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Science News for March 15, 2006


Uncovering how bone marrow stromal cells can potentially regenerate brain tissue

Researchers discovered that bone marrow stromal cells can improve brain receptor function in patients with cerebral stroke, showing potential for neural tissue regeneration. The study may provide a 'missing link' needed in understanding receptor function, possibly leading to safe and ethical cell transplantation therapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

How the brain sees people in motion

Studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) found that the visual cortex uses a specific region known to detect motion of other people, but also engages areas responding to static human form. This clarifies the emerging picture of how the brain makes sense of other individuals' appearances and actions.

Transplantation Report 2005

The report highlights the reduction in mortality rates following organ transplantation, with primary graft dysfunction being a significant factor affecting long-term survival. Lung transplant patients also experience chronic rejection and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, leading to reduced pulmonary function and quality of life.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

Salmonella caught red-handed

Researchers identify key proteins in Salmonella metabolic paths, finding that blocking certain enzymes may not be effective against the bacteria. Only a few essential enzymes are necessary to keep Salmonella alive, and these are also present in other pathogens or human organisms.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006

A new view of asthma's cause

A recent study published in PNAS found that at least two-thirds of asthma patients' pulmonary T cells are actually NKT cells, not conventional Th2 cells. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments targeting NKT cells.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center researchers find ginseng may improve breast cancer outcomes

A large epidemiological study led by Xiao-Ou Shu found significant improvements in survival and quality of life measures among breast cancer patients who used ginseng, particularly those who started using it before diagnosis. The study suggests that ginseng may provide tangible benefits to breast cancer survivors.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 15, 2006