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Understanding what makes Tennessee whiskey unique

Researchers have identified key compounds responsible for the flavor and aroma of Tennessee whiskey. By studying the effects of the Lincoln County Process, distilleries can optimize their production to achieve the desired flavor profile.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 31, 2019

Next-generation single-dose antidotes for opioid overdoses

Researchers create covalent nanoparticles to deliver naloxone for 24-hour protection against morphine and fentanyl's effects. The nanoparticle system shows promise in treating fentanyl overdoses and could potentially replace short-acting naloxone as an antidote of choice.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 31, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Pollutants, pathogens could team up to make us sick

Recent research reveals that pollutants can alter animals' immune responses and decrease their resistance to infectious diseases. Chemical exposure in the womb has also been linked to increased risk of illnesses in children.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 20, 2019

Fingerprints, revisited

Researchers are developing methods to extract DNA and analyze chemicals from fingerprints, improving identification rates. These techniques involve analyzing molecules like DNA, amino acids, or explosives left behind in fingerprints.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 13, 2019

Capturing carbon from the air

Negative-emission technologies (NETs) that capture carbon dioxide from the air could address about 30% of needed reductions in carbon-dioxide emissions. Scientists estimate that NETs face challenges on cost-effectiveness and disposal methods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 27, 2019

Delhi's complicated air pollution problem

Delhi's air pollution is a complex issue, with multiple sources including burning from power plants, landfills, and individual fires. Experts cite difficulties in collecting accurate data due to erroneous official numbers and uncounted small sources.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 20, 2019

Road salts could endanger ecosystems, water supplies

Excessive road salt application has led to increased chloride levels in streams and rivers, posing health risks and disrupting ecosystems. Implementing brine solutions and snow plows can reduce salt use by up to 70%.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 13, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New device simplifies measurement of fluoride contamination in water

A new device can accurately measure fluoride concentrations in water using a novel material that changes color when exposed to fluoride ions. This simple, on-site testing method is cheaper and more accessible than current methods, enabling virtually anyone to monitor fluoride levels in drinking water.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 11, 2019

Do microplastics harm humans?

Researchers are unsure if microplastics cause harm to people as they accumulate in the body and organs, with varying effects depending on composition and additives. Microplastics have been identified in human feces, raising concerns about potential health risks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 6, 2019

Taking the bite out of snake venom

Researchers are exploring alternatives to conventional antivenoms, including small molecules like varespladib that inhibit venom enzymes and human monoclonal antibodies to snake venom components.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 30, 2019

Chemists warm up to preprint servers

Two chemistry preprint servers, ChemRxiv and ChemRN, have gained traction since their launch in 2017, allowing chemists to share discoveries freely before peer review. The sites provide a platform for quick sharing of results, feedback from peers, and increased access to research, especially for scientists in developing countries.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 23, 2019

Coming soon: A blood test for Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers have made significant progress towards developing a blood test for Alzheimer's disease, with sensitive assays able to detect smaller amounts of peptides that form when amyloid breaks down. A reliable blood test could aid in diagnosis and help identify participants for clinical trials, potentially leading to better treatments.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 17, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Lab safety, 10 years later

Decade after a chemist's death, academic labs continue to improve safety protocols, including incorporating safety into education and training. Despite progress, concerns remain about the effectiveness of current measures in preventing lab accidents.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 9, 2019

The chemistry year in review

The American Chemical Society (ACS) reviewed 2018's top research stories, including machine learning and new solutions for plastic waste. Experts predict key advances in 2019, such as automated chemical synthesis and analysis, and solid-state battery technologies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 19, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

A banner year for pharma

In 2018, the biotech industry saw significant investment from venture capital firms and a surge in initial public offerings. Promising developments include the approval of the first RNA interference drug, Onpattro, for treating rare genetic disorders, as well as advancements in CRISPR technology and cannabis-based therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 5, 2018

Sharing benefits of digitized DNA

A proposed change to the Nagoya Protocol could require users of genetic data to pay fees to donor countries, potentially hindering innovation and public health. Proponents argue it will conserve biodiversity, while opponents claim it discourages research and development.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 28, 2018

Top 10 chemistry start-ups

These start-ups are using chemistry to fight disease, control agricultural pests, and make safer lithium-ion batteries. The selected companies have ignited investor interest with their groundbreaking ideas.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 8, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Moving 'clean meat' from lab to table

The clean meat industry is struggling to scale up production and gain consumer acceptance, with challenges including product naming and labeling. Despite these hurdles, start-ups aim to capture a small percentage of the $1-trillion-per-year combined meat market.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 24, 2018

Wringing water from the air

Scientists are working on technologies to collect water from the air, which could help alleviate global water shortages. Researchers have developed various approaches, including fog-harvesting systems and liquid desiccants, that can reduce costs and scale up production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 17, 2018

Nail polishes with 'n-free' labels are not necessarily free of toxic compounds

Researchers found that some substitutes for di-n-butyl phthalate and triphenyl phosphate may be harmful, raising concerns about 'regrettable substitution'. The study of 40 nail polishes revealed that manufacturers have removed DnBP but still use similar toxic substitutes without disclosure.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 10, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Tiny tools for a big industry

Researchers explore using nanoparticles as tiny scouts to map connectivity between wells, optimize injection schemes, and identify oil-rich spots. Nanomaterials also show promise in keeping surfactants from sticking to rocks and magnetically separating oil microdroplets.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 10, 2018

Puerto Rico, one year later

Chemists in Puerto Rico remained resilient and united after Hurricane Maria, causing a humanitarian crisis and billions of dollars in damage. The storm impacted the pharmaceutical industry, academic institutions, and environmental health, with researchers studying the effects on water and air quality.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 19, 2018

New high-capacity sodium-ion could replace lithium in rechargeable batteries

Researchers at University of Birmingham have discovered a new high-capacity sodium-ion battery that can rival lithium-based rechargeable batteries. The breakthrough, published in Journal of the American Chemical Society, could lead to more sustainable and affordable electric vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 12, 2018

Navigating the path to a Ph.D.

The article tackles key questions about graduate school, including choosing a research program and advisor, and overcoming obstacles like burnout and unexpected setbacks. It provides a roadmap for navigating the chemistry graduate school experience, drawing on stories from students and expert advice.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 12, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

A new generation of artificial retinas based on 2D materials

Scientists developed a flexible, high-density artificial retina using 2D materials that mimics the human eye. The device has shown promising results in laboratory and animal studies, and could potentially restore sight to millions of people with retinal diseases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

Saliva could influence taste preferences

Salivary proteins could be part of a feedback loop that influences food taste and dietary choices. Researchers found that drinking bitter foods altered saliva protein composition, which corresponded to changes in sensory ratings.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Next-gen insect repellents to combat mosquito-borne diseases (video)

Researchers have developed a new class of mosquito repellents based on naturally occurring compounds that are effective in repelling mosquitoes. The compounds mimic the mechanism of nature, which could provide additional protection against mosquitoes, while having fewer environmental side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

Maple leaf extract could nip skin wrinkles in the bud

Researchers find that glucitol-core-containing gallotannins from red maple leaves can block elastase activity, maintaining skin elasticity. The findings could lead to the development of plant-based skincare products and create new economic opportunities for farmers in eastern North America.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

Strawberries could help reduce harmful inflammation in the colon

Researchers found that consuming whole strawberries daily can significantly suppress symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and improve gut health. The study's findings suggest a potential dietary intervention to mitigate colonic inflammation and increase beneficial bacteria in the gut.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

A paper battery powered by bacteria

Researchers have developed a new type of battery made from paper and fueled by bacteria, which could overcome challenges of limited resources and commercial batteries. The paper-based bio-battery has shown to be effective in powering small devices like LEDs and calculators, with potential for improvement through further research.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2018

Weaponizing oxygen to kill infections and disease

Scientists have developed a method using photosensitizers and nanoparticles to activate oxygen, killing bacteria like MRSA. The technique has shown promise in treating microbial infections and possibly even cancer.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2018

The origin of off-taste in onions

Scientists have discovered previously unknown sulfur compounds causing the bitter taste that develops after chopping onions. The compounds, dubbed allithiolanes, form spontaneously when the onion is damaged, affecting the flavor of resulting dishes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 15, 2018

Designer polymers on demand

Researchers create designer polymers with precise properties by controlling the order and number of subunits. They achieve this through a selective approach, allowing for on-demand control over sequence, structure, and architecture.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 8, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Synthetic suede gives high-end cars that luxury feel

The article reveals how Japanese companies have mastered the production of high-quality synthetic suede for luxury cars, offering advantages over natural leather and suede. The development of this material has led to a boom in business for manufacturers, with increased demand prompting expansions and ramped-up production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 1, 2018

Cannabidiol: Hope or hype?

Research on cannabidiol (CBD) has shown promising results in treating rare seizure disorders, with clinical trials halving the number of seizures in 40% of children and young adults. However, more studies are needed to determine its efficacy for other ailments, as some patients experienced side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 25, 2018

The hidden hazards of antibiotic resistance genes in air

Research reveals airborne transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARGs) across the globe, with high levels detected in urban areas. ARGs resistant to multiple antibiotics, including vancomycin, were found in air samples from cities worldwide.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 25, 2018

A new catalyst for water splitting that is the best of both worlds

Researchers developed a hybrid catalyst that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen efficiently, addressing previous limitations of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. The new material, made of iridium dinuclear heterogeneous catalysts attached to a tungsten oxide substrate, offers improved stability and recyclability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJul 25, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Artificial enzymes perform reactions on living cells

Researchers created an artificial enzyme that catalyzes a Diels-Alder reaction on the surfaces of living human cells, achieving up to a 50% yield. This breakthrough could lead to the development of therapeutic drugs targeted to specific organs and cells, reducing side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 25, 2018

Traditional Tibetan medicine exposes people and environment to high mercury levels

Researchers have found that traditional Tibetan medicine (TTM) contains high levels of mercury and methylmercury, with Tibetans exposed to 34-fold higher daily intake than in regions specializing in mercury mining. This exposure results in the release of significant amounts of total mercury into municipal sewage and the environment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 18, 2018

'Greener' ways to color clothes

The textile industry is exploring alternative coloring methods that minimize environmental impact, with companies developing dyes that require less water and energy. Innovative approaches like inkjet printing and microbial fermentation are being tested to create more sustainable fashion.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 18, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

CRISPR's growing pains

Recent studies have raised safety concerns over CRISPR's precision in human cell lines, but companies are forging ahead with therapies. The technology makes double-stranded breaks at specific sites in DNA to repair defective genes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 11, 2018

Crumple up this keyboard and stick it in your pocket

Researchers developed a portable keyboard using soft Ecoflex silicone rubber with conductive carbon nanotubes that can withstand bending and crumpling. The device is thin, flexible, and inexpensive, costing only $1, making it suitable for everyday life.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 20, 2018

Rethinking recycling

Scientists are developing new recycling technologies to break down plastics into reusable materials. Current methods use mechanical processes that partially degrade polymers, reducing product quality. Researchers are exploring alternative approaches, including chemical reactions and biological enzymes to speed up the process.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 20, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Cultivating cannabis

State agricultural organizations and researchers are working to improve cannabis cultivation through biological means of pest control and sequencing the cannabis genome. This effort aims to increase the crop's value by providing better growing conditions and fertilizers, ultimately reducing the demand for trained scientists.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 23, 2018

Moving away from plastics: The case of solid body wash

While solid body wash is seen as a more eco-friendly option than wrapped and bottled soaps, studies on its environmental impact are still lacking. Experts recommend that consumers learn more about ingredients and packaging-reduction initiatives to make informed choices.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 16, 2018

A detective story of wildfires and wine

Scientists are making progress in understanding 'smoke taint' in wine after wildfires, discovering links between volatile phenols and glycoconjugates. The study found that fermentation can increase smoky compounds, complicating efforts to remove taint from tainted wines.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 9, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Harvesting water from fog with harps (video)

Researchers have developed a type of 'harp' to collect fresh water from fog, outperforming traditional mesh devices. The new harp technology consistently collected more water than equivalent meshes at all wire diameters, with the finest wires collecting over three times the amount.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 18, 2018

Synthesizing a deadly mushroom toxin

Scientists have successfully synthesized α-amanitin, a deadly mushroom toxin with potential anti-cancer properties. The breakthrough could lead to improved production methods and potentially attenuate the toxin's toxicity.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 11, 2018

Old proteins tell tales of historical artifacts and the people who touched them

Researchers have developed a technique to analyze old proteins on historical artifacts, providing insight into past lifestyles and medical conditions. This method, using chromatography resins, can identify biomarkers like morphine and kidney disease indicators, shedding light on the lives of those who created or used these items.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 11, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Twisting graphene into spirals

Kansai researchers successfully synthesized hexa-peri-hexabenzo[7]helicene, the first helically twisted chiral graphene. The discovery offers promising applications in nanomechanics and has unique electronic structure properties.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 29, 2018

Elephant and cow manure for making paper sustainably

Researchers have found a way to upcycle animal dung into paper products using cellulose, which could provide an alternative to traditional wood-based methods. The process involves treating the manure with sodium hydroxide and then bleaching it to produce purified cellulose nanofibers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 21, 2018

New 4-D printer could reshape the world we live in

Researchers have developed a powerful new 4-D printer that can create self-assembling structures with unprecedented flexibility and speed. The printer uses multiple printing techniques to integrate materials, conductive wiring, and grayscale lighting for advanced shape changes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 21, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Make way for the mini flying machines

Researchers developed a new marriage of materials, combining ultrathin 2-D electronics with miniature particles to create microscopic machines. The devices have simple computing functions and can float in the air, allowing them to access environments they otherwise could not reach.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 21, 2018