Researchers developed compact devices with absorbent-coated fins that trap moisture and generate potable water when heated. The prototype can produce up to 1.3 liters of water per day in dry air, outperforming previous systems.
Researchers found that denser foam sponges wear down more slowly and produce fewer microplastic fibers. The study estimated that 1.55 trillion fibers from melamine sponges could be released every month.
Studies found that wood reduces viral infectivity on its surface, with pine and spruce showing the fastest onset of antiviral activity. The researchers concluded that wood's chemical composition is responsible for its antiviral functionality.
Researchers measured concerning levels of ethylene oxide in Louisiana's 'Cancer Alley' using mobile optical instruments. The study revealed that most locations had ethylene oxide levels above the EPA's acceptable upper limit, with some areas having potentially serious health risks for facility workers.
The ACS Fall 2024 meeting will feature cutting-edge scientific developments in agriculture, energy, health, and sustainability. Journalists can register for press credentials, while marketing professionals and others can register separately via the meeting page.
A dog-like quadruped robot equipped with a mechanized arm is developed to detect hazardous gases and volatile organic compounds in hard-to-reach areas. The system uses air samples collected by the robot's arm and analyzed on-site, allowing for safer conditions for scientists and technicians.
Researchers used 2D infrared spectroscopy to investigate milk protein structures and dynamics in coffee beverages. The study found that milk proteins remained intact, retaining their original properties, even when exposed to caffeine and coffee grounds.
Researchers identified 23 previously undetected metabolites in coral reefs, including amino acids and organosulfonic acids. The study's technique can help monitor coral reef health for climate change and other disturbances.
A self-powered sensor using triboelectric nanogenerator technology can detect movement during MRI scans, shutting them down in real time to produce clearer images. This innovation aims to improve the efficiency and reduce frustration for patients and technicians.
Researchers develop a new photopatterning technique to create dual-mode films with polarization and structural patterns, enabling secure authentication and potential applications in high-level security.
Researchers have developed a new electrochromic film based on metal-organic frameworks that can quickly switch between transparent and colored states to block or allow sunlight. The film demonstrated reliable performance for over 40 hours and 4,500 cycles of switching.
Researchers found higher concentrations of genotoxic carbonyls in some packaged treats, exceeding the recommended threshold for potential health risks. The study suggests that these compounds likely formed during the baking process and highlight the importance of monitoring flavorings in food.
Researchers developed a flexible static electricity-based sensor that detects objects within a certain range. The new technology has potential applications in smart devices and wearable technology, such as enhancing phone screens to recognize more finger gestures or detecting drowsiness while driving.
Researchers found that PFAS are introduced into the Great Lakes through precipitation and accumulate at different rates in each lake. The northern lakes are accumulating PFAS, while Lake Ontario is eliminating them. This study could inform future actions to mitigate PFAS presence in the Great Lakes.
Fermenting blueberry juice creates a wine that maintains fruit benefits, but temperature and time influence nutrient content. The study found anthocyanin and flavanol levels decreased, while flavan-3-ol increased with longer fermentation times.
Scientists have developed a method to transform chicken fat into carbon-based electrodes for supercapacitors, which store energy and power LED lights. The new technology has shown good capacitance, durability, high energy, and power density, highlighting the potential of using food waste as a carbon source in green energy.
Researchers have developed a prototype 'smart' contact lens that measures eye pressure accurately, regardless of temperature. The dual-circuit design removes temperature-related errors, enabling early detection and monitoring of glaucoma.
Researchers have developed swarms of miniature robots that can capture both microplastics and bacteria from water, demonstrating a promising approach for ridding water of plastic and bacteria. The microrobotic system works by attracting particles with positively charged polymer strands, allowing the robots to decontaminate and reuse them.
Researchers have identified 12 new quinoline and isoquinoline alkaloids with anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to reduce renal fibrosis in cell cultures. These findings could provide a lead for developing treatments for chronic kidney disease, according to the study published by the American Chemical Society.
Researchers developed a highly reflective black paint that improves detection of dark objects by lidar sensors in self-driving cars. The new paint, made with titanium dioxide, was tested on two types of lidar sensors and showed improved performance compared to traditional carbon-based paints.
Scientists have created complex, spatially controlled and multifunctional structures using engineered plant living materials. The materials combine the traits of living organisms with the stability and durability of non-living substances.
Research found that oil spills in freshwater produce more chemical changes, creating compounds that can persist longer in the environment. The study simulated a freshwater oil spill and analyzed water samples using mass spectrometry, revealing higher concentrations of oxygen-loaded chemicals.
Researchers analyzed wheat-based glues used in historic bookbinding to understand their adhesiveness and degradation. They found that starch glue is more durable and flexible than flour glue, making it a potentially better choice for book repairs.
Researchers developed a semipermeable membrane that harnesses osmotic energy from salt gradients, achieving higher power density and stable performance underwater. The design expands the range of ecological materials for RED membranes, making them more feasible for real-world use.
A study published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that plant-based steaks and cold cuts have varying levels of protein quality and digestibility. The nutritional value depends on the plants used to create them, with some showing comparable profiles to their meat counterparts.
Researchers studied rodent incisors and discovered tiny pockets of iron-rich materials that form a protective shield for teeth, but don't contribute to the orange-brown hue. This finding could lead to improved human dentistry by incorporating small amounts of iron minerals into dental care products.
Researchers use a vortex fluidic device to improve the shelf life and cleaning ability of organic shampoos. The spun shampoo contains more evenly dispersed oil droplets and glass microspheres compared to the original product, resulting in a better lather and cleaner hair.
Researchers have developed a waterproof 'e-glove' that transmits hand gestures made underwater to a computer, translating them into messages with 99.8% accuracy. The technology could help scuba divers communicate better with each other and boat crews on the surface.
Researchers developed molecular probes that react to the unique pH environment of certain mosquito larvae, which could be used to create highly specific insecticides. These probes bind to proteins in the gut and can be detected using fluorescence, minimizing side effects.
Scientists tested flood-control waterways near unsheltered encampments in Las Vegas, finding SARS-CoV-2 RNA in over 25% of samples. The study suggests a similar level of transmission among the unsheltered community as in the general population.
A new design for a liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerator has increased the amount of wave energy that can be harvested from ocean waves. By repositioning the electrode, researchers were able to boost the device's conversion efficiency 2.4 times, demonstrating its potential for larger-scale applications.
A recent study found that some water-based paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals of emerging concern. The research, published in ACS' Environmental Science & Technology Letters, analyzed the composition of 40 top-selling water-based paints and discovered varying levels of potentially hazardous compounds.
Researchers investigated golfers' potential risks from four common pesticides used on golf course turfgrass. They found that the HQ values from the golfers' exposure indicated little risk to the four pesticides used in this study, suggesting a low risk of adverse effects from exposure.
A recent analysis of six species of seaweeds found in Hawaii reveals that they are rich in essential minerals and nutrients, yet may also contain unsafe levels of heavy metals. The study highlights the need for regulation and informed cooking practices to ensure nutritious and safe seaweed products.
Researchers found that crawfish can accumulate high levels of toxic lithium in their bodies, which can be passed to humans through the food chain. The study highlights the potential risks of lithium contamination in the environment and emphasizes the need for responsible disposal practices.
Researchers are developing nonmetallic quantum dots to identify and separate pollutants from water, including pesticides, surfactants, metal ions, antibiotics, and dyes. The dots can also be used to break down pollutants and help treat oil spills.
A new material has been developed with adaptive durability, meaning it becomes stronger and more conductive when subjected to impact or stretching. The material's conductivity is also improved by adding a small amount of PEDOT:PSS, making it suitable for wearable devices and personalized medical sensors.
Researchers unveiled a theoretical model that shows specific structural details on surfaces can influence water's freezing point. The model identifies angles between microscopic bumps on a surface that make it easier for water molecules to crystallize at relatively warmer temperatures.
Researchers have created molecular crystal motors that move in response to light, using photoisomerization to drive coordinated movements. The motors show remarkable durability and resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for biomedical applications.
Researchers discovered toxic metal particles in unused cannabis vape liquids, with lead levels 100 times higher than acceptable limits. The contamination was linked to device production, not heating, and highlights the need for regulation and improved testing procedures.
Researchers have developed protein-based components that can be used to create sustainable, biodegradable diapers and sanitary pads. These materials are made from porous biomass that is often discarded by the food and agricultural industries, reducing plastic waste and pollution.
Scientists have developed a carbon-negative composite decking material that stores more CO2 than is required to manufacture it. The new material, which is less expensive and meets building codes, could offset up to 250,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually if replaced in the US market.
Researchers have discovered compounds that can activate estrogen-related receptors (ERRs), similar to the effects of exercise on metabolism and muscle growth. The new compounds may offer a substitute for exercise in people with medical conditions, such as heart failure and neurodegenerative disease.
Scientists synthesized major component of mucus and discovered that altering healthy cell mucins made them act more like cancer cells. Researchers created synthetic mucins to study their impact on cancer biology, finding a potential target for cancer treatments.
Kombucha brewers can now optimize their brews with science. The team discovered that silicone bags expose SCOBYs to more oxygen, speeding up brewing time and reducing ethanol levels. Additionally, using glucose as the SCOBY food source creates a kombucha with more gluconic acid and minimal ethanol.
Four species of edible ants exhibit distinct flavor profiles, including acidic and vinegary smells from common black ants and nutty, woody aromas from chicatana ants. Further investigation is needed to explore the flavor profiles of more ant species and developmental stages.
Researchers discovered that wild animal hair undergoes seasonal changes to insulate against extreme temperatures. The inner microscopic details of the hairs change, allowing animals to survive in their environment.
Researchers have developed a method to identify extremophiles using protein fragments, leading to the discovery of two new 'extremophile' microbes from high-altitude lakes in Chile. This breakthrough could potentially help scientists search for extraterrestrial life and explore Earth's biodiversity.
Researchers have discovered a way to stick hard and soft materials together using electricity, forming chemical bonds that can be easily reversed. This electroadhesion effect could enable the creation of biohybrid robots and improve biomedical implants.
A new electrolyte improves batteries in aerial electric vehicles, allowing them to be repurposed in less demanding applications. The study reveals that stressed-out batteries can still meet typical power demands, but require alternative battery technologies for high-power-demand applications.