A new study reveals that fracking fluids contain eight substances toxic to mammals and raise concerns about their potential health impacts. The research highlights the need to characterize compounds used in hydraulic fracturing to evaluate environmental and human health effects.
A new portable device using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry can detect the specific vapors emitted by US currency, potentially helping border guards identify and seize billions of dollars in smuggled cash. The system, called BCDS, is being developed to improve detection and has been shown to work effectively within seconds.
Scientists have discovered a way to create hemp-derived carbon nanosheets that can store as much energy as graphene, the current gold standard for supercapacitors. These nanosheets offer a promising alternative for more affordable and sustainable energy storage.
Researchers developed a highly accurate test to detect surprise ingredients that are neither sweet nor flavorful in ground, roasted coffee. The test uses liquid chromatography and statistical tools to identify unwanted additives, such as grains or plant parts, with 95% accuracy.
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Researchers have developed an adhesive patterned after glue produced by the sandcastle worm, which may solve the problem of premature births resulting from fetal surgery. The new adhesive is water-borne and non-toxic, and has been shown to be effective in repairing punctures without swelling.
Scientists are developing a method to process cashews that could make them safer for people with nut allergies. Researchers are using sodium sulfite and enzymes to disrupt the structure of cashew allergens, reducing IgE binding.
Scientists are working on seamless marriage between electronics and brain signaling to treat devastating diseases. They're developing ultraflexible circuits and injecting tiny electronics into the brain to integrate with existing biological networks.
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Researchers found that grape region significantly impacts wine taste and aroma, with Argentinean Malbecs having more ripe fruit characteristics and sweetness. Additionally, wine stored in a dark room aged approximately four times faster than bottles stored in a professional cellar.
A recent study found triclosan in all pregnant women's urine samples and in half of umbilical cord blood samples, posing developmental and reproductive problems. The exposure to these antimicrobial agents could contribute to antibiotic resistance and affect birth sizes.
The American Chemical Society has concluded that a lack of supply is due to increasing demand for materials such as indium, platinum and copper. The white paper suggests focusing on finding alternative materials and new approaches to technology development to prevent these elements from disappearing.
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A new material, a microporous organic polymer, has been developed that can adsorb carbon dioxide extremely well. It's stable, cheap, and has the potential to play a role in reducing CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030, according to President Obama's plan.
Researchers developed novel, ultrathin coatings called nanosheets that can cling to body's most difficult-to-protect contours and keep bacteria at bay. The nanosheets protected burns from infection for three continuous days and up to six days with an additional coating.
Olafs Daugulis, a University of Houston associate professor, is recognized for his work on transition metal-catalyzed carbon–hydrogen bond functionalization reactions. He will receive a $40,000 research grant and present at the Arthur C. Cope Symposium in San Francisco.
The FDA is considering significant changes to the Nutrition Facts label, including listing added sugars, vitamin D, and potassium on every label. Industry groups are opposing these changes, arguing that they are unnecessary and could be confusing for consumers.
Lab tests reveal that oregano and rosemary, commonly used herbs, have potent compounds against type-2 diabetes. Greenhouse-grown herbs contained more polyphenols but required less to inhibit a key enzyme.
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Researchers create textured glass surface that scatters light, repels water, and improves display visibility in bright light conditions. The method is inexpensive and can be scaled up for industry use.
Research casts doubt on methane's climate-friendliness, despite its potential for burning cleaner than coal. Methane emissions from oil and gas operations are estimated to be significant, with varying levels of release into the atmosphere.
The article investigates the effects of triclosan, a common antimicrobial ingredient, on human health and the environment. Studies have found that triclosan can disrupt hormones and cause problems for vulnerable populations, such as fetuses and breastfeeding babies.
Researchers developed a new, non-destructive method to identify many types of inks on various papers and surfaces. The tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) technique can analyze organic colorants with high sensitivity and spatial resolution, making it suitable for preserving valuable cultural heritage treasures.
Scientists have developed a new glucose-sensing protein to help prevent complications associated with dropping or spiking blood-sugar levels in diabetes. The protein, engineered to be stable and detect glucose levels within the range present in people with diabetes, could enable continuous monitoring.
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Research Triangle Park has emerged as a hub for crop science, with major companies like Bayer and BASF investing heavily in research facilities. Scientists are working on projects addressing pressing issues such as pesticides against rootworm, honeybee threats, and drought tolerance to help meet the world's growing food demands.
Researchers found that Neisseria meningitidis and gonorrhoeae bacteria can change the structure of their outer proteins to evade the immune system. This discovery could lead to new treatments for bacterial diseases such as meningitis and gonorrhea.
Researchers have developed a safer lithium-ion battery component using solid polymer electrolytes, which reduce the risk of fires while maintaining effective performance. The new material can be used in high-energy batteries like lithium-sulfur and lithium-air batteries.
Scientists have developed coatings that can separate oil from water instantly and efficiently, using an oleophobic-hydrophilic material. The new smart materials could stop surfaces from getting foggy and dirty, and reduce the need for extra steps and equipment in oil spill cleanup.
Consumers' curiosity and outrage over food ingredients have fueled online petitions targeting 'pink slime,' synthetic dyes, and brominated oil. The American Chemical Society notes the food industry is taking notice of consumer distrust, shifting towards alternative ingredients.
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Scientists have developed a new flexible thin film device that stores enough energy to provide critical back-up power for portable electronics. The device is made from nickel and fluoride, with tiny holes allowing ions to flow easily, and can bend and fold thousands of times with little loss in performance.
Successful physics startups often differ from internet startups in terms of risk-taking and market strategies. Funding is a major challenge for entrepreneurs, with venture capitalists becoming more risk-averse.
Scientists have developed a new type of inexpensive barcode that can be added to documents or currency to foil attempts at making forgeries. The barcodes are made from lanthanide-doped upconversion materials and are invisible to the naked eye.
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Researchers have found metallopolymers that can evade MRSA's defensive enzymes and destroy its protective walls, causing the bacteria to burst. The metallopolymers mostly left red blood cells alone, suggesting minimal side effects.
The pharmaceutical industry is turning its attention to hearing loss, a condition affecting 36 million Americans. Researchers are developing potential therapies targeting the inner ear and central nervous system, with several drug candidates already advancing through clinical testing.
Researchers found that using beer as a marinade can significantly reduce the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in grilled meats. The study showed that black beer had the strongest effect, reducing PAH levels by more than half compared to unmarinated meat.
A new type of single-dose vaccine that doesn't require refrigeration is being developed to combat emerging and re-emerging diseases in remote areas. The 'nanovaccine' can be stored at room temperature for up to six months and works by triggering both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
Researchers found that Texans prefer Texas-made vodkas with higher dissolved salts, which affect taste buds. The study, published at the American Chemical Society meeting, also highlights the growing interest in Texas spirits and wineries.
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Researchers found that certain bacteria in the stomach break down dark chocolate's polyphenolic compounds into anti-inflammatory compounds. Combining dark chocolate with prebiotics and solid fruits may enhance health benefits. The study suggests a new approach to improving cardiovascular health through gut microbiome modulation.
Researchers have developed a new testing method that can detect performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) 1,000 times more sensitively than current methods. The approach, called paired ion electrospray ionization (PIESI), uses mass spectrometry to gather and detect small drug bits in body fluids.
Researchers are creating biodegradable electronics that can dissolve after use, eliminating the risk of infection. Meanwhile, another scientist is working on nanomaterials to capture more energy from renewable sources, with potential applications in powering homes and gadgets.
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Researchers have developed a color-changing food deterioration tag that can determine if perishable products are still active or fresh. The tag changes color to indicate the quality of the product, ranging from fresh to spoiled, and can be customized for various foods and beverages.
Scientists are working on a device that can diagnose and monitor diabetes using volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in human breath. The technology was inspired by the need to suppress body odor for deer hunters, who have a keen sense of smell, five times more acute than humans.
Researchers have found that agavins, a natural sweetener from the tequila plant, can lower blood glucose levels and aid in weight loss. By acting as a dietary fiber, agavins are non-digestible and won't raise blood glucose, making them an attractive alternative to artificial sweeteners.
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Researchers have successfully developed a method to create high-quality, lower-fat versions of popular food products like sauces, dressings, and desserts. By adjusting the calcium level and acidity, they were able to improve the texture, appearance, and flavor of these foods without sacrificing taste or nutritional value.
Scientists have developed a potentially safer and greener alternative to the hormone-disrupting chemical BPA. Bisguaiacol-F (BGF), synthesized from lignin, is being touted as a suitable replacement due to its similar shape to BPA and lower toxicity levels. The researchers believe BGF could be ready for market within five years.
Scientists have developed a way to convert mechanical energy into electricity, enabling the creation of portable and sustainable power sources. The technology, known as triboelectric nanogenerators, can harness energy from everyday movements such as walking or rubbing, making it possible to charge mobile devices on the go.
Researchers have made progress on a 'breathing' battery that could replace lithium-ion technology in electric vehicles, with the potential for nearly twice the energy storage capacity. The new battery design uses air instead of traditional materials and has shown high conductivity and the ability to discharge and recharge 100 times.
Researchers have developed a more precise method for detecting explosives using terahertz technology from greater distances. This advancement could lead to detectors that survey wider areas without the need for full-body scanners.
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Researchers have made progress in designing therapies for patients with specific genetic traits, particularly in cancer treatment. However, the field still faces significant hurdles, including a need to incorporate individuals' health histories and environmental factors into personalized medicine.
Researchers found that sprouted garlic had higher antioxidant activity than fresh bulbs and made different substances. This could be a way to improve the health benefits of garlic without wasting food.
Developers have created a metal oxide shell that increases the stability of nanowire devices, which can detect disease biomarkers and record heart cells. This coating allows nanoelectronic devices to last several months in human body conditions.
A chemical leak in Charleston, W.Va., highlights the shortcomings of policies and research on thousands of chemicals. The incident led to 300,000 residents relying on bottled water due to the lack of complete toxicology studies on the leaked chemical, MCHM.
Researchers developed a new method to create ultrathin capacitors with significantly higher capacitance density than commercially available products. This breakthrough could enable the use of printed circuit boards and memory storage devices in next-gen electronics.
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A new high-efficiency cabin air filter (HECA) can reduce ultrafine particle (UFP) exposure by 93% and keep carbon dioxide levels low. Most modern car filters only block 40-60% of UFPs, but the HECA filter's smaller synthetic fibers can capture more particles.
Daniel W. Armstrong, a professor at UT Arlington, will receive the ACS Award in Separations Science and Technology for his development of novel applications with major impacts in the field of separation science and technology. He has also made significant contributions to chromatography, including the development of over 30 different t...
Research suggests lead exposure, once widespread in US gas and paint, may be key factor behind decline in violent crimes. The study found a significant decrease in homicide rate after the ban of lead from gasoline and paint.
Researchers developed a mathematical model that predicts the shelf life of sparkling wines based on storage temperature, which can help wineries and consumers determine when bubbly has gone bad. The study also found that refrigerating sparkling wines almost completely prevents browning.
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The 2014 Congressional agenda will shape public health, energy, and pharmaceutical research through key legislation. Modernization of the Toxic Substances Control Act and new energy bills are expected to have significant implications.
The global chemical industry is expected to rise by 2.5% in the US and see increased sales in Europe, driven by strong economic growth in China and India. Low-priced natural gas from shale deposits and an uptick in housing starts are also contributing factors.
The American Chemical Society's year-in-review issue highlights key developments in organic chemistry, sustainability, and spectroscopy. Researchers made progress in creating biomedical compounds and developing solar-powered sterilizers for safe water and medical instruments.
A novel method reduces the energy required to separate titanium from its tightly bound companion, oxygen, making it more affordable and accessible. The new approach halves the temperature requirements of conventional methods and consumes 60% less energy.
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The US FDA is proposing to ban partially hydrogenated oils, which contain trans fats. The alternatives used instead are generally considered healthier, but not without their own risks.
Researchers have developed a new imaging method to visualize high concentrations of a sodium channel protein associated with pain, potentially leading to improved pain management and treatment monitoring. The technique uses a small molecule attached to saxitoxin, which accumulates at sites of nerve damage in rats.
Small labs are setting up to analyze medical marijuana products for potency, purity and safety. They also check for mold, mildew, microbial contamination, pesticides and solvents.