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Drexel University


A higher(er)-definition nose

Researchers have discovered a two-dimensional metallic material called MXene that can detect gases at very low concentrations, improving the sensitivity of chemical sensors. This could lead to early diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as ulcers, diabetes, cancer, cirrhosis, multiple sclerosis, and kidney disease.

SourceDrexel University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 1, 2018

To improve self-control, call weight loss what it is: Difficult

Researchers at Drexel University found that telling people weight loss is difficult can actually motivate them to shed more weight in the short-term. However, this approach did not lead to long-term changes in unhealthy foods at home. The study suggests that modifying the home food environment, rather than just providing diet advice, i...

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 29, 2018

'Chemical net' could be key to capturing pure hydrogen

Researchers have discovered that MXene nanosheets can be used to construct laminated membranes for efficient gas separation, outperforming top-of-the-line membrane materials in permeability and selectivity. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new gas separation applications and expand the use of membrane technology.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2018

Will people eat relish made from 'waste' ingredients? Drexel study finds they may even prefer it

A Drexel University study found that consumers may prefer food products made from surplus ingredients, which could help alleviate global food insecurity. The researchers examined consumer preferences for value-added surplus products and found that they were perceived as a unique category with benefits to the environment.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNOLEGEIN-Journal of Consumer Behavior & Market Research·DateDec 12, 2017

Could death rates have swung the 2016 election?

A new study by Drexel University researcher Usama Bilal found a significant association between rising white, middle-class death rates and Republican voting in the 2016 US presidential election. The research suggests that counties with higher mortality rates among middle-aged whites were more likely to vote for Republican candidates.

SourceDrexel University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateDec 7, 2017

When vegetables are closer in price to chips, people eat healthier, Drexel study finds

A recent Drexel University study discovered that when vegetables and dairy products are pricier than unhealthy snacks like chips, people's dietary quality suffers significantly. The researchers found a strong link between the price gap and lower odds of having a healthy diet, particularly among middle-income groups.

SourceDrexel University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 16, 2017

Study: Women firefighters can improve safety, but department culture must change

A new study from Drexel University found that incorporating diverse ideas from women can improve safety in traditionally male fire departments. However, female firefighters often face hostile cultures and feel unwelcome due to hypermasculine environments. This can lead to a lack of reporting of injuries, which can be career-ending.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Workplace Behavioral Health·DateOct 3, 2017

Spinning a lighter, safer electrode

Drexel University researchers have created a fabric-like material electrode that could help make energy storage devices faster and less susceptible to leaks or fires. Their design uses a thick ion-rich gel electrolyte absorbed in a freestanding mat of porous carbon nanofibers, eliminating the need for flammable liquids.

SourceDrexel University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 20, 2017

Wax on, melt off

Drexel University researchers develop a method to create roads that can deice themselves during winter storms by adding phase change materials like paraffin wax to the concrete mix. The technology has shown promise in melting snow and ice, reducing the need for chemicals and salt.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCement and Concrete Composites·DateSep 13, 2017

Recipe for safer batteries -- Just add diamonds

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a recipe for safer lithium-ion batteries by adding nanodiamonds to the electrolyte solution. The nanodiamonds suppress the growth of dendrites, which can cause short-circuits and fires in traditional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 25, 2017

Research lacking when it comes to heart disease in prison populations

A recent study highlights the gaps in knowledge about cardiovascular disease among incarcerated and released populations, with limited research on factors contributing to heart disease. The report identifies areas for further study, including how prisoners receive care and treatment, and the relationship between stress and coping behav...

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 25, 2017

Making art activates brain's reward pathway -- Drexel study

A Drexel University study found that art-making activities like doodling activate the brain's reward pathways, regardless of skill level or experience. The study used fNIRS technology to measure blood flow in the brain during various art activities, revealing increased activity in the prefrontal cortex and positive emotional responses.

SourceDrexel University·JournalThe Arts in Psychotherapy·DateJun 13, 2017

CDC/WHO Ebola guidelines could put sewer workers at risk

A recent study suggests that current CDC and WHO guidelines may not be sufficient to protect sewer workers from the risk of contracting Ebola through inhalation. The researchers found that worker inhalation exposure to Ebolavirus-contaminated aerosols in the sewer is a concern that needs to be addressed.

SourceDrexel University·JournalWater Environment Research·DateApr 11, 2017