Health advocacy groups are concerned that period product ingredient lists are not detailed enough and haven't been tested for safety. Despite increased disclosure, many chemicals listed have not been evaluated for use on vulva and vagina skin, limiting consumer informed purchasing decisions.
Scientists have developed a method to store and release highly pure hydrogen using salts in the presence of amino acids, which could make large-scale hydrogen storage more feasible. The technique uses potassium salts, manganese-based catalysts, and amino acids to produce high-yield and pure hydrogen with minimal byproducts.
Major chemical companies are backing pyrolysis plants to expand plastics recycling, but environmentalists remain skeptical. The process converts plastic waste into hydrocarbon feedstocks that can be turned into plastics again, making up for the shortcomings of traditional recycling which captures only about 9% of plastics in the US.
Scientists have created a self-powered, temperature-activated device using edible materials like table salt, red cabbage, and beeswax. The sensor can be used to monitor the storage history of frozen products and alert consumers.
Researchers created a breathable underwater movement sensor by applying a thin, slippery coating to conductive fabric, enabling the detection of swimmers in distress. The smart system wirelessly alerts a smartphone app when a swimmer stops moving, indicating potential drowning.
Scientists have developed a prototype circuit board made of a sheet of paper with fully integrated electrical components, making it easy to dispose of responsibly. The new design uses wax and ink to print channels, conductive inks, and metal components onto the paper, creating a flexible and thin device that can be burned or degraded.
Researchers are studying COVID-19's impact on the sense of smell, finding that SARS-CoV-2 attacks support cells in the nose, leading to olfactory disorders. Potential treatments include gene scrambling fixes, platelet-rich plasma injections, and olfactory implants.
Researchers developed a biosensor that can detect brain cancer from minute blood samples using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The test distinguishes primary brain tumors from secondary tumors and predicts tumor location within the brain with high accuracy.
Researchers have created a CBD-based bioplastic material that could be used in medical implants, food wrappers, and other applications due to its antioxidant properties. The material has a broad melting temperature range and stretchability, making it suitable for industrial use.
Researchers have developed SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particles (VLPs) that can mimic the virus's behavior, allowing for safer vaccine development and testing. These VLPs could help scientists understand how the virus invades the central nervous system and potentially lead to more effective vaccines.
Researchers have identified two new unique molecular trends in fingerprint oils that can help estimate the age of a fingerprint. The presence of epoxides and an increase in medium-length fatty acids were found to be indicative of fingerprint aging.
Researchers developed a simple, fraud-resistant method to evaluate recycled content in new plastic products by adding a fluorescent tag. The technique was successfully tested on various polymers and colors, identifying the percentage of recycled material in real-world products.
Rare-earth metal alloys create new types of color-changing and branching sparks. The study found that these alloys, such as ytterbium and neodymium, produce more colorful sparks than single-metal powders.
The global solar industry faces a supply chain risk due to China's dominance in polysilicon production, which can lead to increased carbon intensity and human rights concerns. The US and Indian governments have pledged billions to boost domestic production and create a more resilient supply chain.
Researchers have found that nanoplastics can enter human liver and lung cells, disrupting their regular processes and causing inflammation, toxicity, and neurological changes. The study reveals that nanoplastics can alter metabolic pathways, including the production of reactive oxygen species and nucleotides.
Researchers have engineered an enzyme that can degrade the capsule of antibiotic-resistant B. anthracis bacteria, making it susceptible to the immune system. The new treatment, which combines the enzyme with a mouse antibody, shows promise in treating anthrax infections without antibiotics.
Researchers have developed a soft, biodegradable, magnetic millirobot inspired by insects, which can grasp, roll and climb, but easily dissolve away. The robot was tested in experiments, delivering a dye solution to a stomach model and gripped various objects.
Training programs for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workers are becoming increasingly important to address labor shortages in technical roles. Community colleges and apprenticeships are partnering with regional companies to provide career opportunities for aspiring chemists.
Scientists have identified 30 distinct compounds responsible for the Appalachian truffle's aroma, including six previously unknown to other truffle species. The findings may lead to future studies on the unique properties of this North American variety.
Researchers propose using wastewater epidemiology to monitor monkeypox spread, detecting viral DNA in sewage and potentially identifying low infection rates. The method could be optimized for community-level monitoring, providing a valuable framework for developing robust programs.
Researchers have identified surface-based chiral nanostructures as the potential culprit behind plastics turning yellow over time. The study suggests that these structures, formed on the surface of polyethylene films exposed to UV light, are a key factor in the degradation process and the resulting yellow color change.
Researchers developed a pilot infrared popping system that produced fully or semi-popped kernels and the largest kernels. The sensory panel determined that the popcorn had the best color, taste, and firmness at 700 W heat power.
Researchers discovered a substance that increased immune response to an experimental COVID-19 shot in mice, producing antibodies 25 times greater than without an adjuvant. The new adjuvant, αGC-CPOEt, is being investigated as a potential treatment for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
Researchers have successfully created a 'meat-like' seasoning by cooking mealworms with sugar, producing a sustainable alternative to traditional meat protein sources. The team identified 98 volatile compounds and optimized 10 reaction flavors that were deemed favorable by consumer panels.
Researchers discover 20 compounds behind vanilla's flavor complexity, including previously unknown ones, and find that certain compounds impact consumer acceptability. The new profile could help producers identify high-quality extracts and improve curing methods.
Researchers analyzed plant-based beverages and found significant variability in mineral content by type and brand. Pea-based drinks had the most phosphorus, zinc, and selenium, while soy milks had the most magnesium.
Researchers analyzed almost 100 inks and found that even when ingredient lists are provided, they often contain inaccuracies. The team also detected small particles that could be harmful to cells, with some particles as small as 100 nm.
A new sensor can detect and identify different types of nanoplastics in the air using colorful carbon dot films. The sensor can report the amount of particles from a certain plastic type above or below a predetermined concentration threshold.
Researchers have developed a way to print wooden objects that can self-morph into complex 3D shapes after drying. The technique uses a combination of print speed and pathway to control the final shape, which could reduce shipping volume and costs for furniture and other wood products.
Researchers have developed a new composite resin suitable for wind turbine blades that can be recycled into new blades or other products. The material has the same physical properties as its predecessor, making it ideal for reuse.
Researchers analyzed satellite-based data to study daily variations in air quality across 11 major US cities, revealing disproportionate impacts on economically disadvantaged communities. The findings suggest climate change could exacerbate these differences, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to reduce emissions and impr...
Researchers have developed a prototype device that could replace traditional air conditioners with solid refrigerants, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The system uses pressure changes to cycle between solid and liquid states, efficiently cooling spaces without leaks.
Researchers have designed superfast charging methods tailored to power different types of electric vehicle batteries in 10 minutes or less without harm. By incorporating charging data into machine learning analysis, the team identified and optimized new protocols that significantly increase energy storage while minimizing battery damage.
Researchers create polymeric micelles that deliver butyrate, a compound produced by healthy gut bacteria, to restore the gut's protective barrier and microbiome. The treatment prevents life-threatening anaphylactic responses in mice with peanut allergies.
Researchers have developed a new compound, afimetoran, that prevents lupus-like symptoms and reverses organ damage in mice. The compound works by blocking toll-like receptors 7 and 8, which are involved in the immune system's response to viral RNA. Phase 2 clinical trials are underway to test its effectiveness in humans.
A tiny sensor can detect lithium levels from sweat on a fingertip in 30 seconds, providing a non-invasive alternative to blood tests. The sensor, developed by researchers, has the potential to improve medication adherence and patient care.
Researchers have developed a method to create colorful solar panels by applying a thin layer of photonic glass, which reflects selective colors based on microscopic zinc sulfide spheres. The new technology results in energy efficiency improvements of up to 21.5% while maintaining color and durability.
The US FDA is reassessing its need for animal tests in product development, exploring alternative methods that could improve efficacy and safety predictions. New technologies like microphysiological systems may replace traditional animal studies, enabling faster product approval.
Researchers have discovered a new molecule, fabimycin, that effectively treats over 300 drug-resistant bacteria in lab experiments and mice with pneumonia and urinary tract infections. The compound reduces the amount of drug-resistant bacteria to pre-infection levels or below, outperforming existing antibiotics at similar doses.
A new study reveals that a multiple sclerosis treatment, interferon beta, reduces the binding of key molecules to red blood cells, thereby decreasing inflammation and slowing disease progression. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for the treatment of this debilitating autoimmune disease.
Researchers found that incorporating banana peel flour into sugar cookie batter makes the treats more healthful. The addition of banana peel flour resulted in cookies having less fat and protein, higher amounts of phenols, and better antioxidant activities compared to conventional cookies.
Researchers develop a new low-calorie sweetener that is as sweet as table sugar and feeds beneficial gut microbes. The mixture shows promise in improving gut health and has prebiotic effects on the human gut microbiome.
Researchers have developed a low-cost, spongy electrode made from a sugar cube template, offering improved signal detection and reduced noise. The device's micropores provide increased contact area with the skin, enabling it to monitor uterine contractions and other health issues with high quality.
Researchers have developed a novel method for detecting nitrite levels in foods using a color-changing film and smartphone app. The POLYSEN-based system allows consumers to easily analyze nitrite levels on meats and comply with European regulations, promoting healthier eating habits.
Researchers develop a safe and effective way to whiten teeth without damaging enamel, breaking apart cavity-forming biofilms. The treatment uses a hydrogel activated by green light to kill 94% of bacteria in biofilms and prevent cavities from forming on teeth.
Researchers developed a SARS-CoV-2 saliva assay and prototype device combining speed, ease, and high sensitivity. The SLIDE device detects viral RNA in saliva within 45 minutes, comparable to traditional RT-PCR methods.
Researchers found that genetic variations in the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor impact its interaction with psychedelic drugs. Seven variants uniquely altered the receptor's response to psilocin, LSD, 5-MeO-DMT, and mescaline.
Researchers developed a nanomembrane system called iTEARS that can quickly analyze tears for disease biomarkers. The system enables more efficient and less invasive molecular diagnoses for various diseases, including dry eye disease and diabetic retinopathy.
Scientists have created a durable molecular encryption key using sequence-defined polymers that can store and transport digital keys securely. They successfully decrypted a file with text from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by extracting the key from ink in a letter, demonstrating the approach's potential for real-world applications.
Researchers have created a biodegradable seaweed-derived film that effectively absorbs sounds in the range of human voices, traffic, and music. The agar-based composite films outperform traditional acoustic foams in terms of sound-absorbing qualities.