Forensic scientists at West Virginia University have made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of gunshot residue (GSR) analysis. With the emergence of environmentally friendly ammunition, traditional methods of GSR analysis have become obsolete, necessitating innovative approaches. By understanding the behavior of GSR on different surfaces such as skin, hair, and fabric, crime scene investigators can
Chemistry
The University of Bath’s Department of Chemistry and Institute for Sustainability have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of pharmaceutical production. By utilizing a compound found in pine trees and waste from the paper industry, scientists have found a sustainable way to produce two widely used painkillers, paracetamol and ibuprofen. This innovative approach addresses
Researchers at the University of Alberta have made remarkable progress in the field of water decontamination by utilizing a highly unconventional material: chicken feathers. Through experimentation and innovation, they have successfully transformed keratin, a protein found in feathers, into an effective filter for removing heavy metals from water sources. This groundbreaking discovery has the potential
The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) has always been inspired by the intricate workings of biological systems. However, the implementation of “neuromorphic” networks on traditional computer hardware falls short in replicating the processing capabilities of the human brain. Despite the significant milestones achieved by neural-network models in various applications, such as image generation and cancer
Photosynthesis is a vital process that allows cells to convert light into energy. Central to this process are the light-harvesting proteins, which absorb photons and transfer their energy to produce sugar molecules. A recent study conducted by chemists at MIT has shed light on how the disorganized arrangement of these proteins enhances energy transduction efficiency.
Chemical gardens have long been a subject of fascination for chemists around the world. These vibrant and intricate structures, resembling coral formations, have sparked curiosity due to their unique growth patterns and mysterious properties. However, despite centuries of research, the underlying rules and processes governing the formation of chemical gardens have remained elusive. In a
The development of materials with high porosity has garnered attention in various industries due to their exceptional surface area and ability to adsorb chemicals. Porous materials, characterized by their low density and empty spaces within their structure, are ideal catalysts for chemical reactions and have attracted interest in fields such as photocatalysis and optoelectronics. Among
Ferroelectric polymers have emerged as a pioneering material in the field of high-performance motion control systems. Led by Penn State, a team of international researchers has recently developed a groundbreaking ferroelectric polymer that presents substantial potential as a motion controller or “actuator” in various applications. This article delves into the capabilities of this innovative material
In the face of growing concerns over antibiotic resistance, a team of international scientists, including researchers from Trinity College Dublin, have made significant progress in unraveling the mysteries of a crucial bacterial enzyme. Through their groundbreaking research, they have provided valuable insights that could potentially aid chemists in the development of new drugs to combat
In a groundbreaking development, scientists have achieved a major breakthrough in the field of molecular electronics. Through the discovery of a new material for single-molecule electronic switches, researchers have unlocked the potential to revolutionize the world of semiconductor chips. This innovative material possesses a unique ladder-type molecular structure that significantly enhances stability and conductivity. With
In a breakthrough study, researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison have shattered conventional wisdom in the field of materials science and engineering. Contrary to popular belief, shear bands, normally associated with material failure, can actually enhance the ductility of certain materials under specific conditions. Led by Izabela Szlufarska, a distinguished professor in the field, the
The protein tubulin plays a crucial role in cell structure and function, forming the main component of microtubules. Researchers from EPFL and the University of Geneva have made significant progress in understanding the mechanisms behind tubulin post-translational modifications (PTMs). By engineering tubulin with specific modifications, they have gained valuable insights into the interplay between different