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University of Houston


New formula expected to spur advances in clean energy generation

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new formula to calculate the maximum efficiency of thermoelectric materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in clean energy generation. The formula takes into account temperature-dependent properties and can determine whether devices are efficient enough to be worth pursuing.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2015

Cheating amoebas reveal key to successful societies

A recent study published in Current Biology found that while cheaters do not take over populations, they also cannot ever fully be removed. By identifying how diverse societies prevent or cope with cheating, researchers can identify general principles about how to promote cooperation and prevent conflict.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 4, 2015

Stress and obesity: Your family can make you fat

A new study links long-term exposure to family stressors like family disruption, financial stress, and maternal poor health to increased risk of obesity in adolescents. Findings suggest female and male adolescents respond differently to stress, highlighting the need for tailored social services in obesity prevention programs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateApr 6, 2015

UH study links Facebook use to depressive symptoms

A University of Houston study finds that excessive Facebook use and social comparison are associated with depressive symptoms. The research suggests that individuals who spend more time on Facebook and engage in social comparisons may experience heightened levels of depression.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Social and Clinical Psychology·DateApr 6, 2015

University of Houston researchers build brain-machine interface to control prosthetic hand

A team of researchers from the University of Houston has developed a non-invasive brain-machine interface that allows an amputee to control a prosthetic hand with high accuracy. The technology, which uses electroencephalogram (EEG) signals to capture brain activity, enables individuals to grasp objects with ease and precision.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateMar 31, 2015

University of Houston researchers discover new material to produce clean energy

Researchers at the University of Houston have created a new thermoelectric material that generates electric power from waste heat, offering higher efficiency and output power than existing materials. The material has a peak power factor of 55 and a figure of merit of 1.4, making it commercially viable for applications such as car exhau...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2015