A newly discovered bacterium, A6, can break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by transferring electrons from ammonium or hydrogen gas, rendering them harmless. The degradation process could potentially biodegrade PFAS in contaminated soil and groundwater under appropriate environmental conditions.
Scientists have created a durable and flexible super-water-repelling material by drawing inspiration from the spiky yet flexible skin of the porcupinefish. The material retains its water repellency after being repeatedly bent or twisted, making it suitable for applications such as self-cleaning, anti-icing, and corrosion prevention.
After a tragic death in 1999, gene therapy faced a setback, but James Wilson's rediscovery of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) paved the way for its resurgence. Today, AAVs are used in nearly 100 drug development programs and have been approved by the FDA for treating a fatal neurological disease.
Researchers developed flexible, gel-free EEG electrodes that can record brain waves on hairy and hairless skin. The new electrodes work without sticky gel, allowing for potential use in brain-computer interfaces to drive cars or move artificial limbs.
Researchers explore ways to minimize acrylamide formation in fried and baked snacks, such as using the enzyme asparaginase to convert asparagine into harmless compounds. Food companies like Novozymes, Kerry, and DSM offer products to reduce acrylamide levels, including non-GMO options for organic food producers.
Researchers have identified a peptide from an Antarctic sponge that shows promise as a lead for new therapies against malaria. The compound, friomaramide, effectively blocked the development of the malaria parasite in liver cells without harming them.
Researchers create strain-accommodating smart skin that changes color in response to heat and sunlight, mimicking chameleon skin. The new material uses arrays of photonic crystals embedded in hydrogels to achieve color changes without buckling.
Researchers found that aphid-infested Scots pine trees emit a distinct mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including sesquiterpenes, which affect secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation. The study suggests that increased plant stress in a changing climate could influence SOA production.
Researchers have developed nanoparticles that can convert near-infrared light into visible light, allowing mice to see in the dark. The technology aims to improve safety and sensitivity for human use and has potential medical applications.
Researchers develop new methodology to analyze metal threads without damaging artifacts, revealing gold, silver, copper, and zinc compositions. The technique provides high-resolution images and cross-sections, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and layered structures.
Scientists have discovered that skin creams contain micelles and are self-preserving, contrary to the long-held textbook picture. The study uses X-ray and neutron scattering techniques to analyze cream structure and finds co-surfactants in lamellar layers as predicted but surfactant not present.
Scientists find that the arrangement of water molecules on surfaces is crucial in determining ice formation. By understanding this relationship, researchers can design surfaces to promote or inhibit ice formation, leading to advancements in weather prediction and material development.
Researchers developed a sensitive, portable device that can detect as few as 5-6 norovirus particles per sample, making it suitable for practical applications. The device uses fluorescence to detect norovirus and is compact enough for handheld use, enabling municipal water systems staff to check for the virus in the water supply.
Researchers developed the MasSpec Pen to rapidly identify tissue molecular profiles for predictive diagnoses. The device uses machine learning algorithms and is being tested on human patients, showing promising results.
Researchers have developed a self-assembling peptide hydrogel that increases blood vessel regrowth and neuronal survival in rats with traumatic brain injuries. The treatment also improves the survival of brain cells and shows signs of new blood vessel formation.
Researchers have developed protein-based batteries using synthetic polypeptides and polymers, which could provide a sustainable and safe energy storage solution. The new technology has shown promising results, with potential applications in low-energy requirement devices like biosensors.
Researchers create polyurethane that can be dissolved in organic solvents, enabling easy degradation and reprocessing into new products. The breakthrough has potential applications in adhesives, paints, and other industries.
Researchers developed molecules that can change unhealthful gut microbiomes into more healthful ones in mice, reducing cholesterol levels and inflammation. The study could lead to new treatments for chronic diseases related to diet.
Researchers have developed a polymer that self-destructs upon activation, using low-temperature stability to break apart quickly. The material has been used in a rigid-winged glider and nylon-like parachute fabric for airborne delivery, and its potential applications include environmental sensors and building materials.
Scientists discover two compounds that can dry up tick saliva, reducing feeding and potentially limiting pathogen transmission. The treatment effectively kills ticks within 12 hours, a significant timeframe for pathogen transmission.
Researchers have discovered that pollen and spores can be converted into tiny particles that grab onto pollutants, removing them from water. These treated particles are hypoallergenic and show promise for low-level pollutant removal in various applications, including wastewater treatment.
Researchers have identified potentially less toxic and biodegradable flame retardants from plants, which could replace hazardous organohalogen compounds. The new substances, derived from gallic acid and 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, perform as well as many existing flame retardants on the market.
Researchers found that high blood sugar levels in diabetes can cause DNA damage and reduce its repair, increasing the risk of certain cancers. The study suggests that controlling blood sugar levels could be an effective way to reduce cancer risk in diabetics.
Researchers found that altering sample preparation conditions in chocolate samples can significantly impact cannabis potency test results. They discovered that the matrix effect of chocolate's fat content is suppressing the signal for Δ9-THC, which could have major implications for producers and consumers of cannabis-infused edibles.
The American Chemical Society has unveiled its annual 'Talented 12' list, recognizing young chemists tackling world-class problems. This year's class features researchers developing new materials, analyzing proteins, and creating innovative treatments for human diseases.
Researchers developed a fast-acting skin patch that efficiently delivers medication to attack melanoma cells, producing nine times the antibody level compared to traditional injections. The patch technology has widespread applications for other vaccines and could be used to deliver vaccines against infectious diseases.
A new nanoparticle delivery tool targets metastatic cancer cells in lymph nodes, leading to improved survival rates and reduced tumor growth. The therapy, called iCluster, effectively treats cancer at primary tumor sites as well as distant lymph node metastases.
Researchers are developing technology to predict when a child will have an asthma attack and provide prevention and treatment suggestions. The system tracks geographical location, physical activity, air quality, and health data using smart phones, watches, and sensors.
Researchers developed a mass-spectrometry-based approach to detect gluten proteins specific to rye, expanding detection capabilities beyond wheat and barley. The method identified six peptides that were consistently detected in all rye varieties, allowing for more accurate labeling of 'gluten-free' foods.
Sunscreens release aluminum, silica, and phosphorous into seawater after UV treatment, potentially harming marine ecosystems. On a typical summer day at the beach, beachgoers could increase coastal waters' aluminum levels by 4% and titanium by almost 20%
Researchers developed a calcium-based conservation treatment that enhances hydrophobicity, reduces cracking and improves surface adhesion on various building materials. The treatment, inspired by natural structures like bone and kidney stones, provides improved acid resistance and minimal color effect.
A new technique developed by researchers allows for the creation of tastier low-fat potato chips by analyzing physical characteristics. The method, called in vitro oral processing, measures chip properties from first bite to swallow, enabling food scientists to link physical measurements with sensory perceptions.
Researchers have demonstrated that energetic interactions between hydrogen cyanide and water can form precursors to RNA and proteins. The study provides new potential pathways for the formation of life's building blocks, without requiring high-energy photons or metal catalysts.
Scientists are racing to find solutions as Palmer amaranth develops resistance to multiple herbicides, outcompeting crops for resources. The weed's ability to thrive and produce new generations of resistant plants poses significant threats to crop yields.
Scientists have developed a highly sensitive 'sniff-cam' that can detect low levels of disease biomarkers in breath, including diabetes, lung cancer, and Parkinson's disease. The device uses an ultraviolet ring light, filters, and a camera to measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the breath.
Researchers have developed a delivery system that increases insulin secretion by mouse pancreatic cells and reduces blood glucose levels in diabetic mice. The system, based on natural components, delays the release of herbal extract under acidic conditions, leading to a significant reduction in blood glucose levels.
Researchers have modified cotton fabric to emit a lemony citronella aroma when sweat comes into contact. The fragrance release strategy uses either an odorant-binding protein or liposomes, resulting in quick and controlled scent emission.
The three Mars rovers, including NASA's Perseverance rover, ExoMars rover, and China's HX-1 rover, will analyze rocks and soil for evidence of life on the Red Planet. The missions aim to determine whether life could have existed on Mars in the past.
Researchers identified a fungal compound, pericosine A, that safely and effectively neutralizes skunk spray odor. The compound reacted with and converted specific organosulfur compounds to stable, odorless products, making it suitable for skin application.
Wheat yields may increase with rising CO2 levels, but at the cost of reduced nutritional quality. Researchers found a 104% higher yield under elevated CO2 conditions, accompanied by declines in nitrogen and protein content.
Researchers created a thin, skin-like artificial throat that can convert throat movements into sounds. The device, about double the size of a person's thumbnail, uses laser-scribed graphene and measures vocal cord vibrations to produce speech-like sounds.
Researchers in Japan are utilizing creepy-crawlies to study human disease, develop diagnostic kits and create sustainable fertilizers. Genome Pharmaceuticals Institute uses silkworms to identify compounds for treating infections and boosting immune systems.
Researchers measured air quality before, during, and after a large fireworks display in Albany, New York, finding peak levels of submicron particulate matter eight times higher than before. Potassium levels also spiked significantly, peaking at 350 times the background level.
Researchers optimized bacteria to produce proteins with unconventional amino acids, a significant breakthrough in synthetic biology. The study demonstrates the potential of semi-synthetic organisms to create new life forms with expanded genetic codes.
Researchers developed a new method to monitor neonicotinoids in living plants, allowing for spatial and temporal tracking of the insecticides. This probe could help pinpoint where and when bees are exposed to pesticides, informing efforts to protect pollinator populations.
Researchers created a 'polyCOF' material by adding polyethylene glycol to an existing COF structure, enabling the formation of flexible membranes. The resulting material allows for the creation of a paper doll with an artificial muscle that can perform sit-ups by expanding and contracting in response to ethanol vapors.
Researchers found higher levels of tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) in cats with hyperthyroidism, suggesting a link between the flame retardant and feline health. TDCIPP exposure correlated with air freshener use, house age, and furniture preference.
Chemical manufacturers in the US are opposing new tariffs proposed by the Trump administration on $300 billion worth of Chinese goods. The additional taxes could hurt US companies' competitiveness and pricing advantage over foreign firms that do not have to pay tariffs.
Researchers found that fluoxetine treatment can rearrange hippocampal nerve fibers in mouse brains, reducing their number and size. This structural change could contribute to the medication's antidepressant effects.
Researchers measured VOC emissions from polyurethane mattresses under simulated sleeping conditions, finding elevated levels of some compounds that could cause eye irritation, headaches, and even cancer. The study emphasizes the need for further research on possible health effects of chronic exposure to VOCs.