Researchers have developed a solar steam generator that approaches 100% efficiency for producing clean water from seawater. Inspired by origami, the device uses a 3D photothermal material to capture sunlight and evaporate water more efficiently than traditional flat devices.
Chemists in Puerto Rico remained resilient and united after Hurricane Maria, causing a humanitarian crisis and billions of dollars in damage. The storm impacted the pharmaceutical industry, academic institutions, and environmental health, with researchers studying the effects on water and air quality.
Researchers developed a flexible, wearable photostimulator that speeds up hair growth in mice, achieving significantly faster hair regrowth and wider regrowth areas compared to untreated or minoxidil-injected mice.
Researchers analyzed ant venom from a tropical species and identified over 2,800 venom peptides, including 37 full-length peptide precursors called myrmicitoxins. The peptides showed sequence similarities with those produced by other insects, suggesting they evolved from ancestral genes.
Researchers have developed a new sensor that uses the mbira instrument to detect toxic substances and counterfeit medications. The sensor can distinguish between different liquids by their density, making it a potential tool for detecting counterfeit medication.
The article tackles key questions about graduate school, including choosing a research program and advisor, and overcoming obstacles like burnout and unexpected setbacks. It provides a roadmap for navigating the chemistry graduate school experience, drawing on stories from students and expert advice.
Researchers create pill composed of sugars that encapsulates tens of thousands of micromotors made of a magnesium/titanium dioxide core loaded with fluorescent dye cargo. The pill improves release and retention of micromotors in the stomach, enabling targeted delivery of medicines.
Researchers have developed a sensitive new test to detect trace amounts of peanuts in foods using the peanuts' DNA. The new assay targets DNA from peanut chloroplasts, resulting in a detection limit of about 1 part per million.
Researchers develop biodegradable plastics that break down under diverse conditions, offering new options for disposal. The study examines the degradation of individual bioplastics and blends under managed and unmanaged environments, finding improved characteristics in certain blends.
Scientists develop peptide hydrogel that stimulates new blood vessel and dental pulp growth in teeth after root canals. The material aims to preserve more of the existing dental pulp and help grow new tissue, making the procedure less invasive.
Researchers have developed a practical and inexpensive way to prevent lithium-ion battery fires by hardening the electrolyte on impact. The additive-based approach uses a shear-thickening behavior to block fluid flow, preventing electrode contact and fire.
Researchers have developed a lightweight, battery-powered freshwater harvester that can collect up to 10 gallons of water per hour from the air, even in arid environments. The nanofiber-based method could help address modern water shortages due to climate change and industrial pollution.
Researchers have developed a new method to conserve salvaged wooden ships and artifacts using 'smart' nanocomposites, eliminating harmful acids without damaging the structures. This technology could help preserve other shipwrecks like the 16th-century British warship Mary Rose and its artifacts.
Researchers create nanobot pumps that neutralize nerve agents and administer antidotes, powered by the enzyme's chemical energy. The technology has applications in medicine, manufacturing, robotics, and fluidics, and could be used to treat diseases like diabetes and deliver targeted treatments.
Researchers have discovered a new family of enzymes in the human gut microbiome that can remove red blood cell antigens, enabling the conversion of type A and B blood into universal O-type blood. These enzymes are 30 times more effective than previously studied candidates, paving the way for potential clinical trials.
Researchers create 3D printing filaments from recycled plastic bottles and other waste materials, enabling rapid production of spare parts under combat conditions. The process could significantly reduce dependence on outside supply chains and enhance safety for troops in remote areas.
Salivary proteins could be part of a feedback loop that influences food taste and dietary choices. Researchers found that drinking bitter foods altered saliva protein composition, which corresponded to changes in sensory ratings.
A recent study using sewage epidemiology found significantly higher levels of methamphetamine and amphetamine use, as well as increased opioid consumption, during festive events. The researchers also confirmed the intuitive assumption that drug use rises during celebrations.
Researchers find that glucitol-core-containing gallotannins from red maple leaves can block elastase activity, maintaining skin elasticity. The findings could lead to the development of plant-based skincare products and create new economic opportunities for farmers in eastern North America.
Researchers found that e-cigarette users experience increased DNA damage related to acrolein exposure, which could increase their cancer risk. The study suggests that vaping may modify the genetic material in oral cells, highlighting the need for further research on the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes.
Scientists developed a flexible, high-density artificial retina using 2D materials that mimics the human eye. The device has shown promising results in laboratory and animal studies, and could potentially restore sight to millions of people with retinal diseases.
Researchers have developed a new class of mosquito repellents based on naturally occurring compounds that are effective in repelling mosquitoes. The compounds mimic the mechanism of nature, which could provide additional protection against mosquitoes, while having fewer environmental side effects.
Researchers found that consuming whole strawberries daily can significantly suppress symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and improve gut health. The study's findings suggest a potential dietary intervention to mitigate colonic inflammation and increase beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Researchers have developed a new drug, GC4419, that appears to prevent severe oral mucositis (SOM), a painful side effect of radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. The drug has already been designated as a breakthrough therapy by the FDA and shows safety and efficacy in clinical trials.
The American Chemical Society has announced its 2018 Talented 12, a group of young scientists working to solve the world's most pressing problems. These innovators are deciphering life on Earth, exploring molecules in space, and developing gene editing technology.
Scientists have found that contact lenses can break down into smaller plastic particles when exposed to wastewater treatment plants, which can harm aquatic organisms. The study's authors hope that industry will take note and provide proper disposal guidelines for contact lenses.
Researchers have developed a new type of battery made from paper and fueled by bacteria, which could overcome challenges of limited resources and commercial batteries. The paper-based bio-battery has shown to be effective in powering small devices like LEDs and calculators, with potential for improvement through further research.
Scientists have developed a method using photosensitizers and nanoparticles to activate oxygen, killing bacteria like MRSA. The technique has shown promise in treating microbial infections and possibly even cancer.
Scientists have discovered previously unknown sulfur compounds causing the bitter taste that develops after chopping onions. The compounds, dubbed allithiolanes, form spontaneously when the onion is damaged, affecting the flavor of resulting dishes.
A team of researchers discovered a solidified whitish mass in an Egyptian tomb, which was later identified as the world's oldest cheese, made from cow milk and sheep or goat milk. The cheese contained peptides that suggest it was contaminated with Brucella melitensis, a deadly disease.
Researchers have created a new drug that stimulates GPR88 receptor, reducing rats' tendency to drink alcohol. The molecule, RTI-13951-33, is potent and selective for the receptor, crossing the blood-brain barrier more effectively than its predecessor.
Researchers found that compounds in Sakurajima Daikon radish promote nitric oxide production, which can improve coronary blood vessel function. The study identifies trigonelline as the active component behind this effect.
Researchers create designer polymers with precise properties by controlling the order and number of subunits. They achieve this through a selective approach, allowing for on-demand control over sequence, structure, and architecture.
Researchers found elevated E. coli levels in Houston's major bayous immediately after Harvey, decreasing over two months. Fecal bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes were highest in homes with stagnant floodwater inside. Residents should exercise caution when handling post-Harvey floodwaters.
Researchers have successfully designed nanoparticles that can be absorbed through the intestine and into the bloodstream when taken orally. The modified particles showed improved uptake in rats, with about 47% making it into the blood, compared to 7% for unmodified particles.
Researchers detected high levels of sunscreen chemicals in Shenzhen waters and found they affect zebrafish embryo development. The effects vary depending on the chemical combination and exposure duration.
Scientists created a placenta-on-a-chip to study how bacterial infections trigger preterm birth. The device mimics the placental barrier's response to infection, potentially leading to new treatments for this condition.
The article reveals how Japanese companies have mastered the production of high-quality synthetic suede for luxury cars, offering advantages over natural leather and suede. The development of this material has led to a boom in business for manufacturers, with increased demand prompting expansions and ramped-up production.
Researchers developed a new photosensitizer using gold nanorods to enable color printing in selective laser sintering. The material is cost-effective for large-scale production and produces brightly colored objects.
Research on cannabidiol (CBD) has shown promising results in treating rare seizure disorders, with clinical trials halving the number of seizures in 40% of children and young adults. However, more studies are needed to determine its efficacy for other ailments, as some patients experienced side effects.
Researchers developed a sensor to detect early-stage Parkinson's disease from patient breath, achieving 79% sensitivity and 84% specificity. The device detected differences in the exhaled breath of newly diagnosed patients, outperforming diagnostic smell tests and ultrasound scans.
Researchers developed a hybrid catalyst that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen efficiently, addressing previous limitations of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. The new material, made of iridium dinuclear heterogeneous catalysts attached to a tungsten oxide substrate, offers improved stability and recyclability.
Researchers created an artificial enzyme that catalyzes a Diels-Alder reaction on the surfaces of living human cells, achieving up to a 50% yield. This breakthrough could lead to the development of therapeutic drugs targeted to specific organs and cells, reducing side effects.
Research reveals airborne transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARGs) across the globe, with high levels detected in urban areas. ARGs resistant to multiple antibiotics, including vancomycin, were found in air samples from cities worldwide.
Researchers have identified simpler computer models that can accurately predict current beach conditions from past data, enabling faster and more reliable detection of fecal microbes. The new approach combines wavelet transform and artificial neural network analysis, requiring only bacterial data from the past, with no additional inputs.
Researchers have developed a new, less destructive teeth whitening method using blue light-activated nanoparticles. The treatment showed similar whitening levels to hydrogen peroxide-based agents without enamel damage or cytotoxicity. Additionally, the therapy demonstrated antibacterial activity against certain bacteria.
A study by Maria Antonietta Ricci and colleagues found that fructose forms the shortest and strongest hydrogen bonds with water, allowing it to bind more snugly with protein receptors. This interaction enables greater stimulation and perception of sweetness. Mannose, on the other hand, forms longer and weaker hydrogen bonds with water.
Researchers have found that traditional Tibetan medicine (TTM) contains high levels of mercury and methylmercury, with Tibetans exposed to 34-fold higher daily intake than in regions specializing in mercury mining. This exposure results in the release of significant amounts of total mercury into municipal sewage and the environment.
The textile industry is exploring alternative coloring methods that minimize environmental impact, with companies developing dyes that require less water and energy. Innovative approaches like inkjet printing and microbial fermentation are being tested to create more sustainable fashion.
Researchers at Texas Tech University have created a simple method to clean out pollen grains, making them suitable for carrying medicines or vaccines. The new technique works on various types of pollen and can be used to deliver drugs or vaccines efficiently.