Researchers have identified up to 28 proteins in saliva, including biomarkers for diseases like cancer. Saliva testing may become a life-saving alternative to blood tests in developing nations where early diagnosis is critical.
A new system, Genomic Messaging System (GMS), has been developed to store and transmit whole sequences of patient DNA in a compressed form while maintaining privacy. This technology could enable doctors to prescribe tailored treatments based on unique genetic variations.
A US study found significantly higher levels of brominated flame retardants (PBDEs) in food samples than previous market studies. The most contaminated items were fish, meat, and dairy products, highlighting the need for further research into the exposure routes of these toxic chemicals.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel polyester lubricant called SHP that improves computer hard drive performance and lasts longer. The lubricant, which has good adhesion properties, shields the disk from damage during contact with the head, allowing for faster reading and writing.
Researchers have developed a new hydrogen generator that uses sunflower oil, air, and water vapor to produce hydrogen intermittently. The process reduces dependence on foreign oil and generates fewer pollutants than traditional methods.
The new powder-based vaccine formulation has shown an 83-100% survival rate in rabbits exposed to lethal doses of inhalation anthrax. Initial data indicates improved stability over the liquid version, allowing for stockpiling without refrigeration. Further studies are needed before clinical trials could begin within two to three years.
Research studies on citrus fruits have discovered compounds that fight cancer, obesity, and cholesterol. Compounds in grapefruit may yield a "super-pill" to reduce cost of prescription drugs.
A new non-invasive imaging technique using magnetic resonance imaging and a novel MRI agent can help surgeons determine the extent of cancer in breast patients. The technology has the potential to reduce surgical trauma and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers develop polymer films that can close up holes ripped through them by high-speed projectiles, potentially improving aircraft survivability. The material's thermal properties influence its self-healing performance, and a balance between restoring force and elasticity is crucial for optimal results.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to detect and trace elevated levels of an enzyme linked to plaque instability. The technique uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to pinpoint plaques that are most likely to rupture, potentially allowing doctors to prioritize treatment.
Researchers have developed new, non-toxic additives for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) to improve its fire retardancy. The additives, which rely on copper atoms, work by creating chemical crosslinks that form an inert char on the surface of PVC, helping to block flammable gases.
A new laboratory study using rat liver cells found that the blueberry compound pterostilbene activates the PPAR-alpha receptor, reducing cholesterol and other lipids. Pterostilbene was shown to be similar in activity to a commercial drug, but with fewer side effects.
The American Chemical Society has recognized four companies for developing innovative therapies for various ailments, including eye disease and high cholesterol. These breakthroughs were made possible by the work of industrial chemists and chemical engineers who have led to commercially successful products that improve quality of life.
The ACS Petroleum Research Fund has distributed over $420 million in grants, supporting groundbreaking research in areas like drug development, catalysis, and oil exploration. The fund's impact is evident in the careers of 19 Nobel laureates and thousands of students who have benefited from its support.
A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that farmed salmon have significantly higher levels of flame retardants, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), than wild salmon. Wild Chinook salmon from British Columbia showed the highest average PBDE levels.
A new study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that cinnamon oil is effective in killing mosquito larvae, with four compounds exhibiting strong activity against the yellow fever mosquito. The study suggests that cinnamon oil could be a good mosquito repellant, although further testing is needed.
A multidisciplinary group of scientists will now begin working together to set standards on the methodology used to measure antioxidants. The goal is to identify the most reliable values for antioxidant measurements, which are thought to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, as well as fight aging and related diseases.
The Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards have honored scientists who develop innovative chemistry to lower pollution. Two winners in 2004 developed "tunable" benign solvents from water and CO2 that host chemical reactions more cleanly and efficiently.
A new sensor, smaller than a dime, measures blood glucose levels by detecting changes in acidity and frequency. The device requires no internal power supply or connections outside the body, allowing users to wave their hand to get a reading.
Top US high school students have been selected to serve as members of the 2004 US Chemistry Olympiad Team, including Emily Tsui, Eric Brown, Fan Zhang, John Leon Kiappes, Jr., Jeremy Hiatt and Allen Cheng. The team will represent the country at international events, following college-level training and competition in organic chemistry.
A new USDA study has identified the top sources of antioxidants in food, with fruits like cranberries and blueberries leading the way. The study found that lesser-known foods like Russet potatoes, pecans, and cinnamon also contain high levels of antioxidants.
A study by Canadian scientists found high levels of pollutant films on windows in lower Manhattan six weeks after the 9/11 attacks, revealing concentrations up to 10 times greater than normal background levels. The findings suggest that urban areas like New York City have high levels of toxic organic pollutants.
A new study isolated a compound called dodecenal from fresh cilantro leaves, which is found in salsa, and showed it to be twice as potent as the antibiotic gentamicin at killing Salmonella. The researchers believe that eating more fresh salsa could help prevent foodborne illness.
Demand for US chemical products increased while firms cut costs. Dow Chemical topped sales at $9.3 billion, followed by DuPont at $8 billion. DuPont led earnings with $964 million, ahead of Dow's $469 million increase in the same quarter last year.
A compound found in orange and tangerine peels has shown promise as a natural alternative for lowering LDL cholesterol without side effects. The compound, called polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs), was found to lower cholesterol levels by 32-40% in animal studies.
Researchers have successfully built nanotube transistor devices that can function at very high speeds, potentially leading to faster cell phones and computers. The transistors operate at a frequency of 2.6 gigahertz, switching electrical current on and off in about one billionth of a second.
A new bio-bar-code amplification test could provide a comprehensive disease profile from a single drop of blood, making it ideal for resource-poor settings. The test has already shown promise in detecting anthrax and prostate cancer, with the potential to be ready for marketing within one year.
The 2003 Starting Salary Survey shows a shift in employment patterns among new chemistry Ph.D. graduates, with more taking lower paying academic positions. Median salaries were lower than previous classes, with bachelor's graduates still below the all-time high.
A new study by scientists from Argonne National Laboratory and the Department of Homeland Security highlights the need for specific guidance on cleaning up after a dirty bomb attack. The current lack of common standards for safe contaminant levels could lead to delays and undermine public confidence.
Researchers at Harvard University developed world's smallest lasers for faster computers, while nanotechnology shows promise in cleaning up industrial sites and removing environmental pollutants. New biological sensors could lead to improved diagnostics and noninvasive imaging techniques.
The ACS national meeting showcased significant discoveries in nanotechnology, including potential vaccine for diabetes and snake venom that removes blood stains. Researchers also explored the benefits of daily honey consumption on heart disease prevention and the impact of adult bone marrow-derived cells on brain and brawn repair.
The US is likely to see an increase in West Nile virus cases in California this year, thanks to a combination of mosquito population, agricultural methods, and bird migration patterns. The state's diverse geography and climate will also contribute to the spread of the disease.
The symposium will focus on challenges in herb research, including the development of a valid test for herbal supplements and discussions on health benefits and quality issues. Experts will share their knowledge on polyphenols, regenerative properties of Chinese herbs, and quality problems with plant products.
A synthetic compound called ISO-1 appears to work by blocking inflammation and protecting mice from developing type 1 diabetes. The researchers believe it could be developed into an oral drug that provides long-lasting protection for young people.
Researchers are developing bacterial cellulose-based products for various uses, including artificial blood vessels for microsurgery, electronic paper displays, and bioengineered wound dressings. These innovative materials have the potential to improve healing rates, reduce pain, and enhance medical outcomes.
Researchers explore new natural pesticides derived from plants and microorganisms to combat parasitic weeds that destroy large areas of crops. Scientists are developing broad-spectrum herbicides with targeted resistance to useful crops.
A study found that a component of snake venom can help remove stubborn bloodstains from clothes, with fibrinolytic enzymes facilitating the breakdown of blood protein fibrin. Researchers successfully tested the enzyme on blood-stained denim swatches, showing significantly fainter stains after treatment.
New studies examine acrylamide levels in foods such as potato chips, breads and cereals. Researchers have found that cooking conditions influence acrylamide levels, with some foods showing low levels despite popular assumption.
A new study by Southern Methodist University researchers has found that nanoparticles, specifically buckyballs, can cause significant brain damage in fish within 48 hours. The study's lead author suggests further testing and assessment of the risks and benefits of these nanoparticles before their widespread use.
Professor Sandra C. Greer was recognized for her dedication to encouraging women in chemistry, with over half of her Ph.D. students being female. She has supervised 14 Ph.D. dissertations and chaired the University of Maryland Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.
Harvard chemist Harold Corey has made thousands of complex chemical structures, leading to medicines like Celebrex, Singulair, and Xalatan with sales over $10 billion annually. His approach of mentally dissecting molecules into simple building blocks is now a standard in academic and commercial research.
A study by Miriam Jacobs and colleagues has found significant increases in flame retardant levels in cod liver oil supplements over the past four years. This is a growing concern due to the potential for these chemicals to contaminate the environment and human health, particularly through consumption of contaminated fish oils.
Spanish scientists have developed a technique to determine the color of ancient wine, revealing that King Tut's wine was made with red grapes. The analysis is the first extensive chemical analysis done on a jar from King Tut's tomb and provides evidence of the color of wine in an archaeological sample.
A study by Andrea Ferro found that common household activities like dusting, vacuuming, and even walking around can resuspend house dust, increasing exposure to particulate pollution. This can aggravate health problems like asthma and decrease lung functioning.
Scientists have discovered a synthetic chemical called cardiogenol that can selectively differentiate embryonic stem cells into beating cardiac muscle cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for heart disease and other degenerative conditions.
Companies like Gemesis and Apollo Diamond are creating lab-grown diamonds over a carat in size that match mined counterparts in terms of chemical and physical properties. Additionally, colored diamonds can be created by introducing controlled elemental impurities, such as nitrogen for yellow stones or boron for blue gems.
A new vaccine formulation uses a bacterial protein called listeriolysin O to boost the immune response against viral diseases. The vaccine has shown promise in preliminary animal studies, with a 100% survival rate in mice infected with a lethal viral strain.
For skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, artificial snow requires realistic look, feel, and action. Machine-made snow uses seed materials to form ice crystals, with popular additives like Snomax and Drift enhancing realism and speed.
The study found that selling untreated used oil as fuel causes high levels of heavy metal emissions, including zinc and lead. Recycling and re-refining programs are recommended to reduce this environmental burden and promote safer alternatives.
The chemical industry is expected to experience increased production and demand, leading to historic levels of growth in the US, Canada, and Asia-Pacific. In contrast, European chemical industries are forecasted to exhibit modest growth due to economic constraints.