When it comes to insects, they are usually viewed as pests that intrude on our picnics. However, in certain parts of the world, these insects are not only consumed but are considered delicacies. Ants, for example, can be roasted whole for a snack or ground up to add a unique flavor to various dishes. In
Chemistry
Fuel cells have been identified as a key component in the global transition away from fossil fuels towards more sustainable energy sources. These cells consist of an anode, cathode, and electrolyte, working together to convert the chemical energy of fuel directly into electricity. However, one of the challenges faced by fuel cells is the presence
Cellular functions heavily rely on the properties of lipid membranes, which are not mere barriers but actively participate in processes such as material exchange, waste management, and sensing. Studying lipid membrane order is crucial in understanding various cellular functions and diseases, as abnormalities in membrane order can have significant impacts on cell physiology. One way
In a groundbreaking development, a team of chemical engineers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, along with a colleague from IA Murins Startups, has successfully utilized machine learning to replicate odors and verify them through experimental assessment of perfume perception. The Limitations of Current Applications While previous research has demonstrated the potential of
Peptides, which are short strands of amino acids, have been gaining popularity for various applications such as therapeutics, biomaterials, and chemical probes. One key challenge in working with peptides is the ability to attach functional molecules, like fluorescent compounds, to specific locations on the peptide without affecting its structure and function. The N-terminus of a
The traditional approach to studying batteries typically involves analyzing their electrical properties such as voltage and current. However, a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has shed light on the importance of also considering heat flow in conjunction with electricity to gain valuable insights into battery chemistry. This innovative research
Intercalation is a crucial process for modifying the properties of various materials, especially in the development of advanced technologies such as lithium-ion batteries and superconductors. The reversible insertion of guests into hosts plays a significant role in improving device performance. However, the stability of intercalated materials has always been a challenge to predict, leading to
Helicases are essential enzymes responsible for unwinding DNA and RNA within cells. These molecular machines play a crucial role in processes such as replication and transcription, ensuring the proper functioning of genetic information. However, when helicases malfunction, they can contribute to the growth of certain cancers and facilitate viral replication and bacterial proliferation. Despite their
In a groundbreaking discovery, a team of chemists led by Prof. Albert Heck has revolutionized the way molecules are analyzed and understood. By enhancing current measuring equipment, the team has successfully trapped and observed individual molecules for an extended period – up to an impressive 25 seconds. This monumental achievement has allowed them to delve
Temperature is a critical parameter in chemical reactions, influencing both thermodynamics and reaction kinetics. Understanding the temperature distribution inside catalyst particles is crucial for determining reaction mechanisms and developing effective reaction kinetics. Recently, a research team at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) developed a novel technique for measuring temperature distribution inside industrial zeolite
Catalysis research has taken a significant step forward with the recent collaboration between researchers from the United States, China, and the Netherlands. Dr. Zhenhua Zeng and Professor Jeffrey Greeley from the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering have made strides in exploring active sites and catalyst design, offering a fresh perspective on catalytic reactivity and active
The world of solar energy is constantly evolving, with researchers striving to improve the efficiency of solar cells in order to make them more cost-effective and widely accessible. One recent breakthrough in this field comes from a team of researchers at Uppsala University and at the First Solar European Technology Center AB in Sweden. They
The molecular mechanisms behind photosynthesis are crucial for advancements in biotechnology and renewable energy. Photosystem II (PSII) is a key protein complex in this process, responsible for oxidizing water and producing dioxygen using sunlight. Despite extensive research, there are gaps in our understanding of the structural dynamics of PSII during the water-splitting reaction, particularly on
In recent years, there has been a significant push towards the synthesis of carbon-based chemicals through the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2). While this research has shown promise in producing various important chemicals, such as ethylene, many of the proposed methods lack energy efficiency and selectivity. The inability to efficiently convert CO2 into ethylene
The concept of chirality in molecules, where they possess a structural asymmetry much like the left and right hands of humans, has long been a topic of interest in the field of chemistry. One of the intriguing mysteries surrounding the origins of life on Earth is the prevalence of just one chiral form in the
