Wonder enzyme may hold the key to longer, healthier lives

Could an enzyme responsible for breaking down and eliminating booze from our bodies also be able to help us lead longer, healthier lives? Scientists have discovered a molecular mechanism that could offer just that.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, Sci… Continue reading Wonder enzyme may hold the key to longer, healthier lives

Toxic “forever chemicals” could disrupt vital immune cell function

The negative health effects of chemicals called PFAS continue to be uncovered. Scientists from North Carolina State University (NCSU) have now shown that some types of PFAS can disrupt vital functions of immune cells.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, … Continue reading Toxic “forever chemicals” could disrupt vital immune cell function

Magnetic solution removes toxic “forever chemicals” from water in seconds

Scientists in Australia have developed an intriguing new technique for removing toxic “forever chemicals” from water. Adding a solution to contaminated water coats the pollutants and makes them magnetic, so they can easily be attracted and isolated.Con… Continue reading Magnetic solution removes toxic “forever chemicals” from water in seconds

Hydrogen and UV breaks down toxic PFAS “forever” chemicals in water

PFAS are among the most insidious pollutants, thanks to their ubiquity, their long life and their growing list of linked health concerns. But now researchers at the University of California, Riverside have developed a new method to break them down more… Continue reading Hydrogen and UV breaks down toxic PFAS “forever” chemicals in water

How exposure to artificial butter flavor when sick may cause lung damage

New research indicates exposure to low levels of a flavoring chemical called diacetyl in combination with a mild case of influenza can cause serious lung damage. The findings, in mice, suggest those with occupational exposure to the chemical should be … Continue reading How exposure to artificial butter flavor when sick may cause lung damage

Reactor uses supercritical water to destroy PFAS “forever chemicals”

Engineers at the University of Washington have designed a reactor that can completely destroy PFAS forever chemicals. The technology could help treat chemicals at manufacturing sites before they can leak out into the natural environment.Continue Readin… Continue reading Reactor uses supercritical water to destroy PFAS “forever chemicals”

First known RNA-targeting toxin launches “total assault” to kill bacteria

Scientists at McMaster University have identified a toxin used by bacteria to kill other bacteria through a never-before-seen mechanism. The toxin is the first found to directly target RNA molecules in what the team describes as “a total assault on the… Continue reading First known RNA-targeting toxin launches “total assault” to kill bacteria

New research points to potentially harmful chemicals in tattoo ink

New research presented at the fall meeting of the American Chemical Society has raised concerns that many tattoo inks contain chemicals that may be damaging to human health. Analyzing nearly 100 currently used tattoo inks the researchers found many ink… Continue reading New research points to potentially harmful chemicals in tattoo ink

Molecular Achilles’ heel breaks down toxic PFAS “forever chemicals”

Toxic PFAS compounds earn themselves the nickname of “forever chemicals” thanks to their tendency to persist in the environment for decades. In a new study, chemists claim to have found an Achilles’ heel to these ultra-stable molecules, using a relativ… Continue reading Molecular Achilles’ heel breaks down toxic PFAS “forever chemicals”

Lead in eggs from hens in city backyards raises urban farming concerns

A striking new study has found eggs from hens kept as pets in urban backyards can contain up to 40 times more lead than eggs from commercially farmed hens. The researchers recommend those living in inner-city locations test their soil for contaminants … Continue reading Lead in eggs from hens in city backyards raises urban farming concerns