A possible link has been discovered between childhood middle ear infections and a tendency to be overweight later in life. Research suggests that prompt diagnosis and treatment of ear infections may help fight obesity in some people.
Planting trees around poultry farms can reduce emissions of dust, ammonia, and odors by up to 56% and 53%. Trees also conserve energy, improve air quality, and filter pollutants from soil and groundwater.
Researchers have identified a unique 'odor profile' for skin cancer using advanced chromatography techniques. The discovery could lead to a rapid, non-invasive diagnostic test that detects skin cancer before symptoms appear.
Grapefruit juice and other common fruit juices, such as orange and apple, can decrease the absorption of certain drugs, including those used for heart disease, cancer, and organ transplantation. This interaction may lead to a loss of beneficial effects and potentially toxic overdoses.
Researchers have developed a new temperature-regulating film that can be applied to micro-spacecraft, allowing them to withstand extreme heat and cold in space. This breakthrough technology has the potential to enable cheaper and more efficient satellite launches, opening up new applications for communications and defense.
Researchers have developed a new imaging system that highlights cancerous tissue, allowing surgeons to visualize and remove diseased tissue with greater precision. The FLARE system uses special chemical dyes and near-infrared light to 'cutting by color' tumors more easily.
A previously unrecognized group of air pollutants has been discovered that can cause life-threatening conditions similar to those found in tobacco smoke. Inhaling these pollutants exposes individuals to potentially lethal amounts of free radicals, with the average person inhaling 300 times more daily than from smoking one cigarette.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing a safer, fully-synthetic version of heparin, a widely used blood thinner currently produced from pig intestines. The new synthesis method uses powerful enzymes to produce the pure heparin polymer, boosting production a million times higher than previous methods.
Researchers develop new technology to analyze hair interactions, finding that mechanical and chemical changes cause rough feel. The study aims to optimize hair care product formulas by understanding how different components affect hair-to-hair interactions.
The American Chemical Society has inducted 25 scientists into its Heroes of Chemistry hall of fame, including Bruce Roth, inventor of Lipitor, the world's largest selling drug. The honorees are being recognized for their groundbreaking research and contributions to humanity.
New research from ACS Nano explores innovative applications of nanotechnology, such as increasing power conversion efficiencies in solar cells and targeting nanoparticles for gene delivery. The journal also discusses rapid toxicity evaluation methods and the use of nanotubes with nanomotors to enhance speed.
Scientists have created a new generation of nanomotors that are up to 10 times more powerful than existing motors, with top speeds reaching 94-200 micrometers per second. The innovation uses carbon nanotubes to boost the speed and efficiency of the motors.
A new study reveals that absinthe's supposed mind-altering effects were caused by its high alcohol content, not thujone. The researchers analyzed pre-ban absinthe and found relatively small concentrations of thujone, which was insufficient to explain the drink's reputation.
New research suggests that irradiation can effectively kill internalized pathogens beyond the reach of conventional chemical sanitizers, including E. coli and Salmonella. Studies show that washing alone may not be enough to reduce foodborne illnesses, highlighting the potential benefits of irradiation in reducing the risk.
Charcoal-derived biochar improves soil fertility, increases crop biomass and enhances natural carbon sequestration abilities. This revolutionary farming technique holds promise as a carbon-negative strategy to combat hunger and global warming.
Researchers link atherosclerosis to widespread organ damage and discover potential targets for treatment. The study found that biochemical signals in arteries can contribute to harm in the lungs, liver, and other organs.
Researchers have created a highly efficient method for producing hydrogen from plant biomass, addressing three major technical barriers to the 'hydrogen economy'. The new system could enable pollution-free and fuel-efficient transportation in the future.
A 14-year-old CEO has created a chemistry trading card game called Elementeo that teaches chemical elements and compounds through interactive gameplay. The game's unique mechanics aim to combine fun and learning, with the goal of reducing opponents' electrons to zero.
New Bt corn varieties have shown reduced levels of aflatoxin and lower rates of fungal infection, offering a potential solution to the global threat of this deadly toxin. The developments come as part of Monsanto's efforts to engineer better corn crops resistant to insect pests and environmental stressors.
Researchers have discovered innovative ways to create polycarbonate plastics from carbon dioxide, which could lead to the production of more affordable, safer, and environmentally friendly products. The new process has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by trapping CO2 in plastics.
Researchers developed a special filter that quickly removes prion proteins, causing mad cow disease and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, from blood. The device has been approved for use in Europe and is expected to be commercialized in Ireland and the UK in mid 2008.
A symposium on energy research highlighted the need for transformational breakthroughs to meet future energy demands while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists discussed various renewable energy sources, including solar, nuclear power, hydrogen economy, and catalysis for transportation fuels.
Renowned chemist Harry Gray foresees a 10-year period of research and development to reduce the cost of solar energy, making it competitive with petroleum. The goal is to harness sunlight to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, providing a clean fuel source.
Researchers have developed a fast method to detect fake Tamiflu using Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (DESI-MS), which can analyze samples in under one minute. This new approach is crucial in the fight against counterfeit drugs, with potential applications for large-scale screening during pandemics.
The Global Innovation Imperatives (Gii) project aims to combat global health, environmental and societal issues through chemistry-based solutions. Key focus areas include advancing science breakthroughs and addressing pressing water concerns, such as cleanliness, availability and sustainability.
The American Chemical Society's president will lead a special symposium on energy research and future challenges. Experts from various fields, including nuclear energy systems, hydrogen economy, and solar energy utilization, will present their findings.
A recent study found that proteins in alligator blood have potent antimicrobial properties, effective against MRSA and Candida albicans yeast infections. Researchers believe these proteins could be used to develop new treatments for diabetic ulcers, severe burns, and other infections
Researchers warn of unforeseen environmental and health consequences of nanosilver in consumer products, as simple experiments show nanoparticle silver can leach into waterways. Improved product labeling is proposed to increase public awareness.
Scientists suggest that meteorite impacts may have delivered the chemical seeds of life on Earth, resulting in a predominance of left-handed amino acids. This theory is supported by evidence found on meteorites and simulations of prebiotic conditions, which show that cosmic amino acids can transfer their chirality to simple amino acids.
Researchers have identified at least three clays that kill or significantly reduce the growth of MRSA, Mycobacterium ulcerans, E. coli, and Salmonella bacteria. The clays' antibacterial activity is believed to be due to specific compounds within them.
Researchers have developed solutions to improve bamboo fabrics' durability and hygiene, making them more suitable for consumer products. The new treatments significantly reduce bacterial growth and increase UV protection, opening doors for eco-friendly clothing options.
Researchers are now exploring the fringes of the Periodic Table in pursuit of another 'island of stability', similar to the one discovered in superheavy chemical elements. The next island could lie around atomic number 164, requiring more sophisticated technology and a deeper understanding of element formation.
A new test can detect gunshot residue on a single speck of gunpowder smaller than the width of a human hair, boosting accuracy and reducing false positives. The test uses solid phase micro-extraction combined with gas chromatography to identify chemical compounds present in the powder.
Scientists report proteins in alligator blood may provide powerful new antibiotics to combat diabetic ulcers, severe burns, and antibiotic-resistant infections. Additionally, experts foresee 10 years of R&D to make solar energy competitive with petroleum.
Harold McGee has been awarded the Grady-Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public for his work in explaining complex scientific concepts to a general audience. His writing has appeared in numerous publications and has received several professional honors, including food writer of the year and pioneer in culinology.
Gabor A. Somorjai has been recognized with the 2008 Priestley Medal for his pioneering work in surface science and catalysis, driving significant advancements in materials science and nanoscience. His research has led to thousands of publications over 40 years.
The American Chemical Society's 235th national meeting will present hundreds of newsworthy topics, including a new test for gunshot residue and blood from the American alligator being used as a medical lifesaver. Researchers will also showcase discoveries in chemistry and other fields, such as technology to turn waste CO2 into DVDs and...
The job situation for 2006 chemistry graduates is 'reasonably good' according to the American Chemical Society. The median salary for full-time, permanent employment for bachelor's graduates remained at $35,000. However, salaries for master's and Ph.D. graduates experienced significant declines.
Scientists report biochemical proof that female mammals can sense sperm presence and alter uterine environment to favor fertilization. This discovery has profound implications for in-vitro fertilization, cloning, and animal breeding.
Scientists create a functional radio system utilizing a tiny carbon nanotube detector, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of nano-electronics. The device enables wireless transmission of classical music wirelessly from an iPod to a speaker.
Researchers found that people programmed to love chocolate have a distinct metabolic profile, including low LDL-cholesterol and elevated albumin levels. The study's findings could lead to personalized diets tailored to an individual's metabolic type.
A preliminary laboratory study suggests that consuming large amounts of caffeine with acetaminophen can lead to toxic interactions and liver damage. The researchers recommend limiting caffeine intake while taking acetaminophen, particularly for vulnerable groups such as those taking certain medications or excessive alcohol.
Scientists have developed a rapid prenatal test for Down syndrome that produces accurate results within two hours. The new method uses digital polymerase chain reaction and is potentially cheaper and simpler than existing tests, reducing the workload of lab personnel.
Interactions between ozone and body oils can lead to the formation of chemical byproducts that worsen nasal irritation, headaches, and other air traveler complaints. The study suggests simple steps like installing ozone-destroying catalysts can help reduce these byproducts in aircraft and buildings.
Researchers have developed a nanowire coating on titanium that enhances muscle tissue adhesion for hip replacements and dental reconstructions. The material can also be easily sterilized using UV light or ethanol, making it suitable for hospital settings and food processing plants.
The American Chemical Society presents groundbreaking research on the biotechnology of health and wellness, including a study that reveals 'good' cholesterol can be bad for the heart. Additionally, scientists uncover new information about HDL cholesterol's protein composition, which could lead to more accurate lab tests and life-saving...
A study by Andrea Dietrich at the American Chemical Society meeting found that cPVC has a low odor potential, while HDPE had the highest odor production. The researchers also discovered that certain types of plastic piping can leach organic compounds into drinking water.
Researchers found high levels of reactive compounds in soda sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, which may contribute to cell and tissue damage that could cause diabetes. Adding tea components like EGCG reduced the levels of these compounds.
The American Chemical Society (ACS) is presenting several groundbreaking research developments related to nanotechnology and biotechnology. Researchers from Harvard University, the California Institute of Technology, and Northwestern University will discuss new technologies that aim to improve human health and productivity in the futur...
Researchers have discovered that 'good' cholesterol can undergo detrimental changes in protein composition, making it 'bad' for the heart. The study identifies previously unrecognized proteins that play an important role in maintaining heart health.