A new molecular sensor can detect influenza virus in the presence of a thymol flavor, which is released when the virus interacts with human saliva. Researchers plan to integrate this technology into chewing gum or lozenges for at-home screenings and pre-symptomatic transmission prevention.
A study found that sea foam from several beaches in North Carolina's coastal region contain higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compared to the water below. Researchers detected PFAS concentrations in sea foam reaching tens to thousands of times higher than in regular seawater.
Researchers developed a 3D printable bio-active glass that served as an effective bone replacement material, sustaining bone cell growth longer than regular glass and commercial products. The new bio-glass was made by combining silica particles and calcium ions, which induced bone cell formation.
Recent research published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has made four significant discoveries about beer and wine. The studies explore the haziness and gluten content of beer as well as the astringent taste and potential health impacts of wine.
Researchers have developed a living sensor that attaches to plastic and produces green fluorescence, detecting environmentally relevant levels of microplastics in real-world water samples. The biosensor uses a genetically engineered bacterium to activate when bacterial cells contact plastic, producing measurable fluorescence within hours.
A team of researchers has developed a method to remove yellow stains from fabric using high-intensity blue LED light, which is more sustainable than traditional bleaching methods. The technique, which utilizes ambient oxygen as an oxidizing agent, successfully removed stains from multiple fabrics, including silk and polyester.
Researchers have developed a new pimple patch system with an array of tiny spikes that grabs onto the pimple and delivers antibacterial or anti-inflammatory compounds. After seven days of treatment, human clinical trials confirmed complete disappearance of pimples.
Researchers have developed edible microbeads that, when consumed, bind to fats in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially providing a safer and more accessible alternative to surgery or pharmaceuticals. The microbeads are made from green tea polyphenols, vitamin E, and seaweed, and show promise for weight loss in rats fed high-fat diets.
A research team has created a database of predicted chemical structures for improved detection of designer drugs. The Drugs of Abuse Metabolite Database (DAMD) uses computer modeling to identify potential metabolites and mass spectra, which can help law enforcement detect new psychoactive substances.
Researchers propose using epoxidized cottonseed oil as a safer alternative to formaldehyde and PFAS in fabric finishing, making cotton fabrics smoother, water-repellent, and resistant to wrinkling. The process creates strong chemical bonds with cellulose fibers, forming a polymer that makes the fabric hydrophobic.
Researchers have created an alternative to LASIK surgery by remodeling the cornea through electromechanical reshaping (EMR), a process that uses electric potentials to alter the tissue's pH, making it malleable. The new technique has shown promising results in improving vision and could potentially be reversed or used for other vision ...
Researchers develop novel treatment for acetaminophen-induced liver injury (AILI) using a GSDMD inhibitor. YM81 selectively binds to and inhibits the pyroptosis protein gasdermin D, reducing liver inflammation and damage.
Researchers are developing a new system to use nuclear waste to produce valuable tritium, which could power over 500,000 homes for six months. The system uses a particle accelerator to jump-start atom-splitting reactions in the waste, producing more tritium than traditional fusion reactors.
Researchers have developed a reusable, compostable material called jelly ice that keeps things cold without melting. The gelatin-based hydrogel has up to 80% cooling efficiency compared to regular ice and can be reused multiple times.
Researchers found that heat-related increases in airborne pollutants can be just as deadly as high temperatures. The study revealed concerning levels of ozone, oxygenated VOCs, and acid-rich nanoparticles during heatwaves.
Researchers have developed a reusable hydrogel that releases artificial saliva over time, providing sustained relief from dry mouth. The gel is made of biocompatible polymer poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and demonstrates consistent saliva release rates across multiple tests.
Researchers developed a room-temperature dehydration method using calcium chloride to dry mango and apple slices. The vacuum-assisted method produced consistently dried fruit with minimal water loss and retained freshness.
Researchers have identified PFAS in reusable period products, including underwear and pads, which may leach into wastewater and be absorbed through skin contact. Most products lacked intentional PFAS, but the study suggests these chemicals are unnecessary components.
Combining federal monitors, low-cost sensors, and satellite data can provide a more complete picture of local air quality, enabling people to make safer choices in real-time. The study highlights the importance of timely and accurate air quality information during wildfire events.
A new optoelectronic nose design detects deadly gases by using microscopic silica particles coated with dyes that change color intensity in the presence of specific molecules. The sensors achieved high accuracy rates, including 99% for identifying chemical threats and 96% for measuring gas concentrations.
Nanoparticles containing calcitriol and a protein fragment from aggrecan have been shown to regulate dendritic cell activity, reducing inflammation and swelling in RA. The treatment also delays disease onset and reduces joint damage when combined with other medications.
Five papers published in ACS journals provide new strategies for protecting natural water sources, including innovative technologies and sustainable solutions. The findings also highlight the importance of ensuring global access to safe drinking water, supporting human health and well-being.
Researchers reanalyzed ancient honey residue from Greek shrine jars using modern techniques and determined its likely origin. The findings suggest the presence of ancient honey, but other bee products may also be present.
A study found that growing bush basil near green beans activates the plant's defense mechanisms against spider mites and attracts natural enemies of these pests. The researchers identified linalool and eugenol as the primary VOCs emitted by bush basil, which enhanced the defensive responses of green bean plants.
Researchers created a semi-permanent tattoo sticker that can detect low concentrations of GHB within seconds. The sticker's technology is inexpensive and easy to manufacture, making it potentially commercially available soon.
Researchers created a new type of cellulose-based plastic that displays structural color without dyes or pigments. The plastic is comparable in strength to traditional plastics but made from natural biodegradable ingredients, and it can be easily recycled using water.
Researchers developed a user-friendly mapping system to track private wells, septic systems, and other community locations. This data helped distribute disaster relief in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, providing actionable information for public health officials.
Researchers have developed a sustainable desalination method using a sponge-like material with long microscopic air pockets that can turn saltwater into freshwater in natural sunlight. The system successfully produced potable water in a proof-of-concept test, providing a scalable and energy-free solution for producing clean water.
Recent advances in textile technology have led to the development of new fabrics that incorporate desirable scents, antimicrobial coatings, and smart technologies. These innovations aim to improve the comfort and functionality of clothing, while also addressing emerging consumer needs such as sustainability and health.
Researchers found that disposable e-cigarettes release higher amounts of metals and metalloids than older refillable e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes. The study highlights the need for urgency in enforcement due to hazardous levels of neurotoxic lead and carcinogenic nickel, antimony, and other substances.
Researchers developed a pen-like tool that can quickly collect molecules from the skin's surface to screen for opioids with mass spectrometry. The 'MasSpec Pen' delivers a droplet of liquid, extracts molecules, and analyzes them using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.
Researchers developed a two-layer aerogel that mimics owl feathers and skin to mitigate sound pollution, offering high-performance, lightweight and durable sound-absorbing materials. The material can cancel out low-frequency noise and dampen high-frequency sounds, alleviating noise pollution from industrial equipment and traffic.
Scientists have identified four biomarkers in ear wax that may indicate Parkinson's disease, and an AI-based screening model can detect them with 94% accuracy. This technology could pave the way for earlier diagnosis and improved patient care.
Researchers have developed a miniaturized toothbrush-shaped ultrasound transducer that can provide accurate images of teeth and gums, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional periodontal probing. The device has been shown to produce high-quality images similar to those obtained with manual metal probes.
Researchers found three molecules produced by a bacterium in blood that reduced damage and inflammation in human skin cells. The findings, published in the Journal of Natural Products, suggest these compounds are promising candidates for future treatments to counteract skin aging.
Researchers developed a new resin that simultaneously creates solid objects and dissolvable structural supports depending on the type of light it's exposed to. This approach increases the applications for 3D-printed objects, including tissue engineering scaffolds and joints.
A new handheld device called E-Tongue can analyze water samples and detect lead contamination, providing users with a color-coded reading and concentration value. The researchers tested the device through a citizen science project across four Massachusetts towns, finding it effective in detecting lead in drinking water.
Researchers found PFAS in 95% of tested beers, with highest levels and most diverse mix near the Cape Fear River Basin in North Carolina. The study highlights the need for water treatment upgrades at brewing facilities as regulations on PFAS exposure change.
Scientists have discovered three compounds that can lessen peppers' pungency, which could lead to customized spicy flavor profiles or pain management agents.
Researchers developed a dental floss pick with a built-in sensor that accurately measures cortisol levels in saliva, mimicking blood levels. The device takes around 10 minutes to report results and has been shown to be sensitive enough to detect small increases in cortisol indicative of stress.
Researchers found that atmospheric mercury levels have decreased significantly due to reduced human-caused emissions, mainly attributed to the Minamata Convention. The study also revealed that soil emissions now make up a larger fraction of total mercury emissions, with re-emissions from soil posing a future challenge.
A modified surgical face mask can detect chronic kidney disease by analyzing the wearer's breath, showing high sensitivity for CKD-related metabolites. The sensor accurately identifies patients with CKD 84% of the time and those without 88% of the time.
Researchers have developed plant-based extracts from okra and fenugreek that can attract and remove up to 90% of microplastics from ocean and freshwater waters. These natural polymers offer a nontoxic alternative to synthetic polymers like polyacrylamide.
Researchers developed a topical antibiotic gel that cured middle ear infections in chinchillas within 24 hours. The gel, containing negatively charged liposomes, was more effective than previous formulations in delivering antibiotics across infected eardrums.
Researchers successfully created plant-based calamari with softness and elasticity similar to real seafood. The breakthrough uses 3D printing technology to mimic the characteristic properties of fried calamari rings, using a combination of mung bean protein isolate, powdered microalgae, gellan gum, and canola oil.
Researchers developed a non-invasive fluorescence imaging strategy to detect early signs of corrosion on iron-containing metal artifacts. The technique confirmed its utility on ancient artifacts, revealing the impact of aging polymer coatings on these treasures.
Researchers developed a non-invasive fluorescence imaging strategy to detect early signs of chemical reactions between polymer coatings and iron-containing metals. The technique revealed damaging carboxyl groups that can accelerate rusting on certain artifacts.
Researchers use microfabrication techniques to create tiny tattoos on tardigrades, which can survive freezing temperatures and radiation exposure. The technique allows for the creation of biocompatible devices and sensors that could advance medicine and biomedical engineering.
Researchers develop AI-based monitoring system to link pesticide exposure to honeybee pollen-foraging behavior and overall colony health. The study confirms previous findings that neonicotinoid pesticides affect honeybee colony dynamics.
Researchers developed a chemical probe to study Mycobacterium tuberculosis outer envelope component mycolic acid, revealing its role in evading immune responses. The probe provides insight into the pathogen's survival mechanisms and may inform new treatment strategies.