Researchers have developed a new type of cerium nanoparticle formulation that can prevent plaque and cavities from forming, without killing oral bacteria. The nanoparticles inhibit the growth of biofilms by 40% compared to silver nitrate, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Scientists develop versatile materials by mixing silk fabric with synthetic polymers, offering improved properties for human body tissues. The composites show hardness and stiffness compatible with bone, making them potentially more resilient yet comfortable than metal structures.
Researchers have developed coatings that can help integrate electronics with human tissues, enabling new diagnostics and potential applications in merging humans and AI. The coatings improve signal quality and battery lifetime, making them suitable for medical implants.
Researchers detect plastic contamination in every sample analyzed using mass spectrometry, with bisphenol A found in all 47 human samples. The study provides the first array of methods for examining monomer, nano- and microplastic occurrence in human organs from individuals with a known history of environmental exposure.
Researchers develop potential small molecule inhibitors to disrupt bacterial iron acquisition, offering a new approach against UTI-resistant strains. The target is the TonB system, which helps bacteria take up iron, and promises a safer alternative with fewer side effects.
Scientists used an 'ocean-in-a-lab' to show that air pollution can change the makeup of gases and aerosols released by sea spray, influencing atmospheric composition and weather. The study found that adding pollutants like hydroxyl radicals transformed microbe-produced gases into new compounds.
Researchers create tiny communication networks that allow electronics to eavesdrop on cells and alter their behavior. These systems could enable applications such as wearable devices for bacterial infections and capsules for tracking blood sugar levels.
A new immunotherapy approach using nanoparticles has shown promising results in extending the survival of mice with triple negative breast cancer. The treatment, which incorporates oxidized tumor cell lysates, triggered a stronger immune response and led to complete remission in two-thirds of treated mice.
A pilot study found that long-term opioid users develop chronic inflammation and heightened pain sensitivity, which could be influenced by their immune system producing antibodies against the drugs. The researchers are now working on isolating key opioid antigenic intermediates in the body that prompt antibody production.
Researchers analyze how acids and other compounds contribute to sour beer's unique taste, with findings that could help brewers gain more control over the flavor. The study uses NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to track changes in organic acids and identify trace compounds that influence flavor.
The American Chemical Society's 'Talented 12' program recognizes early-career researchers tackling difficult global challenges. This year's class includes innovators in chemistry, biobased building blocks, and faster reagents. They will be featured in this week's issue of CEN.
A new study introduces a virtual escape room game that mimics cooperative learning, allowing undergraduate students to solve chemistry problems and 'escape' a chocolate factory theme. The game promotes effective collaboration and provides an engaging alternative to traditional lab activities.
Researchers have developed a method to use face masks to collect compounds in exhaled breath aerosols for analysis, enabling large-scale screening for disease biomarkers. The new technique uses a fiber inserted into an N95 face mask to concentrate molecules, allowing for more efficient identification through mass spectrometry.
Research in mice indicates ACE2 receptor is primarily found on tongue cells with rough surfaces, not in taste bud cells, suggesting alternative mechanisms for SARS-CoV-2-induced taste loss.
Researchers used airplanes and satellite data to uncover neighborhood-level differences in nitrogen dioxide levels in Houston. The study found that areas with higher pollutant levels were predominantly low-income, non-white, and Hispanic neighborhoods, while high-income, white areas had lower pollution levels.
Quat-containing disinfectants have raised concerns over potential toxicity, with links to fertility and developmental problems found in animal and cell experiments. However, industry experts argue that skin irritation is the biggest concern, and typical exposures in people are unlikely to pose significant health risks.
Researchers studied how microbes in fermented sausages influence fatty acid production, revealing differences between microbe combinations. The study found that specific bacteria alter the composition of fatty acids, contributing to desirable traits like antifungal activity and flavor profiles.
The American Chemical Society names BASF the number one chemical company for 2019, followed by Sinopec and Dow/DuPont, in its annual Global Top 50 list. The report shows a decline in earnings due to trade tensions and poor automotive performance.
Researchers created a personal cooling fabric that efficiently transfers heat away from the body while allowing sweat to evaporate. The new material, made from nanofibrous membranes coated with boron nitride nanosheets, has high thermal conductivity and potential uses in solar energy collection and electronic device management.
Researchers develop microrecycling strategy to convert e-waste into a strong, protective coating for metal. The new material combines copper and silica compounds to form a durable hybrid layer that increases steel hardness by 125%.
Researchers have detected a newer PFAS compound, HFPO-DA, in Arctic seawater for the first time, posing similar health and persistence concerns as PFOA. Higher levels of PFAS were found in outgoing water compared to entering water from the North Atlantic.
Researchers in Australia analyzed urine and wastewater samples to estimate changes in bisphenol exposure over six years. They found that urinary levels of BPA decreased, while BPS increased, with higher levels detected in younger age groups. In wastewater, BPA and BPS were consistently detected, with BPF also present in 29% of samples.
Researchers found that mussels form weaker attachments in iron-deficient seawater due to altered iron bioavailability. The study reveals a possible consequence of changing ocean chemistry on marine life.
The American Chemical Society Fall 2020 Virtual Meeting will take place online from August 17-20, with thousands of scientists and experts presenting on diverse fields including food, medicine, energy, and the environment. Journalists may apply for press credentials to access press conferences and embargoed press releases.
Researchers are working on experimental gene-based vaccines using harmless viruses or DNA/RNA to deliver genetic information to human cells. The technology is fast but largely unproven, and concerns remain about neutralization levels and safety. Multiple types of vaccines will likely be needed to ensure effective immunity.
Researchers found elevated total mercury concentrations in dragonfly larvae from various national parks, with higher levels in rivers and streams. The study suggests that these insects can be used to predict mercury levels in other species, enabling early warning systems for environmental hazards.
Researchers developed antioxidant-rich powders from blueberry and persimmon waste, which showed beneficial effects on gut bacterial growth. The findings suggest that these powders could be used to boost carotenoids and anthocyanins in food formulations, potentially promoting human health.
Researchers created an inexpensive smart stir bar that can automatically measure and transmit data on a solution's properties to a smartphone or computer. This device uses open-source software and low-cost components to detect parameters such as color, electrical conductivity, and viscosity.
European manufacturers are emerging as sustainable successors to combustion engines, with the European Commission investing heavily in initiatives to establish new factories and mining operations across the region. The goal is to create hundreds of thousands of jobs while reducing the carbon footprint of production.
Researchers have created a new material that mimics the strength and toughness of mother of pearl, with layers of aragonite stacked in an intricate herringbone pattern. The material is almost twice as strong and four times as tough as previous nacre mimics, making it suitable for sustainable medical uses.
Researchers detected six coumarins in oak wood, wine, and spirits, finding that a combination can produce a bitter taste. Higher levels of coumarins were found in red wines and spirits, particularly those aged for longer times.
Researchers have discovered a peptide in scorpion venom that can dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure in hypertensive rats. The compound, KPP, regulates proteins associated with cell death, energy production, and muscle contraction.
Biobased chemicals are being developed to replace petroleum-based products in various industries, including diapers, electronics, and automotive coatings. These new materials offer improved performance and sustainability, with potential applications in areas such as electronic touchscreen displays and emission-reducing coatings.
Scientists designed peptide nanoparticles that can fluoresce in a variety of colors, opening up new biomedical applications. The 12-peptide palette encompasses all visible light colors and is photostable without toxicity.
Researchers have developed a sustainable method to recover valuable nutrients from shrimp processing water, including protein and lipids, for use in food or feed. The technique combines food-grade flocculants with dissolved air flotation, capturing up to 98% of the protein present in the water.
Researchers developed a wood-based steam generator that harnesses solar energy to separate pure water from contaminants. The device uses light-absorbing, water-evaporating top layers and insulating glass bubbles for efficient purification.
Researchers have created a device that can suspend two chemically distinct droplets in mid-air and mix them without physical contact. The technique uses acoustic levitation, which allows scientists to study various types of chemical reactions without the influence of containers or handling.
Researchers created transgenic rice with anti-hypertensive peptides that lowered blood pressure in hypertensive rats. The effect remained after a 5-week treatment period without obvious side effects. If effective in humans, it could lead to a daily intake of only half a tablespoon of special rice.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased demand for plastics in medical equipment and PPE production. Companies have pivoted to meet this demand, while also adapting their procedures to ensure worker safety.
Researchers have created nanosponges that can soak up SARS-CoV-2 by mimicking its natural entry points. The nanosponges successfully neutralized the virus and prevented it from infecting cells in a lab setting, offering a potential new treatment for COVID-19.
Researchers studied how Toxoplasma parasites move rapidly through tissues using high-resolution imaging and force microscopy. They found that the parasites form specific attachments with collagen fibers, resulting in contractile forces that propel them forward.
Despite anecdotal evidence, scientists lack conclusive data on convalescent plasma's benefits for COVID-19 patients. The use of convalescent plasma has been explored in previous outbreaks, but well-designed clinical trials are now underway to test its efficacy.
Researchers have developed self-powered 'paper chips' that sense early forest fires and relay a signal. The thermoelectric paper sensors are made from eco-friendly materials and can be wirelessly transmitted to responders.
A new system for detecting antibodies uses a microfluidic thread-based analytical device that relies on light-emitting sensor proteins held on a thread. The device can detect antibody levels within five minutes and does not require extensive handling and incubation steps.
A new study reveals that focusing on both climate change and air pollution can lead to more effective upgrades in the US electricity system. In a county-by-county approach, researchers found that prioritizing health concerns in policies can alter optimal locations for cleaner technologies.
Researchers detected rising SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels in Dutch sewage samples during the early stages of the pandemic, correlating with COVID-19 case numbers. The study suggests that sewage surveillance could serve as a sensitive early warning system for increased virus circulation.
COVID-19 antibody tests measure antibodies produced by the body after infection, providing insights into community spread. While early tests had questionable accuracy, recent developments have led to more reliable tests with high sensitivities and specificities, offering a better understanding of long-term protection.
Researchers have identified key toxins in Nomura's jellyfish that make its venom deadly to some swimmers. The venom is a complex mix of toxins similar to those found in poisonous snakes, spiders, and bees.
Researchers have developed synthetic red blood cells that exhibit all the properties of natural ones, including flexibility and oxygen transport. These artificial cells can carry therapeutic cargoes, such as anticancer drugs or toxin sensors, and demonstrate potential in medical applications like cancer therapy and toxin biosensing.
Researchers find air pollution can alter social behaviors in mice, causing inflammation that damages healthy tissues. Chronic exposure to particulate matter is also associated with boosted production of amyloid plaques, a key feature of Alzheimer's disease.