A Teeth Regrowing Drug Could Be Available By 2030

Jun 1 2024

A new drug that regrows teeth, developed by Japanese researchers led by Katsu Takahashi from Kitano Hospital, is about to enter human trials. This intravenous drug blocks the USAG-1 protein, which suppresses tooth growth, triggering new tooth development.

Human trials start in September, following successful tests on ferrets and mice with no serious side effects.

Due to the 97 percent similarity in the USAG-1 protein function between humans and other species, researchers are optimistic about its effectiveness in humans.

The initial trial will involve adults missing at least one molar, while subsequent trials will target children aged two to seven with congenital tooth deficiencies and older adults missing one to five teeth due to environmental factors.

Takahashi and his team predict the drug could be available to consumers by 2030. This development builds on years of research, including regenerative tooth fillings and stem cell technology to repair dental tissue.

#MaltaDaily

Plane Hijacker Deported After Serving Prison Sentence In Malta

Jun 1 2024

One of the hijackers involved in the 2016 Malta plane incident has been deported, police reported on Friday.

The incident took place in December 2016, when an Afriqiyah Airways A320, carrying around 120 people, was hijacked by Suhaha Mussa and Ahmed Alid during an internal flight from Sebha to Tripoli.

The hijackers, claiming allegiance to a pro-Gaddafi group, diverted the plane to Malta, threatening to blow it up. However, it was later discovered that their weapons were fake, and fortunately, no one was harmed.

Upon landing in Malta at 11:32 am, the aircraft faced a four-hour standoff, concluding at 3:20 pm when the hijackers surrendered to soldiers. All 111 passengers, including 82 men, 28 women, an infant, and six crew members, were safely released. The passengers were believed to be Libyan nationals.

One of the hijackers served his prison sentence in Malta after being convicted of hijacking and terrorism. Post-release, he was detained due to non-cooperation with authorities.

While the specific hijacker being deported and his destination remain undisclosed, authorities confirmed that he is barred from entering Malta or any other European Union country.

#MaltaDaily

2 Year Old Girl At Risk Of Dying After Falling Into Pool

Jun 1 2024

Yesterday, at around 1545hrs, police were informed that their assistance was needed in Triq il-Ħofra, Ħaż-Żebbuġ.

Police convened immediately on site and through preliminary investigations found that a 2 year old girl had fallen into a pool and swallowed some water.

A medical team went on site to give assistance and was promptly taken to Mater Dei Hospital. She was later confirmed to be in serious condition.

Police investigations are still ongoing.

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Malta Calls for Regional Clean Energy Agreements at EU Energy Ministers Meeting

May 31 2024

At a crucial meeting of EU Energy Ministers held in Brussels today, Malta underscored the need for enhanced support for countries on the periphery of the European Union. These nations face challenges due to their limited integration into the European energy network and restricted opportunities for expanding renewable energy sources.

Malta, while currently connected to the European electricity grid, has yet to establish a connection to the European gas grid. This lack of full integration presents unique challenges for the island nation in its transition towards clean energy.

Energy Minister Miriam Dalli highlighted the critical importance of a fair transition to clean energy, ensuring no country is left behind. She stressed the necessity of equitable distribution of funding for energy projects, particularly to support innovative initiatives like offshore floating projects.

Minister Dalli called for substantial investments in infrastructure across all member states. She emphasized the need for more interconnections and greater flexibility in investments, particularly in energy storage solutions such as mass battery systems. These measures are essential for moving beyond reliance on polluting energy sources.

Additionally, Minister Dalli pointed out the significant renewable energy potential in countries bordering the European Union. She urged the European Commission to negotiate regional agreements between the EU and third countries, ensuring that all member states can benefit from regional interconnection projects.

#MaltaDaily