Researchers have discovered a new polymer that produces water vapor and leaves a nearly nonflammable residue when heated, making it more fire-resistant than current materials. The study's findings could help prevent deaths in survivable airplane accidents, which account for 40% of fatalities.
A new sulfoxide hydrogel polymer enhances water levels in the eye while minimizing protein buildup, leading to softer lenses that are more comfortable and breathable. Clinical trials have begun for these innovative contact lenses, which could become available as early as next year.
Researchers found that chromium picolinate causes DNA breakage, potentially leading to genetic mutations and cancer. The study's findings highlight the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of chromium picolinate supplementation.
Researchers have confirmed that blue-green algae Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) significantly lowers cholesterol levels in animals. Additionally, the algae's benefits appear to be independent of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), suggesting a potential dual mechanism of action.
Researchers have developed a new, more effective form of the medication Ritalin that produces fewer side effects and has the potential to be used in anticocaine therapy. The improved drug is made through a chiral synthesis process, which allows for smaller doses and reduced potential side effects.
Research on limonoids, compounds in citrus peels, indicates potential anticancer activities, inhibiting human breast cancer cell proliferation and reducing LDL cholesterol levels. Field tests also demonstrate insect pest management prospects for these compounds.
Scientists have developed cotton fabrics with built-in pesticide detoxifiers that can be cleaned and reactivated by washing with bleach. The treatment reduces pesticide levels in garments to harmless fragments within minutes, offering a comfortable and protective solution for agricultural workers and gardeners.
A new finish for cotton fabric has been developed using citric acid and maleic acid, offering superior durable press performance and good laundering durability. The cost-effective method is a formaldehyde replacement and is now under commercial development.
A French medical researcher claims that moderate caffeine consumption does not lead to addiction, but rather increases alertness and energy. However, high doses of caffeine can trigger functional activity in the brain's reward system, leading to potential negative effects such as anxiety and depression.
Researchers have identified three compounds that can stimulate new bone growth in animals, including synthetic chemicals and a natural product. These small molecule compounds are relatively inexpensive, stable, and can be easily modified or formulated, potentially leading to the first osteoporosis treatment to stimulate new bone growth.
The American Chemical Society (ACS) has introduced ASAP Alerts, a new online service that sends e-mail notifications of newly available Articles ASAP from each of its 27 Web editions of journals. Subscribers and non-subscribers can sign up for daily or weekly notifications, with access to full-text articles within minutes.
Ralph Nader will speak on mergers and acquisitions at the American Chemical Society's national meeting. The event is scheduled for March 22 at the Anaheim Convention Center.
Dr. Satcher addresses the American Chemical Society on building a better community health system, honoring black chemist Percy Julian's discovery of glaucoma treatment. He shares insights on opportunities and challenges for a balanced community health system.
Mike McCormack warns of impending energy crisis in the US, citing depleted conventional oil and natural gas reserves. He also addresses the limitations of implementing solar and wind energy resources to meet America's Kyoto Treaty obligations.
Wine flavor and aroma are influenced by grape composition and tannins, according to Dr. Ernie Simpson. The presentation will also explore the potential health benefits of moderate wine consumption.
The American Chemical Society is honoring black chemist Percy Julian's accomplishments in pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis. Julian made significant contributions to the development of a low-cost synthetic method for cortisone, an antiarthritis drug, and synthesized the glaucoma medication physostigime.
An international team of experts in chemical education will discuss critical topics, including the effect of educational standards on chemist mobility and government support for chemistry education. The symposium will present the latest developments from various regions and showcase programs for students with varying backgrounds.
Dr. John Fortman will explore the chemistry connection in unexpected movies, such as 'The Graduate' and 'It's a Wonderful Life'. He will also showcase live chemical demonstrations in explosive films like Apollo 13 and Dante's Peak.
A new bioreactor system uses solvent and bacteria to clean up toxic organic chemicals like benzene, toluene, and p-xylene. The system can recover over 99% of pollutants from soil and is efficient at breaking down high concentrations of waste.
A new detoxification method using titanium dioxide and light has been developed to destroy potentially deadly microcystins found in drinking water. The method is quicker and more effective than current methods, but further testing is needed to confirm its safety.
Research suggests tart cherries' anthocyanins can prevent oxidative damage and inhibit inflammatory enzymes, rivaling commercial antioxidants like vitamin E. Daily consumption of 20 tart cherries may provide anti-inflammatory benefits for pain relief from arthritis and gout.
Researchers have found that incineration of solid waste has been the dominant source of atmospheric lead to the New York City metropolitan area, contradicting current mainstream thinking. The study also suggests that solid waste combustion may contribute to other atmospheric pollutants.
New research suggests that prolonged alcohol intake can lead to cancer risk due to acetaldehyde production, which damages genetic building blocks and is efficiently inserted into DNA in some people. A large percentage of Asians lack the enzyme needed to break down acetaldehyde, making them more prone to esophageal and liver cancers.
The American Chemical Society's spring national meeting will discuss various topics including obesity treatment and the use of geochemicals to detect extraterrestrial life. Over 5,000 scientific papers will be presented to an estimated 10,000 attendees.
Researchers at the US Department of Agriculture have created an anti-browning treatment that prevents apples from turning brown for up to five weeks. The new technique uses natural products and doesn't require special packaging, with potential applications in other fresh-cut fruits.
Cuba is seeking to diversify its economy through science, particularly in chemistry and genetic engineering, due to an overdependence on sugarcane. The country has made significant advancements in research, including vaccine development and treatments for various diseases.
Klaus Toepfer warns of a growing global conflict over natural resources, particularly water, as the world's population is projected to increase dramatically. He advocates for monitoring drinking water reserves, cooperative agreements, and economic incentives for new technologies to promote water conservation.
A comprehensive study reveals that new permanent press clothing, paints, floor finishes, wallpaper, and fingernail polishes can emit substantial amounts of formaldehyde. Low-level exposure can cause irritation, while long-term exposure may lead to respiratory difficulties and other health issues.
A commonly used sunscreen ingredient, PBSA, can damage DNA when exposed to sunlight, according to a recent study. The research suggests that this could lead to increased risk of developing skin cancer if similar damage occurs within skin cells.
Research by Japanese scientists found that beer inhibited the action of mutagens caused by suspected cancer-causing compounds, with stout beers showing the most potent effect. The study also showed that red and white wines, brandy, and Japanese sake had similar inhibitory effects.
A new sensor developed by Johns Hopkins researchers can detect minute traces of nerve agents sarin and soman in water, boasting sensitivity levels a million times greater than previous reported solutions. The sensor combines molecular imprinting with optical luminescence to achieve this remarkable detection capability.
Researchers have found a protein in the small intestine that directly facilitates uptake of dietary lipids, making it a promising target for drugs to combat obesity and heart disease. The discovery has the potential to significantly reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and may help treat conditions such as artherosclerosis.
Aromatic amines, used in industrial processes, have been detected in human milk, raising concerns about breast cancer risk and infant exposure. The study's findings suggest that breast ductal epithelial cells are also exposed to these substances, highlighting the need for further investigation.
A recent USGS study suggests that rivers, particularly the South Platte River in Colorado and Nebraska, are emitting high levels of nitrous oxide (N2O), a catalyst for ozone depletion. The study's findings indicate that N2O emissions from these rivers could be a major human-made source of N2O to the atmosphere.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that adding cherry tissue to ground beef retards spoilage and reduces the formation of suspected cancer-causing compounds like HAAs. The resulting product had fewer HAAs when pan-fried, with an overall reduction of 69-78.5 percent.
A newly discovered glycosphingolipid receptor may help explain susceptibility to urinary tract infections and provide a potential new treatment strategy. The receptor, called sialosyl galactosyl globoside (SGG), is suspected to be on urogenital tract cells in about 30% of all men and women, binding strongly to E. coli bacteria.
A previously unknown contaminant similar to PCBs and dioxins has been found in the eggs of Atlantic and Pacific Ocean seabirds, with concentrations significantly higher in Pacific Ocean eggs. The study suggests that the contaminant exists primarily in the surface layer of the ocean.
Researchers suggest that genetic remnants of an ancient virus incorporated into human DNA may assist the AIDS virus in evading anti-drug treatments. Studies found that a specific enzyme from this endogenous virus gene can complement HIV-1 protease activity, making it resistant to current drugs.
Researchers at Amgen have demonstrated how a newly discovered protein regulates feeding behavior, suggesting a potential treatment for obesity. The study found that the protein blocks alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone, leading to increased food consumption.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new method to detect chemical weapons by reacting with specific phosphate esters. The system uses molecules that selectively detect even small amounts of lethal phosphate esters, reducing false positives from benign chemicals like pesticides.
Protein folding research is undergoing explosive growth, revealing secrets of spontaneous self-assembly process, according to an editorial by Jay Winkler and Harry Gray. The study focuses on chemical kinetics and includes real-time observations, advancing efforts to design new drugs and decode genetic information.
Researchers found that dissolved humic material can bind radionuclides, speeding contaminant migration. This process has significant implications for existing and future waste facilities, as low levels of humics in groundwater can facilitate transport.
A study by government scientists found restaurant-prepared meats contain cancer-causing compounds up to ten times higher than similar fast food items. Heterocyclic amines, formed during cooking, are believed to contribute to cancer in people.
A four-year study by Cornell University and the University of California, Davis, found that monitoring early carbon monoxide emissions can help increase efficiency and prevent odors in municipal composting. The study identifies carbon monoxide as a reliable predictor of pending objectionable odors.
Researchers at the University of Limerick have developed a prototype penicillin structure that works by incorporating a unique fragment to the penicillin molecule, fatal to bacteria and activated only when cleaved. This new approach shows promise in combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.
Fresh berries can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol buildup by exhibiting antioxidant activities comparable to those found in grapes and wines. Research is ongoing to determine the optimal berry consumption amount for antioxidant benefits.
Researchers developed a unique micro-scratch tester to examine tiny scratches in real-time, revealing that small cracks appear and create voids before material loss. This discovery led to the creation of new coatings with improved scratch durability, which have been applied to cars for field testing.
Lab tests conducted by Allan Butterfield show that vitamin E can prevent the death of brain cells exposed to a toxic protein found in Alzheimer's brains. The study suggests that antioxidants may be a key to unlocking better therapies for the devastating disease.
A protein found in copperhead snake venom retards breast tumor growth by blocking tumor cell adhesion and invasion, as well as inhibiting new blood vessel development. Studies with mice implanted with human breast cancer cells showed a 60-70% reduction in growth rate and 90% reduction of tumor metastasis to the lungs.
Scientists will present research on the effects of environmental endocrine disruptors on human health and the environment. Studies have found links between pesticides, PCBs, and amphibian decline, as well as potential impacts on fetal development and cancer risk.