Scientists have developed new solar-energy conversion devices using abundant, less-expensive materials like copper and zinc. These devices break records for electrical current and voltage achieved by existing solar cells, bringing the cost of electricity closer to that of coal-fired power plants.
A new mass spectrometer, DESI, is being used in real-world medicine to analyze fingerprints, detect pesticides, and identify biomarkers for prostate cancer. The device can also aid in brain cancer surgery by analyzing tissue samples and determining tumor type and stage.
Scientists found a link between high galectin-3 levels and increased risk of cancer and heart disease. A new blood test can predict disease outcomes, while modified citrus pectin may block galectin-3's negative effects.
A new law could lift the financial burden of higher education from middle class and working people, easing student debt and college funding cutbacks. The proposed legislation aims to reinvest in public higher education and foster innovation.
The American Chemical Society shares expert insights on how certain foods, like chili peppers and ice cream, can actually make you feel hotter. Researchers will discuss counter-intuitive ways to cool down with food during a special briefing.
Researchers identified powerful antibodies that can neutralize up to 80% of HIV-1 virus types by binding to specific sugars on the glycan shield. A vaccine designed around this approach could offer wide-ranging protection for immunized individuals.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in extracting uranium from seawater, which holds at least 4 billion tons of the precious material. The economic analysis suggests that uranium from the oceans could help solidify nuclear energy potential as a sustainable electricity source for the 21st century.
Researchers are developing new prebiotic ingredients to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Studies show that consuming more prebiotics can improve gut balance and lead to various health benefits, particularly for individuals with gastrointestinal diseases, Type-2 diabetes, and low-grade inflammation.
Researchers use new approaches to analyze individual brain cells, shedding light on the root causes of chronic pain and memory loss. They found that the chemical imprint of pain occurs in only a few cells, holding promise for developing new treatments.
A new version of methyl cellulose, SATISFIT-LTG, has been developed to combat hunger and reduce calorie intake. In clinical trials, it showed a 13% decrease in energy consumption and prolonged feelings of fullness.
Renowned author and speaker Shirley O. Corriher has been selected as recipient of the 2013 James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public, recognizing her work in bringing home the power and pleasure of chemistry through popular books and dynamic presentations.
Scientists have discovered a way to increase antioxidant levels in sweet potatoes through an electric current treatment, which can help relieve hunger and improve nutrition. The study found that the treatment increased antioxidant activity and polyphenol content by 1.4 times and 1.6 times compared to untreated potatoes.
Researchers have made progress toward a portable emergency treatment for stopping life-threatening internal bleeding. Synthetic platelets, artificial versions of blood's natural clotting particles, are being developed to quickly and efficiently form clots at internal wounds, increasing survival rates in laboratory tests.
Scientists have developed a new oil spill dispersant using edible ingredients like peanut butter, chocolate, and whipped cream. The dispersant not only breaks up oil but also prevents it from sticking to bird feathers, reducing the risk of harm to wildlife.
Scientific analysis strengthens the view that record-breaking summer heat, drought, and other extreme weather events are caused by human activities and global warming. Nobel laureate Mario J. Molina suggests a new international agreement to put a price on greenhouse gas emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Researchers describe a new treatment approach for periodontal disease, targeting inflammation and promoting gum tissue regrowth. The controlled-release capsules release a protein that guides immune cells to the diseased area, reducing inflammation and creating an environment conducive to healing.
Scientists have developed a new material to restore lost flexibility in human vocal cords, which can help alleviate voice loss due to aging, disease, or medical procedures. The material, called polyethylene glycol 30 (PEG30), is flexible and can vibrate like human vocal cords.
The ACS symposium highlights the critical role of forensic chemistry in protecting the innocent, featuring exonerated individuals and experts who used DNA testing to prove their innocence. The event also emphasizes the need for reforming the criminal justice system to prevent future injustice.
A new analysis of coconut water found it contains up to 1,500 mg/liter of potassium, compared to Powerade and Gatorade. The study suggests coconut water is a healthy drink that replenishes nutrients lost during moderate exercise.
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) is honoring its 50th anniversary with a symposium showcasing research advancements in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. NIGMS has funded over 74 Nobel laureates and supports research training programs to foster the next generation of scientists.
A new process converts municipal waste to gasoline, diesel and jet fuel using Integrated Hydropyrolysis and Hydroconversion technology. This process produces a finished, ready-to-use liquid hydrocarbon fuel with the flexibility to use various feedstocks and production costs significantly lower than fossil fuels.
A new food biorefinery converts bakery waste and coffee grounds into succinic acid, a key ingredient for making plastics and detergents. The process reduces environmental impact and produces a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
Scientists developed a new fuel mixture by adding glycerol to low-sulfur diesel, reducing emissions of soot-like particulates and nitrogen oxide pollutants by 15% and 26%, respectively. The 'Bunker Green' fuel has improved emission properties and potential to lower fuel costs for the shipping industry.
A lack of access to clean water and sanitation affects 2.6 billion people, causing preventable illnesses and deaths. Women in developing countries can play a key role in addressing this issue if given the chance.
The American Chemical Society is honoring the 25th anniversary of National Chemistry Week with a symposium. The event aims to promote awareness of chemistry's value in everyday life through hands-on science events and demonstrations. The week-long celebration will feature presentations by prominent chemists, including ACS President Bas...
A new technology developed by scientists can authenticate drugs in minutes, helping patients in developing countries receive real treatments instead of counterfeit ones. The device uses mass spectrometry and can distinguish between genuine and fake medications.
Scientists have developed a simple, paper-strip test that can identify counterfeit versions of Panadol, one of the most-frequently faked medicines globally. The test, which takes less than 10 minutes, uses colorimetric chemistry on chemically treated paper to detect suspicious ingredients.
Researchers have identified an enzyme responsible for forming the 'mating plug' in male Anopheles mosquitoes, which can be inhibited to prevent reproduction. The approach uses a chemical compound that targets this enzyme, making it a potential tool against malaria transmission.
Scientists discovered that resveratrol, a natural compound found in red wine, may help improve mobility and prevent life-threatening falls among older people. The study showed that resveratrol decreased motor deficiencies in aging mice, leading to increased quality of life and reduced hospitalization risk.
Scientists have discovered that DNA can act as a wire to detect genetic damage and identify people at risk for certain diseases. The discovery could lead to the development of medical diagnostic devices and biosensors that can pick up on changes in DNA that may lead to cancer and other diseases.
Scientists have developed a new flexible aerogel material that is up to 500 times stronger than traditional silica aerogels, with improved thermal conductivity and potential applications in super-insulating clothing, refrigerators, and buildings. The material could also be used for heat shields on spacecraft and insulation for spacesuits.
Researchers discover flavor components similar to prescription mood stabilizer valproic acid, which could lead to dietary recommendations or new supplements with beneficial mood effects. The study analyzed over 1,700 substances and found similarities between certain food flavors and approved antidepressants.
Scientists from Merck, Novartis, and Arkema develop breakthroughs in chronic hepatitis C treatment and leukemia therapy. They also create technology to improve solar heat gain control. These innovations have a significant impact on human lives and the environment.
Nobel laureates including Robert H. Grubbs and Richard R. Schrock present cutting-edge research on metathesis method and biodegradable polymers, advancing green chemistry and sustainable materials science. The presentations also explore innovative applications for plastics, medicines, and energy.
Scientists develop substances targeting bacteria virulence factors to prevent UTI development and emergence of resistant microbes. A low dose reduced bacteria in the bladder by almost 10,000 times.
Researchers discovered that certain types of bacteria form biofilms on filters, breaking off into drinking water due to pH levels. Simple changes to filter cleaning and water pH can shift the balance towards beneficial bacteria, potentially improving water quality.
Acetylated wood, a new form of sustainable wood, has been developed using a back-to-the-future technology that permanently expands cell walls to resist water absorption. The material has similar properties to modern construction materials but a smaller carbon footprint.
Scientists have developed proteins that can destroy chemical warfare agents up to 15,000 times more effectively than their natural counterparts. The new substances have potential uses in protecting soldiers and others from nerve gas attacks.
Scientists have created a preconcentrator device that can increase levels of TNT and related explosives by 1,000 times in under one minute. The device uses a molecular sieve membrane to trap molecules of explosives, making them detectable in previously undetectable concentrations.
A new study finds that diacetyl intensifies the damaging effects of abnormal brain protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. Chronic exposure to diacetyl has also been shown to enhance beta-amyloid toxicity on nerve cells, raising concerns over long-term neurological toxicity.
Scientists have developed a method to identify new uses for existing medicines, using 11 factors to pair likely drugs with diseases. The 'Train-Match-Fit-Streamline' approach could lead to repurposing of medicines like Celebrex and hookworm treatment for cancer.
Scientists have developed a new transparent solar cell that produces energy by absorbing infrared light and is 66% transparent to the human eye. The device uses a photoactive plastic and a composite electrode made of silver nanowire and titanium dioxide nanoparticles.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved several precedent-setting cancer drugs that offer a glimpse into the future of personalized medicine. Companion diagnostics are being used to identify patients most likely to benefit from medication, enabling targeted treatments.
Researchers created a jumping robot that mimics the water strider's ability, allowing it to leap over obstacles and move at high speeds. The microrobot's design uses porous nickel foam to fabricate its legs, enabling it to jump more than twice its own length and weigh as much as 1,100 water striders.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke produces large amounts of two proteins that stimulate the production of osteoclasts, cells responsible for breaking down old bone. This process weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures and disability among older people.
A new study found that alcohol can make certain medications up to three times more available to the body, effectively tripling their original dose. This is due to ethanol's ability to alter enzyme interactions with a wide range of medications, including those that don't dissolve well in the gastrointestinal tract.
Pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) technology harnesses freshwater flow to produce electricity, requiring no fuel and releasing no carbon dioxide. This process has the potential to meet the electricity needs of 520 million people without emitting greenhouse gases.
Peter J. Stang has been awarded the American Chemical Society's Priestley Medal for his pioneering work on supramolecular chemistry, a field that could lead to new drug delivery vehicles and more efficient oil refining. With over 450 papers authored, Stang is a prominent figure in the field of organic chemistry.
New analysis suggests that lab mice and rats' round-the-clock access to food may lead to abnormally high blood fat levels, high cholesterol, nerve damage, cancer, and other disorders. This could affect the outcome of experiments testing toxicity and cancer-causing effects of new drugs and substances.
Manufacturers are turning to biotechnology companies using genetically engineered microbes to produce natural flavor and fragrance ingredients. These microbes can produce vanillin and picrocrocin at lower costs than traditional methods.