Near-critical water, which can dissolve both salts and non-polar organic compounds like oils, is being studied as a replacement solvent in various chemical processes. This could lead to the elimination of hazardous solvents and salt byproducts, reducing environmental impact.
A study presented at the American Chemical Society meeting found that high-temperature drying in clothes dryers can cause serious abrasions and cracking damage to cotton fabrics. This results in reduced fabric strength, faster wear-out, and increased lint production.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a method to switch the orientation of magnetic domains in thin layers, allowing for the creation of high-density computer memory chips. The effect works by passing an electric current through a 'sandwich' of cobalt and copper layers, resulting in non-parallel magnetic moments.
Actuaries forecast a low probability of a national health plan being implemented by 2010 and 2050. The US suicide rate is expected to rise, with Americans born in 1997 predicted to live beyond age 80 by 2050.
Scientists are creating tiny 'motes' of 'smart dust' that can communicate with each other and sense their environment, paving the way for a range of applications including weather monitoring and espionage. The devices use optical transceivers to minimize power consumption and have already demonstrated monitoring capabilities over 21 ki...
A taste test by University of Missouri researchers found no significant difference in the flavor of low-fat and regular chocolate ice cream due to its unique mix of chemicals that make up its distinctive flavor. The study suggests that this complexity helps mask off flavors, resulting in a similar taste experience for both versions.
A study of 182 Oklahoma City bombing survivors revealed high rates of postdisaster psychiatric disorders, with 45% experiencing symptoms in the six months following the explosion. The investigation also identified specific symptoms that indicated the need for treatment, including avoidance and numbing symptoms.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are using MRI to study textile drying and moisture flow in carpets, with potential benefits including faster drying times, reduced energy consumption, and less prone to mildew. The technique also allows for the analysis of fabric structures and wicking of sweat away from the body.
Computer scientists at Brandeis University have successfully designed and built various LEGO structures, such as bridges and cranes, without human input. The team's program uses a trial-and-error approach to optimize designs based on simple optimization goals, laying the groundwork for robots capable of reworking their own hardware.
A recent study found that mosquito fish preferentially eat tadpoles over mosquito larvae, leading to the decline of various frog and newt species. This ecological disaster may be linked to the widespread introduction of these fish as a form of biological control in the early 20th century.
A two-year study found that mixed-gender investment clubs earn higher returns than same-sex clubs, thanks to the combination of different approaches and motivations. The research suggests that men and women bring unique perspectives to investing, leading to more diversified portfolios and better financial decisions.
Carolyn Bertozzi, an organic chemist at the University of California Berkeley, receives the 1999 Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award for her work on using sugars attached to cell surfaces to understand and treat diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and cancer. Her research focuses on how sugar molecules direct cell communication within tissues.
Researchers at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences have developed a new long-acting treatment to block the psychoactive effects of phencyclidine (PCP) in drug addicts. The therapy uses monoclonal antibodies to prevent or slow PCP entry into the brain, providing immediate protection.
Heavy drinking depletes dopamine, gamma aminobutyric acid, opioid peptides and serotonin systems, while promoting stress chemicals like corticotropin releasing factor (CRF). This imbalance leaves alcoholics vulnerable to relapse after stopping drinking.
Family history may play a role in developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with those having a family member with significant heartburn or esophagus/stomach disease twice as likely to experience it themselves. Obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are also risk factors for GERD.
Dillard and Tiwari discovered that the process used to prepare the surface of the alloy contributes to degradation. At high temperatures, aluminum forms aluminum fluoride from left-over oxide in the anodization process, weakening the bond. The research aims to improve durability for future aircraft.
Biotechnology graduates need to expand their course load and vary their skills to succeed in careers like regulatory affairs, clinical trials coordination, and bioinformatics. Many biotech companies require employees with degrees in scientific disciplines to transition into management, information technology, and marketing roles.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a protein molecule involved in dioxin-induced cell killing, known as CD-95 ligand. The team aims to develop antibodies to neutralize this molecule, potentially leading to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dioxin's toxic effects.
A Virginia Tech research group is studying secondary crystallization in semicrystalline plastics to understand how their properties change over time. They aim to create models that help chemists design new materials with improved long-term properties.
A new national study found that high-achieving children who attended the Head Start program before entering elementary school excel academically and socially, but display a lukewarm attitude towards school. The research suggests that these children may require more support from society to maintain motivation for academic success.
Researchers have developed a one-step process to create thermoplastic nanocomposites from cellulose fibers. The resulting material retains the virtues of cellulose fibers while combining them with thermoplastics' strengths, including resistance to water and heat.
Researchers found that HIV-infected mothers are at highest risk of transmitting the virus to their babies through breastfeeding during the first few months of life. The study also revealed that women who had fewer than four previous births and younger mothers were more likely to transmit HIV through breast milk.
A team of Virginia Tech researchers has developed new oligoetherimides with improved secondary bonding adhesive applications. The new materials exhibit high adhesive strengths and retain most of their strength at different aging conditions.
A new drug has been discovered that can prevent the death of brain cells endangered by neurological injury or disease. The drug works by switching off the production of an inflammatory protein called cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which is known to precede brain cell death in conditions of injury or disease.
Dr. Audrey Manley, Spelman College president, will discuss challenges faced by women in the 21st century, including gender biases and societal expectations. She will share strategies for dealing with these challenges and promote women's empowerment in STEM fields.
A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that psychological factors, such as loving to play the sport and having a positive attitude, are more important than physical gifts in achieving athletic success. Coaches also cited criticism and pressure as the most harmful forces on young athletes' development.
A new cotton additive with N-halamines effectively kills pathogenic and odor-causing bacteria and viruses. The treatment can be recharged by rinsing treated fabrics in a dilute bleach solution, offering a fast and cost-effective alternative to existing biocidal cottons.
The use of computers has transformed the field of chemistry, enabling researchers to automate large-scale testing of compounds and speed up drug discovery. Electronic lab notebooks are also being adopted to share information and streamline the process.
A study by Mississippi researchers found that flea collars with organophosphate insecticides can release residues on dogs' fur, which can then be transferred to humans. The levels of these residues vary depending on the collar's design, and experts are urging parents to keep children away from pets when new collars are used.
Researchers have confirmed that catnip repels German cockroaches, specifically through the action of nepetalactone. The study also found that male cockroaches are more sensitive to the repellent activity than females.
A new study found that exposure to fashion magazines did not lead to excessive dieting, body dissatisfaction, or depression among adolescent girls. Only those with existing body-image problems showed increased negative affect after reading the magazine for 15 months.
A symposium on treating drug addiction will feature four new studies on the chemistry of addictions, including an antibody-based drug to prevent PCP abuse and a non-addictive medication for cocaine addicts. The research aims to understand the brain chemistry behind addiction and develop effective treatments.
A University of Iowa research team has identified two new genes linked to the invasive and metastatic spread of breast cancer. The findings, published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, provide important new insights into the complex process of tumor cell invasion and metastasis.
Dr. John Ruffin, Associate Director of Research on Minority Health at NIH, to speak on biomedical workforce needs in the new millennium. The largest program promoting minority biomedical training and health research will be discussed.
A potential vaccine against cocaine addiction has been developed by attaching a cocaine derivative to a larger protein, inducing the immune system to create specific antibodies that attack the molecule. The research team hopes to begin human clinical trials by the end of the year.
A University of Colorado at Boulder researcher is developing an interactive computer program for Alaskan middle school students to interest them in science and show the relevance of science to native Alaskans' daily lives. The project includes interactive stories, hands-on laboratory work, and use of special reference libraries.
A new study by Cornell University found that retired men who continue to work experience higher morale and lower levels of depression compared to those who remain permanently retired. In contrast, women's well-being is linked more strongly to the quality of their marriages, regardless of whether they are working or retired.
A study by Jungmeen E. Kim, Ph.D., and Phyllis Moen, Ph.D. found that newly retired women experience higher depression if their husbands remain employed, while newly retired men with employed wives face more marital conflict. In contrast, retired men who re-employ show higher morale.
Dr. Jeremy Knowles, Harvard University Dean, to discuss two millennia of lead toxicity at the American Chemical Society meeting in New Orleans. The speech highlights progress made on remedial action taken in recent decades.
A study by Colorado State University researchers found that students who reported more anger in response to common driving situations were at risk for anger, aggression, and accidents. Both groups of drivers were more alike than different in terms of their risk levels.
University of Rochester scientists use the herpes virus to modify brain cells, making them more resistant to death after a stroke. The study aims to provide a new way to save patients from years of disability caused by strokes.
A nonradioactive substitute for 'screamingly radioactive' storage tanks has been developed to aid in nuclear waste clean-up, potentially saving hundreds of millions of dollars. The synthetic sludge mimics the deadly sludge found in underground nuclear waste storage tanks and can be handled safely by lab workers.
At the American Chemical Society's national meeting, Chef John Folse and Shirley Corriher will demonstrate how chemistry can improve cooking techniques, flavors, and presentation. They will share their expertise on the chemistry of food, including topics such as Maillard reactions and emulsification.
INEEL researchers develop polyphosphazene membranes for efficient chemical separation and waste minimization, offering stability up to 300 degrees Celsius. The hybrid membrane combines organic and inorganic molecules for improved durability and versatility.
A special symposium at the American Chemical Society meeting explores how food chemistry enhances the eating experience, delivers essential nutrients, and helps lower chronic disease risk. Chemists, food producers, and a chef will share their perspectives on biotechnology's role in tailoring foods to satisfy palates and prevent diseases.
The American Chemical Society has recognized Lawrence Carosino and team for their oil barrier technology, producing reduced-fat French fries. Carlyle Caldwell pioneered research on modified food starches, expanding preserved and frozen foods.
A study found that large doses of vitamin C can reduce levels of stress hormones in the blood and boost the immune system. Vitamin C also reduced indicators of physical and emotional stress, such as loss in body weight and enlargement of the adrenal glands.
Researchers investigate ways to prevent brain cell death, explore the role of vitamin C in stress reduction, and develop new fibers with antimicrobial properties. The study also sheds light on children's exposure to environmental contaminants and potential indicators for future health problems.
A new study by University of Washington researchers found that children with learning disabilities have difficulty retrieving basic information, leading to impaired ability in reading, writing, and math. The study suggests that specialized interventions may be required to help children overcome these different kinds of disabilities.
Researchers are working to create a better lung surfactant mixture that can be easily produced without batch variance, tailored to specific cases. The new formulation aims to reduce mortality rates by 30-50% for infants with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.
Daniel W. Armstrong, a renowned radio personality and chemistry professor, has been awarded the Helen M. Free Award for Public Outreach by the American Chemical Society. His weekly radio show, We're Science, promotes better understanding of science and technology in daily life, reaching over 70 million people worldwide.
Researchers found that airplane crash survivors have lower levels of anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms compared to non-crash air travelers. The study suggests that survivors may benefit from experiencing a traumatic event, providing a resource for recovery.
A University of Toronto research team has isolated a gene that allows plants to grow in highly saline conditions. The gene encodes a transport protein called Na+/H+ antiport, which prevents sodium ions from harming the cell and draws water into the plant.
Researchers are focusing on two isoflavones in soy: genistein and daidzein. Preliminary evidence suggests that predominantly daidzein may be of greater cardiovascular benefit.
A Penn State neuropsychologist emphasizes the need for individualized assessment when determining an athlete's readiness to return to play after a concussion. Reliable Change scores can provide a general guideline, but their application is limited by factors such as practice effects and difficulty in determining significant differences.
Infrared microspectroscopy enables the analysis of localized chemical content in extremely small specimens. Kansas State University chemist David Wetzel and co-author Steven LeVine have pushed the technology's applications to the forefront of biological research.
A longitudinal study of over 600 adult participants found a significant seasonal effect on depression, hostility, anger, irritability, and anxiety, with winter months showing the highest levels. The researchers suggest diet, activity, and light exposure may contribute to these seasonal mood differences.
A special news briefing will be held on August 23rd to discuss the latest research on children's environmental health risks. The symposium, part of the American Chemical Society meeting, features a panel of experts who will share their findings on the dangers of chemicals in the environment and pet products.
Researchers found that soil erosion has been steadily decreasing since the 1930s, with erosion now at a mere 6% of its peak during the Dust Bowl era. The study's findings suggest that conservation efforts are working and watersheds are more intricate than previously thought.
Research suggests that bullying is a continuum of behaviors, with many students engaging in both bullying and victimization. Teachers and parents can play a crucial role in supporting affected students. Effective interventions require changing school climate and tailoring approaches to address physical aggression and bullying.