Chemistry
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Chemistry
Polymer power drives tiny reactions
Applying pressure to a building block of plastic in water, researchers generate enough energy to make your Nikes glow and do other chemical work.
- Chemistry
Taste of fructose revs up metabolism
The pancreas pumps more insulin in response to the sugar, potentially throwing the body’s energy-storage machinery out of whack.
- Chemistry
Muscle massage may speed healing
Rubbing sore, overworked areas trips anti-inflammatory switches in the tissue that might speed healing and ease pain.
- Chemistry
Measuring what makes a medicine
A new way to evaluate molecules offers a finer-grained picture of which ones could become drugs.
- Earth
‘Nonstick’ pollutants may cut efficiency of vaccines in kids
Antibodies from immunizations are halved among children with the highest exposure levels to common chemicals.
- Humans
Seaweed study fuels bioenergy enthusiasm
Munched by a manipulated microbe, ocean algae readily yield ethanol.
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- Chemistry
Molecule ties itself in a complex knot
Chemists synthesize a five-crossing structure centered on chloride.
- Chemistry
Deep-sea battery comes to light
Microbes fuel a weak electrical current at hydrothermal vents.
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- Chemistry
Radiation sickness treatment shows promise
The regimen could be used to protect large numbers of people in the aftermath of major accidents such as Chernobyl or Fukushima.
- Chemistry
Plastic isn’t over yet
A tough new form of the 20th century’s signature polymer could extend its usefulness and make it more recyclable.
