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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 27


Page 27 of 43

Cholesterol byproduct hijacks immune cells, lets breast cancer spread

Researchers discovered that high levels of cholesterol metabolism's byproduct 27HC facilitates breast cancer metastasis by hijacking specific immune cells. The study identifies 27HC as a potential drug target to inhibit its creation or actions, offering hope for effective therapies against this aggressive form of cancer.

Brain stimulation can improve athletic performance

A study published in Brain Stimulation found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can improve endurance performance by decreasing perceived effort. The research, conducted at the University of Kent, used a placebo-controlled study to test the effects of tDCS on cycling time to task failure.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateOct 12, 2017

Uncovering origins of developmental brain disorders could eventually help treat seizures

A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience reveals that imbalances in the regulation of GABA, a crucial neurotransmitter, can lead to developmental brain disorders such as autism and seizure disorders. The research offers new hope for developing treatments by identifying a potential molecular switch controlling GABA production.

An evolving sticky situation

Researchers studied the evolution of sticky toe pads in lizards, finding that geckos took an 'adaptive stumble' approach, while anoles committed to a single type. This divergence highlights the complex nature of evolutionary processes and challenges assumptions about the predictability of evolution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEvolution·DateOct 12, 2017

Researchers make headway in desalination technology

Engineers at the University of Illinois have made a breakthrough in developing a saltwater desalination process that is potentially cheaper than reverse osmosis. The new technology uses a battery-like device to remove salts from brackish water, opening up possibilities for inland and industrial sources. Further research is needed to de...

Study reveals new threat to the ozone layer

Researchers discovered increasing emissions of short-lived ozone-depleting chemicals in East Asia, threatening the recovery of the ozone layer. The study found dichloromethane and 1,2-dichloroethane in large amounts, which can be carried up into the stratosphere and cause damage.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateOct 12, 2017

Rice U. lab surprised by ultraflat magnets

Researchers at Rice University created ultraflat magnets with magnetic properties by adding rhenium to two-dimensional materials, expanding possibilities for spintronic devices. The discovery was made using chemical vapor deposition and doping techniques.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 11, 2017