Researchers found that an extra set of guanines in our DNA may function like a spare tire to repair damage and prevent cancer. This 'factory-installed safety feature' could be a key to understanding why some people don't develop cancer despite high levels of oxidative stress
Researchers have created an implantable device that continuously measures blood sugar levels and automatically releases insulin as needed, eliminating the need for constant monitoring and daily injections. The artificial pancreas maintained blood glucose within target range nearly 80% of the time in computer simulations.
Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction involving luciferin and ATP, but intermediate steps were unclear. Researchers explored enzyme luciferase, finding that a single electron transfer occurs during the final step, suggesting a unifying feature of bioluminescence.
Alternative drug-delivery systems are being explored to overcome syringe injection drawbacks, including ointments, dissolvable tablets and micro-needle skin patches. Several promising results have been shown in animal testing, but widespread adoption will require changing the mindset of pharmaceutical companies and regulators.
Scientists have developed a novel battery that uses light to produce power, utilizing titanium nitride for the anode. The 'photo battery' demonstrated high stability and safety, discharging electric current within 30 seconds under normal indoor lighting.
Researchers found that adding certain yeast autolysates can enhance fruity aromas in sparkling wines without affecting foam quality or phenolic compound content. The study provides new insights into the impact of commercial yeast products on bubbly wines.
Scientists have developed nanoswimmers that can navigate body fluids to target specific areas of the body, reducing complications and improving recovery times for cancer patients. The nanoswimmers use magnetic fields to move through blood and are designed to specifically target and destroy cancer cells.
A new study found that cutting greenhouse gas emissions may increase hunger risks due to indirect effects on food production and biofuel consumption. The researchers conclude that governments must address climate change while providing measures to alleviate hunger.
Researchers have designed nanoparticles that specifically target cancer stem cells, which are tough to kill with conventional drugs. The treatment successfully killed CSCs and destroyed tumors in mice tests, with no obvious side effects. This therapy may help overcome the defenses of these hardy cells.
Researchers have developed a method to increase nitric oxide production in nasal passages, which is linked to chronic sinusitis. The approach involves boosting NO levels using low-molecular-weight peptides that were created from an already-approved drug compound.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory simulated a nuclear explosion using new experiments and computer modeling to analyze plutonium behavior. The results will help scientists perform forensic analyses in the case of an actual detonation, providing deeper insights into the element's properties.
Scientists have developed a new way to recover indium from liquid-crystal displays (LCDs), which could help prevent the depletion of this rare metal. The researchers found that crushing and grinding LCD glass into tiny particles and bathing them in sulfuric acid solution can effectively extract indium.
Researchers developed new PET probes using labeled antibody fragments to visualize tumors in mice. These probes could provide more information about tumors and help doctors choose treatment options.
Researchers developed new PET probes composed of labeled antibody fragments that can detect pancreatic cancer tumors too small to be detected with conventional methods. These probes show promise for targeted imaging and tracking the delivery of drugs.
Researchers have created a real-time monitoring system for air and water quality in space, reducing the need for sample collection and analysis. The system enables astronauts to test their surroundings more efficiently, making long-term space missions possible.
Latrine odor can deter users, leading to open defecation. Perfume researchers identified key compounds causing the stench in Indian, Kenyan, and South African facilities. Understanding these sensory profiles is crucial to countering odors and making latrines more welcoming.
The US market offers less effective sunscreens compared to European counterparts, which have approved eight superior formulations for better protection against UV-A and -B rays. Manufacturers are waiting for FDA approval since 2002, hindering product availability.
Researchers have developed a drug-releasing electronic stent that provides diagnostic feedback by measuring blood flow, which slows when an artery starts narrowing. The device can also heat up on command to speed up drug delivery, and it can dissolve once it's no longer needed, reducing the risk of blood clot formation.
Two new nucleotides, 'Z' and 'P', have been found to form double helix structures similar to those made by the four natural bases C-G-A-T, opening up possibilities for creating new proteins with medical applications.
Switching to natural gas trucks could worsen climate impacts if not done efficiently, a study suggests. Methane emissions from the supply chain and engine inefficiencies pose significant challenges.
Scientists have created a light-emitting, transparent and flexible paper out of biocompatible materials, a significant step towards bendable electronics. The innovation uses wood flour and quantum dots made from zinc and selenium, offering a 'greener' alternative to traditional plastics.
Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment for Ebola by screening compounds from existing malaria and flu drugs. The treatment showed a high success rate of up to 90% in treating infected mice with no observable side effects.
Researchers demonstrate that ocean microbes control the chemistry of sea spray ejected into the atmosphere, affecting cloud formation and sunlight scattering. The study reveals the importance of complex interactions between microbes in seawater, which influence the composition and cloud-forming ability of sea spray aerosol.
Researchers found high levels of phenols in spent coffee grounds, which have potential as additives to enhance health effects of other food products. The study's findings suggest that used coffee grounds could be a valuable source of dietary phenolic compounds.
Scientists design a peptide that binds to ghrelin and Y2 receptors, reducing appetite in obese mice. The compound shows promise as an obesity treatment targeting the complex system of hormones regulating appetite.
Researchers have discovered a new material that combines light-emitting capabilities with shape-shifting characteristics. The material, known as organic 'supercooled' liquid, has potential applications in optical storage systems and biomedical sensors.
Researchers discovered that lipids in chocolate products move through pores and cracks, softening and dissolving solid cocoa butter into liquid form. By reducing pore number and liquid cocoa butter content, chocolatiers can minimize the formation of blooming coatings.
Scientists have developed a simple thermometer-like device to detect troponin levels in blood, which can help diagnose heart attacks. The device uses nanoparticles, ink, and a glass vial to measure the protein's concentration, making it accessible for point-of-care use in low-income areas.
Researchers build programmable DNA-based processor that calculates shortest routes on a map of six locations, offering cost- and time-savings over other DNA-based computers. The system may also help scientists understand the brain's internal GPS mechanism.
Despite plateauing emissions, China still faces energy challenges to sustain control over its carbon footprint. The country's transition towards renewable energy and service-oriented economy are key factors in achieving emission-cutting goals.
Researchers successfully boost enzyme activity by 170-fold, rendering antigen-neutral and compatible with all patients regardless of blood type. This breakthrough advances blood transfusions and potentially organ and tissue transplants from mismatched donors.
Researchers create ultra-sensitive wearable sensors that can detect subtle eye movements and facial expressions, allowing robots to understand human emotions. These advancements could lead to more intuitive interactions between humans and robots, improving their usability and user experience.
Scientists develop a novel artificial photosynthetic system that converts light and carbon dioxide into building blocks for plastics, pharmaceuticals and fuels without electricity. The system harnesses solar energy and bacteria to produce chemical precursors for everyday products.
Scientists have developed a method to extract rubber from guayule, a desert shrub native to the southwestern US, which could bolster the world's supply of natural rubber. The discovery may help reduce reliance on Southeast Asian plantations and diversify the global market.
Researchers discovered soy lecithin can break down oil into small droplets that bacteria can degrade, reducing toxicity. The natural surfactant outperformed commercial dispersants in lab tests.
Scientists develop enzymes that can catalyze brand-new chemical reactions by mimicking natural evolution and optimizing active site amino acids. This breakthrough enables the creation of novel chemicals, such as aziridines, which have potential applications in pharmaceuticals.
Researchers found high levels of certain flame retardants in cats with hyperthyroidism, hinting at a possible link between the compounds and the hormonal disorder. The study suggests that exposure to these substances through dust accumulation on fur could be contributing factor for this condition.
A new approach has reversed Parkinson's-like symptoms in rats by delivering dopamine via biodegradable nanoparticles that crossed the blood-brain barrier without side effects. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment for human patients.
Researchers developed new cell-penetrating peptides with sugar molecules that dissolve easily in water, entering cells more efficiently than standard CPPs and having low toxicity. The team aims to use these CPPs as the basis for safe and efficient drug-delivery methods.
Researchers have identified a new compound produced by freshwater bacteria that is effective against drug-resistant tuberculosis and other infections. The discovery provides a promising alternative to current treatments and could help combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance worldwide.
Scientists investigate how cheese affects gut health and cholesterol levels, finding a link between high cheese consumption and reduced 'bad' cholesterol. Recent studies have cast doubt on the notion that saturated fats are harmful, and this research further supports a role for dairy products in maintaining heart health.
Researchers from Poland and the US turn disc fragments into activated carbon with high surface areas, capturing carbon dioxide, hydrogen gas, and benzene. The material could be used for carbon capture applications and separate volatile organic compounds.
Researchers have developed a novel plastic that can produce electricity when pulled or pressed, opening up new possibilities for green energy harvesting. The material, called PVDF, has been enhanced with carbon nanostructures to increase its piezoelectric performance, allowing it to contract and relax in response to an electric current.
Researchers have created a safer and more environmentally friendly antifreeze by combining propylene glycol with an additive that improves heat transfer. The new product is 60% more efficient than conventional formulations, making it suitable for smaller markets like the food industry.
Researchers at Western Michigan University are working on a multi-pronged nutrient bio-remediation system to clean up algal blooms in waterways. The algae can be used as a feedstock for biofuels, while the waste is high in nutrients and carbohydrates, suitable for recycling back into farm fields as organic fertilizer.
Researchers have developed a new technique to retain more antioxidants in chocolate by storing cocoa pods for a few days before fermentation. This process, called pulp preconditioning, resulted in higher antioxidant activity and more polyphenols in the beans.
Researchers have discovered a new class of potentially therapeutic lipids, FAHFAs, which are found at lower levels in people with insulin resistance. Administering FAHFAs to diabetic mice improved glucose metabolism and insulin secretion, suggesting a potential avenue for developing novel medications.
Researchers developed new techniques to locate, quantify and attribute sources of leaked methane emissions from oil and gas operations. They used space-based observations to identify high methane releases in the US, challenging previous estimates of low leakage rates.
Scientists are finding valuable metals in sewage, including gold, silver, and rare elements like palladium and vanadium. The discovery could reduce the need for mining and decrease environmental pollution by recovering these metals from treated solid waste.
ACS researcher Laura Kiessling has discovered a way to target bacterial carbohydrates, potentially leading to new antibiotic strategies. Her team found that human proteins can recognize unique microbial carbohydrates, opening up possibilities for delivering targeted treatments.