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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.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 2024

NIH study finds flame-retardant chemicals may increase risk of preterm birth, higher birth weight

A recent NIH study found that exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth, particularly in female infants. Higher concentrations of certain OPE markers were also associated with higher birth weights, which can be a sign of potential complications.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024

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.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

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.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 28, 2022

A novel baker’s yeast-mediated microwave-induced reduction of racemic 3-Keto-2-Azetidinones: Facile entry to optically active hydroxy β-lactam derivatives

A team of researchers developed a novel method for producing optically active hydroxy β-lactam derivatives using baker's yeast and microwave irradiation. The process yielded 3:1 ratio of two hydroxyl compounds in 65% yield, with the resulting compounds showing high optical purity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organocatalysis·DateMar 8, 2022

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.

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateFeb 10, 2021

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.

Cravings for high-calorie foods may be switched off in the brain by new supplement

A new study suggests that a powdered food supplement, based on a molecule produced by bacteria in the gut, can reduce cravings for high-calorie foods like chocolate and pizza. The supplement, called inulin-propionate ester, releases more propionate than other fiber supplements, which signals to the brain to reduce appetite.

SourceImperial College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 1, 2016

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 29, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 9, 2014

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateFeb 19, 2010

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.