Articles tagged with Scientific Associations
A new paper-based device can detect airborne metal exposure almost immediately, potentially preventing illnesses in millions of metal workers. The device accurately determines iron, nickel, and copper levels in air samples, providing a chance for workers to leave hazardous areas before it's too late.
Many pharmaceutical companies are making progress in embracing green chemistry principles, reducing waste generation and operating more environmentally friendly ways. The American Chemical Society's Green Chemistry Institute is helping its members share best practices and compare progress.
A new podcast from the American Chemical Society explores how meeting current biofuel production targets with existing technology would significantly reduce food production, leading to widespread environmental concerns. The study's findings highlight the need for more accurate estimates of biofuel production capabilities.
The use of old herbicides is increasing due to emerging weed resistance, prompting companies to develop new crop varieties with resistance to these chemicals. This shift aims to maintain control over weeds while reducing the reliance on chemical herbicides.
The American Chemical Society reports a boom in research on ingredients for 'enhanced cosmetics,' with major companies investing in encapsulation technology to improve appearance. New approaches include microcapsules, water droplets coated in silica, and insulin sugar delivery systems.
Lean finely textured beef, also known as pink slime, has fallen out of favor due to concerns over its production process. The industry's lack of transparency about the process, which involves heating and treating leftover meat with ammonia, contributed to public backlash.
Researchers successfully implanted a biofuel cell in a snail, generating sustainable electrical micropower for extended periods without harming the animal. The long-lasting enzymes used induced an electric current by breaking down glucose and oxygen molecules.
A partnership between DyStar and RedElec Technologie may improve the environmental profile of indigo dyeing by eliminating sodium hydrosulfite. The new process aims to reduce waste and stop a water pollution problem at its source.
Researchers have created 'backpacking' bacteria that can carry micro- or nano-sized molecules or devices with useful properties. These biohybrid devices can move freely while carrying cargo, and the team plans to test their feasibility in laboratory experiments and potentially use them for diagnosing and treating diseases.
Scientists developed a fast, simple, accurate way to detect nitroaromatic compounds like TNT in saltwater, freshwater, and other liquids. The device can detect concentrations as low as 33 parts per trillion and has potential uses in detecting water pollution.
The AkzoNobel North America Science Award recognizes outstanding scientific contributions in chemistry and materials research, with a focus on sustainability. The award winner will receive a $75,000 cash prize and be honored at the ACS' National Meeting & Exposition in New Orleans.
At the American Chemical Society's National Meeting & Exposition, experts will discuss the chemistry and instruments used to investigate the scene and monitor the controlled burn of the 'bomb house'. The session reveals how public safety and law enforcement professionals utilized their skills and expertise to safely destroy the house.
Scientists have developed a new technology to purify natural gas by removing carbon dioxide, which increases the energy density and efficiency of storage and transportation. The 'super natural gas' burns hotter and occupies less space than traditional fuel.
The American Chemical Society is hosting a special symposium on communicating science to the public, featuring noted science journalists and communicators. The event aims to engage the general public in understanding the role of chemistry in driving economic prosperity and contributing to societal values.
Scientists have developed a new type of plastic that can repair scratches and cuts, changing color to warn of damage and healing itself when exposed to light. This self-healing plastic has potential applications in products such as cell phones, laptops, and cars, offering advantages over traditional plastics
The ACS president will focus on climate science, graduate education, and commemorating the Morrill Land Grant Act. The initiative aims to advance chemistry through research, education, and innovation, while communicating its value to society.
Paul Raeburn, a nationally recognized science journalist and author, has received the James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for his work in interpreting chemistry for the public. The award is presented annually by the American Chemical Society to recognize outstanding achievements in communicating chemistry to the general public.
A study by Joe Vinson found that popcorn has higher antioxidant levels than fruits and vegetables due to its high concentration of polyphenols. The hulls of the popcorn kernel have the highest concentration of these antioxidants, making them a nutritional gold nugget.
The ACS Presidential Sessions emphasize communicating science to the public, with speakers including Roger Tsien, Laura Kiessling, Samuel Stupp, J. Craig Venter, Carolyn Bertozzi, and Paul Raeburn. The sessions also explore innovative chemistry applications, such as producing fuels directly from sunlight.
A new test developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory uses impurity profiling to trace the source of nerve agents used in terrorist attacks. Up to 88% of impurities in source chemicals can wind up in the finished product, making them unique like a fingerprint.
Dow and DuPont are developing high-oleic oils that can replace partially hydrogenated oils in fried foods, reducing trans fat content and increasing heart health. These new oils are expected to result in a 40% cost savings for the food industry.
Researchers now solidly implicated certain genes as being involved in autism, affecting signal transmission and brain circuits. This breakthrough paves the way for future medications and treatments for autism spectrum disorders.
A team of scientists has created a new method to determine whether caffeine in beverages is naturally occurring or synthetic. Using stable-isotope analysis, the technique identifies differences in carbon isotopes found in plant-based and lab-made caffeine. This breakthrough enables faster categorization of caffeine sources.
Researchers develop a simple and cost-effective method to purify water using the 'miracle tree' Moringa oleifera seeds. The process harnesses the positively charged protein in the seed extract to capture lab-grown E. coli and remove sediment from water samples.
Three scientific expeditions, including a Russian team that drilled 2.5 miles through ice to reach Lake Vostok's ancient water, aim to uncover secrets about life in the Frozen Continent. The teams will analyze water samples and nutrient sources from lakes deep beneath the surface of Antarctica.
A new study suggests that the US could produce 136 billion gallons of ethanol per year by 2022, but this would require dedicating 80% of farmland to biofuel crops or converting 60% of rangeland to biofuels. Both options would significantly reduce food production and potentially worsen environmental impacts.
Researchers analyzed over 4,000 studies on MOFs, concluding they have immense potential for various applications. The special issue of Chemical Reviews presents the latest advances and prospects for commercial applications of these materials.
The collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and patients is leading to a closer relationship, gleaning more information about medication effects. Experts predict this could usher in an era of personalized medicine.
The American Chemical Society is developing new crime-fighting tools to deter and catch terrorists, utilizing chemical forensics to trace weaponized toxic substances. The research aims to send a message to would-be terrorists that science is prepared to stop them.
Researchers develop a new type of tiny motor called a microrocket that can propel itself through acidic environments without external energy, opening up medical and industrial applications. The microrocket generates hydrogen gas bubbles to propel itself at speeds up to 400 miles per hour.
Researchers create erosion-resistant surfaces using patterns inspired by yellow fattail scorpions, reducing material damage and equipment failure. The new technology has potential to save millions of dollars in damage each year.
The USAN Council assigns simplified generic names to drugs, using 'stems' that describe characteristics such as function and shape. Examples include '-prazole' for antiulcer medications like esomeprazole.
The chemical industry is expected to see a boost in sales due to growing demand for chemicals used in agriculture, electronics, cars, and airplanes. However, the industry faces challenges such as expiring patents and slowing growth in Asia, which will impact industries like paint and construction materials.
A new study explains why dew drops form on leaf tips, rather than flat surfaces, based on the principle of free energy. Dew droplets tend to accumulate at the tips of spindly leaves due to their inherent 'unwillingness' to move on dry surfaces.
A new genre of medical imaging technology uses optical techniques to peer below the skin and through muscle and bone, revealing body structures. Devices such as blood vessel mappers and cancer detectors are already in use or in development, providing non-invasive views for diagnosis and study.
Scientists have discovered an improved method to remove carbon dioxide from smokestacks, tailpipes, and the atmosphere. The new materials achieve high carbon dioxide removal capacity, especially in humid air, making them a potential solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Champagne undergoes a second fermentation to trap carbon dioxide, forming bubbles that carry hundreds of chemical compounds. Pouring champagne on an angle retains more carbon dioxide, releasing more flavor compounds.
The American Chemical Society revisited key research advances from 2001, including self-healing plastics and carbon-based electronic devices. These discoveries have had lasting impacts on various fields of science.
A new genre of eco-friendly tires is being developed using genetically engineered microbes that produce raw materials from sugar. Companies like Goodyear and Michelin are partnering with biotechnology firms to create sustainable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based tires, which could debut within the next 3-5 years.
The average age at which Nobel laureates in chemistry do their prize-winning work is increasing since 1960, with most prizes awarded after the 40th birthday. The shift favors older scientists who can conduct extensive experiments.
The artificial leaf technology uses sunlight and renewable ingredients to produce electricity, with the potential to power homes in developing countries. The technology has the potential to provide a low-cost solution for generating electricity, making it an attractive option for households and communities.
Henry F. Schaefer III, Graham Perdue professor of chemistry at UGA, has been awarded a Humboldt Research Award for his significant impact on theoretical chemistry and collaboration with European researchers. The award, valued at $80,000, enables him to undertake prolonged periods of research in Germany.
The technology allows for creating detailed objects from various materials, including plastics, metals, and foods like chocolate. Engineers can print designer chocolates, gourmet meals, and medical devices with embedded proteins and cells.
The American Chemical Society's Employment Outlook feature package explores the jobs situation for chemists, with a focus on the impact of economic weakness on hiring plans. The article also provides guidance for current and future job seekers to fully benefit from recruiters' services.
Acrylic paints, famous for their fast-drying properties, pose significant challenges in cleaning due to their additive-rich composition. Researchers are exploring ways to rejuvenate these artworks without compromising their integrity.
Scientists have identified bacteria in giant panda feces with potent effects on breaking down plant material, which could be used to produce biofuels. These bacteria can convert up to 95% of plant biomass into simple sugars, eliminating the need for high heat and pressure processes.
The American Chemical Society is hosting a symposium to address the global shortage of scientists with people skills. The event aims to equip scientists with effective communication and charisma skills to inspire students and engage with the public. Key findings include the importance of social skills in science leadership.
Langer's research launched the controlled-release drug industry, delivering advances in pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering, and medical devices to patients. His work also led to significant progress in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering to address organ shortages.
The use of nanoparticles in sunscreens has sparked controversy over potential health effects. Scientific evidence suggests a link between particle penetration and undesirable body reactions, but proven benefits in reducing skin cancer risk outweigh theoretical concerns.
Scientists have found that minced banana peels can quickly remove toxic metals like lead and copper from river water. The banana peel purification apparatus can be reused up to 11 times without losing its effectiveness, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods.
The American Chemical Society's new podcast discusses a potential future for the electrical grid powered by renewable energy from the sun and wind. Researchers are developing technologies that can efficiently store and integrate this electricity into the grid.
The US phase-out of 100-watt bulbs is driving growth for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which have become ubiquitous in everyday life. LEDs now replace fluorescent lights as backlights in cell phones and laptops, and are poised to become an alternative to incandescents and fluorescents in home lighting.
A Japan-based research team studied the phase behavior of confined water in single-walled carbon nanotubes, discovering a wet-dry transition at low temperatures and tubule ice formation. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of nanoconfined water and its potential applications in nanoscience.
A study analyzing stock market volatility over 50 years reveals the existence of hidden temporal order and high correlations between fear-driven market fluctuations and price variations. This discovery implies that traditional investment strategies should incorporate consideration for the 'volatility of volatility' in portfolio design.
Three new vaccine formulations show potential in preventing long-term relapse and reducing costs associated with methamphetamine addiction. The formulations produce a good immune response in mice, offering a unique approach to treating the highly addictive substance.
Researchers create water-resistant thermoplastic from chicken feathers using methyl acrylate, resulting in films with excellent mechanical properties and resistance to tearing and water. The development aims to replace petroleum-based plastics with renewable resources, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
A new study reveals that triclocarban (TCC) accumulates rapidly in fish, with levels reaching 1,000 times higher than those in the water. This is the first report of TCC uptake and metabolism in fish species, highlighting concerns about its potential endocrine-disrupting effects.
Researchers report that US military personnel in Iraq are frequently exposed to polluted air with fine particulate matter, exceeding guidelines and posing long-term health threats. Chronic exposure has been linked to various health problems, including increased hospital admissions and cardiovascular disease.
Scientists discover a new coating material made from flyash that can extend the life of concrete structures by decades, saving taxpayer money. The coating is hundreds of times more durable than existing ones and costs half as much.
Researchers created a new bitterness blocker, GIV3616, to make nutritious foods more enjoyable and mask unpleasant flavors. The compound is more potent and efficient than previous versions, offering hope for supertasters and individuals with heightened sensitivity to bitter tastes.