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Okayama University chemists pioneer light-driven macrolactone synthesis

Researchers at Okayama University develop a novel photochemical strategy for macrolactonization, transforming hydroxyaldehydes into large ring lactones. The method avoids harsh conditions and multi-step procedures, making it attractive for scaling up synthesis and improving cost-effectiveness.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Sorghum's bioactive compounds could improve modern diets

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered unique lipids in sorghum that have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. The study suggests that incorporating sorghum into diets could promote cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and enhance metabolic health.

CRISPR/Cas9 modifies euglena to create potential biofuel source

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University used CRISPR/Cas9 to create a strain of Euglena that produces wax esters with shorter carbon chains, improving their cold flow and suitability as a biofuel feedstock. This breakthrough could potentially replace petroleum-based production of wax esters with biological sources.

A new reaction to enhance aromatic ketone use in chemical synthesis

Researchers developed a one-pot process to transform aromatic ketones into esters, simplifying the reaction process, reducing reaction times, and minimizing purification steps. The method enables seven different chemical transformations and has shown notable stability and reusability, making it scalable for industrial applications.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Reduction of esters by a novel photocatalyst

Researchers developed a novel photocatalyst called N-BAP to reduce esters using sustainable light energy. The catalyst initiates a quadruple electron transfer process, enabling the reduction of esters to form alcohols without using metal reductants.

Fighting fat and inflammation: Scientists develop powerful new compounds

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed menthyl esters with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity effects. The compounds outperformed menthol in inflammatory assays and suppressed genes involved in immune responses. They also inhibited adipogenesis, showing promise for addressing metabolic disorders.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Dry-cleaning fluid becomes a synthetic chemist's treasure

A new method has been developed to convert the widely used dry-cleaning solvent perc into carbonate esters and chloroform, valuable building blocks for further organic synthesis. This clean process uses on-demand UV activation, eliminating the need for toxic source materials.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Protecting the vision of premature babies

Researchers have found a new target and drug combination that appears to stop the destruction of vision in premature newborns. By blocking ACAT1, an enzyme that converts cholesterol into smaller pieces, scientists can prevent the formation of leaky blood vessels and inflammation in the retina.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

São Paulo to host advanced school in epidemic preparedness

The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Epidemic Preparedness will bring together researchers from various fields to discuss core tracks such as mathematical modeling, genomics, epidemiological surveillance, and public health policies. Participants will engage in simulated situation rooms and hands-on experience with leading faculty.

Gestational exposure to flame retardant alters brain development in rats

A new study found that gestational exposure to the flame retardant FM 550 resulted in altered brain development in newborn rats, with effects more pronounced in male offspring. The study also showed evidence of mitochondrial disruption and dysregulated choline and triglyceride levels in brain tissue.

First UK study of synthetic chemicals found in food

Researchers found nearly 400 food samples tested positive for organophosphate esters (OPEs) from common flame retardants. Levels were below health risk thresholds but raised concerns about long-term exposure and contamination sources.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Light as a tool for the synthesis of complex molecules

Chemists at the University of Münster developed a novel method for synthesizing complex organic molecules using visible light. The method produces biologically valuable β-amino acids, including a bifunctional oxime oxalate ester with both amine and ester functionalities.

Silicone wristbands track firefighters’ exposures to harmful chemicals

Recent research by scientists at Duke University has found that ordinary silicone wristbands can absorb semi-volatile organic compounds firefighters are exposed to while working, tracking their risk of cancer. The study reveals strong associations between active firefighting and exposure to certain contaminants.

Flame-retardants and plasticizers found in the oceans

A new study finds that flame-retardants and plasticizers are present in the oceans, harming marine organisms and potentially affecting human health. The substances, which are widely used in everyday products, can be transported from inland sources to coastal environments through air masses and ocean currents.

Ethers may have a more sustainable future thanks to heterogenous catalysis

A zirconium oxide-supported platinum-molybdenum catalyst enables the selective conversion of esters into valuable unsymmetrical ethers under mild conditions. This process offers a sustainable solution for producing these compounds from renewable biomass-derived materials, reducing waste and energy consumption.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Watercooler parts could be a source of organophosphate ester exposure

A study found that water dispensers could be a source of organophosphate ester exposure, with OPEs detected in the majority of samples. The researchers estimated daily consumption levels to be below health-risk thresholds, but highlighted the need for future research on suitable tubing materials.

Industrial compound gets eco-friendly reaction

Researchers at Nagoya University have found catalysts that improve an important industrial reaction, producing high yields of a compound used in various industries without toxic compounds or high temperatures. The approach offers a practical and sustainable solution for industrial (meth)acrylate ester synthesis.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

The genome of jojoba: The only plant to store wax in its seeds

Researchers assembled jojoba genome into 26 chromosomes with 23,490 protein-coding genes, revealing evolutionary history and agronomic properties. The plant's ability to store wax in its seeds makes it a promising source of sustainable liquid wax esters for pharmacy, cosmetics, and hair care products.

New commuter concern: Cancerous chemical in car seats

A new UC Riverside study reveals that commuters exposed to a known carcinogen called TDCIPP for less than a week experience elevated levels of the chemical. The research found that the longer one commutes, the higher their exposure to TDCIPP.

Chemists allow boron atoms to migrate

Researchers developed a method to retain boron units during C-C couplings, expanding the range of industrial boron compounds. The new process enables sequential incorporation of building blocks and potential future use in pharmaceutical production.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Flame retardants -- from plants

Researchers have identified potentially less toxic and biodegradable flame retardants from plants, which could replace hazardous organohalogen compounds. The new substances, derived from gallic acid and 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, perform as well as many existing flame retardants on the market.

Toxic chemicals calling: Cell phones as a source of flame retardants

Researchers at the University of Toronto discovered that cell phone levels of toxic chemicals correlate with those on hands and in urine, suggesting handheld devices as time-integrated samplers for chemical exposure. The study highlights the need to reduce use of handheld devices, especially by children.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Metal-free catalyst extends the range of ester synthesis

A team at Nagoya University developed a metal-free catalyst, tetramethylammonium methyl carbonate (TMC), that expands the substrate range of trans-esterification. TMC reacts with alcohols to form alkoxide ions, which attack esters to produce complex target esters in high yields.

Fueling a cleaner combustion

A new additive consisting of oxygenated organic compounds has been developed to reduce the release of pollutants during the combustion of fossil fuels. The researchers' study found that diethyl carbonate can facilitate clean combustion of diesel fuels, reducing soot production and environmental damage.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Revolutionary process to create ether from esters using metal catalysts

Researchers at Waseda University developed a novel method to produce ethers by removing carbon monoxide from aromatic esters using palladium or nickel catalysts. This innovation enables the production of diaryl ethers from over 30 different kinds of aromatic esters, offering a more inexpensive and easily obtainable alternative.

One reaction, two results, zero waste

Two researchers have discovered a single-step chemical process that creates both alcohols and esters without generating any waste or using harmful reagents. The process is more straightforward and simpler than existing methods, offering an economical and sustainable alternative for industrial applications.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New synthetic route to potential medicines for type 2 diabetes

Researchers at Toyohashi Tech have successfully demonstrated the enantioselective phenoxylation of β-keto esters, allowing for the synthesis of α-aryloxy-β-keto esters with high enantioselectivity. This method enables the creation of biologically active compounds for potential treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Finding the origins of life in a drying puddle

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology find that mixing amino and hydroxy acids with wet-dry cycles can create polypeptides, key components of life. The process, which could have occurred in a drying puddle, supports the theory that life began on dry land.

Aromatic couple makes new chemical bonds

Researchers at ITbM have developed a novel, relatively inexpensive synthetic strategy using nickel catalyst to form useful compounds. Esters have been identified as a clean coupling partner for the carbon-carbon bond forming cross-coupling reaction.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Why plants don't get sunburn

Researchers found that plants produce special molecules called sinapate esters to protect themselves from harsh ultraviolet-B radiation. These molecules appear to block UVB radiation from penetrating deeper into leaves, hindering plant growth. The study provides insight into the mechanics of how these natural plant sunscreens work.

Scents and sustainability

Researchers at the University of California - Davis have engineered bacteria to produce esters, a key component in scents, flavors, and chemical processes. This breakthrough could lead to a $20 billion industry shift towards renewable sources.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

More, better biodiesel

A new process developed by UC Davis chemists increases biodiesel yields from oilseed crops like safflower by up to 24%. The method converts both plant oils and carbohydrates into a fuel cocktail that performs better at low temperatures.

Green Chemistry Awards announced

The US Environmental Protection Agency announced the 2009 Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award winners, recognizing research that can make significant contributions to pollution prevention. The award winners developed innovative methods for producing greener chemicals, fuels, and materials.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

JCI table of contents August 1, 2005

Researchers discover hemoglobin's novel function as a nitrite reductase, generating nitric oxide to regulate vasodilation. Separate studies reveal that M cells are not necessary for oral tolerance induction, while bacterial infections can break B cell tolerance by activating self-reactive B cells.