are best applied from mid- to late spring, when annual weeds have not yet germinated and herbaceous plants are dormant, and autumn, as plants are dying back. Advertisement They can be applied around new plantings or to established beds and specimen plants. Most read in Fabulous New plants that need to establish can be mulched at any time of the year when they will benefit from weed suppression and moisture retention in the soil. How to apply Mulch 6 You must take care not to smother low growing plants or to pile mulch up Credit: Getty Beds and borders can be mulched entirely, taking care not to smother low growing plants or to pile mulches up against the stems of woody plants. Advertisement My gardening technique can save you lots of time weeding – adding a sweet mulch reduces how much you need to water, too To be effective, biodegradable mulches need to be between at least 5cm (2in) and ideally 7.5cm (3in) thick. Lay mulches over moist soil, after removing weeds, when the soil is not frozen . When creating new beds, planting through mulch sheets is effective. Single trees and specimen shrubs are best mulched to the radius of the canopy. Advertisement As it decomposes over time, a biodegradable mulch will feed your plants and microorganisms in the soil reducing the need for additional soluble feed. Ground covering Mediterranean plants such as Thymus species may be best left unmulched as it can hold too much moisture around the stems and foliage. How to apply Mulch to your garden. Experts have recommended carrying out mulching right now to prevent weeds in your garden. Beds and borders can be mulched entirely, taking care not to smother low growing plants or to pile mulches up against the stems of woody plants. To be effective, biodegradable mulches need to be between at least 5cm (2in) and ideally 7.5cm (3in) thick. Lay mulches over moist soil, after removing weeds, when the soil is not frozen. When creating new beds, planting through mulch sheets is effective. Single trees and specimen shrubs are best mulched to the radius of the canopy. Problems with Mulching 6 Avoid damaging roots of plants by hoeing weeds growing in mulches around permanent plants Credit: Getty There is generally no problem with mulches, if they are laid correctly. Advertisement However, if they are in direct contact with the stems of trees or specimen shrubs they can cause the stem to soften, making it vulnerable to diseases. To save water and suppress weeds, the type of organic material you choose is less important than putting on a thick enough layer. Depending on the quality of the material there is a possibility of introducing weeds, pests and diseases to the garden and, with woodchips there is a slight risk of introducing honey fungus. Using freshly chipped material such as woody pruning's or grass clippings can encourage the microorganisms in the soil to grow but they may use up reserves of nitrogen, leaving less available for plant growth. Advertisement If you have freshly chipped material, keep it stored for a few weeks before using. Avoid damaging roots of plants by hoeing weeds growing in mulches around permanent plants. Remove weeds by hand and add a further layer of fresh mulch. Gravel can sometimes mix with the underlying soil if not applied thickly, encouraging surface weeds. It is not uncommon for the white fungal mycelium of harmless saprotrophic fungi to be found in soil that has been covered or enriched with an organic mulch. Advertisement This is nothing to worry about and there is no need to dig out the mulch or white fungal growth. This is also the perfect time to prep your garden for summer by tackling ten jobs with a cheap 50p hack. Or why not have a look at the 6 Indoor plants will continue to be popular in summer 2025 Credit: Getty Advertisement
The Sun
24-04-2025
- General
- The Sun
Experts recommend carrying out an essential gardening step right now to prevent weeds – it doesn't have to cost a penny
EXPERTS have recommended carrying out an essential gardening step right now to prevent weeds and it doesn't have to cost a penny. It also gives your garden a neat, tidy appearance and can reduce the amount of time spent on tasks such as watering. 6 6 Pesky weeds that are taking over your garden and destroying all your hard work in a matter of weeks - is a gardener's worse nightmare. But although purchasing a weed barrier to banish these annoying plants may seem like a quick and easy solution - but a good mulch is a great alternative. Mulches are loose coverings or sheets of material placed on the surface of soil or to cover the surface of compost in garden containers. There are many benefits to mulching including - helping soils retain moisture, reducing watering, suppressing weeds, improving soil organic matter and nutrients, and even deterring some garden pests. Mulches can be split into two main groups; biodegradable and non-biodegradable explain the RHS. Both types suppress weeds by blocking sunlight which is needed to germinate and grow weed seeds, and conserve moisture by reducing evaporation from the soil surface. When to apply Mulch 6 Mulches are best applied from mid- to late spring, when annual weeds have not yet germinated and herbaceous plants are dormant, and autumn, as plants are dying back. They can be applied around new plantings or to established beds and specimen plants. New plants that need to establish can be mulched at any time of the year when they will benefit from weed suppression and moisture retention in the soil. How to apply Mulch 6 Beds and borders can be mulched entirely, taking care not to smother low growing plants or to pile mulches up against the stems of woody plants. My gardening technique can save you lots of time weeding – adding a sweet mulch reduces how much you need to water, too To be effective, biodegradable mulches need to be between at least 5cm (2in) and ideally 7.5cm (3in) thick. Lay mulches over moist soil, after removing weeds, when the soil is not frozen. When creating new beds, planting through mulch sheets is effective. Single trees and specimen shrubs are best mulched to the radius of the canopy. As it decomposes over time, a biodegradable mulch will feed your plants and microorganisms in the soil reducing the need for additional soluble feed. Ground covering Mediterranean plants such as Thymus species may be best left unmulched as it can hold too much moisture around the stems and foliage. How to apply Mulch to your garden. Experts have recommended carrying out mulching right now to prevent weeds in your garden. Beds and borders can be mulched entirely, taking care not to smother low growing plants or to pile mulches up against the stems of woody plants. To be effective, biodegradable mulches need to be between at least 5cm (2in) and ideally 7.5cm (3in) thick. Lay mulches over moist soil, after removing weeds, when the soil is not frozen. When creating new beds, planting through mulch sheets is effective. Single trees and specimen shrubs are best mulched to the radius of the canopy. Problems with Mulching 6 There is generally no problem with mulches, if they are laid correctly. However, if they are in direct contact with the stems of trees or specimen shrubs they can cause the stem to soften, making it vulnerable to diseases. To save water and suppress weeds, the type of organic material you choose is less important than putting on a thick enough layer. Depending on the quality of the material there is a possibility of introducing weeds, pests and diseases to the garden and, with woodchips there is a slight risk of introducing honey fungus. Using freshly chipped material such as woody pruning's or grass clippings can encourage the microorganisms in the soil to grow but they may use up reserves of nitrogen, leaving less available for plant growth. If you have freshly chipped material, keep it stored for a few weeks before using. Avoid damaging roots of plants by hoeing weeds growing in mulches around permanent plants. Remove weeds by hand and add a further layer of fresh mulch. Gravel can sometimes mix with the underlying soil if not applied thickly, encouraging surface weeds. It is not uncommon for the white fungal mycelium of harmless saprotrophic fungi to be found in soil that has been covered or enriched with an organic mulch. This is nothing to worry about and there is no need to dig out the mulch or white fungal growth. This is also the perfect time to prep your garden for summer by tackling ten jobs with a cheap 50p hack. Or why not have a look at the 5 gardening trends set to take over in 2025 – from companion planting to chaos gardening. 6
