Articles tagged with Copper
Researchers at North Carolina State University have figured out how copper induces misfolding in the protein associated with Parkinson's disease. This finding has implications for both the study of Parkinson's progression and future treatments. The researchers used computer simulations to ferret out the most likely binding scenario, re...
Researchers at Northwestern University recreated ancient copper artifact-making techniques used by prehistoric Native Americans of Cahokia. They analyzed small pieces of discarded copper and determined that the coppersmiths likely hammered the copper with a heavy rock, then heated it in a wood fire to create thin sheets.
Researchers at Northwestern University recreated ancient copper artifact-making techniques using large stones, fire, and elbow grease. They analyzed discarded copper pieces found on the ground of a 'copper workshop house' in Cahokia and determined that coppersmiths likely hammered and heated copper to create thin sheets.
A study by the University of Southampton reveals copper's antimicrobial property, killing 10 million E. coli bacteria within 10 minutes on dry surfaces and 45 minutes on wet ones. Copper deployed as a touch surface in food preparation areas can reduce cross-contamination risk.
Researchers found that high iron and copper levels can block brain-cell DNA repair mechanisms, leading to accumulation of genetic damage associated with neurodegenerative diseases. The study suggests a potential therapeutic target in curcumin, a common spice with beneficial health effects.
A study by the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science uses DNA testing to identify separate populations of dusky and copper sharks in different coastal regions, allowing for tracking of their origins and informing management of the shark fin trade. The research demonstrates that genetic differences among regional groups can be used t...
Scientists have discovered two new genes that could help control Staphylococcus aureus, a drug-resistant bacterium. The genes encode copper- and sulfur-binding repressors that regulate the expression of copper resistance genes.
Carnegie Mellon University chemist Krzysztof Matyjaszewski and his team have developed a new method called electrochemically mediated ATRP, or eATRP, which allows for more precise control over the ATRP process. This breakthrough enables the creation of complex and specialized materials with tailored functionalities.
Researchers at Penn have created high-quality graphene that covers over 95% of its surface area using readily available materials and manufacturing processes. The production process can be scaled up to industrial levels, reducing costs and increasing flexibility.
Scientists have developed a new material consisting of copper-coated silica nanoparticles that can eliminate unpleasant odors. These nanoparticles are up to twice as effective as the current gold standard, activated carbon, in removing foul-smelling substances like ethyl mercaptan.
A study by the University of Kentucky found that earthworms can absorb copper nanoparticles present in soil, raising concerns about potential exposure to humans and animals. The research has significant implications for understanding the interactions of nanomaterials in the environment.
A new scoring system for diagnosing Wilson's disease in pediatric patients has been developed, demonstrating 93% positive and 92% negative predictive values. The test's effectiveness was tested on children with mild liver disease and asymptomatic individuals, showing no significant improvement from the penicillamine challenge test.
Electrical engineers created a miniaturized short pulse generator that eliminates a roadblock for optical interconnects. The pulse compressor enables higher data rates and generates less heat than copper wires, critical for future computer networks.
USDA researcher David Straus found copper sulfate effective in controlling Ich and a fungus on catfish eggs, offering an inexpensive and safe solution for aquaculture. The treatment has potential for widespread use in fish ponds worldwide due to its ease of application and effectiveness.
Scientists developed a new approach to eliminating unpleasant odors using nanoparticles coated with copper, which are hundreds of times smaller than peach fuzz. These particles show promise for removing sulfur contaminants and harmful bacteria.
Duke University engineers have designed and demonstrated microscopically small lasers integrated with thin film-light guides on silicon that could replace copper in a host of electronic products. The new approach solves some of the unanswered riddles facing scientists trying to create and control light at such a miniscule scale.
Researchers have identified how a membrane protein transfers essential copper ions throughout the body, which could lead to improved treatment of cancer patients. The study's findings may also help develop more effective chemotherapy drugs by understanding how essential minerals are transferred into cells.
A comprehensive CEAP study reveals troublesome nitrogen and copper levels in a major Chesapeake Bay tributary, primarily sourced from agricultural fertilizers. High copper concentrations were found at lower reaches of the river, posing a threat to aquatic life.
Researchers have developed a new ultrathin cooling technology that can efficiently cool 'power electronics' in military and automotive systems. The miniature device uses copper spheres and carbon nanotubes to passively wick a coolant, handling up to 550 watts per square centimeter of heat.
Researchers found a 'broken symmetry' where electrons arrange differently in high-temperature cuprate superconductors, enabling new research on overcoming the pseudogap phase. This discovery could lead to room-temperature superconductors by understanding how materials work and identifying key symmetries.
Researchers at Duke University have created copper nanowires that are both transparent and conductive, making them ideal for flexible displays and thin-film solar cells. These nanowires are cheaper than silver nanowires and outperform carbon nanotubes, offering a promising solution to the limitations of ITO.
A new University of Alberta study found no significant difference in arsenic levels between children playing on chromated copper arsenate-treated wood and other materials. The study suggests that contact with CCA treated wood is unlikely to contribute to overall arsenic exposure in children.
Researchers have discovered that the concentration of phosphorus, calcium, copper, and magnesium in potato tubers can predict after-cooking darkening. The study found that ACD readings were higher in tubers from fertilized plots compared to nonfertilized ones, suggesting a potential method for predicting and minimizing the trait.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have successfully synthesized single-layer graphene films on a dielectric substrate using direct chemical vapor deposition. The method overcomes current fabrication limitations, enabling the production of high-quality graphene films with controlled properties and morphologies.
High levels of copper and iron in older adults can lead to cell damage and increase the risk of age-related diseases. To mitigate this, individuals over 50 should consider avoiding certain supplements and taking steps to lower their exposure to these metals.
Researchers found a new mechanism controlling peak strength in nanostructured metals by observing organized dislocation patterns in 3-D atomic simulations. The pattern, governed by nucleation, dictates the metal's strength or weakness.
A team of archaeologists has uncovered new clues about a prehistoric society that formed the foundation of urban life in the Middle East prior to the invention of the wheel. The site, Tell Zeidan, reveals evidence of trade, copper metallurgy, and pottery production.
The excavation of Tell Zeidan reveals the emergence of an elite that possessed political power to facilitate trade and acquire luxury goods. The site also shows high-ranking elites sharing a common set of symbols and ideology across a broad region.
Researchers found that copper surfaces had significantly fewer live bacteria than conventional surfaces, with one study showing a 71% reduction. Copper-based disinfectants also showed effective antimicrobial properties, continuing to kill germs for the rest of the day.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a new breed of antennas that can be bent, stretched, cut and twisted without breaking. These shape-shifting antennas use an alloy that remains liquid at room temperature, allowing them to retain their mechanical properties and tune into different frequencies by stretching.
Scientists have discovered the molecular mechanism of action of tetrathiomolybdate, a copper-sequestering drug effective in treating Wilson disease and certain cancers. The study reveals that the drug inhibits copper traffic within cells by sequestering copper chaperones and their cargo in clusters.
Researchers found that copper and zinc toxicity in soybeans is additive, with high copper inhibiting zinc adsorption and causing more extractable zinc. Soil texture also influenced the degree of toxicity, with coarse-textured soils being more susceptible.
Researchers have developed thin films of silver and copper that can kill bacteria, potentially helping to reduce hospital infections. The antimicrobial properties of these metals have been known for centuries, and a recent study found that combining them may work synergistically to better eliminate microbes.
Researchers developed a new method to model hydrogen molecule-surface interactions, enabling accurate predictions of chemical reactions. The technique offers 'chemical precision' in calculating reaction barriers and energy changes.
A European study found that 1,088 women (10% of the sample) use longer-lasting IUDs as their primary long-acting reversible contraceptive method. Women over 30 who do not want more children and are looking for a long-term solution are most likely to use this method.
A new randomized controlled trial found that copper bracelets and magnetic wrist straps are ineffective in relieving arthritis pain. The study, led by University of York researcher Stewart Richmond, suggests that any perceived benefits from these devices can be attributed to psychological placebo effects.
A NIST research team has figured out why a metal-organic framework can safely store acetylene at low pressure, leading to potential substantial savings in transportation costs. The discovery could also help scientists better understand MOFs and develop new materials for storing other substances.
Researchers discovered that prion proteins bind more stably to copper in human bodies, which may prevent their misfolding. The study suggests that copper binding could play a beneficial role in early stages of prion diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Kris Matyjaszewski developed an environmentally friendly form of Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP), reducing copper catalyst levels by 1,000 times. This breakthrough has led to the creation of safer materials with tailored functionalities for various industries.
Research confirms the transfer of zinc, cadmium, and copper from water to fish tissues in Huelva estuary. The study found positive correlations between metal levels in water and fish tissues, highlighting the impact of pollution on commercially important species.
Researchers explore geologic evolution of Savu Island, active tectonic maps for the Tibet-Himalaya region, and syntectonic zoning in biotite porphyroblasts. The study also delves into the potential for explosive eruptions and growth patterns of silicic volcanoes.
Researchers demonstrate graphene's potential as an alternative to copper for interconnects in integrated circuits, with improved conductivity and reduced resistance. Graphene's performance is comparable to or surpasses that of copper at nanoscale sizes.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have successfully synthesized large-area graphene on copper foils, which may lead to the development of faster computers and electronic devices. The graphene's high electron- and hole-mobility enables extremely high switching speeds in nanoelectronic devices.
Researchers found a key role for disrupted copper regulation in prion disease progression, suggesting that the loss of copper binding ability contributes to neurodegeneration. The study identified a threshold at four extra octarepeats, beyond which changes in molecular properties lead to toxic effects.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed slimmer copper nanorods that fuse together at 300 degrees Celsius, ideal for heat-sensitive nanoelectronics. This technique enables wafer bonding in 3-D computer chips with lower temperatures, resulting in less expensive and reliable devices.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have successfully produced nano-sized metallic copper particles that can form electricity-conducting layers and patterns on paper. The particles, protected by polymeric compounds, exhibit good electrical conductivity and make them promising materials for electronics printed on paper.
Researchers discovered that dust from certain regions can be toxic to marine phytoplankton, leading to negative effects on the ocean food web. Copper was found to be a primary cause of toxicity, with varying levels of sensitivity among different species.
Scientists at the University of Cincinnati have discovered new uses for spun carbon nanotube fibers, which exhibit high tensile strength and conductivity. The team found that these fibers can be used to create lightweight and efficient antennas for wireless communication, with potential applications in aerospace industries.
Researchers at Penn State developed a solar-powered process converting carbon dioxide to methane using titania nanotubes, achieving a 20-times higher yield than previous attempts. The method uses dual catalysts coated on the nanotubes, resulting in significant hydrocarbon production.
Researchers developed a new technique to monitor bacterial health in wastewater treatment facilities using sensor technology. The method, called self-referencing, senses minute changes in chemistry related to bacterial health and yields results immediately.
Researchers encoded letters 'S' and 'U' in interference patterns formed by quantum electron waves, creating a tiny hologram that can be viewed with a microscope. The achievement paves the way for storing more information in less space, challenging the assumption of atomic limits
Scientific evidence supports the use of copper surfaces to reduce hospital-acquired infections. Clinical trials demonstrate a significant reduction in micro-organisms on copper alloys compared to stainless steel and plastic.
Researchers studying a 'striped' material find that it is indeed a superconductor, but only in two dimensions. The material exhibits stronger electron pairing, a necessary condition for superconductivity, at a higher temperature than other compositions.
The study found that objects closest to patients, such as bed rails and chairs, are most contaminated with staphylococcus, MRSA, and VRE. Copper alloy surfaces have shown a significant reduction in contamination, with a 90-95% decrease compared to controls.
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of ancient copper-production center at Khirbat en-Nahas, dating back to the 10th century BCE, pushing back archaeological chronology by three centuries. The discovery supports biblical narratives and raises questions about the historicity of King David and Solomon's rule.
Scientists at Newcastle University have discovered a mechanism that ensures the correct metal binds to proteins, which has potential applications in synthetic biology and treating diseases such as Alzheimer's. The research found that protein folding location determines metal binding, revealing new insights into protein-metal interactions.
Researchers develop simple method to make shellfish safe by introducing copper ions into fish tanks, killing 99.99% of Vibrio bacteria within 40 hours.
Researchers found that a small genetic mutation alters the structure of ATP7B, a large complex protein regulating copper movement in human cells. The study sheds light on how this mutation leads to Wilson disease, which affects as many as 150,000 people worldwide.
Researchers at NIST created a method to build complex 3D nanoscale structures of magnetic materials like nickel using standard semiconductor manufacturing techniques. The technique enables the creation of sensors and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) with magnetic alloys.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new nano technique that significantly enhances boiling efficiency by up to 30 times. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize cooling methods for computer chips, improve heat transfer systems, and reduce energy costs in industrial applications.