Articles tagged with Scientific Associations
Global negotiators gather in Qatar to work on an amendment that would create a second round of emissions cuts for certain industrialized nations, starting in 2013. The effort aims to extend international momentum to act on climate change after the Kyoto agreement expires this year.
Researchers uncovered 41 highly odor-active compounds in durian, including previously unknown substances associated with fruity and oniony smells. The study identified four new chemical compounds that had never been found before in food, contributing to the fruit's distinctive smell.
Scientists at UCLA have created a new type of solar cell that produces energy by absorbing infrared light, making it 66% transparent. The technology is lightweight, flexible, and can be produced in high volume at low cost.
Researchers created a model of penguin huddles that assumes each penguin aims to minimize its own heat loss, surprisingly revealing an equitable sharing of heat. The study found that even in self-centered behavior, the system relies on others for shelter, leading to fair outcomes.
Researchers have found that treating corn stover with white rot fungus can extract up to 30% more sugar from leaves and 50% more from stalks and cobs. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient ethanol production and reduce the need for corn-based supplies.
The growth of citizen science has led to a surge in public involvement in scientific research, with over 25 NSF-funded projects now underway. Chemistry projects, such as Curating ChemSpider or monitoring water quality, allow hobbyists and enthusiasts to contribute to groundbreaking research.
Researchers found that varying the pH and filter cleaning can shift the balance of beneficial microbes in drinking water. They suggest this could help reduce harmful bacteria, making water safer for consumers.
Researchers are developing new medications and oral immunotherapy to treat food allergies, such as egg and peanut allergies. These treatments show promise in reducing emergency room visits and healthcare costs associated with food allergies.
New water treatment firms are developing chemical treatments and evaporators to remove contaminants from fracking wastewater, which can then be reused. The cost of disposal is spurring oil and gas companies to adopt these technologies, limiting the amount of contaminated water that reaches people, plants, and animals.
A new transparent solar cell has been developed that produces energy by absorbing mainly infrared light, making the cells 66 percent transparent to the human eye. The panels could be used in smart windows or portable electronics.
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.
Despite the need for a male version of the oral contraceptive pill, pharmaceutical companies have discontinued research due to significant challenges. New research on non-hormonal male contraceptives offers hope for the development of a male birth control pill within a decade.
The biobased chemical industry is transitioning towards producing ingredients sold to companies making medicines, detergents, and plastics from basic compounds made from sugar. Six companies have already opened manufacturing plants or will soon, with plans for three more by next year.
The Innocence Project has helped free nearly 300 wrongfully convicted prisoners due to improper use of forensic science. Improved sensitivity in DNA testing has highlighted issues of cross-contamination, affecting accuracy.
The London 2012 Olympics anti-doping center will be converted into a national phenome center, measuring the chemistry of individuals to better understand disease causes and develop new treatment methods. This project aims to create publicly and privately funded labs combining analytical science, epidemiology, and clinical expertise.
Next-generation diagnostic tests can identify specific diseases and determine if chemotherapy is working, enabling doctors to make better treatment decisions. These tests could reduce unnecessary procedures, prescriptions, and hospital stays, ultimately saving the US healthcare system billions of dollars annually.
Researchers develop smart catheter that senses infection and releases nitric oxide to stop bacterial growth, reducing healthcare-associated infections. The device has shown promising results in lab experiments, with the ability to extend NO release for up to weeks.
Scientists have developed a spray-on coating made from chitosan that can delay the ripening of bananas. By slowing down respiration and killing bacteria, this coating can keep bananas fresh for almost two weeks. Researchers are now working on improving the coating to make it commercially viable.
The new soybean biorefinery technology can utilize essentially every component of the soybean to produce bio-based ingredients for high-value products. This approach aims to reduce dependence on petroleum as a feedstock and increases the value of local economies.
Scientists have identified (S)-NNN as a strong oral carcinogen in smokeless tobacco, found to induce large numbers of oral and esophageal tumors in laboratory rats. The US government is urged to regulate or ban the substance to protect the health of the 9 million US users of chewing tobacco and snuff products.
Researchers are developing drugs that exploit the body's natural immune system to fight diseases. These 'antibody-recruiting molecules' can be taken orally and induce a patient's own antibodies to fight disease.
Rudy M. Baum's thought-provoking editorials tackled global climate change, population growth, and human rights, challenging the scientific community to think deeply about these issues. The symposium featuring eminent scientists and policy experts aimed to continue his legacy of sparking meaningful discourse on contentious science topics.
Scientists found a link between high galectin-3 levels and increased risk of cancer and heart disease. A new blood test can predict disease outcomes, while modified citrus pectin may block galectin-3's negative effects.
Researchers use new approaches to analyze individual brain cells, shedding light on the root causes of chronic pain and memory loss. They found that the chemical imprint of pain occurs in only a few cells, holding promise for developing new treatments.
The Teva Pharmaceuticals Scholars have made significant breakthroughs in the fight against cancer and hepatitis. Researchers presented new findings on anti-cancer drugs made from antibiotics and a potential new treatment for hepatitis C. Additionally, advancements were shown in delivering drugs to the body through innovative approaches.
The American Chemical Society shares expert insights on how certain foods, like chili peppers and ice cream, can actually make you feel hotter. Researchers will discuss counter-intuitive ways to cool down with food during a special briefing.
A new version of methyl cellulose, SATISFIT-LTG, has been developed to combat hunger and reduce calorie intake. In clinical trials, it showed a 13% decrease in energy consumption and prolonged feelings of fullness.
A new mass spectrometer, DESI, is being used in real-world medicine to analyze fingerprints, detect pesticides, and identify biomarkers for prostate cancer. The device can also aid in brain cancer surgery by analyzing tissue samples and determining tumor type and stage.
Researchers are developing new prebiotic ingredients to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Studies show that consuming more prebiotics can improve gut balance and lead to various health benefits, particularly for individuals with gastrointestinal diseases, Type-2 diabetes, and low-grade inflammation.
Scientists have developed a new oil spill dispersant using edible ingredients like peanut butter, chocolate, and whipped cream. The dispersant not only breaks up oil but also prevents it from sticking to bird feathers, reducing the risk of harm to wildlife.
The American Chemical Society is honoring the 25th anniversary of National Chemistry Week with a symposium. The event aims to promote awareness of chemistry's value in everyday life through hands-on science events and demonstrations. The week-long celebration will feature presentations by prominent chemists, including ACS President Bas...
A new food biorefinery converts bakery waste and coffee grounds into succinic acid, a key ingredient for making plastics and detergents. The process reduces environmental impact and produces a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
Renowned author and speaker Shirley O. Corriher has been selected as recipient of the 2013 James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public, recognizing her work in bringing home the power and pleasure of chemistry through popular books and dynamic presentations.
Scientists developed a new fuel mixture by adding glycerol to low-sulfur diesel, reducing emissions of soot-like particulates and nitrogen oxide pollutants by 15% and 26%, respectively. The 'Bunker Green' fuel has improved emission properties and potential to lower fuel costs for the shipping industry.
Scientists have discovered that DNA can act as a wire to detect genetic damage and identify people at risk for certain diseases. The discovery could lead to the development of medical diagnostic devices and biosensors that can pick up on changes in DNA that may lead to cancer and other diseases.
Scientists from Merck, Novartis, and Arkema develop breakthroughs in chronic hepatitis C treatment and leukemia therapy. They also create technology to improve solar heat gain control. These innovations have a significant impact on human lives and the environment.
Researchers have identified an enzyme responsible for forming the 'mating plug' in male Anopheles mosquitoes, which can be inhibited to prevent reproduction. The approach uses a chemical compound that targets this enzyme, making it a potential tool against malaria transmission.
Scientists have developed a new flexible aerogel material that is up to 500 times stronger than traditional silica aerogels, with improved thermal conductivity and potential applications in super-insulating clothing, refrigerators, and buildings. The material could also be used for heat shields on spacecraft and insulation for spacesuits.
Scientists discovered that resveratrol, a natural compound found in red wine, may help improve mobility and prevent life-threatening falls among older people. The study showed that resveratrol decreased motor deficiencies in aging mice, leading to increased quality of life and reduced hospitalization risk.
Researchers discover flavor components similar to prescription mood stabilizer valproic acid, which could lead to dietary recommendations or new supplements with beneficial mood effects. The study analyzed over 1,700 substances and found similarities between certain food flavors and approved antidepressants.
Scientists develop substances targeting bacteria virulence factors to prevent UTI development and emergence of resistant microbes. A low dose reduced bacteria in the bladder by almost 10,000 times.
Acetylated wood, a new form of sustainable wood, has been developed using a back-to-the-future technology that permanently expands cell walls to resist water absorption. The material has similar properties to modern construction materials but a smaller carbon footprint.
Scientists have developed proteins that can destroy chemical warfare agents up to 15,000 times more effectively than their natural counterparts. The new substances have potential uses in protecting soldiers and others from nerve gas attacks.
Scientists have developed a new transparent solar cell that produces energy by absorbing infrared light and is 66% transparent to the human eye. The device uses a photoactive plastic and a composite electrode made of silver nanowire and titanium dioxide nanoparticles.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved several precedent-setting cancer drugs that offer a glimpse into the future of personalized medicine. Companion diagnostics are being used to identify patients most likely to benefit from medication, enabling targeted treatments.
Researchers created a jumping robot that mimics the water strider's ability, allowing it to leap over obstacles and move at high speeds. The microrobot's design uses porous nickel foam to fabricate its legs, enabling it to jump more than twice its own length and weigh as much as 1,100 water striders.
Pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) technology harnesses freshwater flow to produce electricity, requiring no fuel and releasing no carbon dioxide. This process has the potential to meet the electricity needs of 520 million people without emitting greenhouse gases.
Peter J. Stang, a renowned University of Utah organic chemist, has been awarded the 2013 Priestley Medal from the American Chemical Society for his pioneering work in supramolecular chemistry. The gold medal recognizes his research on complex molecules with potential applications in drug delivery and oil refining.
Peter J. Stang has been awarded the American Chemical Society's Priestley Medal for his pioneering work on supramolecular chemistry, a field that could lead to new drug delivery vehicles and more efficient oil refining. With over 450 papers authored, Stang is a prominent figure in the field of organic chemistry.
Manufacturers are turning to biotechnology companies using genetically engineered microbes to produce natural flavor and fragrance ingredients. These microbes can produce vanillin and picrocrocin at lower costs than traditional methods.
A new glucose monitor made from inexpensive materials measures sugar levels in urine, helping people with diabetes monitor their blood sugar levels in rural areas of developing countries. The device was developed to address the challenges of providing affordable diabetes testing in regions where poverty limits healthcare access.
The UN Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro aimed to build on previous agreements, including treaties on climate change and biodiversity protection. Hundreds of individual commitments from participants hold potential for major environmental impacts.
The team used metal complexes to selectively modify peptide hormones, such as encephalin and octreotide. The resulting metal-peptide compounds could modulate the effect of naturally occurring peptide hormones, potentially leading to new remedies for pain or cancer.
The US government is developing medical countermeasures against nuclear threats, including acute radiation syndrome (ARS). Several companies are working on adapting existing drugs and creating new compounds to treat ARS symptoms and remove radioactive particles from the body.
Neil Gehrels, a NASA astrophysicist, receives the Committee on Space Research Harrie Massey Award for his pioneering contributions to gamma-ray astronomy. The award recognizes his leadership role in advancing astronomers' understanding of gamma-ray bursts.
Researchers develop algorithms to identify flavor matches, leading to new dishes like almond sponge cake with poached banana and chocolate-ketchup ice cream. Skepticism surrounds the validity of flavor pairing as a scientifically grounded concept.
A new ACS video series provides an overview of the chemistry behind sunscreens, explaining how they protect against UV rays. The video also offers pointers on shopping for effective sunscreen products, highlighting the importance of SPF numbers in choosing the right product.
The winners of the 2012 Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards have been announced for their groundbreaking work in developing environmentally benign organic catalysts, producing high-performance green chemicals, and improving synthetic pathways. The awards recognize innovation in reducing waste and pollution.
Researchers have developed a sustainable method to convert orange peels into valuable chemicals and materials, including fragrances, water purification, and biofuels. This innovation has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a zero-waste biorefinery.
The American Chemical Society's Green Chemistry Institute will host a panel discussion on advancing global green chemistry, featuring experts from government, business and academia. The event aims to enhance the profile and importance of green chemistry while linking the global community.