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American Chemical Society


Stopping scars before they form

Researchers have identified a potential treatment for severe scarring by inhibiting an enzyme called lysyl oxidase, which enables collagen to crosslink and form scar tissue. The compounds, tested in a 'scar-in-a-jar' model, show promise in restoring normal tissue architecture.

What's really in your swimming pool?

Harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs) form when chlorine and other chemicals react with organic matter in pool water, causing respiratory problems like asthma among swimmers. Practicing good hygiene, such as taking showers before entering the pool, can help reduce DBP levels.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 3, 2016

Harvesting water from air with less energy

Scientists have developed a new system design that collects water from air with significantly less energy, producing high-quality water. This approach uses a liquid desiccant to separate vapor from air and cool only the vapor, resulting in substantial energy savings.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 20, 2016

How a low-calorie diet could extend lifespan

A recent study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research found that calorie restriction can help delay age-related disorders. The researchers discovered that mice on low-calorie diets had reduced oxidative stress, improved lipid metabolism, and altered gut-microbial metabolites compared to those on high-calorie diets.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJun 29, 2016

Hops could help reduce breast cancer risk

Research suggests that an extract from hops could help fend off breast cancer by boosting the cells' detoxification pathway, a process linked to a lower risk of developing breast cancer. The study found that one particular compound, 6-PN, had anti-cancer effects and may be a potential natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical Research in Toxicology·DateJun 22, 2016

Using espresso machines to do chemistry

Researchers extracted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from soil using an espresso machine, a process that takes only 11 seconds. The results were comparable to those obtained with certified techniques, but the new process was significantly less expensive and faster.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 15, 2016