Scientists have created a new water-repellent coating that rapidly absorbs water molecules preventing freezing and allows larger droplets to form as flattened droplets. This coating could be used in various applications such as automobile windshields and camera lenses.
A new study found that exposure to airborne dust in urban areas leads to an increase and decrease in childhood blood lead levels, respectively. The research suggests that focusing on primary prevention of lead-contaminated soils may be a more effective approach to improving child health than current efforts.
Scientists have developed a self-healing protective coating for concrete cracks that can repair itself using sunlight. The coating contains microcapsules loaded with a material that seals cracks upon cracking, providing an environmentally friendly solution to protect infrastructure from deterioration.
Researchers have discovered that ancient Egyptian blue pigment can break apart into nanosheets, producing invisible infrared radiation. These nanosheets have potential applications in near-IR-based biomedical imaging, IR light-emitting devices, and security ink formulations.
A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that approximately 60% of the world's population lacks access to improved sanitation. This deficiency is attributed to inadequate sewage treatment and can lead to disease, highlighting the need for better global health standards.
The National Institutes of Health is launching a $700 million project to develop a common data-sharing framework for biomedical research. This framework aims to integrate millions of gigabytes of data from various disciplines, enabling researchers to tap into a gold mine of information and improve disease treatment and cure rates.
The American Chemical Society's report emphasizes the need for updated graduate education to prepare scientists for a rapidly changing world. Key findings include inadequate preparation for post-graduation careers and lack of diversity in the scientific community.
A study found that nearly half of online Viagra samples contained only 30-50% active pharmaceutical ingredient. Meanwhile, bedbugs produce a foul odor during mating attempts to deter unwanted advances.
This article from ACS' Journal of Chemical Education explores the real chemistry behind famous opera plots, including poisonous snake bites and deadly venoms. The author highlights several examples of operatic themes involving chemistry that can be used as a teaching tool for students and the general public.
A new discovery allows for expanded use of a mainstay biological pest control method, the sterile insect technique (SIT), which avoids health and environmental concerns. The approach involves mass release of radiation-sterilized insects that mate but produce no offspring, reducing pest populations.
A new study finds that bacteria in the large intestine can deconjugate masked mycotoxins, releasing toxic forms of deoxynivalenol and zearalenone. The findings suggest that these toxins should be considered when evaluating population exposure.
The American Chemical Society reveals how chocolate contains hundreds of compounds with beneficial properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The video explains that moderate chocolate consumption may be good for cardiovascular health and mood.
A new study recommends using air curtains and cooling layers to preserve China's Terracotta Warriors and other historic relics. The measures aim to prevent environmental degradation and protect the over 1,500 relics in large museums like the Qin Terracotta Museum, which attracts over 5 million visitors annually.
A study found no clear evidence linking increased gluten in new wheat varieties to the rise in celiac disease. Instead, overall gluten consumption has risen due to increased vital gluten and wheat flour consumption.
A new study has found that widely used nanoparticles accumulate in soybean plants grown in farm soil, which could have health implications. Zinc oxide and cerium dioxide, commonly used in cosmetics, were detected in the reproductive/edible portions of the soybeans.
Researchers have developed a potential antidote for cyanide poisoning that can be administered by intra-muscular injection, reducing the need for trained personnel and increasing efficiency in mass casualty events. The discovery of sulfanegen TEA offers a promising alternative to existing intravenous infusion-based treatments.
A new mobile app, Green Solvents, has been developed to foster the use of environmentally friendly principles of green chemistry in pharmaceutical processes. The app provides a guide for solvents, reducing waste generation by up to 100 times, and is available on Apple and Android devices.
Researchers have successfully created single-molecule 'intelligent' motors powered by common enzymes, catalase and urease. These motors can generate force and move in specific directions, even at the nanoscale, with implications for applications in medicine, engineering, and more.
The use of ecolabels in cleaning products is a topic of debate, with supporters arguing they inform consumers about product sustainability, while opponents claim they can be confusing. The American Chemical Society explores the pros and cons of these environmental certification seals in its latest cover story.
The Chromosome-Centric Human Proteome Project (C-HPP) is a 10-year effort to map and describe human proteins. The project aims to provide a full catalogue of proteins with practical applications in novel drug targets, diagnostic biomarkers, and understanding cellular regulators.
Scientists have developed a test to detect smoke taint in grapes and wines, which can be used to manage the production of smoky-tasting wines. The test uses laboratory tests to identify substances formed in grapes after exposure to smoke.
Scientists have developed a new and more efficient way to make paliperidone, a widely used medication for severe mental illness, reducing solvent use and increasing yield.
Scientists have developed a new method to produce large amounts of the promising anti-cancer substance AMF-26, which targets the Golgi apparatus in cells. The synthetic version of AMF-26 shows equal effectiveness as its natural counterpart in laboratory tests.
Jute has been found to enhance the strength and resistance of mortar and concrete by working as a reinforcement fiber. The addition of jute fibers also delays the hardening process, making it beneficial for applications requiring transported pre-mixed cement aggregates.
Researchers have created 'superomniphobic' surfaces that can resist a wide range of liquids, including both Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids. These surfaces will have numerous applications, such as stain-free clothing, spill-resistant protective wear, and corrosion-resistant coatings.
The carob tree's antibacterial properties have been discovered to combat Listeria monocytogenes, a serious form of food poisoning. Extracts from the tree's leaves have shown promise in inhibiting bacterial growth, offering a potential natural solution to combat antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Scientists have created chemical modules that replicate complex interactions between plants, animals, and molecules, opening the door to more sophisticated molecular machines and computers. By using DNA and enzymes, researchers can now reproduce predator-prey interactions, mutually beneficial relationships, and competitive conditions.
Researchers found that filter and espresso coffeemakers leave more antioxidants in used coffee grounds, making most grounds a good source of useful substances. The extracted compounds can still be used as fertilizer after extraction.
Researchers found that adding ferulic acid to white flour dough can transform its taste and smell into a more appetizing version, similar to whole wheat bread. This discovery could help bakers create healthier, more palatable options for consumers.
Scientists have developed a new computer-based approach to predicting possible side effects of medications. The method is based on knowledge about chemical and biological information about ingredients in these medications and has been shown to be useful in identifying potential side effects for both known and uncharacterized molecules....
Researchers have developed a new substance inspired by mussels' adhesive, which can rebuild both enamel and dentin on teeth. Laboratory tests show that the gooey material promotes simultaneous remineralization of enamel and dentin, offering a potential solution for millions suffering from tooth sensitivity.
A new process produces super-nutritious puffed rice with three times more protein and eight times more dietary fiber than commercial products. The rice also contains essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and zinc, making it ideal for school lunch programs and other applications.
Researchers create large-scale production method for sclareol, a prized fragrance ingredient, using bacterial cultures and Clary sage plant DNA. The new technology provides a more sustainable alternative to natural ambergris, which is scarce and expensive.
Scientists have developed a pill that breaks down gluten peptides, making it possible for people with celiac disease to consume gluten-containing foods. The enzyme, called KumaMax, has been engineered to break down over 95% of the offending peptides in acidic conditions like those in the stomach.
A speed limit on container ships near ports and coastlines could reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and soot by up to 60-70% compared to traditional cruising speeds. This measure could significantly protect the health of people living in coastal areas.
Major pharmaceutical companies are losing patents on best-selling drugs, leading to a focus on pairing low costs with high quality and exploring new research partnerships. This shift is raising hopes for new drugs and profits in the industry as it seeks innovative solutions to revitalize sales.
Scientists have discovered a wealth of new antibiotic substances in the skin of the Russian Brown frog, expanding on previous findings to identify 76 additional compounds with potential medical activity.
Researchers use metathesis to create valuable personal care product ingredients from plant essential oils, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional raw materials.
The American Chemical Society has developed a comprehensive climate science toolkit, providing explanations of key concepts such as the greenhouse effect and climate change education for the public. The toolkit aims to foster a basic understanding of climate science among scientists and others, enabling informed personal decisions.
Researchers have successfully synthesized fluorescent gold nanoparticles within human hair for potential use in hair dyeing, electronic sensors, and medical diagnostic tests. The gold particles were formed inside the hair's central core cortex after soaking white hairs in a solution of a gold compound.
A new study found that bag-in-box wines are more prone to developing unpleasant flavors and aromas when stored at warm temperatures. Storing these wines at cooler temperatures can help preserve their taste and aroma.
Scientists discovered a previously unrecognized degradation process in silicone-urethane plastics used in medical devices, including pacemakers and defibrillators. The plastics break down within 3-6 years under conditions simulating the human body.
A study found that 93% of new couches purchased in the last seven years contained flame retardants. The most concerning were 'Tris' chemicals, which are considered probable human carcinogens and have raised health concerns. Researchers detected untested or high-risk flame retardants in over half of the analyzed foam samples.
Researchers uncovered 41 highly odor-active compounds in durian, including previously unknown substances associated with fruity and oniony smells. The study identified four new chemical compounds that had never been found before in food, contributing to the fruit's distinctive smell.
Researchers have created synthetic fibers from protein-based raw materials, including those found in hagfish slime, to replace petroleum-based synthetics. The new fibers offer a sustainable alternative for the textile industry.
Global negotiators gather in Qatar to work on an amendment that would create a second round of emissions cuts for certain industrialized nations, starting in 2013. The effort aims to extend international momentum to act on climate change after the Kyoto agreement expires this year.
Scientists at UCLA have created a new type of solar cell that produces energy by absorbing infrared light, making it 66% transparent. The technology is lightweight, flexible, and can be produced in high volume at low cost.
Scientists have developed a method to generate steam using sunlight and nanoparticles, which can be used for purification of drinking water, sterilization of medical instruments, and sanitizing sewage. The approach produces steam with virtually no wasteful heating of the surrounding liquid, achieving an energy efficiency of 24%.
Researchers have found that treating corn stover with white rot fungus can extract up to 30% more sugar from leaves and 50% more from stalks and cobs. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient ethanol production and reduce the need for corn-based supplies.
Researchers have found a way to enhance the detection of explosives on surfaces, allowing for more accurate and effective airport security screenings. By adding functional groups to swab materials, they can collect smaller amounts of explosive residue, making it easier to detect even tiny traces.