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News from Dec. 16, 2014 Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that black patients' poorer health at diagnosis, not treatment differences, explains most of the racial disparity in colon cancer survival. Emphysema detected on CT scans is linked to increased mortality among those without airflow obstruction or COPD.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 15, 2014

Testosterone may contribute to colon cancer tumor growth

Researchers at the University of Missouri found evidence suggesting testosterone contributes to colon cancer tumor growth. Higher levels of testosterone in post-menopausal women may be associated with increased colon cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2014

Widely used osteoporosis drugs may prevent breast, lung and colon cancers

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital discovered that bisphosphonates block abnormal growth signals passed through the human EGF receptors, which drive some tumors. The study suggests that bisphosphonates could be used to prevent or treat lung, breast, and colon cancers.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Need to encourage patients to screen for colon cancer? Try a lottery

A new study found that offering a $50 cash reward through a lottery-style incentive increased the completion rate of stool tests for colon cancer screening among veterans. The test helps detect early signs of abnormal growths or cancer in the colon and is recommended annually for people over 50.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 17, 2014

UNC researchers silence leading cancer-causing gene

A novel siRNA-based approach successfully targets and silences the KRAS oncogene, a well-studied but hard-to-halt protein important for cancer development and metastasis. The treatment significantly slows cancer growth and stops metastasis in cultured cells and mice.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateNov 13, 2014

Young patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer anticipated to nearly double by 2030

Incidence rates of colon and rectal cancers among 20-34 year olds are projected to increase by 90% and 124.2%, respectively, by 2030. Lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity contribute to the rising trend, while screening efforts in older patients have led to a decline in incidence rates among those over 50.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateNov 5, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rewiring cell metabolism slows colorectal cancer growth

Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered that cancers select against a protein complex called the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC), which counteracts the Warburg effect and supports uncontrolled growth in cancer. Re-introducing MPC into colon cancer cells impairs several properties of cancer, including growth.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 30, 2014

Study indicates possible new way to treat endometrial, colon cancers

Researchers discovered that mutations in the PIK3R1 gene, particularly R348, can activate ERK and JNK signaling cascades, enabling tumor growth. Targeted therapies may need to focus on these mutant tumors, offering a potential new approach for treating endometrial and colon cancers.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 2, 2014
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.

UMN research pinpoints microRNA tied to colon cancer tumor growth

University of Minnesota researchers have identified microRNAs miR-182 and miR-503 that contribute to the development of colon polyps into cancerous tumors. By targeting these microRNAs, physicians may be able to provide earlier and more specialized treatment for patients with a higher risk of colon cancer.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateOct 1, 2014

Gobbling up poison: A method for killing colon cancer

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a novel approach to killing colon cancer cells by using an antibody that targets the GUCY2C receptor, which is over-produced and exhibited on the surface of cancer cells. The immunotoxin selectively destroys colon cancer cells while sparing surrounding tissue.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 8, 2014

Drug shows promise for subset of stage III colon cancer patients

A subset of stage III colon cancer patients with CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) showed improved overall survival when treated with irinotecan-based therapy. Patients with CIMP-negative tumors experienced significant harm from the addition of irinotecan, resulting in lower overall survival rates.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 28, 2014

Research offers insight into cellular biology of colorectal cancer

A study by researchers at the University of Kansas reveals a new function for APC in protecting against chronic colitis-induced inflammation and tumor development. The team found that functional nuclear APC is necessary to suppress Wnt signaling pathway, controlling goblet cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalCarcinogenesis·DateAug 21, 2014

Self-assembling anti-cancer molecules created in minutes

A new method has been developed to produce artificial anti-cancer molecules with properties similar to those of the body's natural defense systems. The molecules have proved effective against colon cancer cells in laboratory tests and show promise for further research.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 3, 2014
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.

A possible pathway for inhibiting liver and colon cancer is found

A group of scientists have revealed the structure of two proteins involved in liver and colon cancers, opening up research opportunities for drugs that can inhibit cancer cell growth. By blocking a specific region of these proteins, it is possible to prevent tumour cell reproduction without affecting other life-sustaining functions.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·DateJul 8, 2014

Study sheds light on racial disparity in colon cancer

African-Americans with colon cancer are half as likely to have a genetic marker linked to better outcomes compared to Caucasian patients. The study also found that African-Americans are more likely to have right-sided colon cancer, which is easier to miss with screening.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 23, 2014
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

The colon has a safety mechanism that restricts tumor formation

A team of scientists has discovered that the colon has a safety mechanism to restrict adenoma formation and growth. The study found that an increase in BMP production limits the self-renewal capacity of adenoma stem cells, thus impeding rapid development.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 23, 2014

Sedentary behavior increases the risk of certain cancers

A meta-analysis of 43 studies found that sedentary behavior increases the risk of colon, endometrial, and lung cancers. The risk increases with sitting time, even among physically active individuals, suggesting a detrimental impact on cancer prevention.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 16, 2014

Outreach doubles colon cancer screening in low-income communities

A new study by Northwestern University found that community-based outreach programs can significantly increase colorectal cancer screening rates among low-income and minority populations. By using a combination of automated reminders, mailed letters, phone calls, and personal outreach, the program was able to nearly double screening ra...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014
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.

Four new genes confirmed to increase familial breast cancer risk

Researchers have identified four new genes that increase familial breast cancer risk, with RINT1 also linked to a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal and gynecological cancers. The study has significantly expanded the panel of genes known to account for increased breast cancer occurrence within families.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJun 4, 2014
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 find key steps linking dietary fats and colon cancer tumor growth

Researchers have identified PPAR delta as a crucial molecule linking dietary fats to colon cancer progression. The study found that deleting PPAR delta in a mouse model of colon cancer stopped key steps required for tumor growth, providing new clues for developing therapeutics.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2014

Website information on colon cancer too complex, fails to address key concerns

A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that popular web information on colorectal cancer screening materials are written beyond the recommended sixth-grade reading level and fail to address key risks and barriers. Only half of the sites discussed colorectal cancer risk in the general population, while only a quarter specifical...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateApr 14, 2014

Patients over 65 have more complications after colorectal cancer surgery

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients over 65 have a higher risk of complications and longer hospital stays after colorectal cancer surgery compared to younger patients. The study analyzed over 1 million patients with colorectal cancer and found that mortality rates improved across all age groups during the decade studied.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 9, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Bacterial gut biome may guide colon cancer progression

A study published at The Wistar Institute Cancer Center found that bacterial virulence proteins can suppress DNA repair proteins in epithelial cells, leading to genetic mutations that favor tumor development. This research opens the possibility of modifying colon cancer risk by altering gut bacteria populations.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·DateApr 4, 2014

Obesity primes the colon for cancer, according to NIH study

A new NIH study reveals that obesity primes the colon for cancer, with frequent exercise and calorie control shown to lower the risk. The research suggests that molecular signals in the gut lead to cancer progression in obese mice, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing colorectal cancer.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 1, 2014

Likely culprit in spread of colon cancer identified

A new study has identified PLAC8 as a critical protein involved in the spread of colon cancer. Elevated levels of PLAC8 have been linked to abnormal cell behavior, leading to faster tumor growth and increased invasiveness.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2014
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Genetic test could improve colon cancer screening

A new non-invasive genetic test detected 92% of colon cancer cases, outperforming a traditional fecal immunochemical test in asymptomatic participants. The test's high sensitivity could lead to increased screening rates and reduced deaths from colorectal cancer.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014
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.

Beta-catenin alters T cells in lasting and harmful ways

The study reveals that beta-catenin increases in certain types of T cells, causing chronic inflammation in the intestine and colon, leading to cancer. The researchers also found that beta-catenin signaling alters the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory T cells.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2014

Obesity in men could dictate future colon screenings

A Michigan State University study found that obese men are more likely to have colorectal polyps, precancerous growths linked to colon cancer. The research showed a significant association between elevated leptin levels, higher body mass index, and larger waistlines with an increased risk of having these polyps.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2014

Simple, at-home test will detect most colorectal cancers

A new evidence review finds that fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) detect about 79% of colorectal cancers and correctly identify 94% of patients without cancer. The test is simple, can be done at home, and can save lives, making it a great tool for assessing which patients have cancer and which do not.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2014

Findings bolster fiber's role in colon health

Researchers found that fiber activates Gpr109a receptors, which reduce inflammation in the colon and prevent cancer. Mega-doses of niacin may also help protect the colon and prevent conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalImmunity·DateJan 16, 2014
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.

Cancer Statistics 2014: Death rates continue to drop

Cancer death rates have declined by 20% over the past two decades, with middle-aged black men experiencing a 50% reduction in mortality. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 1,665,540 new cancer cases and 585,720 cancer deaths in 2014.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateJan 7, 2014

Zebrafish help decode link between calcium deficiency and colon cancer

Researchers decoded cell messages in zebrafish embryos to understand abnormal colonic cell growth, a common precursor to colon cancer. The discovery provides new insights into pathways fueling low-calcium-related cell growth and potential therapies to prevent colon cancer.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateDec 13, 2013

Dunn Foundation awards bioscience grants

The John S. Dunn Foundation awards seed grants to researchers at Rice University's BioScience Research Collaborative to support new collaborations in cancer diagnosis and treatment, vascular health, and plant-inspired energy conversion. The grants aim to foster interdisciplinary and multi-institutional research.

SourceRice University·DateNov 25, 2013

November/December 2013 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Researchers found that patients surveyed at federally supported community health centers generally reported high-quality care, with excellent or very good ratings for overall quality of services, clinician care, and referrals. The study also found that higher patient ratings of access to care and patient-centered communication were ass...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 11, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

MUHC researchers identify biomarkers that could lead to early diagnosis of colorectal cancer

Researchers at the McGill University Health Centre have identified genetic changes in the colon lining that could be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The study, published online in Cancer Prevention Research, has implications for the nearly one million people diagnosed annually worldwide.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateOct 30, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Erectile dysfunction drugs may prevent colon cancer

Researchers have found that erectile dysfunction drugs can protect the colon from inflammation and damage, potentially preventing or treating colon cancer. The drugs activate a tumor suppressive pathway in the gut, reducing excessive cell proliferation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateOct 2, 2013

Diabetes increases the risk of developing and dying from breast and colon cancer

A meta-analysis found that diabetic patients have an increased risk of developing both breast and colon cancer. The study also showed that diabetic patients are at a higher risk of dying from these cancers, with a 23% increased risk for breast cancer and a 38% increased risk for colon cancer compared to non-diabetic patients.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateSep 27, 2013

Colonoscopy screening every ten years could prevent 40% of colorectal cancers

A large study found that colonoscopy screening can prevent up to 40% of colorectal cancers, with more frequent intervals recommended for those with a personal history of adenoma or family history of colorectal cancer. The study also suggests that sigmoidoscopy alone is insufficient for reducing the incidence of proximal colon cancer.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 18, 2013
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.

New method for early detection of colon cancer

A new method uses a combination of techniques to detect genetic variations that initiate colon cancer. The technique achieved high sensitivity and was able to detect APC variations in 41 out of 80 samples, including previously unknown variations.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateSep 4, 2013