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Science News for December 13, 2005


NIH launches comprehensive effort to explore cancer genomics

The NIH has launched a three-year, $100 million pilot project to explore cancer genomics through The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Pilot Project. This initiative aims to create a systematic framework for identifying and characterizing genetic mutations and genomic changes associated with cancer.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateDec 13, 2005

A crucial role for TGFbeta signaling in congenital eye disorders

Researchers used in vivo cell fate mapping to study the role of TGFbeta signaling in congenital eye disorders. They found that NC-derived cells contribute to various eye structures, and TGFbeta signaling is essential for their proper differentiation and morphogenesis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateDec 13, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Growth factor protects brain against damage from stroke

Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center found that administering neuregulin-1 reduces cell death by 90% and protects neurons from damage after surgically induced strokes. The compound's therapeutic window is longer than existing treatments, offering potential for new stroke therapies.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateDec 13, 2005

Parents of children with cancer suffer post-traumatic stress symptoms, both immediate and lingering

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that parents of children with cancer often suffer from post-traumatic stress symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and heightened arousal. The studies suggest that these symptoms can be just as severe as those experienced by patients themselves.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateDec 13, 2005

New antidepressant drug increases 'brain's own cannabis'

Researchers have discovered a new drug that raises the level of endocannabinoids, providing measurable antidepressant effects. The study found similar results to commonly prescribed antidepressants, suggesting URB597 as a safer, non-addictive alternative for pain and depression treatment.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005

Bone quality regulator identified, suggests drug target

Researchers have discovered that transforming growth factor beta (TGF-ß) regulates bone matrix properties, which affect bone elasticity, toughness, and resistance to fracture. The study suggests that targeting TGF-ß signaling could improve bone quality, potentially preventing osteoporosis and improving bone repair.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Flatworm genes may provide insights into human diseases, researchers say

Scientists have discovered 142 human disease genes in the flatworm planarian Schmidtea mediterranea, which may provide insights into human diseases. The findings suggest that flatworms could be a valuable complementary model for studying gene function and developing new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005

Kidnapped: Colon cancer seizes hapless nerve growth protein

Researchers found L1 in large quantities exclusively in aggressive colon cancer cells, enabling them to invade and metastasize more effectively. The discovery may have important implications for diagnosing colon cancer and designing new therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 13, 2005
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Anyway you slice it, tomatoes cut through drought with new gene

A team of researchers has successfully engineered a drought-resistant gene into tomato plants, resulting in stronger root systems that can better utilize limited water. The technology could be applied to all crops, addressing the global concern of water scarcity and potentially increasing food production.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005

Peacetime grenades harm environment

A Swedish study found that peacetime grenade stockpiling leads to environmental harm from metal mining and explosive residues. Replacing plastic with copper could make grenades more environmentally friendly, according to the authors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateDec 13, 2005
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Ancient humans brought bottle gourds to the Americas from Asia

A team of researchers assembled ancient gourd remnants across the Americas and found they matched modern gourds in Asia, suggesting a pre-pottery Asian origin. The findings indicate that people arrived in the New World with domesticated plants and tools, changing our understanding of the founding of the Americas.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2005

Astronomers use Hubble to 'weigh' Dog Star's companion

Researchers isolated Sirius B's light using Hubble Space Telescope, measuring its mass based on gravitational redshift. The result indicates Sirius B has a diameter less than Earth's but is denser and has a surface temperature of 25,000 degrees C.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 13, 2005

New study finds anabolic steroids may be addictive

A new study using an animal model suggests that anabolic steroids can be addictive. Hamsters showed a marked preference for testosterone, nandrolone or drostanolone, indicating the drugs' potential for addiction. The research highlights the need for awareness among coaches and mental health professionals about this risk.

SourceThe Reis Group·DateDec 13, 2005
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Evidence links cocaine abuse and Parkinson's disease

Research at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that cocaine exposure alters brain chemistry, making neurons more susceptible to damage from environmental toxins. The study suggests a potential link between cocaine use and the development of Parkinson's disease in both adults and their offspring.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNeuroscience·DateDec 13, 2005
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Insulin levels and resistance linked to risk of pancreatic cancer

A cohort study found that higher insulin concentrations and insulin resistance were associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer in male smokers. The study suggests that lifestyle changes to decrease glucose and insulin levels may help prevent pancreatic cancer development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 13, 2005

Progress slow in improving hospitals' patient safety systems

Despite extensive research and calls for reform, US hospitals' patient safety systems have made only modest progress. The study found that while some areas, like surgery, have implemented effective safety measures, others, such as medication management, have seen improvements but are already at high baseline levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 13, 2005
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

£6m to develop new class of light alloys

A £6m grant has been awarded to develop new methods for processing, forming, joining, and surface engineering of aluminium, titanium, and magnesium. The project aims to create lighter, more environmentally-friendly vehicles using these materials.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateDec 13, 2005

National study improves outcome for pediatric AML

A new clinical trial found that using minimal residual disease (MRD) measurements, doctors can accurately assess treatment response and adjust therapy, leading to a high remission rate and low treatment-related mortality. This breakthrough approach improved outcomes for pediatric AML patients by identifying slow responders and intensif...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·DateDec 13, 2005