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PNAS highlights for the week of April 18 - 22

Happiness has been found to be related to the functioning of key body processes, including lower cortisol levels and healthier cardiovascular systems. Researchers also discovered a Chinese herbal medicine component that can inhibit cancer cell growth.

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.

Combination of Lipitor® and Celecoxib

A low-dose blend of celecoxib and Lipitor significantly reduces invasive and non-invasive colon adenocarcinomas by 95% in laboratory animals. The combination targets different molecular pathways to prevent colon cancer development, suggesting a promising approach for maximizing anti-cancer efficacy while minimizing toxicity.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

SV40 not implicated in mesothelioma

Researchers found no detectable levels of SV40 in 69 tumors tested using a highly sensitive assay. The study's protocol aimed to eliminate possible contamination from DNA vectors used in laboratories worldwide.

Scientists making advances receive international awards

The American Association for Cancer Research has conferred international awards to world-class scientists, with recipients presenting lectures at the AACR Annual Meeting. The honorees represent leading researchers in basic research, clinical care, and prevention.

Genetic testing could bolster radiotherapy's effectiveness against cancer

Researchers have found a trio of proteins that protect tumor cells from destruction by radiotherapy, and a deeper understanding of their relationship could lead to more effective treatment. Genetic testing could help doctors identify the most effective treatment method for each patient's unique cancer tissue.

AACR establishes new lectureship in honor of Dr. Jane C. Wright

The AACR-Minorities in Cancer Research-Jane C. Wright Lectureship recognizes outstanding scientists advancing minority investigators in cancer research. Dr. Wright's pioneering work in clinical cancer chemotherapy and leadership in the field have a lasting impact on cancer research.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Pezcoller Foundation-AACR International Award for Cancer Research

Cantley's discovery of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) revealed a new lipid produced only when cells are stimulated with growth factors or made cancerous. His work has supported the model that PI3K plays a critical role in many human cancers, and its inhibition is being explored for various diseases.

AACR celebrates 20th anniversary of minority scholar awards

The AACR Minority Scholar Awards program aims to increase minority participation in cancer research by providing opportunities for young scientists and clinicians. The program's 20th anniversary is being celebrated with a special session and gala, honoring past award recipients and recognizing the contributions of minority researchers.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Scientist works on innovative treatments for brain tumors

Dr. Waldemar Debinski has developed a novel treatment approach for glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer, by targeting specific receptors on cancer cells. The therapy combines a form of interleukin-13 with a toxin that kills cancer cells without damaging healthy tissue.

Employment prospects good for most cancer survivors -- but not all

Most cancer survivors can return to work after treatment, but a minority face ongoing problems requiring comprehensive support services. The study found that similar numbers of men and women stop working during treatment, with the lowest rates among those with certain types of cancer.

Earlier use of prostate cancer vaccines urged by Hopkins scientists

Researchers found that vaccinating mice with prostate cancer immediately after hormone therapy triggers a stronger T-cell response against the cancer. The strategy could lead to better vaccine effectiveness in humans, delaying the need for additional treatments or hormone therapy.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Temple University researchers develop new targeted cancer therapy

Researchers at Temple University have developed a new targeted cancer therapy called ON01910, which inhibits Plk1 activity and shows promise in treating advanced and metastatic cancers. The compound has been shown to block tumor cell invasion, angiogenesis, and induce tumor cell death.

Analysis shows drug could save lives from prostate cancer

The study found finasteride reduced the incidence of prostate cancer by 24.8% compared to a placebo, potentially saving thousands of lives over ten years. Despite an increase in high-grade tumors, the analysis shows that this benefit outweighs the potential drawbacks.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Plant derivative attacks the roots of leukemia

A plant derivative called parthenolide selectively kills leukemia stem cells while sparing normal cells, offering a promising new therapy for leukemia. This breakthrough research identifies molecular pathways that allow parthenolide to induce cancer cell death.

Resistance to chemotherapy

Scientists found that tumors from six patients with non-small cell lung cancer who initially responded to gefitinib or erlotinib but relapsed carried activating mutations in the EGFR gene. The resistant tumor cells also carried a second mutation in the EGFR gene, which causes resistance to these drugs.

Purdue proves concept of using nano-materials for drug discovery

Researchers at Purdue University have created a chip with thousands of tiny vessels on top of a material containing pores to mimic synthetic cell membranes. This innovation aims to develop 'laboratories-on-a-chip' that can screen individual drugs and increase the efficiency of drug discovery.

Researchers identify target for cancer drugs

Researchers at Whitehead Institute discover mTOR/rictor complex, a crucial component in Akt's activation process. This finding holds promise for developing targeted cancer therapies by blocking the complex and preventing tumor growth.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Breast cancer treatment reduces risk of heart disease

Tamoxifen has been shown to reduce breast cancer recurrence by up to 50% and lower heart disease risk in women with breast cancer. The study found that current use of tamoxifen was associated with a significantly reduced risk of heart disease, particularly in women who had completed less than two years of therapy.

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.

AACR recognizes women in cancer research

The American Association for Cancer Research recognizes Melissa J. Parsons and G. Ruth Thomas as the first award recipients in 2005, honoring their meritorious scientific papers on cell death in oncogenesis. The AACR aims to accelerate cancer prevention and cure through research, education, and advocacy.

New treatment rivals chemotherapy for lymphoma, U-M study finds

A new radioactive antibody treatment called Bexxar has shown promising results in a study, rivaling traditional chemotherapy regimens for follicular lymphoma. The treatment achieved a 95% response rate and 75% complete remission in patients with advanced-stage disease.

Blocking cell signaling can stymie viral infections, study shows

Researchers have identified a possible strategy for treating acute viral infections by blocking cellular signaling pathways that viruses depend on for reproduction. The approach, using an experimental cancer drug called CI-1033, has shown promising results in laboratory samples and lab mice infected with viruses similar to smallpox.

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.

Towards targeted lung cancer treatment

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that patients with KRAS mutations do not respond to targeted therapy drugs erlotinib and gefitinib. Analyzing tumors for EGF receptor and KRAS mutations may be crucial to predicting treatment effectiveness.

New leukemia drug shows promise in overriding all Gleevec resistance

Researchers have discovered a new leukemia drug that can overcome all forms of Gleevec resistance, a significant breakthrough for patients with advanced CML. The drug, ON012380, blocks a different site in the BCR-ABL protein and induces cell death in all known Gleevec-resistant mutants.

New cancer gene identified by Memorial Sloan-Kettering scientists

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have identified a new oncogene called Pokemon, which is essential for cancer cell growth and transformation. The discovery opens up new avenues for targeted therapy, with a focus on blocking the protein's function to prevent cancer progression.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

USC/Norris oncologists test new front-line therapy for pancreatic cancer

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of BAY43-9006 alone and paired with gemcitabine in a phase II clinical trial for metastatic pancreatic carcinoma. The trial aims to add much-needed treatment options for this aggressive cancer, which affects approximately 27,000 deaths annually in the US.

Surprising study reveals how cancer-causing protein activates

A new study by Brown University researchers has discovered a chemical modification that activates the STAT3 protein, which is important for embryonic growth and development. This continuous activation causes breast and prostate cells to develop and move through the body, leading to cancer. The research team found that acetylation, anot...

Carefree people care less about cancer symptoms, endanger health

A study of 69 patients with rectal tumors found that carefree individuals took longer to recognize cancer symptoms due to low anxiety sensitivity. They also reported better overall health despite being seriously ill. The research suggests a different approach is needed to encourage these individuals to seek medical attention.

AACR recognizes women in cancer research

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has recognized and supported 17 women in cancer research this year, providing them with scholarships to attend conferences. The awardees are from various backgrounds, including graduate students, medical students, and postdoctoral fellows.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Minority researchers receive AACR awards

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has awarded scholarships to minority researchers, aiming to increase diversity in the field of cancer research. The recipients, all from underrepresented groups, will receive funding to attend AACR Special Conferences and further their careers.

Timing appears essential to combining antiangiogenesis and radiation therapy

Researchers found that timing is crucial in combining antiangiogenesis and radiation therapy, with a synergistic effect observed when radiation was administered 4-6 days after initiation of DC101 therapy. This approach improved oxygen delivery to the tumor, reducing hypoxia and increasing sensitivity to radiation.

Scientists identify protein critical to melanoma growth

Researchers found that blocking CDK2 activity may control deadly skin cancer without harming normal cells. The study's findings suggest a therapeutic window for a drug that suppresses melanoma growth by shutting down CDK2 activity, potentially leading to a new treatment option.

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.

New compound could enhance cancer treatments

A newly discovered compound, SP-4-84, has shown potential to enhance cancer treatments by increasing the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs while reducing side effects. The compound works by inhibiting cancer cells' ability to survive chemotherapeutic treatment, allowing for lower drug dosages and fewer side effects.

NIH halts use of COX-2 inhibitor in large cancer prevention trial

The NIH has suspended the use of celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor, in its large-scale cancer prevention trial after finding a two-fold increased risk of cardiovascular toxicities. The decision was made following a September 2004 report that highlighted concerns over the safety of rofecoxib, another COX-2 inhibitor.

Surprise! Cells have second source of phosphate

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a second source of phosphate in cells, inositol pyrophosphate (IP7), which modifies proteins without ATP's help. IP7's role in regulating brain chemicals and protein synthesis suggests new potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

£15 million cancer research coup

A team of Cardiff University researchers has secured a £15 million grant to explore DNA damage and disease. The group aims to unravel the complexities of how cells maintain their chromosomes, ultimately establishing cancer risks for individuals and designing new anti-cancer drugs.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

NHLBI statement on oral contraceptive study

Recent research analysis finds no significant link between oral contraceptive use and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The NHLBI emphasizes the importance of randomized controlled trials for establishing scientific evidence, citing biases and errors in exploratory analyses.

Researchers find circulating tumor cells in long-term cancer survivors

A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that one-third of long-term disease-free breast cancer patients have circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which are often associated with a higher risk of recurrence. However, the presence of CTCs in these patients after 20 years post-mastectomy is notable due to their low risk of recur...

Study finds women hesitant to take tamoxifen as preventive measure

A study of 129 women with high breast cancer risk found that personal history and physician advice influenced decision-making, while perception of risk and lack of information also played a role. Women were more likely to take tamoxifen if they had an abnormal biopsy or received a doctor's recommendation.

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.

Doctors link common chemotherapy drug to jawbone necrosis

A study found that cancer patients receiving long-term bisphosphonate therapy were at risk of developing jawbone necrosis, a condition that can lead to bone death and require surgery. The condition is often associated with tooth extractions or other major dental work while on the drugs.

Cloned gene from sea animal may prove key in cancer drug development

Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have cloned a gene from the marine invertebrate Bugula neritina, which may prove key in developing new cancer drugs. The cloned gene, bryA, is thought to be involved in the production of bryostatin, a family of chemical compounds with potential as anticancer pharmaceuticals.

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.

Scientists stalk PPAR-gamma, find novel cancer connection

Researchers found that thiazolidinedione (TZD) class of anti-diabetic therapies can kill multiple myeloma cells by binding to PPAR-gamma protein, showing potential as a new cancer therapy. The effectiveness of TZD drugs was enhanced when combined with Vitamin A-like compounds.

Cell marker identifies patients who are more likely to respond to taxol

Researchers found that breast cancer patients who lose tau protein expression are twice as likely to have a good response to Taxol treatment. The discovery suggests that tumor tissue could be screened to predict which patients will respond to the chemotherapy, leading to improved treatment outcomes.

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.

Protein 'key' could aid search for cancer drugs

Scientists have determined how a specific protein blocks DNA replication, providing a key to designing targeted cancer therapies. By understanding the structure of this protein, researchers may also develop new forms of antibiotics.