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New study identifies organic compounds of potential concern in fracking fluids

A new University of Colorado Boulder framework screened hundreds of organic chemical compounds used in hydraulic fracturing, identifying 15 as potentially hazardous groundwater contaminants based on their toxicity, mobility, and persistence. The study also predicted that 41 compounds would have 10% or more of their initial concentratio...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 30, 2015

Of hurricanes, fungus and Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that a volatile organic compound emitted by fungi, 1-octen-3-ol, attacks genes responsible for dopamine transport and packaging, leading to Parkinson's-like symptoms in fruit flies. The study suggests a potential link between fungal exposure and the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2013

Unique bipolar compounds enhance functionality of organic electronics

University of Toronto researchers identify a new class of compounds with phthalimido molecular fragments, exhibiting unique electro-chemical properties. These compounds have the potential to execute all three tasks needed for a functional organic solar cell, including absorbing light, moving electrons and transporting holes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 4, 2011

Fuel from cellulose

Scientists at the University of California, Davis have developed a simple and inexpensive process to directly convert cellulose into furan-based biofuels. This method surpasses previous conversions, offering a promising solution for sustainable energy production.

SourceWiley·DateAug 8, 2008

After more than 100 years apart, webworms devastate New Zealand parsnips

Researchers found that New Zealand parsnips had lower levels of chemical defenses than those in Europe and North America, making them more susceptible to the parsnip webworm. The webworms are dramatically affecting the plant's ability to reproduce, with 75% of affected plants devoid of reproductive parts.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2008