Researchers have developed innovative, eco-friendly polyethylene fibers from natural fats like olive oil and peanut oil. These ultra-strong fibers can stop speeding bullets, serve as sails, ropes, and surgical sutures while minimizing environmental harm.
Scientists have developed a new, faster way to detect explosives using quantum dots. The approach can identify five dangerous compounds, including the 'shoe bomber' Richard Reid's explosive, within 10 seconds.
Gut bacteria break down pomegranate polyphenols to produce urolithins, which are anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective compounds. These compounds reduce A\u00e0 fibrillation levels in vitro and increase lifespan of an Alzheimer's roundworm model.
Researchers created cleverly designed molecular complexes that can store information in a quantum state, overcoming one of the biggest challenges in quantum computing. These new molecules could potentially lead to the development of functional devices and more efficient computer designs.
Researchers have identified two coffee compounds, cafestol and caffeic acid, that contribute to the health benefit of drinking three to four cups of coffee per day in preventing type 2 diabetes. Cafestol increases insulin secretion and glucose uptake in muscle cells, matching the effects of a currently prescribed antidiabetic drug.
A team of researchers developed a unique sensing device using chewing gum and carbon nanotubes that can track breathing and detect humidity changes. The flexible sensor, which can withstand bending and stretching up to 530% strain, has the potential to monitor body functions around the clock.
The US hemp industry is expected to grow as the country's demand for healthful foods increases, thanks to the nutritional profile of hemp. The crop contains all nine essential amino acids, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, and has been shown to have potential health benefits.
Scientists developed a simple method to quickly detect meat spoilage using nanotubes, providing real-time analysis and high sensitivity. The test reacts in under an hour to a teaspoon of vapor emitted by the samples, indicating freshness.
A new study reveals that certain 3D printed parts are highly toxic to zebrafish embryos, causing lower survival rates and malformations. Treating the parts with UV light may reduce some side effects, emphasizing the need for safe disposal strategies.
Researchers create synthetic adhesives that mimic the viscosity and tackiness of spider web glues, improving performance in humid environments. The study's findings suggest that adding salts to synthetic adhesives could enhance their stickiness.
Scientists develop first-of-its-kind synthetic synapse that mimics the plasticity of the real thing, allowing for learning and self-healing capabilities. The novel dynamic system made from aluminum oxide and twisted bilayer graphene has the potential to aid in the development of biology-inspired electronics.
A study by scientists has reported that commercial sea salt samples purchased in China are contaminated with microplastics, with concentrations ranging from 7 to 681 particles per kilogram. This raises potential health concerns for consumers who regularly use these salts as a seasoning.
Researchers developed a new therapy by pairing snake venom with nanofibers to promote localized blood clotting at wound sites. The therapy, tested on rats treated with heparin, shows promise for making surgery safer for human patients on blood thinners.
The Chemical Safety & Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) plans to put its embattled past behind it by completing six delayed reports by the end of 2015. Under new leadership, the agency aims to increase transparency and adopt a cooperative tone.
A team studied the proteins and genes that allow squirrels' hearts to stay healthy during winter hibernation, a phenomenon that could help researchers develop better treatments for people with cardiac disease. The study found dozens of proteins and protein signaling pathways that are expressed differently during hibernation.
Researchers have developed a graphene-integrated device that detects heat signatures at room temperature without cryogenic cooling. This breakthrough could lead to a more versatile thermal sensor, potentially based on a single layer of graphene, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs.
Researchers have developed a new battery that uses low-cost materials to store renewable energy, potentially making it more affordable for homes. The battery's energy density is close to that of lithium-ion batteries, but with the potential for an additional two- to three-fold boost.
Researchers developed bottle-brush nanotags to enhance cellular imaging by containing thousands of fluorophores, overcoming the limit of self-quenching and amplifying signal detection. The design permits the use of different dyes, enabling a wide range of colors for these fluorescent nanotags.
Unused prescription drugs contribute to water pollution and drug abuse when flushed down toilets or left in medicine cabinets. Local governments are creating take-back programs to collect pharmaceuticals, requiring drug companies to install containers at pharmacies.
A new paper device developed by scientists can rapidly and inexpensively diagnose hepatitis B and assess male fertility, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing people in low-income areas. The test, which costs less than $1 per device, can detect the hepatitis B virus in blood serum and determine sperm DNA integrity with high accuracy.
A new urine screening method can detect even small amounts of chemicals resulting from secondhand marijuana exposure, addressing the challenge of assessing health effects. The developed method is 10 to 100 times more sensitive than current tests and could be used for large-scale population studies.
Researchers have developed a new way to enhance the effectiveness of antigen-based vaccines by mimicking the natural arrangement of multiple TLR agonists. This triply-linked activator more effectively triggers an immune response than mixing individual components, paving the way for improved vaccine design.
Researchers found that particle surfaces can impact ice crystallization and encourage different ice crystal orientations. This discovery could help improve understanding of climate science, air travel, and cryopreservation.
The textile industry is making efforts to clean up its act by using safer chemicals and natural alternatives, reducing water pollution caused by toxic compounds like dyes and solvents. Environmental groups are also calling for stricter practices to prevent illnesses among nearby residents and harm to local farms.
Researchers have created a new material combining nanodiamonds, gutta-percha, and amoxicillin to strengthen root canal fillings and kill bacteria. The material shows promise in preventing re-infections and improving current therapies.
Researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans worms to develop a method to predict lifespan based on metabolic profiles. The study found that middle age was a key turning point in aging, with normal lifespan worms aging 40% faster than long-lived counterparts at this stage.
A new model of investing has been developed to help bridge the funding gap between university labs and the marketplace, with some stunning successes reported. The traditional venture capital approach doesn't provide long-term investments necessary for early research development.
A new advancement in soft robotics has been reported, enabling elastic material to change color when stretched. This feature can help robots camouflage themselves, indicating areas of vulnerability, while also allowing for potential applications in medicine delivery and repair.
Researchers detected parabens and their byproducts in tissues of marine mammals like dolphins, sea otters, and polar bears. High levels were found in some species, with tens of thousands of nanograms per gram of tissue.
A new portable device can accurately screen for marine toxins in shellfish, allowing for quick testing on boats and at remote locations. This innovation solves a pressing problem for the fishing industry, enabling safe sale and consumption of tainted shellfish.
Scientists have developed a new hydrogel coating that can neutralize both mustard gas and nerve agent VX in under 20 minutes. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of protective clothing and paints that safeguard against chemical warfare agents.
Researchers developed a small array of flexible sensors to analyze breath samples for specific compounds indicative of ovarian cancer. The system showed an 82% accuracy rate in detecting these compounds, paving the way for a potential less invasive cancer diagnosis method.
Scientists have developed a method to produce a palladium-based nanomaterial that can efficiently break down formic acid into hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The new process surpasses existing heterogeneous catalysts in efficiency, also eliminating the production of carbon monoxide.
Researchers developed nanoparticles that deliver allergens to specific cells, reducing side effects. The new approach could lead to safer and more effective treatments for allergies and other conditions.
Scientists have created tire-grade rubber that can heal itself, potentially extending the lifespan of tires. The material, developed by Amit Das and colleagues, heals at room temperature and can withstand stresses of up to 754 pounds per square inch.
The WHO classified glyphosate as a probable carcinogen, but a German review found it unlikely to pose a carcinogenic risk. Roundup's diminishing effectiveness has led to the development of resistance by weeds, prompting farmers to seek alternative methods and products.
The influence of citizen science is growing, with some states actively encouraging local residents' participation in environmental monitoring. However, not all states share this enthusiasm, with laws limiting or prohibiting citizen scientists from collecting data near agricultural sites.
Researchers developed a new method using gold nanoparticles to enhance mammogram imaging, improving the detection of early signs of breast cancer. The technique boosts contrast and makes microcalcifications brighter on X-rays, potentially leading to more reliable diagnosis.
US fracking operations consume nearly 250 billion gallons of water between 2005 and 2014, which is lower than other energy-related extraction methods. However, in drought-stricken areas, local water shortages could limit future use of hydraulic fracturing.
Researchers use large-field scanning electron microscopy to analyze a shrimp fossil from Brazil's Araripe Basin, discovering rare fossilization process and fractal characteristic. The study provides new insights into the formation of ancient fossils.
Researchers develop a way to make drugs degrade before reaching drinking water, reducing environmental contamination. They made tweaks to propranolol, a commonly used beta blocker, allowing it to break down more easily into harmless compounds.
Researchers discovered how capsaicin interacts with cell membranes, finding that it lodges near the surface and can cause membranes to come apart. This insight may lead to novel tools against cancer or other conditions. The study appeared in ACS' The Journal of Physical Chemistry B.
Scientists have developed a hybrid solar-energy system that harnesses the full spectrum of sunlight by pairing a photovoltaic cell with polymer films. The system produces a voltage over 20% higher than other hybrid systems and can operate an LED lamp and electrochromic display.
Foreign chemical and pharmaceutical companies face challenges in China due to economic downturn, overcapacity, and tightening regulations. Despite uncertainty, company heads remain confident in their long-term success in the country, which represents 50% of the Asian chemical market.
Scientists developed a silk-based ink that can be used to print complex tissues with versatile functions, including loading with pharmaceuticals. The novel material is biocompatible, flexible, and stable in water, avoiding harsh processing conditions that damage cells.
A new study of over 300 women suggests that phthalate exposure may be associated with miscarriage, particularly between 5-13 weeks of pregnancy. Higher levels of urinary phthalate metabolites were found to be linked to pregnancy loss, supporting an association that warrants further research.
A recent study by American Chemical Society found that wild blueberry extract has antibacterial properties against Fusobacterium nucleatum, a key bacteria associated with periodontitis. The extract successfully inhibited the growth of F. nucleatum and its ability to form biofilms, blocking a molecular pathway involved in inflammation.
Scientists have created a sustainable and safe igniting fluid from waste paper, offering a potential solution for reducing harmful emissions from charcoal grills. The new compound, gamma-valerolactone (GVL), can safely start charcoal fires and light glass lamps without producing smoke or odors.
A new self-healing material has been developed that can plug life-threatening holes in spacecraft, preventing structural penetration and catastrophic damage. The material, made by sandwiching a reactive liquid between two solid polymer layers, reacts with oxygen to form a solid plug in under a second.
Researchers are exploring clinical trials on dogs with naturally occurring cancer to develop new treatments for humans. By studying the genetic basis of canine tumors, scientists hope to gain valuable insights into human cancer treatment.