A new review of scientific literature on curcumin finds limited evidence to support its therapeutic benefits for cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The compound is unstable under physiological conditions and not readily absorbed by the body, making it a poor therapeutic candidate.
Researchers developed a portable sensor using engineered E. coli bacteria to detect environmentally relevant concentrations of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The device can determine concentrations of known EDCs individually and overall mixtures in minutes, offering a cost-effective solution for detecting hormone disruptors.
A team of scientists has created a device that screens breath samples to classify and diagnose several types of diseases, including kidney cancer and Parkinson's disease. The breathalyzer uses an array of nanoscale sensors to detect unique volatile chemical components in exhaled breath.
A team of scientists from France has developed a method to visualize ice crystals in three dimensions as they grow, providing new insights into their formation process. By using confocal laser scanning microscopy and image analysis, the researchers can capture rapid images of ice crystals growing and measure their expansion rates.
Research found elevated levels of uranium-234, thorium-230, lead-210 and polonium-210 in drill cuttings from Marcellus Shale wells. The study suggests that at low pH, uranium isotopes can leach into the environment from landfills.
A study finds that lower median income within a neighborhood, lower BMI, and smoking in the household correspond to higher levels of flame retardants in children's blood. The researchers speculate that socioeconomic disparities will increase over time as wealthier families replace older products with flame retardant-free ones.
Scientists have developed a temporary tattoo ink that marks the spot for future treatment in skin cancer patients. The new ink glows under specific light conditions and can disappear after a period of time, eliminating the need for laser or surgical removal.
Scientists have combined hair-like wires with electronic skin to make a more versatile sensor for robots and prosthetics. The new device can detect air flow, pressure, and slip forces, allowing it to mimic the sensations felt by humans.
A recent study published by the American Chemical Society found that red cabbage microgreens can help lower LDL, or 'bad', cholesterol and liver triglyceride levels in mice on high-fat diets. The microgreens contained more polyphenols and glucosinolates than mature red cabbage, making them a promising source of health benefits.
A study published in ACS Central Science reveals that MAO activity increases with Aβ plaque formation in patients with Alzheimer's, suggesting it could serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and monitoring. The research also identified three distinct phases of MAO activity that change along with disease progression.
A study by the American Chemical Society found that all tested plastic teethers contained BPA and other endocrine-disruptors, which can leach out into water. The researchers detected a range of parabens and antimicrobials in most teethers, raising concerns about infant exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.
Researchers have developed a catalyst that accelerates sodium-air reactions in seawater batteries, achieving an average discharge voltage of 2.7 volts over 100 cycles.
Key findings from 2016 pharmaceutical industry news include the fight against Zika and rare diseases, as well as failed deals and new players. The industry's top stories set the stage for 2017 with a focus on innovative treatments and regulatory changes.
Researchers have created two compounds that work as potential vaccines against opioid overdoses, preventing the drugs from entering the central nervous system and inducing addiction. The vaccine candidates showed promising results in mouse tests, with vaccinated mice surviving overdose fatalities at higher rates than unvaccinated mice.
Scientists have developed new retroreflective materials inspired by insect compound eyes, offering improved color and effectiveness for safety measures. These new materials can be adjusted to change color and brightness, reducing fading over time.
Some flavored e-liquids produce toxic compounds when heated, exceeding occupational safety standards. Flavored vapors contained significantly higher levels of aldehydes than unflavored ones.
A new urine test has been developed to detect biochemical changes associated with fatigue in workers, which could reduce errors and prevent accidents.
A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters found that carbon dioxide injected into basalt transformed into solid rock within two years. This process has the potential to permanently sequester large amounts of carbon on a global scale, offering a solution to reduce global emissions.
Scientists have developed a new solar smart window that can turn opaque on demand for added privacy, while also powering other devices using excess energy. The innovative window uses liquid crystals and an amorphous silicon layer to achieve this functionality.
The FDA approved Exondys, a treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, based on data from just 12 patients, raising concerns about scientific evidence and patient advocacy. Families of the boys involved attest to the drug's effectiveness, but critics argue that the agency bowed to pressure rather than making a decision based on evidence.
Scientists develop glucose-based molecules to reduce ice formation in red blood cells frozen at -80 degrees Celsius. The new protectants lower the concentration of glycerol needed, enabling faster processing and transfusion of thawed cells.
New research suggests that fast-cooking dry beans retain more protein, iron, and other minerals compared to slower-cooking varieties. This finding has significant implications for addressing global nutrient deficiencies, particularly among people with limited access to food options.
Researchers reveal that cartilage has a more complicated zonal organization than previously thought, with at least six identifiable zones. This discovery could help scientists develop better engineered cartilage materials to treat joint disorders.
Research finds a 19% drop in mercury concentrations in Atlantic bluefin tuna over an 8-year period, linked to regional emissions reductions. Industry efforts have led to a 4.3% annual decrease in mercury levels in north Atlantic waters.
Researchers have discovered that adding melanin to polyurethane increases its tensile strength and toughness by up to 10 times. The enhanced material can stretch farther before breaking, making it a promising alternative for various applications.
Researchers estimate that hydroelectric dams increase methylmercury concentrations up to 10-fold in fish and surface waters, putting half of Canada's women of childbearing age at risk. The study forecasts higher levels for 11 other planned facilities near indigenous communities.
A portable breathalyzer has been developed to diagnose diabetes noninvasively in offices. The device traps and analyzes acetone levels in exhaled breath, with accuracy matching mass spectrometry readings.
Researchers have developed artificial cells that use enzymes to move like real cells, maintaining homeostasis like living cells. The lab-made cells can sustain speed based on sugar supply availability.
Researchers developed a low-cost, environmentally friendly way to create rewritable printed materials using tungsten oxide and polyvinyl pyrrolidone. The material can be reused up to 40 times before quality declines, offering a potential solution to reducing paper waste.
Scientists investigate RNA's ability to replicate itself under prebiotic conditions, revealing unexpected non-Watson-Crick pairings that might have hindered early replication. The findings suggest a more trial-and-error approach to the emergence of life.
Scientists develop portable biosensing chip to detect low levels of ochratoxin A and deoxynivalenol in beer samples. The device can detect mycotoxins as low as 0.2 nanograms/milliliter, posing a potential health risk.
Researchers have created a novel method for making do-it-yourself, scrap-metal batteries that can store excess energy from residential solar panels. The new devices utilize steel and brass scraps, which are abundant and inexpensive, to achieve an energy density comparable to traditional lead-acid batteries.
The study reveals that wastewater treatment plants emit an overlooked source of carbon dioxide, which could increase global greenhouse gas emissions by 12-23 percent. Treating wastewater sludge with on-site carbon sequestration and renewable energy could help reduce fossil carbon emissions from these plants.
Scientists found that nearly 90% of study wells had detectable levels of naturally occurring Cr(VI) in groundwater. Chromium is prevalent in the Piedmont region and similar rocks worldwide.
Research finds that insects can contribute well-rounded meals with essential minerals like calcium, copper and zinc. Crickets have higher levels of iron than other insects, making them a promising source of this crucial nutrient.
Researchers developed a way to attach labels to cancer drugs packaged in liposomes, allowing for imaging with PET to see where they accumulate in the body. This method shows promise in predicting drug delivery to cancer tissues in specific patients, potentially leading to more effective treatments and reduced side effects.
Scientists have developed a new class of small molecules that prevent bacteria from causing urinary tract infections by interfering with a critical factor on the surface of UTI-causing bacteria. The treatment, called C-mannosides, has shown promising results in animal testing and may move to clinical trials.
A bipartisan probe into peer-review process and climate change research is chilling scientific pursuits, with over 2,000 scientists signing a letter urging an end to the probes. The investigation's scope has sparked concerns that it may protect oil companies and suppress science.
Researchers have successfully created the first-ever iron-bismuth bond under extreme pressures equivalent to those within Mars' core. The new compound, FeBi2, shows promise in being superconductive and magnetic.
Researchers study water strider legs to understand how they can walk on water without displacing it, shedding light on a long-standing scientific mystery. By analyzing the shadows cast by their legs, scientists have confirmed key parameters that allow them to perform this remarkable feat.
The latest Zika virus research highlights the need for better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods due to its link to severe birth defects. Scientists are working to understand the virus's behavior and develop effective strategies to combat its spread worldwide.
Scientists found that fungi can break down biomass to release heat without emitting fine particles or VOCs. To achieve sustained use, optimal conditions must be determined for nutrient, moisture, and temperature.
Researchers have discovered that gold nanoparticles can reduce cell proliferation and migration near pancreatic tumors by interrupting cellular communication. This breakthrough could lead to a new type of treatment for the disease, which affects over 53,000 Americans this year.
The US Food and Drug Administration is making surprise visits to heparin plants in China to verify animal origins. Researchers are also working on developing a synthetic version of the drug to diversify sources.
A team of scientists identified how amyloid beta, associated with Alzheimer's, can induce cellular changes leading to Parkinson's. This discovery may provide an explanation for the co-occurrence of these neurodegenerative conditions and help researchers find ways to prevent such cases.
Researchers found that salty snow and sea ice can increase nitrogen oxide levels in the air, affecting ozone formation. The study suggests incorporating these factors into future models to better predict Arctic air pollution.
Scientists have developed a more reliable method for detecting gluten in purified wheat starch, a common ingredient in gluten-free foods. The new technique identified higher amounts of gluten in 19 out of 26 starch samples than current testing methods.
Scientists have made a significant advance toward more practical, environmentally friendly solar cells using inexpensive halide perovskite materials. The new cells have a power conversion efficiency of 15 percent and contain 60% less lead than traditional cells, representing a major step towards sustainable energy solutions.
A recent study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research found that snake venom protein profiles vary depending on age, gender, and diet. The researchers discovered significant differences in venom gland proteins between infant and adult snakes, as well as between males and females.
Researchers developed a coffee-infused foam filter that can remove up to 99% of lead and mercury ions from water. The innovative system uses spent coffee grounds in a bioelastomeric foam, making it easy to handle and discard after use.