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Foreign graduate students and postdocs consider leaving the US

A second executive order has prompted foreign graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to look elsewhere for educational and job opportunities in the US. The move has raised concerns about the future prospects of these students and the impact on US competitiveness in science and engineering.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 15, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Pulling the curtain back on the high cost of drugs

The high cost of drugs has soured public sentiment towards the industry. Industry experts argue that more transparency and perspective are needed to understand the complex reasons behind price hikes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 1, 2017

See-through heating pad could help prevent burns from thermotherapy (video)

Researchers have developed a transparent heating pad with embedded conductive silver nanowires that allows users to see through it and monitor their skin's color. The device is flexible, biocompatible, and can heat quickly when applied with a coin-cell battery, making it a potential solution to prevent burns from thermotherapy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 22, 2017

Critters, plants and waste offer a more sustainable supply of catalysts

Researchers are discovering new, eco-friendly catalysts in unexpected places, such as earthworm powder and plants that absorb high levels of metals from soil and water. This shift could reduce traditional animal and plant sources, decrease mining waste, and create more sustainable production methods for medicines, fuels, and electronics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 22, 2017

What's holding up CRISPR-based cures

Despite breakthroughs in CRISPR technology, delivering the gene-editing tool directly into patients remains a challenge. Researchers are exploring multiple approaches to overcome the issue, and despite hurdles, the potential payoff is significant.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

What to expect from big pharma in 2017

The number of new therapeutic drugs approved by the FDA was significantly lower in 2016 compared to previous years, with only four cancer drugs receiving approval. Delays in pharmaceutical manufacturing plants and a reduction in cancer drug approvals contributed to this trend.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 1, 2017

Lifting the fog on China's unwieldy air pollution problem

Despite enacted policies, China's smog remains due to climate change and uncertainty over pollution sources, with nitrogen dioxide and ammonia contributing significantly. Research suggests targeting volatile organic compounds from vehicles could help clean up the air.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 25, 2017

What's behind the durian fruit's notorious stench

Scientists analyzed 20 durian chemical ingredients to find that two compounds can re-create the overall smell. The strongest odor compounds were fruity ethyl and oniony 1-(ethylsulfanyl)ethanethiol, which combined effectively resembled the fruit's entire set of odoriferous and fragrant compounds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 18, 2017

How the new Congress and Trump could affect science

The new Republican-led Congress and Trump's presidency may lead to changes in science policies, including energy and climate issues, research budgets, and trade. Expert predictions suggest rollback of programs and alterations in existing laws like the Toxic Substances Control Act.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 18, 2017
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.

Looking for life in all the right places -- with the right tool

Scientists have developed a new instrument capable of detecting life with unprecedented sensitivity, potentially uncovering signs of life on Mars and other planetary bodies. The method uses capillary electrophoresis to analyze soil or ice samples for specific amino acids that could serve as indicators of biological activity.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 11, 2017

Using E. coli to detect hormone disruptors in the environment

Researchers developed a portable sensor using engineered E. coli bacteria to detect environmentally relevant concentrations of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The device can determine concentrations of known EDCs individually and overall mixtures in minutes, offering a cost-effective solution for detecting hormone disruptors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 11, 2017

How your cozy fleece could be polluting the ocean

Synthetic microfibers from clothing shed during washing, ending up in surface waters and affecting fish and wildlife. Researchers are working on solutions to reduce microfiber pollution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 11, 2017

Contrary to decades of hype, curcumin alone is unlikely to boost health

A new review of scientific literature on curcumin finds limited evidence to support its therapeutic benefits for cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The compound is unstable under physiological conditions and not readily absorbed by the body, making it a poor therapeutic candidate.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 11, 2017

Shaping pharma: The industry's top stories from 2016

Key findings from 2016 pharmaceutical industry news include the fight against Zika and rare diseases, as well as failed deals and new players. The industry's top stories set the stage for 2017 with a focus on innovative treatments and regulatory changes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 7, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Controversial drug approval stirs deep concerns -- and hope

The FDA approved Exondys, a treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, based on data from just 12 patients, raising concerns about scientific evidence and patient advocacy. Families of the boys involved attest to the drug's effectiveness, but critics argue that the agency bowed to pressure rather than making a decision based on evidence.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 16, 2016

Bitter political climate chills some scientific pursuits

A bipartisan probe into peer-review process and climate change research is chilling scientific pursuits, with over 2,000 scientists signing a letter urging an end to the probes. The investigation's scope has sparked concerns that it may protect oil companies and suppress science.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 26, 2016

Still wary of heparin from China, US considers options

The US Food and Drug Administration is making surprise visits to heparin plants in China to verify animal origins. Researchers are also working on developing a synthetic version of the drug to diversify sources.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 12, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Shedding light on the limits of the expanded genetic code

Researchers found that synthetic nucleosides can cause cell growth decrease and increase reactive oxygen species when exposed to near-visible light. This limitation could lead to unintended consequences for genetic material.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 6, 2016

How airlines are cutting their carbon footprint

The global aviation industry aims to halve its net carbon emissions by 2050 through improved engines and biofuels, with over 2,500 flights using alternative fuels already completed. The transition is underway, but more funding and policy support are needed for biofuel production

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 6, 2016

Insulin pill could make diabetes treatment 'ouchless'

Researchers have developed a new technology called Cholestosomes that can encapsulate insulin and deliver it orally without degrading. The vesicles are made of naturally occurring lipid molecules and can pass through the stomach intact, allowing for high bioavailability and effective insulin delivery.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 24, 2016
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.

Watching thoughts -- and addiction -- form in the brain

Researchers have developed a new technique to observe brain activity in real-time, enabling them to study how we learn and develop addictions. The 'CNiFERs' tool measures the release of specific neurotransmitters, revealing the timing of dopamine surges during learning and addiction processes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 22, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Edible food packaging made from milk proteins (video)

Researchers have developed a biodegradable and edible film made from milk protein casein, which can block oxygen and prevent food spoilage. The packaging has the potential to replace traditional plastics and reduce food waste during distribution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2016

What's really in your swimming pool?

Harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs) form when chlorine and other chemicals react with organic matter in pool water, causing respiratory problems like asthma among swimmers. Practicing good hygiene, such as taking showers before entering the pool, can help reduce DBP levels.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 3, 2016

Toxins in e-cig vapor increase with heat and device use

Scientists report elevated levels of toxic compounds in e-cigarette vapor when heated to higher temperatures, including glycidol and formaldehyde. The release of these compounds increases with device use and voltage settings.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 27, 2016
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.

The rise of OLED displays could lead to shatterproof phones

The rise of OLED displays could lead to shatterproof phones. Researchers are working to overcome challenges such as image retention and high costs, but if successful, the technology could vastly improve image quality and open up new possibilities for electronics design.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 13, 2016

Creating a sustainable 'circular economy' could be complex but rewarding

The article explores the concept of a circular economy, which aims to reduce pollution and waste by recycling resources instead of discarding them. Companies are implementing new manufacturing processes that use safer substances, and the European Union is grappling with regulation of chemicals in a closed-loop recycling system.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 29, 2016

Making vinyl records even groovier

Researchers are investigating various vinyl formulations to enhance sound quality in classic vinyl records. Early studies suggest that materials such as wax cylinders are surprisingly stable when handled properly.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 15, 2016
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.

Antidote to opioid drug overdoses could become more accessible

A highly effective antidote to opioid overdoses, naloxone, is becoming more accessible to patients and bystanders. New intranasal spray and autoinjector devices have been developed to address issues with getting the drug to those in need.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 18, 2016

At attention, molecules!

Researchers at the University of Iowa found that molecules in ionic liquids reassemble without being prodded, taking time to complete. The team discovered a much thicker interfacial layer than previously known, with some layers reaching 1 micron thick.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalLangmuir·DateMay 17, 2016

How to make a faster ski

Researchers found that skis with wide grooves and narrow plateaus perform faster on warm snow, while narrower grooves and wider plateaus excel on cold snow. The study could lead to improvements in ski surface preparation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 11, 2016

Understanding the scent of death

Researchers compare odor of human remains with dead animals to identify signature smells. They hope an artificial nose can help rescuers find bodies and aid law enforcement search for homicide victims.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 6, 2016

Mind-altering drugs could treat mental disorders

Researchers are investigating psychedelic compounds as potential treatments for mental health issues such as posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction, and depression. Early studies have shown promising results, including significant relief from patients who experienced long-term symptoms of PTSD.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 30, 2016
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.

Wearable defibrillator may be an alternative to ICD for some patients

The American Heart Association recommends a wearable automatic defibrillator as an option for patients at risk of sudden cardiac death due to erratic heart rhythms. This device can provide a short-term alternative to an ICD and is especially suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 28, 2016

Generating electricity with tomato waste

Researchers developed a microbial electrochemical cell that harnesses tomato waste to generate electric current. The process also helps purify the tomato-contaminated solid waste and associated wastewater. With an expected scale-up, the electrical output could be increased by several orders of magnitude.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 16, 2016

New material could make aircraft deicers a thing of the past

Scientists have developed a liquid-like substance called self-lubricating organogels (SLUGs) that can make wings and surfaces so slippery that ice cannot adhere. The SLUGs technology has potential applications beyond aircraft, including antifouling coatings in packaging, paints, and more.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 16, 2016

Cellular 'backpacks' could treat disease while minimizing side effects

Scientists have created cellular backpacks that can be loaded with therapeutic compounds and unloaded, targeting specific disease locations. These backpacks use immune cells as carriers, minimizing the impact on healthy cells and potentially treating a range of diseases including cancer and Parkinson's.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 16, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Spongy material helps repair the spine (video)

Researchers have developed biodegradable polymer grafts that can be placed in damaged vertebrae to grow and fix the spinal column. These grafts are designed to expand in size after implantation, providing a less invasive approach than current surgical methods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 14, 2016

A step toward a birth control pill for men

Researchers have made progress in designing a better male pill by tweaking experimental compounds that show promise. The team is refining the chemical structures to achieve a balance of solubility, specificity, and stability, aiming to design a safer and more effective alternative for men.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 13, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Getting closer to using beer hops to fight disease

Scientists are developing a synthetic route to produce humulones and lupulones, two key compounds with anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, from commercially available phloroglucinol. The researchers aim to create medicines without extracting them from plants, improving human health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 13, 2016

Nanomotors could help electronics fix themselves

Researchers have developed self-propelled nanomotors that can autonomously seek out and repair microscopic cracks in electronic systems, restoring electrical conductivity. These nanomotors, powered by hydrogen peroxide, mimic the body's immune system to promote healing in complex electronic components.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 13, 2016
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.

How to tackle the Zika virus

Scientists struggle to study Zika due to low symptom visibility and lack of approved tests. Pharmaceutical companies are racing to develop vaccines, but a broader approach targeting multiple viruses could provide future protection

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 24, 2016

The lowdown on sports nutrition supplements

The sports nutrition market is growing, with $6.3 billion in sales in 2014, but clinical studies on supplements are still limited, raising questions about their safety and effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 10, 2016

Pace of new drug approvals rise -- and so do their price tags

A record-breaking number of new drugs were approved last year, including biologics for rare diseases and cancer treatments. However, the high costs of these therapies pose a significant challenge for patients and the pharmaceutical industry.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 3, 2016