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American Chemical Society


Tiny tools for a big industry

Researchers explore using nanoparticles as tiny scouts to map connectivity between wells, optimize injection schemes, and identify oil-rich spots. Nanomaterials also show promise in keeping surfactants from sticking to rocks and magnetically separating oil microdroplets.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 10, 2018

Protecting probiotics from the stomach

Researchers have created a stable encapsulation system using cellulose and alginate to protect probiotics from stomach acid, allowing them to survive until reaching the intestine. This breakthrough may lead to more effective treatments for conditions like diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateSep 26, 2018

Puerto Rico, one year later

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 19, 2018

Ants surrender their venomous secrets

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateSep 12, 2018

Navigating the path to a Ph.D.

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 12, 2018

Nanobot pumps destroy nerve agents

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.

E-cigarettes can damage DNA

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.

A paper battery powered by bacteria

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.

The origin of off-taste in onions

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 15, 2018

Designer polymers on demand

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 8, 2018

Oral delivery of nanoparticles

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 8, 2018

Synthetic suede gives high-end cars that luxury feel

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 1, 2018

Cannabidiol: Hope or hype?

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 25, 2018

A breath test for early-stage Parkinson's

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateJul 25, 2018