Researchers develop a new collector technology using water-repelling nanoparticles to recover gold, silver, and copper from waste rock. The process achieves near-100% recovery rate in laboratory experiments.
Scientists have developed 'transcription factor beacons' to quickly detect the activity of proteins controlling gene expression in cancer. The breakthrough technology may enable faster cancer diagnosis and the discovery of new cancer drugs.
Scientists have developed a new type of solar cell that converts sunlight into electricity with an efficiency of 10%, outperforming conventional solar cells made from silicon. The device retained at least 95% of its sun-converting ability for 1,000 hours of testing.
A new process boosts mushroom vitamin D content by 700%, while preserving essential nutrients like C and B vitamins. The UVB light processing technology has no adverse effects on mushrooms.
The development of new proppant materials enables the production of oil and gas from previously inaccessible deposits. New high-tech ceramics and coated sands are being used to fracture open rock formations at depths of over a mile, increasing access to more difficult-to-recover reserves.
Feeding cows natural plant extracts can reduce dairy farm odors and feed costs. Adding tannins to cow feed reduces ammonia emissions from barn floors and fertilized fields by 28-49%. This study aims to provide a practical solution for the US dairy industry, which has been petitioned to regulate ammonia under the Clean Air Act.
A new saliva test can measure the levels of five key DNA adducts, which form when potentially cancer-causing substances bind to DNA. The test is convenient and non-invasive, making it a potential tool for health promotion and disease prevention.
Researchers have created a cost-effective solution to address the growing issue of arsenic-contaminated drinking water in developing countries. The new technology uses pieces of plastic bottles coated with cysteine to remove arsenic from water, producing drinkable water with levels significantly lower than the current safe standard.
The GonaCon vaccine blocks sex hormones that spark undesirable behaviors in household pets and farm animals, reducing scent-marking, fighting, and aggressive behavior. The vaccine also shows promise for controlling white-tailed deer populations and preventing automobile-deer collisions.
A new study by Joe Vinson found that consuming 6-8 purple potatoes twice daily for a month reduced diastolic blood pressure by 4.3% and systolic pressure by 3.5%. The majority of subjects taking anti-hypertensive drugs still showed a significant decrease in blood pressure.
A new study suggests that reducing soot emissions from diesel engines and other sources could slow melting of sea ice in the Arctic faster and more economically than any other quick fix. Soot emissions are second only to carbon dioxide in promoting global warming, but their effects have been underestimated in previous climate models.
A new, eco-friendly flame retardant made from layers of positively and negatively charged polymers has been developed to protect cotton fabrics. The coating, dubbed 'nano intumescent,' significantly reduces the flammability of cotton and can even prevent ignition when exposed to direct flames.
Scientists have created new tests to identify the source of emerging designer drugs, such as 'bath salts' and synthetic cannabinoids. The tests use isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) to trace the production of these substances, which can cause euphoria, paranoia, and hallucinations.
New life-detection tools up to 1,000 times more sensitive than previous instruments are being used to search for evidence of life on Mars. Researchers are also searching the planet's atmosphere for signs of methane, which could indicate biological activity.
Low-income populations may be deprived of essential nutrients due to unfounded fears about pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables. Bruce N. Ames explains that most pesticides are naturally present in plants to protect them, and at low doses, they are not a concern for human health.
Researchers identified over 600 volatile compounds in cocoa beans, with only 25 essential for the characteristic flavor. They developed a method to recreate the chocolate flavor using these compounds, mimicking its aroma and taste in 'recombinates'. This breakthrough could lead to improved flavors and aromas in chocolates.
Scientists have identified bacteria in giant panda feces with potent effects on breaking down plant material, which could be used to produce biofuels. These bacteria can convert up to 95% of plant biomass into simple sugars, eliminating the need for high heat and pressure processes.
Despite efforts to stop ozone depletion, mysteries remain, including unexpected Arctic losses and long-lived substances affecting global warming. Scientists explore geoengineering options to cool the climate, but more research is needed to address this pressing issue.
A new study reveals that high-pressure processing increases the concentration of total carotenoids in avocado and papaya by more than 50 percent. Individual members of this healthful family of chemicals increase by up to 513 percent, suggesting a self-defense mechanism in fruit tissue.
Producers and writers from popular TV shows like CSI, Breaking Bad, and Buffy are seeking scientific advice to ensure accuracy in their plots involving lab tests and crime scenes. They aim to improve public awareness of chemistry's role in everyday life through collaboration with scientists.
Excess nitrogen levels in air and water pose significant threats to human health, including respiratory problems and cancer risk. Nitrogen pollution also exacerbates climate change, but reducing it could lessen these impacts.
A study on Mt. Everest climbers suggests that leucine supplementation can help retain muscle mass while burning fat during periods of food restriction. The researchers found that the food item in which leucine was delivered was critical to its effectiveness, and future studies aim to improve the palatability of the supplement.
A team of scientists will explore the deep carbon cycle to uncover information about carbon hundreds of miles below Earth's surface. They aim to convert carbon dioxide into a rock-like material and potentially discover new materials with industrial applications.
Scientists describe an advance in encouraging stem cells to make decisions about their fate using chemically defined surfaces. This technology holds promise for regenerative medicine, including growing organs for transplants and tissues for treating diseases.
The American Chemical Society is hosting a symposium to address the global shortage of scientists with people skills. The event aims to equip scientists with effective communication and charisma skills to inspire students and engage with the public. Key findings include the importance of social skills in science leadership.
Researchers found temperature differences of a few degrees Fahrenheit between parts of individual cells, which may impact health and disease. The study suggests that cells use differences in temperature to communicate, leading to potential new insights into biological mechanisms.
Scientists have developed a new skin test that can determine the age of wild animals while they are still alive. The test detects advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in skin tissue, providing valuable information for wildlife management and population control.
The first manned mission to Mars poses significant challenges in provisioning astronauts with food, including weight, nutrition, and psychological factors. Bioregenerative systems that involve growing crops could supply food, oxygen, and purify air, while shipping bulk commodities is another option.
A new nuclear power plant design could provide a compact and reliable source of electricity for manned or unmanned bases on the Moon and Mars. The system is designed to operate in various locations such as craters, canyons, or caves, and can generate large amounts of power, approximately the same as powering eight houses on Earth.
The American Chemical Society showcased a large number of scientific reports on sustainability and green chemistry at its meeting. Over 150 researchers presented their findings, addressing topics such as water pollution control and innovative solutions for sustainable production.
The American Chemical Society honors Keith H. Gibson, Andrew J. Barker, and George L. Trainor for their contributions to personalized medicine and genetic sequencing. The trio developed a new drug that helped pioneer the era of 'personalized medicine' for cancer patients.
As people age over 50, they lose ability to detect metallic flavors in water, including iron. This decline may lead to increased exposure to iron from drinking water, pipes, and dietary supplements, posing health concerns such as Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists describe how a multipurpose protein on a virus tail bores into bacteria like a drill bit and clears debris. The 'Swiss Army Knife' protein enables the virus to pump its genetic material into bacteria, infecting them.
The US and over 50 countries have integrated biofuels into fuel supply since the 1920s, with government policies relying on corn and other food crops. However, a more realistic view of biofuel potential has emerged, highlighting negative impacts on rural economies and greenhouse gas emissions.
Langer's research launched the controlled-release drug industry, delivering advances in pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering, and medical devices to patients. His work also led to significant progress in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering to address organ shortages.
Scientists have discovered that alligator fat can be converted into high-quality biodiesel, meeting official standards and rivaling soybean oil in composition. The alligator meat industry's waste product is now being explored as a non-food source of biodiesel fuel.
The use of nanoparticles in sunscreens has sparked controversy over potential health effects. Scientific evidence suggests a link between particle penetration and undesirable body reactions, but proven benefits in reducing skin cancer risk outweigh theoretical concerns.
Scientists have found that minced banana peels can quickly remove toxic metals like lead and copper from river water. The banana peel purification apparatus can be reused up to 11 times without losing its effectiveness, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods.
A new study finds that paper money from around the world contains bisphenol A, a potentially toxic substance. The amounts of BPA on currency are higher than in house dust, but human intake is lower due to dermal absorption.
A new study develops and tests genetically engineered spider silk for safe and efficient gene delivery, offering a promising alternative to viral vectors. The material successfully attaches to diseased cells and injects DNA without harming mice in lab studies.
A new study finds that California pregnant women have the highest reported exposures to PBDE flame retardants worldwide. The research suggests a link between PBDE levels and thyroid-stimulating hormone, which regulates thyroid activity.
Manufacturers are designing products with an end-of-life perspective, incorporating biodegradable materials and easy disassembly. This approach to product stewardship fosters take-back programs and recycling, reducing environmental pollution risks.
Scientists have developed a battery-powered skin patch that can deliver medication for peripheral artery disease (PAD) and healing stubborn skin ulcers and burns. The patch uses transdermal iontophoresis to deliver fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), larger proteins that were previously ineffective when given by mouth or injected, result...
A new urine test uses a portable 'electronic nose' to detect tuberculosis (TB) by analyzing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in patient urine. The test shows promise as a fast and inexpensive diagnostic tool for TB, which affects millions worldwide.
Researchers found opal-like crystals in a 2000 Canadian meteorite, suggesting conditions existed for their formation 4.6 billion years ago. The discovery implies magnetite colloidal crystals have promising potential as novel functional materials.
The American Chemical Society's new podcast discusses a potential future for the electrical grid powered by renewable energy from the sun and wind. Researchers are developing technologies that can efficiently store and integrate this electricity into the grid.
Researchers measured HAA levels in swimmers' and pool workers' urine after exposure to chlorinated water. The study found that HAAs appeared 20-30 minutes after exposure and were eliminated within three hours, with children accumulating higher concentrations.
The search for biomarkers has made significant strides in disease diagnosis and treatment monitoring, with some tests already incorporated into everyday medicine. However, recent studies have shown that promising cancer biomarkers are no better than existing ones, highlighting the need for new approaches.
Researchers have developed a reflective 'carpet cloak' made of silicon oxide and silicon nitride, which conceals an object under layers and bends light waves around it. The device demonstrates the possibility of actual invisibility for the light seen by the human eye, surpassing previous infrared-based demonstrations.
Scientists develop aquatic microrobot that stands effortlessly on water surfaces, walking and turning freely. The robot incorporates improvements over previous devices, making it a prime candidate for military spy missions and water pollution monitoring.