Scientists from Brandeis University and the University of Pittsburgh validate Alan Turing's theory of morphogenesis, demonstrating that identical cell-like structures can differentiate into various patterns through intercellular reaction-diffusion. The research has implications for biological development, materials science, and soft ro...
Researchers created tiny oscillators in oil droplets and found that smaller droplets behaved differently due to partitioning effects, not just stochastic reaction dynamics. This discovery highlights the need for engineers to understand and deal with 'partitioning noise' when designing artificial cells
New research extends our understanding of seawater chemistry by ~300 million years with direct measurements of mid-Neoproterozoic marine sulfate concentrations. Additionally, studies reveal spatial variation in 10Be erosion rates and increasing relief in the southern Rocky Mountains, USA.
A new quantum lithography protocol developed by George Miroshnichenko improves the resolution of photolithography technology. The protocol addresses physical limitations caused by light diffraction, allowing for narrower stripes and higher-contrast edges on semiconductors.
Researchers combined ultrafast experimental measurements with theory to study the response of explosives to shockwaves. The results showed that a hydrogen peroxide sample began to tear apart within 50 picoseconds after being shocked, leading to significant temperature increases and pressure waves.
Dartmouth researchers have developed a pH-activated molecular switch that controls the assembly of a commercially available liquid crystal, changing its readout color from purple to green. This technology may help detect harmful gases, pathogens, and explosives.
A new rechargeable flow battery has been engineered by MIT researchers, generating three times as much power per square centimeter as other membraneless systems. The device stores and releases energy through laminar flow, without relying on expensive membranes, and may enable cheaper, large-scale energy storage.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology created a miniature version of the Mona Lisa using nanotechnology, with an image 30 microns in width. The team used ThermoChemical NanoLithography (TCNL) to create variations in molecular concentrations on the nanoscale.
Researchers developed a computer algorithm that can infer the rules of complex systems by analyzing intermittent samples. By looking at relative changes in population updates, they uncovered an invariant geometry that relates to the hidden reactions driving the system.
Researchers have identified a pathway of self-destruction that triggers the spread of cell death in worms, causing a 'blue Grim Reaper' to track death through the body. This discovery sheds light on how ageing causes death and provides insights into preventing it.
University of Miami researchers found that purple bacteria can survive in extreme alien light by distributing photons across multiple reaction centers, allowing each one enough time to recover. This discovery suggests new possibilities for life on Earth and elsewhere in the universe.
Dr. Steven M. Stanley receives the GSA Penrose Medal for his work on the punctuational model of evolution and its application to fossil data. His contributions focus on major climate change, seawater chemistry changes, and patterns of large-scale evolution and extinction.
Chemists discovered that quantum tunnelling enables alcohol reactions in space to occur vigorously at minus 210 degrees Celsius, 50 times faster than at room temperature. The phenomenon allows for the creation of methoxy radicals under extreme cold conditions, shedding light on complex molecule formation in interstellar space.
Researchers at the University of Oregon have developed a new tool to detect hydrogen sulfide levels as low as 190 nanomolar in biological samples. The technique, which relies on nucleophilic aromatic substitution, allows for precise measurement and naked-eye detection.
A team of chemists used the Jülich supercomputer to simulate chemical reactions and found that beyond a certain force, additional mechanical energy does not significantly accelerate reaction rates. Instead, forces above this threshold can create unfavorable spatial structures that block access to reactant molecules.
At Harvard University, scientists have developed a method to assemble intricate nanostructures into delicate flower-like structures. By manipulating chemical gradients, researchers can control the growth behavior of these crystals to create precisely tailored structures, mimicking nature's own self-assembly processes.
Wen Li, assistant professor of chemistry at Wayne State University, has been awarded a $50,000 Sloan Research Fellowship for his innovative research on chemical reactions. This prestigious fellowship recognizes Li's achievements and potential as a rising star in scientific leadership.
Researchers at University College London have developed a method to render carbon nanotubes safe for use in biomedical applications. By chemically modifying and shortening the nanotubes, they can eliminate their toxic properties and make them suitable for direct transport into cells.
Scientists have discovered a new type of molecular lever that can accelerate chemical reactions 1000 times faster than other molecules. This breakthrough has the potential to engineer more efficient materials with improved mechanical and thermal properties.
Researchers at TU Vienna have successfully controlled the splitting of large molecules with up to ten atoms using ultra-short laser pulses. The technique involves influencing the movement of electrons, which in turn affects the atomic nuclei, allowing for targeted control over specific elemental chemical reactions.
Researchers at Arizona State University propose a novel approach to the origins of life, focusing on the 'software' - information content. The study suggests that life is characterized by its unique use of information, providing a roadmap for identifying criteria for emergence. This approach moves away from chemical-based approaches, w...
Researchers have developed a tiny spray of liquid that forms a merged, femtolitre-size Taylor cone, allowing them to study fast biochemical reactions. The device, called dual nano-electrospray, enables scientists to probe solution interactions and complex biomolecules with unprecedented precision.
Researchers discovered a viable community of bacteria surviving without sunlight in Lake Vida's brine, which could have implications for finding life elsewhere. The findings suggest chemical reactions between the brine and sediments generate energy for microbial life.
Researchers have successfully created near-atomically flat silicon surfaces, a breakthrough that could pave the way for new biological and chemical sensors. The team's innovative process uses computer simulations and infrared spectroscopy to create flat surfaces with alternating single-atom-wide rows.
A scientist from Scripps Research Institute has received a grant to develop new chemical reactions for the laboratory preparation of rare natural products, including anticancer and antifungal agents. The project aims to establish a firm scientific foundation for driving medicinal pursuits with improved efficiency.
Researchers created a mouse model reproducing Alzheimer's chemical changes to shed light on spatial memory issues. The study found reduced acetylcholine led to spatial memory deficits and hyperactivity in mice.
The Maillard reaction, discovered by Louis-Camille Maillard in 1912, is a fundamental reaction in culinary chemistry that produces delicious flavors and colors. The reaction also has a dark side, producing potential carcinogens in certain foods.
A new concept for computing uses water droplets as digital information bits, demonstrating rebounding collisions on superhydrophobic surfaces. This enables the development of memory devices and elementary Boolean logic operations.
Researchers have visual evidence that tiny airborne pollutants separate into distinct chemical compositions, with implications for modeling global climate change and predicting air quality conditions. This separation affects the rates of chemical reactions, light reflection and absorption, and cloud formation.
Scientists have discovered a potential cause of Earth's 'icehouse climate' cooling trend, linking it to changes in seawater sulfate content. The study proposes that times of high sulfate concentrations correlate with global cooling, while low concentrations correspond to greenhouse periods.
Researchers from the University of Toronto and University of California Santa Cruz discovered a link between massive gypsurn deposits and changes in seawater chemistry. This connection may have led to global cooling periods, such as during the Eocene epoch, and is supported by data from the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a novel system to monitor real-time chemical changes in the brain using fast scan cyclic voltammetry and wireless neurochemical sensing. This technology can help treat brain disorders by adjusting neurotransmitter levels, reducing symptoms such as tremors.
Scientists generate attosecond bursts of extreme ultraviolet light, allowing them to measure electron dynamics in real-time. This breakthrough could lead to new technologies, including more efficient solar cells and better drugs.
Researchers found that stressed grasshoppers consume more carbohydrate-rich plants, leading to changes in their excretions and affecting the microbes in the ground. This results in slower degradation of complex organic materials, impacting plant growth and field crop productivity.
Researchers at Yerkes National Primate Research Center found that a single light-shock event isn't enough to make rats afraid of the light, but a repeat of the pairing is. This priming effect could lead to new insights into learning and memory treatments or interfere with troubling memories.
A University of Houston civil engineering researcher has received a $2.6 million grant to develop 'smart' cement that can monitor the health of offshore wells during construction and operation. The new material will retain its piezoresistive nature after hardening, allowing for easy detection and localization of structural problems.
Researchers found that people can intuitively sense changes in body odor composition across the lifespan, with odors from older individuals being rated as less intense and less unpleasant. This ability is driven by specific chemical components, contrary to popular belief about old age odor.
A materials scientist at Michigan Technological University has discovered an exothermic reaction that converts carbon dioxide into solid carbon nitride and lithium cyanamide, a precursor to fertilizers. The process releases significant energy, potentially mitigating climate change by utilizing CO2 instead of fossil fuels.
A new study published in Psyche reveals that different butterfly species exhibit unique foraging behaviors, and the findings may be used to develop effective synthetic lures for understanding pollinators. Researchers used multi-colored landing pads and baits to determine that some butterflies rely on both sight and smell to locate food.
Rapamycin, a widely used cancer and transplant drug, leads to diabetes in 15% of patients due to its effect on muscle cells' insulin signal. Researchers discovered that a single transcription factor, YY1, plays a key role in this process. Mice lacking YY1 are protected from diabetes when taking rapamycin.
Space scientists have quantified galactic cosmic ray bombardment on the moon's surface, causing chemical changes in water ice and regolith. This radiation process creates complex organic molecules and darkens lunar soil, providing insight into the geologic history of the moon.
Researchers have recorded real-time images of two atoms vibrating in a molecule using a new ultrafast camera. The technique, called laser-induced electron diffraction (LIED), allows for the capture of rapid molecular motion and could lead to controlling chemical reactions on an atomic scale.
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that squeezed polymers can generate significant amounts of energy for chemical reactions. However, they also found that certain polymer-based medical implants release harmful free radicals under moderate pressure, raising concerns about their safety.
Researchers are tapping into photosynthesis to efficiently produce highly valuable products, including biofuels and pharmaceuticals. This innovative approach could lead to a more sustainable future by utilizing sunlight as a renewable energy source.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute develop simple process for artemisinin synthesis using waste product from current production as starting substance. The new method uses photochemistry to incorporate an endoperoxide group into the molecule, producing large volumes of artemisinin under controlled conditions. This could cover global de...
Researchers found fossilized fungal hyphae in subseafloor Eocene basalts, suggesting a non-prokaryotic biosphere. This discovery has implications for our understanding of the deep subseafloor environment.
MSU researchers validate conservation of angular momentum in chemical reactions and suggest using it to control reaction pathways. The discovery could impact fields like molecular electronics, biology, and energy science with new types of chemical reactions.
For the first time, Prof. Hans Jakob Wörner and colleagues have recorded electronic motion during a complete chemical reaction using attosecond spectroscopy on nitrogen dioxide molecules. This experiment reveals details of chemical reaction mechanisms that were not accessible to most previous experimental techniques.
Researchers identified over 600 volatile compounds in cocoa beans, with only 25 essential for the characteristic flavor. They developed a method to recreate the chocolate flavor using these compounds, mimicking its aroma and taste in 'recombinates'. This breakthrough could lead to improved flavors and aromas in chocolates.
Researchers built upon a previous study to demonstrate how naturally occurring sugars and amino acids can form the building blocks of life. They found that adding simple amino acids allowed only the natural, stable form of RNA precursors to be generated.
A new device, called 'Watermark ink,' can identify unknown liquids by exploiting their surface tension and changes in optical properties. The device, which fits in the palm of a hand, has potential applications in quality control tests, contaminant identification, and forensic analysis.
Researchers at University of Illinois developed vascularized structural composites that are lightweight, strong and multifunctional. They achieved this by circulating fluids through tiny channels, creating materials that can regulate temperature, chemistry, conductivity and electromagnetism.
Research by University of Edinburgh found that ultrafine particles from diesel exhaust fumes can impair blood vessel function, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The study suggests that environmental health measures to reduce emissions could save lives.
New research reveals quantum mechanical tunneling as a driving force for chemical reactions, changing how scientists understand and devise reactions. The discovery has potential applications in materials science, biochemistry, and more.
A new study from the University of Cambridge shows that simple chemical reactions can delay or prevent CO2 from spreading in deep saline rock formations. The findings have implications for carbon sequestration methods and may enable engineers to manipulate reaction strength to enhance storage.
A Purdue University study suggests that drought-exposed leaves may negatively impact soil nutrients by accumulating high levels of tannins. These tannins can interfere with critical enzymes in soil, potentially slowing down decomposition and nutrient cycling.
Catherine Middlecamp advocates for a modern curriculum that prepares students for climate change, pollution, and environmental health. Her teaching approach connects chemistry concepts to everyday life, making it more relevant and engaging.
Scientists have identified a complex chemical reaction responsible for the degradation of Van Gogh's paintings, which involves the reduction of chromium in chrome yellow pigment. The study suggests that shielding affected paintings from UV and sunlight can help slow down the fading process.
UBC food scientists have identified the Maillard reaction as the main source of antioxidants in dark roasted coffee beans. The study found that coffee beans lose 90% of their chlorogenic acid during roasting, leading to increased antioxidant activity.
Fat is linked to distinct DNA chemical changes, which may help explain why obesity increases the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The study identified two genes, UBASH3A and TRIM3, with altered methylation patterns in obese individuals.