Tag Archives: caffeine

Solar cells (like people!) work better with caffeine

In UCLA-led study, perovskite-based devices benefit from the strong bond between lead and the same chemical found in coffee and tea

Scientists at the California NanoSystems Institute at UCLA have found that caffeine improves the stability of materials under heat – a property known as thermal stability — of perovskite solar cells, which could someday replace traditional silicon-based solar cells. (more…)

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Genomic Detectives Crack the Case of the Missing Heritability

Despite years of research, the genetic factors behind many human diseases and characteristics remain unknown. The inability to find the complete genetic causes of family traits such as height or the risk of type 2 diabetes has been called the “missing heritability” problem.

A new study by Princeton University researchers, however, suggests that missing heritability may not be missing after all — at least not in yeast cells, which the researchers used as a model for studying the problem. Published in the journal Nature, the results suggest that heritability in humans may be hidden due only to the limitations of modern research tools, but could be discovered if scientists know where (and how) to look. (more…)

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Energy Drinks: To Drink or Not to Drink?

Energy drinks are a recent invention of mankind, even though their ingredients have long been used to stimulate the nervous system. They have become the salvation for students during the exams and office workers that have to meet the deadlines. Yet, are these products as good as they seem? (more…)

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Facing the Migraine

Migraines are a chronic brain condition characterized by attacks of a throbbing headache, of medium or strong intensity, possibly associated with nausea, vomiting, photophobia and intolerance to sounds (phonophobia). In about a third of cases, seizures are accompanied by neurological symptoms, usually visual, known as auras. The disorder occurs in those who are genetically susceptible. The World Health Organization estimates that worldwide there are 324 million people who suffer from in this condition. (more…)

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