Researchers tested TVs and tablets with quantum dots, finding they can leach into landfill water, but at low concentrations. The study suggests that the potential benefits of using safer nanomaterials may outweigh the costs.
Researchers have identified a particular type of bacteria that may help break down lactic acid, leading to reduced muscle fatigue and soreness after intense exercise. The team also found niche microbiomes for different sports, suggesting potential benefits for various athletes.
The American Chemical Society has unveiled its annual 'Talented 12' list, showcasing young scientists working on world-changing projects. The researchers are developing alternative fuel sources, novel cancer treatments and innovative materials for everyday products.
A new protein database developed by scientists can definitively identify fish species, helping to curb seafood fraud worldwide. The database uses mass spectrometry to create unique 'fingerprints' for 54 fish species, including salmon and tuna.
Researchers developed a new curing agent made from castor oil components that strengthened a soybean-based epoxy thermoset, increasing its durability and heat resistance. The material also allows light to pass through, potentially ideal for applications like solar cells.
Researchers have created a biocompatible fertilizer from carbon dots derived from rapeseed pollen, increasing plant biomass by 50% in treated plants. The process was found to be relatively inexpensive, costing just 3 cents per gram.
Researchers have improved the properties of an AMP from a spider, making it more effective against bacteria and cancer cells. The modified peptide was found to be 10 times better at killing most bacteria than the previous cyclic form, while also selectively targeting certain types of cancer cells.
Researchers identified a potential biomarker, glycolate, that could stay in urine up to 20 hours after GHB ingestion. This finding could lead to tests with greater detection windows and less sample manipulation required.
Researchers found that while partial line replacements can decrease lead levels in tap water, concentrations spike right after and remain elevated for months. Full service line replacement or flushing the replaced pipes is recommended to address potential contamination.
Researchers found distinct protein structures and varying chitin ratios in cicada wings compared to locust wings. This difference may contribute to cicadas' relatively heavy wings, limiting their flight distances.
A team of researchers developed a novel biosensor to track drug uptake in cells, overcoming previous limitations. The sensors use fluorescent proteins to monitor drug presence and can be tailored for various enzymes of interest to the pharmaceutical industry.
Researchers determined the crystal structure of a key enzyme in onion cells and developed a chemical mechanism explaining LF synthesis. The discovery reveals why people tear up when chopping onions, shedding light on this common culinary conundrum.
Researchers develop a new material with nanohydroxyapatite and green tea polyphenol EGCG to combat tooth sensitivity. The material plugged dentin tubules, released EGCG for 96 hours, and prevented biofilm formation, showing low toxicity.
Researchers found that e-liquid and vaping device variations can lead to high toxin levels, exceeding occupational limits for acrolein, formaldehyde, and diacetyl. Typical use scenarios result in lower toxicity compared to secondhand tobacco smoke.
Researchers developed a new type of sweat test that can overcome the challenge of ambiguous results in current tests. The test identifies alternative molecules found in sweat associated with CF, providing staging and prognostic information.
Researchers have identified a cyclic peptide that can bind to hair under shampooing conditions, increasing the deposition of fragrance compounds. This results in stronger fragrance smells on hair for up to 24 hours after shampooing.
Researchers have developed lightweight, flexible, and simple TENGs from recycled plastics that can generate electricity in self-powered smart toys. The technology has shown promise in creating interactive games without the need for batteries, benefiting children's entertainment and education.
Researchers have developed a new class of NanoVelcro microchips that can capture and analyze rare circulating fetal cells in a mother's blood. This technology has the potential to noninvasively diagnose prenatal conditions, reducing the risk of miscarriage and harm to the fetus.
A team of researchers has created a personalized, 3D-printed 'earable' sensor that monitors core body temperature in real time. The device, integrated with data processing circuits and wireless module, detects ear temperature using infrared sensors.
Researchers developed a system to deliver growth factors to stem cells, enabling their survival and differentiation into new blood vessels. This approach successfully restored blood supply and rescued muscle tissue in mouse models of ischemia.
Researchers have successfully cryopreserved and revived zebrafish embryos using a novel method involving plasmonic gold nanoparticles. The technique has the potential to be applied to other species with similar embryonic sizes and structures, offering a breakthrough in preserving aquatic biodiversity.
Scientists have developed a new method to track lithium ions as they travel in a battery, which could help address the safety hazard of battery failure. The researchers used fluorescence microscopy and found a fluorescent label sensitive to lithium ions, enabling them to image and track lithium ions in a battery-like environment.
A new detector for acetaldehyde in wine has been developed, offering a more practical and accurate method for winemakers to monitor this critical ingredient. The device, tested on nine different wines, produced results comparable to traditional methods but with simpler operation and real-time output.
A team of scientists is working on synthesizing a human genome from scratch, tackling the technical and ethical challenges that come with it. They have already made significant progress in building smaller genomes, such as those of microbes, but still face significant hurdles in constructing the complex human genome.
Researchers found that treated fracking wastewater contaminated a Pennsylvania watershed with radioactive material, salts, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The study suggests tighter regulations could protect the environment and human health.
Research found that small amounts of house dust containing endocrine-disrupting chemicals can spur fat cells to accumulate triglycerides and divide, promoting weight gain. The study suggests that indoor dust is a likely exposure source of chemicals disrupting metabolic health, particularly in children.
Researchers have developed a new treatment for bacterial keratitis using quantum dots, which can kill various bacterial strains without harming human cells. The one-step method produces non-toxic carbon quantum dots that may replace conventional treatments.
Researchers have developed a nanolock-nanopore sensor to detect a specific cancer mutation with single-molecule resolution. The approach can accurately identify disease-causing mutations in various types of cancer.
Researchers found that black phosphorus can be tuned by enclosing it in the right way, opening new possibilities for its use. The material's band gap and optical absorption changed dramatically when encapsulated.
Air quality in China is improving due to better monitoring and regulation, leading to increased demand for electric cars and pollution-fighting technologies. The government's efforts have made China a major market for these devices, with suppliers experiencing a boon as the country transitions to cleaner energy sources.
A new approach to training explosive-detecting dogs uses real-time vapor analysis to accurately measure the vapor plumes from explosives that trigger a canine response. This method helps differentiate between correct and incorrect identifications, reducing cross-contamination errors.
Fertilizing crops with iron and zinc micronutrients can increase their levels in flour, according to a new study. The process of milling grains also boosts the availability of these nutrients in bread.
Researchers found higher concentrations of airborne PCBs inside schools than outside, posing a concern for cumulative exposure. Inhaling these compounds could lead to higher levels of intake through diet, with combined sources being a cause for worry.
Researchers created an artificial synapse that can simulate inhibitory and stimulatory signals, expanding the capabilities of artificial intelligence systems. The new device is flexible and versatile, enabling it to switch between excitatory and inhibitory signals based on voltages applied at the input terminal.
Researchers have developed tiny microbots that can remove up to 80% of pathogenic bacteria from contaminated water. The microbots use hydrogen bubbles propelled by magnesium and silver nanoparticles to kill bacteria, offering a potential solution to the global clean water crisis.
Scientists have developed an electrocatalyst using less expensive ruthenium and nitrogen-doped graphene, promising better durability and reduced noble-metal usage than platinum-based alternatives.
A new detection system based on pressure changes offers a simpler, more affordable alternative for detecting cancer biomarkers, environmental pollutants, and food contaminants. The system uses smartphone software to provide immediate results, enabling real-time monitoring of disease outbreaks and pollution.
A new analysis of urban agriculture in the northeastern US found that it provides limited environmental benefits, with a 1.1-2.9% reduction in food-related carbon emissions. Minimizing meat and dairy purchases is recommended for consumers seeking to lower their footprint.
Scientists developed a graphene-based aerogel that meets the needs for flexible electronics by mimicking the structure of the powdery alligator-flag plant. The material is strong, resilient, and supports 6,000 times its own weight.
A team of researchers has created a photocatalyst that can generate hydrogen from water vapor using sunlight, producing the fuel without electrolytes or external power sources. The novel paint-like material can be applied to any surface, including building facades, and enables hydrogen production almost anywhere.
A recent study found that polar bear mercury levels are declining, indicating a change in their diet and weight as they adapt to reduced sea ice. The researchers attribute the drop to increased consumption of lower-mercury prey, such as bowhead whales and bearded seals, in place of ringed seals.
The first commercial CRISPR product is expected to debut in 2020: a waxy corn used for paper glue and food thickeners. Researchers can use CRISPR to identify genes in crops that may be good candidates for editing, potentially leading to improved cotton quality, non-browning mushrooms, drought-resistant corn, and grocery store tomatoes.
A six-year study found that organic onions contain more health-benefiting phytochemicals, including flavonoids like quercetin. Weather conditions were a factor in flavonoid content, but antioxidant activity was consistently higher in organic onions.
Scientists have developed a new, inexpensive technique to create color-shifting nanoparticles inspired by beetle shells. The method produces tiny particles that can be easily controlled, enabling adjustable colors within materials or fabrics. This breakthrough could lead to the production of easier-to-read sensors and anti-tampering tags.
A newly discovered natural antibiotic produced by bacteria from a cystic fibrosis patient could potentially be used to combat drug-resistant tuberculosis. Lab testing showed that the compound, gladiolin, is stable and effective against four drug-resistant TB strains.
Researchers have successfully developed gluten-free beer using Witkop teff grains, which could provide an alternative to traditional barley beers. The study found that custom malting equipment would be required to produce the beer on an industrial scale.
Researchers are using imaging mass spectrometry to improve drug development by visualizing how drugs interact with tissues and animals. This technique has been shown to help identify potential off-target effects and inform safety guidelines for children's treatments.
Researchers developed nanoparticles that combine two immunotherapy tactics to target and destroy tumor cells, slowing growth in mice with different cancers. The treatment showed promise in treating various tumor types without severe side effects.
Researchers introduce a new bottom-up approach to pattern emissive polymers, enabling efficient creation of multi-colored OLED arrays. The method uses designer iridium photocatalysts and could potentially enable high-throughput manufacturing of OLEDs using various technologies.
Scientists have developed a way to adhere a lightweight coating onto fabrics that can neutralize nerve agents delivered through the skin, potentially protecting soldiers and emergency responders. The coating uses a zirconium-based metal-organic framework that deactivates harmful compounds in under 5 minutes.