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Science News for May 13, 2005


Function of cancer genes discovered

Sebastian Nijman's research reveals the molecular mechanism underlying cylindromatosis, a rare genetic condition causing skin tumors. The study also identifies a key protein in Fanconi anaemia, a form of inherited cancer, and finds potential treatment through inhibition of NF-kappa B signalling route.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 13, 2005

Sponges as drugs

Researchers found that sponges produce bioactive substances in response to competition, which is crucial for developing new drugs. However, the growth rates of cultivated species are slow and unpredictable, resulting in lower substance production compared to natural counterparts.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateMay 13, 2005

Study explains mystery of mars icecaps

Scientists from Oregon State University have discovered new theories about Mars' climate and polar regions, shedding light on the mystery of the planet's icecaps. The study reveals that the southern pole's permanent icecap is comprised primarily of carbon dioxide ice, which could indicate global climate change.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·DateMay 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.

New 'nuclear battery' runs 10 years, 10 times more powerful

A new 'nuclear battery' technology has been developed, increasing the surface area of a radioactive gas to produce a current. This increase results in a 160-fold efficiency improvement over conventional designs, making it suitable for long-lasting medical devices and deep-space probes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 13, 2005

Tamoxifen shows no benefit, risk for breast cancer survivors' heart health

Researchers found tamoxifen does not lower heart attack risk in breast cancer survivors and increases risk with radiation therapy. Tamoxifen use was linked to a doubled heart attack risk among women who also received radiation therapy, regardless of the duration or dose of the drug.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateMay 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.

Man, chimp difference may have made us prone to cancer

A comparative genetic study by Cornell University researchers found that some genetic mutations in human sperm cells may allow them to avoid early death and reproduce, but also increase the risk of cancer. The study suggests that these mutations could have led to a positive selection advantage, making humans more prone to cancer.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 13, 2005

Size matters: fish genitalia attractiveness vs. predatory escape value

A recent study found that male fish with larger gonopodia are more attractive to females for mating purposes, but simultaneously exhibit reduced swimming performance when trying to evade predators. The research suggests a trade-off between genetic size and predator escape value in certain fish species.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2005

Scientists unexpectedly discover enols in flames

Researchers detect enols in flames for the first time, revealing a new class of chemistry. The discovery uses a novel technique to distinguish between molecules and has potential applications in reducing pollutants and improving fuel cells.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateMay 13, 2005
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

PENN researchers use robotic surgery

PENN researchers have developed a novel approach to treat head and neck cancer using the daVinci System, allowing for complete tumor removal while preserving voice and swallowing function. This innovative technique has shown great potential in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateMay 13, 2005

Lipids get new comprehensive classification system

The Lipid Metabolites and Pathways Strategy (LIPID MAPS) consortium has proposed a new comprehensive classification system for lipids, dividing them into eight primary categories with further subdivisions. The system includes a nomenclature system and a unique identifier for each lipid molecule.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateMay 13, 2005

NASA satellite launch rescheduled for May 14

The launch of NASA's satellite has been rescheduled for May 14. Coverage will be available on NASA TV starting at 4 a.m. EDT, and the satellite will be broadcast via AMC-6 and AMC-7 transponders.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 13, 2005
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Finding an Alzheimer's switch

The discovery of CD147 reveals a new component regulating the production of A-beta peptides, which form amyloid plaques. The study highlights the importance of understanding membrane protein structures to combat Alzheimer's research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2005

Innovative coating could give medical implants a longer life

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new coating that provides effective fouling resistance for over five months, outlasting existing antifouling polymers. The coating, made of two parts, sticks securely to surfaces and prevents cell and protein buildup, holding promise for use on medical implants.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 13, 2005
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Two pioneers in genetic research win $250,000 March of Dimes prize

Gene targeting allows researchers to design and produce knockout lab mice to study human disease, revolutionizing biomedical research and advancing genetic medicine. The award recognizes the breakthrough technology developed by Capecchi and Smithies, enabling scientists to address complex biological problems.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateMay 13, 2005