How cicadas manage to 'wing it'
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.
American Chemical Society
Lighting the way: Sensors show drug uptake
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.
The nitty-gritty behind how onions make you cry
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.
An end to cavities for people with sensitive teeth?
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.
Exposure to toxins in e-cig vapor varies depending on scenario
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.
Toward a better sweat test for babies with cystic fibrosis
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.
Longer-lasting fragrance is just a shampoo away, thanks to peptides
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.
Smart toys without the batteries
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.
NanoVelcro microchips could someday noninvasively diagnose prenatal conditions
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.
Personalized 'earable' sensor monitors body temperature in real time
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.
'Nano-in-micro' stem cell delivery could rescue blood flow after injury
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.
How to cryopreserve fish embryos and bring them back to life (video)
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.
Building a safer lithium-ion battery
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.
Mulling over the aromas of wine
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.
Synthesizing the human genome from scratch
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.
Release of treated wastewater from hydraulic fracturing contaminates lake
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.
House dust spurs growth of fat cells in lab tests
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.
Quantum dots make the leap from TVs to antibacterial eye drops
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.
'Nanolock' detects cancer mutation; could lead to early diagnoses, personalized therapies
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.
The comeback kid -- black phosphorus and its new potential
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.
Improving Chinese air pollution leads to business opportunities
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.
Real-time vapor analysis could improve training of explosive-detecting dogs
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.
Tackling iron and zinc deficiencies with 'better' bread
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.
Indoor air in schools could add to children's exposure to PCBs
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.
Hacking the human brain -- lab-made synapses for artificial intelligence
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.
Swimming microbots can remove pathogenic bacteria from water (video)
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.
Paving the way for hydrogen fuel cells
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.
New sensors could enable more affordable detection of pollution and diseases
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.
Urban agriculture only provides small environmental benefits in northeastern US
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.
Plant inspiration could lead to flexible electronics
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.
Making hydrogen fuel from humid air
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.
Polar bears' declining mercury levels likely due to climate-related shifts
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.
First CRISPR crop could debut in 2020
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.
Organic conditions boost flavonoids and antioxidant activity in onions
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.
Beetles spark development of color-changing nanoparticles for commercial use
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.
Bacteria from cystic fibrosis patient could help thwart antibiotic-resistant TB
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.
Gluten-free beer from Witkop teff grains
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.
Imaging technique could be game changer for pharma
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.
First dual-targeting nanoparticles lower cancer's defenses and attack tumors
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.
Building 'OLEDs' from the ground up for better electronics
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.
New fabric coating could thwart chemical weapons, save lives
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.
Recycling plant material into stock chemicals with electrochemistry
Researchers develop two-step process to consistently break lignin at one specific chemical bond using electrical potential and blue light, producing pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other household products. The method is cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and suitable for large-scale adoption in industry.
Turning car plastics into foams with coconut oil
A team of researchers has developed a way to convert plastic components from end-of-life vehicles into foams using coconut oil and microwaves. The process creates a stable and high-temperature-resistant material suitable for construction and insulation applications.
Sugar sponges sop up and release glucose as needed
Researchers have developed a potential new diabetes treatment that uses a 'sugar sponge' to regulate glucose levels. The system, which consists of a lectin-coated polymer vesicle, can absorb glucose when levels are high and release it when levels are low. In laboratory tests and mouse studies, the treatment showed antidiabetic effects.
Searching beyond graphene for new wonder materials
New ultrathin films with varying properties are being created, falling into five major groups: MXenes, Xenes, organic materials, transition metal dichalcogenides, and nitrides. These materials have flexible, transparent, and tunable properties, and some are electrical conductors or insulators.
Detecting bloodstains -- with an antimalarial compound
Researchers developed a new method using artemisinin and luminol to detect bloodstains, reducing false positives. The combination is more selective than traditional methods, allowing for accurate detection of blood on surfaces.
Paper test strip could help heart failure patients monitor their condition at home
A new paper-based test strip could enable doctors and patients to monitor heart failure conditions at home, using smartphone apps for analysis. The test strip detects antigens ST2 and BNP, providing insights into the progression of the disease.
Feather-light metal cathodes for stable lithium-oxygen batteries
Researchers developed a new type of cathode that addresses electrochemical stability issues in lithium-oxygen systems. The ultralight all-metal cathode outperforms carbon-based cathodes with higher capacity and improved stability for 286 cycles.
Chemical Safety Board faces uncertain future
The US Chemical Safety & Hazard Investigation Board has investigated over 130 accidents since its creation in 1998. The board's work has positively influenced industrial safety in the US and globally, producing over 90 accident reports and 40 safety videos with a budget of $12 million per year.
Sorghum: Health food, sweetener and now, clothing dye
Researchers develop practical wool dye from sorghum husks, offering UV protection and fluorescence, while reducing waste disposal. The dyes showed good colorfastness even after multiple washes and ironing cycles.