Thumbay Research Institute awarded grant for innovative cancer study at women's research forum
Sharjah (Press Release): In a significant stride towards advancing cancer research, Dr. Rania Zaarour and her team at the Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine (TRIPM) of the Gulf Medical University (GMU), have been awarded a prestigious research grant for their innovative work. Their project, which explores the role of the hypoxic secretome in modulating tumor cell behaviors, received the accolade at the Fourth Forum for Women in Research, titled "QUWA: Sustaining Women's Empowerment in Research & Innovation,” organized by the University of Sharjah.
The forum, which took place for two consecutive days at the University of Sharjah and the University of Khorfakkan, brought together researchers and innovators from various fields, emphasizing the significance of women in research. The research grant, amounting to Dh 10,000, was granted to Dr. Rania Zaarour and her team in recognition for their project that centers on understanding the hypoxic secretome, which is a collection of secreted factors that play a critical role in influencing the behavior of tumor cells and neighboring cells within the tumor microenvironment. These interactions, in turn, dictate tumor progression, malignancy, immune responses, and drug resistance.
Dr. Rania Zaarour's project aims to explore the intricacies of this cellular communication to develop more effective strategies for targeting lung cancer. Lung cancer is a significant public health concern across the globe, and this research could lead to significant advancements in its treatment. The grant not only acknowledges the team's commitment to research but also aligns with the broader mission of empowering women and promoting their role in scientific research.
Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Rania Zaarour, Associate Professor of Cell Biology and Researcher at Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, expressed her gratitude, saying, "We are delighted to receive this award, and it reaffirms our dedication to advancing cancer research. Our goal is not only to make a meaningful contribution to science but also to inspire and empower women in the field of research. We hope this recognition encourages more women to pursue careers in science and make a difference."
Prof. Salem Chouaib, vice chancellor research and director-Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, added, "This award is a testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of our researchers. It underscores our commitment to creating an environment that encourages innovative thinking and research."
The Fourth Forum for Women in Research served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of women researchers and innovators while promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing. Dr. Rania Zaarour and her team's research grant serves as an example of the impactful contributions that women in the UAE are making in the world of science and innovation. Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine’s dedication to conducting effective research to combat cancer and empowering women in this role is an endeavor that promises to benefit community health in the years to come.
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London, Nov 22: A bomb disposal squad deployed as a “precaution” to the South Terminal of Gatwick Airport concluded an investigation into a "security incident" on Friday after making a “suspect package” safe.
The South Terminal of Gatwick Airport, the UK's second busiest airport after Heathrow, which was briefly shut owing to the incident reopened following the incident.
The Gatwick is around 45 km south of London.
Two people detained during the enquiries have since been allowed to continue their journey as the airport was opened.
“Police have concluded their investigation into a report of a suspect package at Gatwick Airport. Officers from the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team made the package safe, and the airport has been handed back to its operator,” Sussex Police said in an updated statement.
“Two people detained while enquiries were ongoing have subsequently been allowed to continue their journeys. There will remain an increased police presence in the area to assist with passengers accessing the South Terminal for onward travel,” the statement added.
Earlier on Friday, the incident caused severe disruption at the busy airport’s South Terminal, while the North Terminal of Gatwick Airport remained unaffected.
“Police were called to the South Terminal at Gatwick Airport at 8.20 am on Friday (November 22) following the discovery of a suspected prohibited item in luggage,” a Sussex Police statement said.
“To ensure the safety of the public, staff and other airport users, a security cordon has been put in place whilst the matter is dealt with. As a precaution, an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team is being deployed to the airport. This is causing significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed. We’d advise the public to avoid the area where possible,” it said.
Footage on social media taken outside the airport showed crowds of frustrated travellers being moved away from the terminal building.
Gatwick said it was working hard to resolve the issue.
“A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident," the airport said in a social media post.
“Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.”
Train and bus services that serve the airport were also impacted while the police carried out their inquiries.
In an unrelated incident in south London on Friday morning, the US Embassy area in Nine Elms by the River Thames was the scene of a controlled explosion by Scotland Yard dealing with what they believe may have been a “hoax device”.
“We can confirm the 'loud bang' reported in the area a short time ago was a controlled explosion carried out by officers,” the Metropolitan Police said in a post on X.
“Initial indications are that the item was a hoax device. An investigation will now follow. Some cordons will remain in place for the time being but the majority of the police response will now be stood down,” it added.
