Scientists have developed a way to reuse expensive enzymes used in laundry detergents hundreds of times, opening the door for new eco-friendly laundry products. The reusable enzyme-coated plastic flakes and strips could make cheaper detergents more effective.
Scientists are developing new medicines based on epigenetics, a quiet revolution in biology and chemistry that influences how genes work in health and disease. Four drugs approved for blood cancer have limitations due to lack of selectivity.
A new analysis reveals that pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) power-generating stations could meet the energy needs of half a billion people by tapping into the global potential of rivers flowing into the sea. This sustainable process requires no fuel and releases no greenhouse gases.
Scientists developed a passive vaccine that reversed cocaine overdose symptoms in laboratory mice, showing promise as a potential antidote. The vaccine uses pre-formed human antibodies against cocaine, binding to circulating molecules and preventing brain damage.
A new study establishes reference levels for beach sand contaminated with disease-causing bacteria, helping health departments determine when it's too risky for children and others. The research used computer simulations and measurements of microbes at California and Florida beaches.
Researchers successfully implanted a biofuel cell in a snail, generating sustainable electrical micropower for extended periods without harming the animal. The long-lasting enzymes used induced an electric current by breaking down glucose and oxygen molecules.
The Mediterranean Sea, rich in biodiversity, is under threat from human pressures such as overfishing, tourism, and shipping traffic. Despite progress made in addressing environmental issues, concerted action remains a challenge due to regional differences.
Researchers found that carbon nanotubes significantly enhance plant cell division and growth by activating channels for water transport. The study demonstrates the potential to transform agricultural practices and improve industrial productivity.
A recent study found that some 'improved cookstoves' (ICs) may emit more black carbon particles than traditional mud stoves or open-cook fires. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of ICs as a clean cooking solution in developing countries.
Scientists have discovered that water can float on oil under certain conditions, depending on the size of the droplet and type of oil. This finding has important potential applications in cleaning up oil spills.
A partnership between DyStar and RedElec Technologie may improve the environmental profile of indigo dyeing by eliminating sodium hydrosulfite. The new process aims to reduce waste and stop a water pollution problem at its source.
Researchers have created 'backpacking' bacteria that can carry micro- or nano-sized molecules or devices with useful properties. These biohybrid devices can move freely while carrying cargo, and the team plans to test their feasibility in laboratory experiments and potentially use them for diagnosing and treating diseases.
Scientists developed a more efficient version of a 2-in-1 device that harnesses bacteria in municipal sewage to generate electricity and clean the sewage. The device can process five times more sewage six times more efficiently at half the cost of its predecessors.
A new blood test has been developed to detect breast cancer recurrence up to 11-12 months before current tests, using a combination of biomarkers and mass spectrometry. The test shows promise for improving therapy outcomes by enabling earlier detection and treatment.
Scientific discoveries reveal flavonoids in dark chocolate may reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and even prevent colon cancer. Researchers also explore the role of proteins and peptides in flavor development and potential benefits for cardiovascular health.
A standard food test may fail to detect milk proteins that cause a common childhood allergy, leading to itchy skin and other symptoms. The test's limitations could be improved to better protect consumers with milk allergies.
Scientists developed a fast, simple, accurate way to detect nitroaromatic compounds like TNT in saltwater, freshwater, and other liquids. The device can detect concentrations as low as 33 parts per trillion and has potential uses in detecting water pollution.
Scientists discovered that bacteria engage in quorum sensing to discuss options for life-or-death situations, deciding between sporing or competency. This communication process has implications for understanding human cell behavior and developing new treatments for diseases.
A study published in the American Chemical Society found that capsaicinoids, a compound in chili peppers, can lower cholesterol levels and increase blood flow to the heart. The compounds may also reduce the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels.
Scientists have developed a rapid test to detect Salmonella in lettuce and water using popcorn-shaped gold particles. The test can identify the bacteria in just five minutes, making it a potential game-changer for food safety, particularly in remote areas or during outbreaks.
A 22-week cross-over study found that consuming green coffee extract resulted in an average weight loss of 17 pounds, with a 10.5% decrease in overall body weight and a 16% decrease in body fat.
Researchers have developed transparent, flexible memory chips with high radiation resistance and stability. These '3-D' chips can pack extra gigabytes of data while taking up less space, making them suitable for next-generation flash-competitive memory.
Comet impacts may have delivered the building blocks of life to Earth, with amino acids forming peptide bonds despite intense heat and shock. This research provides further support for the comet delivery scenario, suggesting multiple deliveries of seedlings of life through comets, asteroids, and meteorites.
Researchers found that blocking O-GlcNAc attachment to CREB protein improved long-term memory in mice. The study suggests that targeting O-GlcNAc could lead to new ways to enhance memory. Blocking O-GlcNAc also showed promise in slowing cancer growth, making it a potential target for anti-cancer drugs.
A new study by Anna A. Stec and colleagues found that some flame retardants increase the release of carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide during combustion, leading to more deaths from fire injuries than burns themselves.
Scientists developed a capsule that can remove more than a dozen radioactive substances from water, milk, and fruit juices. The technology uses nanoparticles to absorb and concentrate radioactive materials, making them safe for consumption.
The AkzoNobel North America Science Award recognizes outstanding scientific contributions in chemistry and materials research, with a focus on sustainability. The award winner will receive a $75,000 cash prize and be honored at the ACS' National Meeting & Exposition in New Orleans.
A report at the American Chemical Society symposium highlights the challenges faced by minority women in STEM fields, including limited access to quality education and career discouragement. The percentage of women of color with doctorates in science has risen, but there is still a long way to go for equal representation.
A two-drug combination of meropenem and clavulanate has been shown to effectively treat forms of TB that are resistant to other antibiotics. The treatment offers new hope for dealing with drug-resistant TB, which is a major public health concern globally.
Researchers have developed a new endoscope technology that uses Cerenkov Luminescence to guide surgeons in removing more of cancerous tumors than possible. The technology has shown promise in laboratory experiments and may be suitable for human use, potentially improving cancer treatment outcomes.
Scientists have developed a new technology to purify natural gas by removing carbon dioxide, which increases the energy density and efficiency of storage and transportation. The 'super natural gas' burns hotter and occupies less space than traditional fuel.
Bioorthogonal chemistry allows doctors to administer separate ingredients that combine to produce medicine inside patients' bodies. This emerging field has the potential to revolutionize drug development and diagnosis by enabling targeted treatment of diseases.
Scientists have developed a new type of plastic that can repair scratches and cuts, changing color to warn of damage and healing itself when exposed to light. This self-healing plastic has potential applications in products such as cell phones, laptops, and cars, offering advantages over traditional plastics
Scientists have developed a new approach to capturing carbon dioxide from smokestacks using nitrogen-based ionic liquids. The technology avoids pitfalls of current methods by being odorless, non-evaporative and easily recyclable.
Researchers found that butterfly wings' 'art of blackness' can boost the production of green fuels by doubling the hydrogen gas produced from water and sunlight. The team created computer models to confirm this filtering effect, which allows shorter wavelengths of light to reach a membrane below the scales.
At the American Chemical Society's National Meeting & Exposition, experts will discuss the chemistry and instruments used to investigate the scene and monitor the controlled burn of the 'bomb house'. The session reveals how public safety and law enforcement professionals utilized their skills and expertise to safely destroy the house.
The American Chemical Society is hosting a special symposium on communicating science to the public, featuring noted science journalists and communicators. The event aims to engage the general public in understanding the role of chemistry in driving economic prosperity and contributing to societal values.
Scientists have developed thin, flexible 'electronic skin' patches that can monitor brain, heart, and muscle activity without wires or invasive procedures. The patches can be applied to the skin like temporary tattoos and provide real-time health data through wireless capabilities.
A study by Joe Vinson found that popcorn has higher antioxidant levels than fruits and vegetables due to its high concentration of polyphenols. The hulls of the popcorn kernel have the highest concentration of these antioxidants, making them a nutritional gold nugget.
The ACS president will focus on climate science, graduate education, and commemorating the Morrill Land Grant Act. The initiative aims to advance chemistry through research, education, and innovation, while communicating its value to society.
Researchers are using pond scum microbes called Euglena to develop a new test for detecting cancer cells in the bloodstream. The test uses the microbe as a natural cargo carrier to identify and analyze circulating tumor cells, which enable cancer to spread.
Scientists have developed a technology to produce hydrogen from heat in nuclear power plants, which could reduce global warming by burning only water vapor. This process is more efficient than current methods using natural gas or coal, and experts envision widespread adoption of nuclear-powered hydrogen production.
J. Craig Venter discussed his team's progress on major projects, including developing new synthetic cells and engineering genomes to produce biofuels, vaccines, clean water, food and other products. He also described his work in sequencing the human genome and studying the human microbiome.
Scientists have created a new buoyant material inspired by the water strider's ability to walk on water. The material, made from nanocellulose aerogel, can absorb huge amounts of oil and float on its surface, making it potentially useful for cleaning up oil spills.
Triclosan effectively preserves gasoline and fire starters in charred remains, enabling crime scene investigators to determine arson intent. This preservation method could help law enforcement officials catch criminals and reveal the true extent of arson problems.
Paul Raeburn, a nationally recognized science journalist and author, has received the James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for his work in interpreting chemistry for the public. The award is presented annually by the American Chemical Society to recognize outstanding achievements in communicating chemistry to the general public.
Scientists have developed lab-made, invisible filaments that resemble uncooked spaghetti with nanoscale dimensions, which can serve as scaffolds for tissue repair. These 'noodle gels' and 'spaghetti highways' could guide cells to specific locations for repair and deliver beneficial substances to diseased areas.
The ACS Presidential Sessions emphasize communicating science to the public, with speakers including Roger Tsien, Laura Kiessling, Samuel Stupp, J. Craig Venter, Carolyn Bertozzi, and Paul Raeburn. The sessions also explore innovative chemistry applications, such as producing fuels directly from sunlight.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology reveals that seeds coated with neonicotinoid insecticides cause widespread deaths of honeybees. The researchers found that even modified machines designed to reduce seed fragmentation still led to bee fatalities, highlighting the need for innovative solutions.
Scientists create a simple, inexpensive dip-and-dry treatment to convert ordinary silk into a fabric that kills disease-causing bacteria, including anthrax spores. The new 'killer silk' has potential uses for protective coatings, water purification, and mitigating toxic substances.