In a recent study conducted by scientists at Tokyo Metropolitan University, a new model has been developed to analyze how amorphous materials respond to stress. By considering groups of atoms and molecules as squishy spheres with different levels of softness, the researchers were able to uncover unexpected patterns in the distribution of forces within the
Chemistry
The intersection of science fiction and science fact becomes apparent when considering the chemistry behind the galaxy far, far away in the Star Wars universe. Professor Alex Baker from the University of Warwick delves into the captivating inspiration that real-world reactions have had on the iconic franchise. From the freezing of Han Solo to the
Terpenes are natural substances that have a wide range of applications, from fragrances in cosmetics to flavorings in food. They also play a crucial role in the development of new medications. Chemists at the University of Basel have recently introduced a new method of synthesis for terpenes, making it easier to produce these complex molecules
When it comes to enjoying different alcoholic beverages, the temperature at which they are consumed plays a significant role in how they are perceived. Whether it’s beer, white wine, red wine, baijiu, or sake, each beverage has its own ideal drinking temperature. A recent study published in the journal Matter sheds light on how the
A groundbreaking discovery by Kobe University researchers has opened up a new avenue for inhibiting DNA-cleaving enzymes by utilizing the aggregation of a previously non-toxic molecule. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize the fight against Streptococcus, a bacteria responsible for toxic shock syndrome – a life-threatening condition. The Problem Streptococcus bacteria deploy a DNA-cleaving
Ceramic materials have long been utilized in various industries, such as aerospace, transportation, and manufacturing, due to their remarkable mechanical and chemical properties. However, one major drawback of ceramics is their limited plastic deformability at room temperature. In a recent study conducted by researchers at Purdue University’s College of Engineering, a new method has been
In a groundbreaking collaboration spearheaded by Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, a team of scientists has developed a novel porous material with the capability to store carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. This innovative research marks a significant advancement in the quest for sustainable solutions to mitigate the harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions on
The development of light-driven molecular motors has been a fascinating journey that began at the University of Groningen almost 25 years ago. The breakthrough discovery led to Professor Ben Feringa receiving the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 2016. However, despite this achievement, the practical application of these motors faced significant challenges. A recent publication in
The term “bookworm” is often used to describe individuals who love to read, but in the context of historic bookbinding, bookworms take on a more literal meaning. Microorganisms and the passage of time can break down the flour pastes commonly used in old publications to keep them intact. Researchers have delved into the proteins found
In a groundbreaking study, scientists have unveiled a sustainable new method for producing complex molecules that could potentially revolutionize the drug manufacturing industry. This innovative approach promises to significantly reduce waste while enhancing efficiency, marking a significant advancement in the field of chemistry. Traditional methods of manufacturing drugs often result in the production of mirror-image
The latest advancement in cancer research is giving scientists the ability to peer into individual cancer cells and observe how they interact with surrounding cells. This breakthrough technique allows researchers to analyze the lipid composition of single cancer cells, providing valuable insights into their behavior. A collaborative study led by the University of Surrey, in
Imagine a world where we can tackle water pollution and promote sustainable agriculture at the same time. This vision is now closer to reality thanks to the groundbreaking work of University of Saskatchewan (USask) chemistry professor Dr. Lee Wilson and his research team. In a recent publication in RSC Sustainability, they introduced a revolutionary “bioplastic”
Recently, researchers from the Department of Energy Plant Research Laboratory (PRL) at Michigan State University have been delving into the fascinating world of electron movement within protein nanocrystals. This exploration is driven by the potential to revolutionize our energy grid and move towards a more sustainable future. The discovery made by the researchers challenges previous
In a groundbreaking study published in Drug Testing and Analysis, researchers from Loughborough University have introduced a novel method for detecting drug substances in fingerprints lifted from crime scenes. This innovative technique has the potential to provide crucial insights into unsolved cases and shed new light on cold cases that have remained unresolved for years.
Pizza boxes have become an essential part of American culture, with roughly 43 million Americans consuming at least one slice of pizza every day. This beloved Italian-inspired dish contributes a staggering $47 billion to the U.S. economy annually. However, a significant portion of these pizza boxes end up in landfills due to contamination issues. Pizza