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Developing a method for synthesizing a novel polyester with alternating arrangement

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed a method to synthesize a novel polyester with an alternating arrangement of L- and D-lactic acids, leading to improved productivity and crystallization rate. This achievement is expected to facilitate the development of polyesters with unprecedented characteristics.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalPolymer Chemistry·DateMay 10, 2018

Long-term obeticholic acid treatment leads to reversal or stabilization of fibrosis/cirrhosis in patients with PBC

The study confirms that long-term OCA treatment leads to reversal or stabilization of fibrosis/cirrhosis in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who have had an incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). The majority of patients improved or maintained their histological stage, while two patients deteriorated.

Taking the jab (and the chill) out of vaccination

A team of researchers from James Cook University and Cardiff University have created a fully synthetic flu vaccine that protects mice from swine flu and works on human cells in the laboratory. The vaccine is hyper-stable, meaning it can survive stomach acid and human blood, making it suitable for oral administration.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 12, 2018

A radical approach to methane oxidation into methanol

Researchers at Osaka University have created a radical reaction that converts methane into methanol and formic acid using a clean, low-temperature process. The process achieves this goal without the need for high temperatures or pressures, converting over 99% of methane into the target products.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 18, 2017

Microbes help turn Greek yogurt waste into fuel

Researchers use bacteria to convert leftover sugars and acids from Greek yogurt into molecules that can be used in biofuels or safe feedstock additives. The process produces valuable chemicals, including green antimicrobials and potential drop-in biofuels for jet fuel.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateDec 13, 2017

Biologists taught infusoria to fight poisons

Biologists found a new substance, isocitric acid, with anti-oxidant properties that increased the survival rate of infusoria by 25-31 times compared to untreated cells. The compound also surpassed the effects of ascorbic acid, offering a promising solution for protecting living organisms from various toxic compounds.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPreparative Biochemistry & Biotechnology·DateNov 29, 2017

New study backs up earlier findings -- Omega-6 fatty acids do not promote low-grade inflammation

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland supports earlier findings that omega-6 fatty acids do not increase inflammatory responses. The research found that a high serum linoleic acid level is associated with lower CRP levels, suggesting that linoleic acid may actually alleviate inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 13, 2017

Acid zone in Chesapeake Bay identified

A 'pH minimum zone' of acidic water has been discovered at depths of 10-15 meters in the Chesapeake Bay. This increase in acidity is attributed to toxic hydrogen sulfide and ammonia produced when bottom waters mix upward, threatening shellfish like oysters and clams.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2017

Unveiling nasty act of trans-fatty acids in blood

Trans-fatty acids directly activate ASK1 kinase by enhancing extracellular ATP, promoting cell death in a more direct manner than previously thought. The study identifies several trans-fatty acid types that stimulate cell death, but not their corresponding cis-fatty acids, which have health benefits.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 17, 2017

New design strategy for longer lasting batteries

A new computational design strategy identifies promising cathode coatings to protect lithium-ion batteries from degradation, extending device lifespan. Northwestern University researchers developed the approach using a massive materials database, ranking top candidates and accelerating experimental testing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 20, 2017

Bacterial Pac Man molecule snaps at sugar

Researchers discovered a bacterial protein that uses a Pac Man-like chewing motion to grab and hold onto sugar molecules, allowing pathogens to evade the immune system. This understanding could lead to the development of new therapeutics targeting this protein.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 10, 2017

Perfluorinated compounds found in African crocodiles, American alligators

Two studies find high levels of perfluorinated alkyl acids (PFAAs) in the blood of African crocodiles and American alligators, suggesting exposure to long-lived industrial chemicals. PFAA levels were higher at sites with past use of firefighting foams, indicating potential environmental contamination.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateAug 25, 2016

Disregarded plant molecule actually a treasure

Research by Salk Institute scientists reveals phaseic acid's unexpected role as a plant hormone crucial for drought resistance and survival traits. The study suggests that phaseic acid may inform the development of new, hardier crops to weather climate change-induced natural disasters.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 11, 2016

Chemicals from wood waste

A research team at ETH Zurich has developed a new manufacturing method for succinic acid, a major basic chemical product, using bacteria that convert cellulose from wood waste into glucose. The process is more cost-effective and eco-friendly than traditional oil-based methods.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 13, 2016

Keeping older muscles strong

Researchers at the University of Iowa have identified a protein that causes age-related muscle weakness and loss. They also discovered two natural compounds, found in apples and green tomatoes, which reduce this protein's activity and can restore muscle mass and strength.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 8, 2015