Researchers at Salve Regina University discovered that honey has multiple mechanisms to combat bacterial infections, including the osmotic effect, acidity, and polyphenols. The study found that honey inhibits biofilm formation and disrupts quorum sensing, making bacteria more susceptible to conventional antibiotics.
Scientists have developed a water purifier that can remove pharmaceuticals, pesticides and other pollutants from drinking water using sunlight. The new technology combines titanium dioxide and graphene to create an easy-to-use system that could be incorporated into consumer products.
Researchers have successfully developed a method to create high-quality, lower-fat versions of popular food products like sauces, dressings, and desserts. By adjusting the calcium level and acidity, they were able to improve the texture, appearance, and flavor of these foods without sacrificing taste or nutritional value.
Scientists have developed a potentially safer and greener alternative to the hormone-disrupting chemical BPA. Bisguaiacol-F (BGF), synthesized from lignin, is being touted as a suitable replacement due to its similar shape to BPA and lower toxicity levels. The researchers believe BGF could be ready for market within five years.
Researchers have made progress on a 'breathing' battery that could replace lithium-ion technology in electric vehicles, with the potential for nearly twice the energy storage capacity. The new battery design uses air instead of traditional materials and has shown high conductivity and the ability to discharge and recharge 100 times.
Scientists have developed a way to convert mechanical energy into electricity, enabling the creation of portable and sustainable power sources. The technology, known as triboelectric nanogenerators, can harness energy from everyday movements such as walking or rubbing, making it possible to charge mobile devices on the go.
Scientists found that rough zinc oxide coatings can prevent adhesion between small silicon parts, a concern in microelectromechanical systems. The study could accelerate the development of high-performance electronics and sensors.
Scientists developed a wearable wristband that can detect and quantify a wide range of toxic substances, including pesticides and industrial chemicals. The silicone-based band can absorb over 1,000 chemicals, providing a valuable tool for determining individual exposure and risk.
Researchers identified compounds in hop leaves that could prevent bacterial adhesion and toxin release, potentially repurposing a discarded byproduct. The study found three new compounds and substantial amounts of proanthocyanidins, which are healthful antioxidants.
A Google Glass app enables quick diagnosis of diseases such as HIV and prostate cancer using lateral flow immunochromatographic assays. The app transmits images to powerful computers for analysis, providing quantified results within seconds.
Researchers have made progress in designing therapies for patients with specific genetic traits, particularly in cancer treatment. However, the field still faces significant hurdles, including a need to incorporate individuals' health histories and environmental factors into personalized medicine.
Researchers found that sprouted garlic had higher antioxidant activity than fresh bulbs and made different substances. This could be a way to improve the health benefits of garlic without wasting food.
Researchers have discovered caffeine-based gold compounds that selectively kill human ovarian cancer cells without harming healthy cells. The new compounds target a specific DNA architecture associated with cancer, offering a potential tool in the fight against cancer.
Researchers have developed a more precise method for detecting explosives using terahertz technology from greater distances. This advancement could lead to detectors that survey wider areas without the need for full-body scanners.
A chemical leak in Charleston, W.Va., highlights the shortcomings of policies and research on thousands of chemicals. The incident led to 300,000 residents relying on bottled water due to the lack of complete toxicology studies on the leaked chemical, MCHM.
A new high-efficiency cabin air filter (HECA) can reduce ultrafine particle (UFP) exposure by 93% and keep carbon dioxide levels low. Most modern car filters only block 40-60% of UFPs, but the HECA filter's smaller synthetic fibers can capture more particles.
Developers have created a metal oxide shell that increases the stability of nanowire devices, which can detect disease biomarkers and record heart cells. This coating allows nanoelectronic devices to last several months in human body conditions.
Researchers developed a new method to create ultrathin capacitors with significantly higher capacitance density than commercially available products. This breakthrough could enable the use of printed circuit boards and memory storage devices in next-gen electronics.
A new study reveals that subcritical hydrothermal treatment can convert paper sludge into fuel with a composition similar to coal. The process has the added benefit of diverting waste from landfills and reducing pollution.
Researchers found that exercise improves cardiovascular health in mice by increasing the production of proteins in the mitochondria of their heart cells. This targeted approach may hold the key to understanding how physical activity helps strengthen the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Researchers have developed a novel compound that protects mice against developing movement problems associated with Parkinson's disease. The compound, known as '12g', effectively prevented motor deficits linked to PD and showed promise as a potential new therapy.
Researchers have developed electronically controlled drugs that can minimize side effects by releasing medication in response to specific cues. These tailored approaches could be useful in treating conditions such as epilepsy, where medication could be released at the onset of a seizure.
Research suggests lead exposure, once widespread in US gas and paint, may be key factor behind decline in violent crimes. The study found a significant decrease in homicide rate after the ban of lead from gasoline and paint.
Scientists developed a novel method to identify microbes producing large amounts of bio-oil, which can replace crops in fuel production. This technique could speed up the discovery of new biofuel sources, such as Streptomyces bacteria.
Researchers developed a mathematical model that predicts the shelf life of sparkling wines based on storage temperature, which can help wineries and consumers determine when bubbly has gone bad. The study also found that refrigerating sparkling wines almost completely prevents browning.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology suggests that increased wildfires due to climate change will have significant impacts on air quality and human health. By 2100, emissions from wildfires in California are expected to grow by 19-101%, posing challenges for agriculture and ecosystems.
A new study reveals that hempseed oil contains a variety of substances promoting good health, including sterols, aliphatic alcohols, and linolenic acids. The oil's omega-3 fatty acid content may help prevent coronary heart disease.
The 2014 Congressional agenda will shape public health, energy, and pharmaceutical research through key legislation. Modernization of the Toxic Substances Control Act and new energy bills are expected to have significant implications.
Scientists have developed a faster and more specific method to detect bacteria-tainted food, using nanomechanical cantilevers that can identify eight different types of Salmonella. The technique has the potential to prevent food poisoning and save thousands of lives annually.
A new study found that suburban households in the US account for approximately 50% of the country's total household carbon footprint. The researchers used an analytic model and national survey data to estimate average household carbon footprints for over 30,000 zip codes and 10,000 cities and towns across all 50 states.
The emerging class of ADCs holds great promise in cancer treatment, with two approved drugs expected to be blockbusters and over 100 more in preclinical pipeline. Challenges in manufacturing are being addressed by contract manufacturers expanding capacity.
Researchers have created a novel scaffold for growing cardiac muscle cells using carbon nanofibers, which can conduct electricity and promote better metabolic activity. This breakthrough aims to repair damaged hearts through tissue engineering.
Researchers developed a method to harden bones by growing aragonite on their surfaces, making them 50-70% sturdier. This technique has wide implications for preserving valuable remains and restoring cultural clues.
Researchers have mapped nearly 6,000 pipeline leaks in Washington, D.C., with high concentrations found at 19 sites, including some manholes with methane levels up to 500,000 parts per million. The study highlights the need for financial incentives and targeted programs to reduce leaks and replace old cast-iron pipes.
The global chemical industry is expected to rise by 2.5% in the US and see increased sales in Europe, driven by strong economic growth in China and India. Low-priced natural gas from shale deposits and an uptick in housing starts are also contributing factors.
Researchers at ACS report a new authentication method for cacao beans, enabling verification of varietal purity and origin. This innovation has significant implications for the global chocolate industry, including conserving biodiversity and preventing adulteration.
Researchers have created a test called MACRO that can flag about 97% of known commercialized modifications, making it easier for policymakers to monitor genetically modified (GM) foods. The new method combines two well-known genetic methods and can be easily expanded to include future GM crops.
Researchers have designed compounds called quinine dimers that work against sensitive and resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite causing severe malaria. These compounds bind to and block resistance-conferring proteins, resensitizing parasites to chloroquine and killing them.
Researchers have created a way to clean dirty banknotes, removing accumulated sebum and motor oil without damaging security features. This process could save nearly $10 billion annually and minimize the environmental impact of currency disposal.
Researchers have developed a novel metal ink made of copper nanosheets that can be used to write functioning, flexible electric circuits on regular printer paper. The ink showed excellent conductivity even after being folded or crumpled 1,000 times.
The American Chemical Society's year-in-review issue highlights key developments in organic chemistry, sustainability, and spectroscopy. Researchers made progress in creating biomedical compounds and developing solar-powered sterilizers for safe water and medical instruments.
The US FDA is proposing to ban partially hydrogenated oils, which contain trans fats. The alternatives used instead are generally considered healthier, but not without their own risks.
Researchers developed biodegradable nanomotors inspired by plant corkscrew structures for targeted drug delivery. The low-cost, plant-based microswimmers can efficiently navigate liquids with magnetic control.
A novel method reduces the energy required to separate titanium from its tightly bound companion, oxygen, making it more affordable and accessible. The new approach halves the temperature requirements of conventional methods and consumes 60% less energy.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in packaging insulin into tiny sacs that can be absorbed through the gut, overcoming digestive enzyme hurdles. The new delivery system has shown promising results in rats, with blood glucose levels lowered almost as much as injected insulin.
Researchers have developed a new imaging method to visualize high concentrations of a sodium channel protein associated with pain, potentially leading to improved pain management and treatment monitoring. The technique uses a small molecule attached to saxitoxin, which accumulates at sites of nerve damage in rats.
Small labs are setting up to analyze medical marijuana products for potency, purity and safety. They also check for mold, mildew, microbial contamination, pesticides and solvents.
Researchers have identified phosphatases in human cells that are involved in bacterial survival and found small molecules that can stop them from working. This approach jams the host cell machinery rather than directly attacking the bacteria, potentially reducing the risk of resistance development.
Researchers explore the connection between pesticides and Parkinson's disease, discovering two genetic mutations linked to increased risk in pesticide-exposed individuals. The study highlights the complexity of the disease and the need for further investigation into pesticide exposure and its potential effects on human health.
A recent study by Mark Baker and colleagues has identified nine proteins that contribute to the cherished aroma of black Périgord truffles. The researchers also discovered biomarkers of authenticity, freshness, and perfume maturation, shedding light on this culinary delicacy.