Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new solid oxide fuel cell that converts liquid transportation fuels into hydrogen, offering a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to current technologies. The cells could lead to widespread adoption of hydrogen power in applications such as cars, trucks, and homes.
A study published in Science found that charcoal use in Africa contributes to premature deaths and greenhouse gas emissions. The authors suggest transitioning from biomass fuels to cleaner alternatives could prevent millions of premature deaths.
A study by Harvard researchers suggests promoting cleaner charcoal production can prevent up to 2.8 million deaths and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45-66%. Transitioning from biomass fuels to petroleum-based fossil fuels offers the biggest health benefits, but is unlikely due to economic and infrastructure constraints.
A study of 12,110 men and women aged 16-44 in Great Britain found significant variations in sexual behavior and sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates among white, black Caribbean, black African, Indian, and Pakistani groups. Indian and Pakistani individuals reported fewer STIs and more consensual relationships.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine have discovered a natural tumor suppressor called PHLPP, which can be turned on in certain cancer cells to prevent tumor formation. By deleting a phosphate molecule from the Akt protein, PHLPP terminates cell-growth signaling and promotes programmed cell death.
Researchers discovered that blue light can rapidly kill certain oral bacteria associated with periodontitis, and may restore a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth. A handheld device using this technology is being developed to combat periodontal disease.
Scientists have found magnetic fluctuations responsible for superconductivity in a compound called plutonium-cobalt-pentagallium (PuCoGa5). This 'unconventional superconductivity' could lead to a new class of superconducting materials and the synthesis of room-temperature superconductors.
Researchers at Boston University have developed a new technique to identify plant species used in ancient textile dyes. This method has led to the discovery of a previously unknown dye component in 1,000-year-old mummies in Peru.
A study suggests that community acquired MRSA has evolved from a 1950s pandemic-causing strain, developing resistance to treatment by powerful antibiotics. The new strain shares the same highly-virulent toxin and poses a serious public health challenge.
A new study published in The Lancet identified a biomarker NGAL that can detect kidney failure hours after cardiac surgery, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The research found high concentrations of NGAL in urine and blood samples within two hours of surgery, indicating the presence of kidney failure.
A new study using hyperscanning technology measures the brain's response to trust decisions, revealing a shift in timing as interactions progress. The technique may provide valuable insights into conditions such as autism and schizophrenia.
A study shows that lidocaine patch 5% and celecoxib achieved significant reductions in pain intensity, with 62% of patients in the celecoxib group experiencing a 30% or greater improvement. The findings offer hope for OA patients seeking alternative pain relief options.
A new global risk analysis reveals that approximately 20% of the Earth's land surface is exposed to at least one natural hazard, affecting over half the world's population. The study categorizes regions by their level of exposure to multiple hazards, highlighting countries with high mortality risks from two or more hazards.
Scientists have developed a new technique to track molecular energy transfer in photosynthesis, revealing distinct energy pathways and quantum mechanical effects. This breakthrough may lead to more efficient artificial photosynthesis systems and sustainable energy sources.
Researchers discover that MT1-MMP controls blood vessel response to PDGF-ß signaling, essential for normal vessel formation. MT1-MMP-null mice exhibit severely compromised vascular architecture, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for controlling tumor growth and metastasis.
Researchers at Queen's University discovered that a combination of gabapentin and morphine provides better pain relief for patients with diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia, while also minimizing side effects. The study used a clinical trial to compare the treatment to individual medications and a placebo.
Researchers from U of T mapped the role of Epstein-Barr virus in cancer, finding that EBNA1 protein disrupts natural cell growth regulation by binding to USP7, increasing cancer risk. This study provides a structural explanation for how EBNA1 impacts cell growth, paving the way for developing better methods to combat viruses like EBV.
A new study by UMaine researchers found that consistency in sleeping arrangements is crucial for infants' nighttime sleep. The study suggests that changing sleeping arrangements can be disruptive to sleep and contribute to night-time anxiety in infants.
Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment for chronic Chagas disease, with one compound showing significantly greater effectiveness than current standard care. TAK-187 prevents the parasite from producing essential ergosterol, reducing cardiac and skeletal damage without toxic side effects.
Phytome is a comprehensive database of genetic data on 39 plant species, including rice, wheat, and potatoes. The platform enables researchers to analyze complex questions about gene function and comparison across different species.
Researchers have identified a novel protein, MKRN1, that regulates telomerase activity and maintains cellular telomere lengths. Increasing MKRN1 levels in cells promotes the degradation of telomerase enzyme hTERT, leading to decreased telomerase activity and shorter telomeres.
A new University of Southern California study finds that a tsunami in the region could cause significant economic losses, with Long Beach suffering an estimated $3.6 billion in damage. The study estimates potential damage ranging from $7 billion to $42 billion, with effects felt across Southern California.
Scientists find that a region near the head of the ataxin-3 protein counterbalances toxicity caused by excessive polyglutamine repeats, potentially offering a therapeutic solution for Machado-Joseph disease and related disorders. The study suggests that removing or altering this region can accelerate disease progression.
A head-to-head study comparing Lidoderm patches and Celebrex found that Lidoderm alleviated knee pain in 54% of patients, while Celebrex showed similar results in 62%. The study's findings are promising for further research into Lidoderm's potential as an osteoarthritis treatment.
Critics argue that outsourcing of hospital cleaning staff may contribute to increased deaths from MRSA, but hand hygiene and glove use are key to controlling transmission. The Lancet suggests that UK policies focus on the wrong issue, prioritizing housekeeping programmes over essential infection control practices.
A new protocol provides incentives for federal agencies to trust each other and share accurate, complete information in a timely manner. This increases the efficiency of information sharing and builds trust between organizations.
A five-year study in Mexico found that the Directly Observed Therapy (DOTS) strategy significantly reduced drug-resistant TB transmission. The results showed a decline from 22% to 7.8% of new patients carrying drug-resistant strains, with no cases of multiple-drug resistance.
Researchers found two cases of severe anxiety and impaired psychomotor functions in male subjects who received oral cannabis, despite low blood concentrations. The study suggests that ingesting THC may produce potent metabolites that induce psychotic effects, contradicting previous expectations of safety with low doses.
Researchers have found a novel biomarker, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), that can detect kidney failure in children after cardiac surgery in as little as two hours. This early diagnosis enables timely administration of effective therapeutic measures to prevent further complications.
A new study reveals that adult non-biting midges serve as vectors for the spread of cholera. The researchers found that these insects can carry and transmit the bacteria across continents through wind currents, air travel, and human migration.
A study in Southern Mexico found that implementing DOTS (short-course chemotherapy) significantly reduced the incidence of drug-resistant tuberculosis, from 9.4 to 1.5 cases per 100,000 people between 1996 and 2000. The strategy also improved treatment outcomes for patients with drug-resistant TB.
Drezek has been recognized by the Beckman Foundation for her research on novel optical molecular imaging technologies for early cancer detection. Her award includes a three-year $264,000 grant to develop and refine this technology.