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Science News for January 28, 2011


Novel surgery removes rare tumor, rebuilds trachea

A team of surgeons at Henry Ford Hospital has successfully removed a rare malignant immature teratoma from an adult's trachea and rebuilt the airway using tissue and bone from the patient's arm. The patient is now able to speak and swallow normally, with only a temporary tracheostomy tube used for breathing assistance.

Vitamin D deficiency alters lung growth and decreases lung function

Researchers found that vitamin D-deficient mice had reduced lung volume, lower airway resistance, and smaller lungs compared to control mice. The study suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and obstructive lung disease, highlighting the need for future studies on prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 28, 2011

Pre-surgical stress management boosts immune function, lowers mood disturbance in prostate cancer patients

A new UT MD Anderson study finds that brief pre-surgery stress management training can improve immune outcomes and lower mood disturbances in men with early-stage prostate cancer. The study's results suggest that managing stress has biological as well as psychological benefits, which may have an effect on aspects of disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJan 28, 2011

DNA caught rock 'n rollin'

Researchers at University of Michigan and University of California, Irvine discover DNA's building blocks 'rock and roll,' forming alternative structures with Hoogsteen base pairs. These fleeting states contain new layers of information stored in the genetic code, shedding light on critical interactions between DNA and proteins.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2011

Hormone therapy begun at menopause may pose risk for breast cancer

A large cohort study found that hormone therapy started at menopause increases breast cancer risk, particularly among women who start therapy before or soon after menopause. The study's results support previous findings and provide new insights into the relationship between timing of hormone therapy and breast cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 28, 2011