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Antibiotic breakthrough: Team discovers how to overcome gram-negative bacterial defenses

Scientists have developed a new broad-spectrum antibiotic that can target gram-negative bacteria, which are increasingly resistant to most available antibiotics. The breakthrough was achieved by modifying a drug that kills only gram-positive bacteria and discovered key traits required for access to the bacterial cell.

Computer simulations first step toward designing more efficient amine chemical scrubbers

Researchers from North Carolina State University developed a series of computer models that can predict the CO2 absorption properties of amine solutions based on their chemical structure. The models utilize machine-learning techniques and have been found to reliably discriminate between amines with high absorption properties and those ...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMolecular Informatics·DateMar 7, 2017

Buckyballs enhance carbon capture

Researchers at Rice University have created an environmentally friendly compound that effectively captures carbon dioxide emissions from industrial flue gases and natural gas wells. The new material, combined with buckminsterfullerene molecules, achieves high selectivity and efficiency in capturing carbon dioxide while rejecting methane.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 3, 2014

Getting the carbon out of emissions

Researchers at MIT have developed an electrochemical system for capturing carbon dioxide from power plant emissions that can operate without a steam connection. This 'plug-and-play' solution could potentially capture 90% of CO2 from plant emissions while consuming only 25% of the plant's power output.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 26, 2013

Cat and mouse: A single gene matters

A Northwestern University study shows that removing one olfactory receptor from mice can have a profound effect on their behavior, highlighting the importance of individual genes in sensory perception. The research reveals that a single gene, TAAR4, is necessary for mice to avoid predators based on the scent marks of carnivores.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2013

Study: 'Waste heat' may economize CO2 capture

A Rice University team has found that using waste heat can remove more CO2 from coal-fired power plant emissions economically. The researchers hope to reduce the costs of CO2 capture by creating an integrated reaction column that uses waste heat, engineered materials and optimized components.

SourceRice University·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateMar 28, 2013

Ruthenium in a clinch

A new ruthenium catalyst allows for the selective synthesis of primary amines directly from alcohols and ammonia under mild conditions. This process avoids toxic reagents and waste products, making it ecologically and economically beneficial.

SourceWiley·DateOct 20, 2008