Articles tagged with Cellular Energy
A new multi-million-dollar Energy Frontier Research Center announced by the White House will focus on understanding gas-liquid interactions at solid surfaces. This research has potential applications in developing more efficient batteries, solar and electrical energy conversion into fuel, improved fuel cells, and enhanced corrosion res...
The Lignocellulose Center aims to increase knowledge of plant cell walls and improve fuel conversion methods. Researchers will explore the physical structure of lignocellulose and its role in producing biorenewable energy.
A research team found that potassium ions strongly bound to the surface of titania nanotubes improve their performance in solar cells producing hydrogen gas from water. By controlling potassium deposition, engineers can achieve significant energy savings.
A new study suggests that patients with high cholesterol receive better care when physicians use a variety of tools, including PDAs, to learn and apply clinical practice guidelines for treating the condition. This multifaceted strategy improved guideline adherence by reducing over-treatment and increasing appropriate treatment decisions.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has developed a fuel cell powered UAV that can travel farther and carry heavier payloads than earlier battery-powered designs. This technology has the potential to significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce noise levels, making it ideal for military surveillance missions.
The Naval Research Laboratory has successfully demonstrated a hydrogen-powered fuel cell design for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which can travel farther and carry heavier payloads than earlier battery-powered designs. The Ion Tiger UAV achieves stealthy characteristics, reducing noise, low heat signature, and zero emissions.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has partnered with General Motors to test advanced fuel cell vehicles at Camp Pendleton, which may offer benefits such as reduced air pollution and increased power potential. The partnership aims to advance technology that can also address energy challenges for the public.
Researchers identify 12 abundant materials with potential to meet global energy demand, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional silicon-based solar cells. The study suggests that these new materials could significantly reduce the cost of solar photovoltaics and accelerate the transition to low-carbon energy.
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have demonstrated that certain nanocrystals can generate more than one electron after absorbing a photon, increasing the potential for efficient solar cells. The study finds that these crystals can produce up to half as much energy per electron as bulk solids, offering promising results for...
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University discovered that Stat3 plays a crucial role in regulating mitochondria, the energy-producing machines of cells. The team found that Stat3 is necessary for the function of the mitochondrial electron transport chain that generates ATP.
A new catalyst has been developed that can efficiently oxidize ethanol and produce clean energy in fuel cell reactions. This breakthrough could make ethanol-powered fuel cells a viable alternative to hydrogen-based systems.
Researchers identified a specific mutation in a binding structure common to dozens of kinases, leading to severe autoimmune kidney disease in mice. The study showed that eliminating Lyn kinase activity causes B cell hyperactivity and autoimmune reactions.
Researchers at U of T have made a groundbreaking discovery that could lead to more efficient organic solar cells, medical imaging techniques, and flexible electronics. The team found that quantum effects can control the movement of energy through molecules, enabling faster and more effective light absorption.
A Tufts University study found that women on low-carb diets performed poorly on memory-based tasks compared to those on reduced-calorie diets with carbohydrates. Cognitive skills returned to normal when carbohydrates were reintroduced.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new polymer that significantly improves sunlight absorption and conversion capabilities in solar cells. The silole-containing polymer can also be crystalline, making it suitable for high-efficiency solar cells, with the goal of reaching 10% efficiency.
Researchers have identified a potential new target for anticancer therapeutics by showing that well-oxygenated tumor cells use lactate as a fuel, while hypoxic cells use glucose. Inhibiting this protein MCT1 disrupts the symbiotic relationship between the two cell types, leading to decreased tumor growth in mouse models.
Researchers at Ohio State University have created a hybrid material that absorbs all the energy in sunlight and generates electrons easier to capture. This breakthrough material has two useful energy states, lasting up to 83 microseconds, allowing for better charge separation and potentially more efficient solar cells.
Researchers at Yale University have created a blueprint for artificial cells that can outperform natural cells in generating electricity. The new design shows promise for powering tiny medical implants without releasing toxins into the system.
Researchers developed a complex numerical model to represent the conversion of ion concentrations to electrical impulses in eel cells. They found that artificial cells can generate more energy than natural electrocytes, with potential applications for powering small implant devices.
A new study reveals that an investigational drug, R207910, is effective in killing latent tuberculosis bacteria. The drug targets a protein essential for energy production in active TB, suggesting a potential Achilles heel for dormant bacteria.
Researchers developed a novel method to produce gold nanorods using an ionic liquid, eliminating the need for cytotoxic additives. This approach allows for efficient conversion of light energy into heat, making it suitable for photoinduced hyperthermia treatments.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory developed a way to produce plastic sheets containing billions of nanoantennas that collect heat energy generated by the sun. The technology has potential to be mass-produced on flexible materials, powering devices with higher efficiency than traditional solar cells.
The new interdisciplinary journal focuses on sustainable energy solutions, with a rigorous peer-review process and rapid publication. The inaugural issue features articles on solar cells, hydrogen storage, and thermochemical biofuel production, among others.
A new study reveals that cranberry juice alters the thermodynamic properties of bacteria in the urinary tract, creating an energy barrier that prevents attachment. This effect occurs at concentrations comparable to those found in the urinary tract, suggesting regular consumption may prevent UTIs.
Scientists have identified a key step in ATP recycling and its low-energy counterpart ADP's interaction with the mitochondrion. The simulation reveals how ADP disrupts ionic bonds to unlock the door to mitochondrial entry.
Scientists identify a new role for 'power plants' in human cells, where tRNAs are imported from cytoplasm to mitochondria, offering potential therapeutic options for dozens of diseases. The discovery could lead to therapies for conditions like diabetes, hearing loss, and neurological disorders.
A new study reveals that lactate dehydrogenase C (LDHC) enzyme plays a critical role in male fertility, affecting sperm motility and ATP production. Meanwhile, research on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suggests prenatal exposure to androgens may contribute to infertility symptoms.
Researchers found that cells lacking iron reorganize their metabolism to use less efficient glucose-based pathways, producing lower energy levels. This mechanism may help explain human responses to iron deficiency and potentially aid in diabetes research.
Researchers found that niacin works by reducing the presence of Beta chain on liver cells, which hinders HDL removal and maintains high plasma HDL levels. This new mechanism explains why niacin is especially beneficial for raising HDL while allowing other cholesterol types to be removed.
Researchers from Rostock have developed a feasible process for the on-demand release of hydrogen, generating it at room temperature from formic acid. The use of formic acid allows the advantages of established hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell technology to be combined with those of liquid fuels.
A new study reveals that yeast mitochondria play a crucial role in regulating cell division, with implications for treating human diseases. The research found that mitochondria can act as the 'command center' directing cell division, and that understanding this process could lead to therapeutic breakthroughs.
Renowned chemist Harry Gray foresees a 10-year period of research and development to reduce the cost of solar energy, making it competitive with petroleum. The goal is to harness sunlight to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, providing a clean fuel source.
A recent study suggests that estrogen reduces oxidative stress caused by mitochondria, increasing energy generation and protecting neurons from damage. This finding sheds light on how to develop effective Alzheimer therapeutics.
Researchers created a triple port system for efficient energy transfer between different sources. The new converter transforms energy in a single step, making it more cost-effective and flexible.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a functional equation that explains how cells pack together to form the eyes of Drosophila, or fruit flies. This pared-down model uses only two parameters and demonstrates how it can be applied to different kinds of tissues, leading to potential advances in regenerative medicine.
The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded a grant to Adam Moule, assistant professor at UC Davis, to study ways to assemble thin layers of organic polymers into flexible panels for more efficient solar cells. The goal is to reduce costs and increase power output, with potential prototype development by 2015.
Researchers developed a portable fuel cell system using JP-8 military jet fuel, reducing sulfur content and emissions. The system successfully powered area lights and a commercial refrigerator, offering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient energy generation.
Researchers have developed a glucose-powered fuel cell that uses sunlight to convert glucose into hydrogen, producing several hundred millivolts. This innovative device has the potential to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels by utilizing biological resources such as food waste and managed high-energy crops.
Researchers develop biosensors that track metabolic activity and diagnose unhealthy conditions in obesity. ATP's role in metabolism makes it a potential target for early diagnosis and treatment of metabolic syndrome.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has awarded $138.7 million in funding to 56 innovative technology projects, including medical diagnostic techniques and alternative energy sources. The projects were selected through a competitive, peer-reviewed process and represent a total potential investment of up to $342.7 ...
Researchers discovered a gene mutation that doubles AMPK activity in muscle during rest, leading to increased glycogen storage and decreased fat stores. This finding has significant implications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and provides valuable information for pharmaceutical research.
Researchers design catalysts inspired by photosynthesis to produce fuels directly from carbon dioxide or water using renewable solar energy. They also reveal a jumpstart in organic electron transfer that could lead to technological advances in small-scale circuits for improving solar cells.
Researchers found that HIV fusion peptide dramatically decreases energy needed to bend a cell membrane, making it easier for the virus to infect immune cells. This discovery will aid in future computer simulations and drug discovery efforts.
A new tandem organic solar cell has been developed with increased efficiency of six and a half percent, marking the highest level achieved for solar cells made from organic materials. The discovery utilizes semiconducting polymers recognized by the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, which promises to be less expensive to produce.
Researchers at Cardiff University are developing cost-effective methods to recycle platinum and other precious metals from road dust and vehicle exhausts. This innovative approach aims to produce clean fuel cells, minimizing waste and creating reliable, greener energy.
Scientists at PNNL will receive $1.98 million to study enzymes that convert chemicals to energy, potentially leading to new, affordable materials for hydrogen fuel cells. The goal is to replace expensive platinum with abundant, inexpensive metals like iron and molybdenum.
Researchers at McGill University have identified two closely related nuclear receptors, ERRa and g, that play a key role in coordinating the expression of genes guiding the heart's complex energy pathways. These findings may suggest novel approaches to managing diseases affecting the heart's pumping power.
Researchers discovered two closely related receptors that control energy production and function in the heart. The findings suggest that drugs targeting these receptors may offer a novel approach to managing diseases of the heart muscle, potentially preventing heart failure.
The St. Jude study found that cells shift their biochemical activities to conserve energy by increasing glucose production and recycling CoA, a key player in metabolism. The researchers also showed that PanK controls the concentration of CoA in specific locations within the cell.
Scientists have built an artificial version of the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), which is crucial for generating energy in the body. The new model has shed light on the causes of cancer and may lead to breakthroughs in alternative energy production.
OHSU research reveals calcium ions modulate auditory nerve cells' recharging after bursting signals. High levels of calcium can be toxic, but regulating sodium pump activity conserves energy and prevents cell death.
Researchers found that proteorhodopsin helps bacteria supplement energy when respiration is impaired. When exposed to light, these bacteria can use solar power to carry out vital life processes.
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have uncovered the complex structure of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a central energy gauge for cells. This discovery provides crucial details about the molecule necessary for developing new therapies for diabetes and obesity.
A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that the MAT1 gene plays a crucial role in regulating energy production in heart cells. Researchers found that infant mice lacking MAT1 developed catastrophic heart failure, highlighting the importance of this gene in maintaining cardiac function.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory stabilized platinum electrocatalysts using gold clusters, maintaining stability in accelerated tests. This breakthrough raises promising possibilities for synthesizing improved platinum-based catalysts.
Researchers have discovered that mutations in the p62 gene are associated with abnormal bone cell development, but do not cause full-blown Paget disease. Meanwhile, a study found that GIP and GLP1R hormones influence energy levels beyond the pancreas, affecting brain cells, adipose tissue, and body weight.
Barbara A. Horwitz, a renowned physiologist at UC Davis, has been awarded the Bodil M. Schmidt-Nielsen Distinguished Mentor and Scientist Award for her outstanding contributions to physiological research and dedication to training young physiologists. Her teaching career has also earned numerous awards, including several APS awards.
During intense exercise, muscles rely on anaerobic metabolism for force production, leading to muscle fatigue and impaired performance. The study found that the mechanisms of muscular fatigue are similar to those discovered in laboratory research on cell and tissue samples.
A study finds that the mutant huntingtin protein disrupts energy metabolism, leading to neurodegeneration in Huntington's disease. Researchers discovered that PGC-1a levels are lower in affected cells, suggesting a protective role for the protein.
Researchers at University of Bristol have made a major breakthrough in measuring energy levels inside living heart cells, real-time. This could lead to better understanding of heart disease and improved recovery of the heart during cardiac surgery or after a heart attack.