Scientists have largely met technical challenges of developing biofuels, offering energy security and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. However, logistics issues with biomass availability, transport, and storage hinder commercial viability.
Scientists have discovered biomarkers in the blood of pregnant women that could lead to early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Almost 70 proteins were found to occur at unusual levels in women with EP, with one protein called Adam12 appearing 20 times lower than in normal pregnancies.
Scientists developed a new medical imaging agent using firefly luciferase that emits near-infrared light, successfully detecting factor Xa proteins in laboratory experiments. The discovery offers promise for improved monitoring of heparin therapy and treatment of blood clots.
Cocaine production in Colombia accelerates rainforest destruction, threatening biodiversity hotspots. Designated protected areas can help preserve ecosystems.
Researchers have developed a new catalyst that efficiently converts lactic acid into acrylic acid at lower temperatures, offering a sustainable alternative for producing essential industrial materials. This breakthrough could lead to reduced fuel consumption and decreased environmental impact.
Scientists have developed a key advance toward a fast, simple test to detect the toxin that causes cholera. The new method uses specially prepared nanoparticles coated with dextran to bind to specific characteristics of the cholera toxin receptor, allowing for easy detection.
Researchers discovered that sports stadiums and street lighting can increase daytime ozone levels, a key air pollutant in heavily populated areas. This effect is significant for cities struggling to meet stricter government air pollution limits.
Scientists have discovered how chocolate boosts the body's production of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), also known as 'good' cholesterol. By enhancing the activity of proteins that attach to genetic material, polyphenols in cocoa increase ApoA1 levels and decrease ApoB levels, leading to improved heart health.
A study published in Chemical Research in Toxicology found that wood smoke particulate matter contains higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are linked to DNA damage and disease. The researchers also discovered that WSPM causes inflammation and greater activity in genes linked to disease.
Researchers discovered that bright light from sports stadiums and urban street lights can boost daytime ozone levels, a key air pollutant in many areas. Cities may need to consider the unexpected effects of night-time lighting on air quality.
A report published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that catnip oil is 99% effective in repelling bloodsucking stable flies. The repellent action lasts for about three hours and has the potential to reduce cattle industry loses by $2 billion annually.
Researchers have discovered Largazole's potential to stimulate bone growth and repair damaged bones. The compound blocks the body's natural bone resorption process, offering new hope for treating bone diseases.
A review of vegetarianism's biochemistry finds vegans at elevated risk for blood clots and atherosclerosis. Key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12 can mitigate this risk with dietary supplements or fortified foods.
Scientists report that red mud's high alkalinity and salt content are the main threats to crop growth, not toxic metals or radioactivity. Adding gypsum can reduce alkalinity and accelerate salt removal, recommending long-term monitoring of metal levels in crops.
Scientists discovered that broccoli's cancer-fighting compounds target the p53 gene, which is often mutated in human cancers. Isothiocyanates from broccoli may remove the defective protein, leaving normal cells intact, paving the way for new cancer treatments.
Scientists have developed a new material consisting of copper-coated silica nanoparticles that can eliminate unpleasant odors. These nanoparticles are up to twice as effective as the current gold standard, activated carbon, in removing foul-smelling substances like ethyl mercaptan.
Researchers found DOSS, a dispersant ingredient, concentrated in deepwater plumes at depths up to three-quarters of a mile after the spill; it was detected over 200 miles from the well two months later. The study's findings are inconclusive on the effectiveness of dispersants in breaking up oil coming out of the wellhead.
New phosphate-free automatic dishwashing detergents are being developed to combat water pollution, but they may not be as effective as previously thought. Researchers are working on alternative formulas that can clean dishes without contributing to environmental harm.
Scientists successfully applied home device technology to increase solubility of anticancer drugs like tamoxifen and paclitaxel. The process has potential for improving performance of dyes, paints, rust-proofing agents and other products.
Researchers have developed a new ultra-light biodegradable foam plastic material made from two unlikely ingredients: milk protein and ordinary clay. The material, reported in the ACS' Biomacromolecules journal, could be used in furniture cushions, insulation, packaging, and other products.
Scientists have developed a new food packaging material that uses silver nanoparticles to fight bacteria and extend shelf life. The material has been shown to be effective against E. coli and S. aureus, two common causes of bacterial food poisoning.
Researchers are leveraging a 40-year-old blood test procedure to develop new lifesaving medications, utilizing modern lab instruments for greater sensitivity. The approach reduces sample requirements, storage, and shipping costs, potentially saving millions of dollars in drug development.
Scientists have developed a stable RNA nanoparticle that can power biological motors and resist enzyme breakdown, paving the way for RNA nanotechnology applications. This innovation could lead to new treatments for cancer, viral, and genetic diseases.
Scientists have made silicon oxide, a long-regarded electric insulator, act like a switch, allowing it to participate in electronic processes that power cell phones and computers. This breakthrough could lead to the development of smaller and more powerful computer chips.
Researchers have isolated a key hormone that allows the Phytophthora fungi to reproduce and developed a synthetic version of this hormone. This breakthrough could lead to an effective method to combat this ancient scourge, which has caused devastating potato crop failures and food shortages globally.
Cigarette smoke begins to cause DNA damage within minutes after inhalation into the lungs, a warning from scientists. This damage is linked to cancer and can be caused by substances in tobacco smoke, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Scientists have found that thirdhand smoke, the invisible remains of cigarette smoke, can react with ozone in indoor air to form potentially toxic pollutants on surfaces. This can lead to adverse health effects, particularly for vulnerable populations like babies crawling on carpet or people eating food tainted by thirdhand smoke.
A new camera technology uses infrared imaging to visualize bloodstains and other substances, overcoming limitations of existing methods. This innovation has the potential to improve crime scene investigations by providing non-destructive analysis.
Scientists have developed a new ultra-light form of 'frozen smoke,' a carbon nanotube aerogel, with impressive strength and surface area. The material has potential applications in sensors, chemical reactors, and electronics components, and can detect pollutants and toxic substances.
A recent study published in Inorganic Chemistry found that eye drops containing pirenoxine reduced cloudiness in lens solutions by up to 38% in some cases. The results suggest using PRX as an anti-cataract agent and warrant further biological studies.
Scientists seek to create rat poisons that specifically target rats without posing a threat to people, pets, or wildlife. Researchers are working on tracking rodent consumption and studying resistance mechanisms to develop safer alternatives.
Scientists in China have created a more eco-friendly and cost-effective way to produce deuterium-depleted drinking water, which may be beneficial for human health. The new technique uses a platinum catalyst to efficiently remove deuterium from water, reducing levels from 150 ppm to 125 ppm.
Studded winter tires grind away at road surfaces, generating dust particles linked to inflammation and diseases such as heart disease. Researchers found specific protein changes in cells related to road dust exposure, which could help understand the link between pavement dust and heart disease.
Scientists report that household sewage has nearly 20% more energy potential than previously estimated, offering a new avenue for extracting methane, hydrogen, and other fuels from wastewater. The discovery could transform treatment facilities into energy sources, reducing their energy drain.
Researchers found no significant difference in polyphenol content between organically grown and conventionally grown onions, carrots, and potatoes. Organic farming methods are still considered beneficial for animal welfare and environmental protection.
A new smart grid system aims to optimize energy use, allowing consumers to control their appliances and use electricity during off-peak hours. The proposed 'time of use' pricing strategy could lead to significant cost savings for US households.
A special edition of the American Chemical Society journal Environmental Science & Technology is now online, focusing on environmental policy past, present, and future. The issue includes articles on topics such as energy sustainability, biodiversity, and climate change.
A study by French scientists found that pouring champagne down the side of an angled glass preserves up to twice as much carbon dioxide as pouring straight down. Chilling champagne before serving also enhances its taste.
A new study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research found that people with symptoms of potential celiac disease may not be 'potential' patients at all. The study suggests that these individuals have the same distinctive metabolic fingerprint as those with full-blown disease who benefit from gluten-free diets.
The article highlights the significant impact of human microbiome on overall health, with microbes contributing to protection from disease and production of essential vitamins. Researchers are also exploring how the gut microbiome affects body weight and odor.
A new analysis by ACS suggests that banning toxic substances in toys and children's products is crucial. The authors recommend government action, including restrictions on well-documented toxins, and industry-wide efforts to establish safe production practices.
Scientists challenge conventional wisdom on fluoride's effectiveness in preventing tooth decay, finding the protective shield on teeth is just 6 nanometers thick, sparking questions about its ability to protect teeth.
Scientists have discovered that cilantro's (E,E)-2,4-Undecadienal compound effectively eliminates the strong smell of chitlins. The ingredient can suppress odor at very low concentrations, equivalent to about 10 drops in an Olympic-size pool.
Scientists analyzed studies on estrogen in drinking water and found most estrogens come from natural sources such as soy, dairy, and animal waste, not birth control pills. Researchers concluded that the pill accounts for less than 1% of estrogens in drinking water supplies.
Catnip oil has proven 99% effective in repelling stable flies that cause $2 billion in annual losses. The repellent action lasts for about three hours and is being improved upon.
Scientists developed a firefly protein that emits near-infrared light, successfully detecting minute amounts of factor Xa in laboratory experiments. The advance offers promise for improved monitoring of heparin therapy, a treatment for blood clots.
A study found that plants growing in contaminated soil near the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant adapt by altering certain proteins involved in cell signaling, allowing them to thrive in highly radioactive environments. Only about five percent of proteins were altered, suggesting a surprising resilience.
Researchers identify biochemical mechanisms in Casertana and Large White pigs to produce more flavorful and leaner pork products. The study aims to develop new pig breeds with a desirable combination of leanness and flavor.
Researchers created a 'perfumery radar' system to classify perfume families, closely matching expert descriptions. The tool speeds up perfume development, saving time and money for manufacturers.
Scientists have developed a new filtering technology that kills up to 98% of disease-causing bacteria in water without clogging. The material uses silver and electricity to destroy bacteria, allowing for easy flow through the filter.