Global Intelligence Database
Scientists are unlocking the secrets of 'inherently chiral macrocycles', unique ring-shaped molecules that lose their handedness if broken. Previously too difficult to synthesise, new methods are finally allowing researchers to exploit their potential for advanced materials and catalysis.
By Tong
Current medical consensus often treats end-stage ALS as a 'locked-in' syndrome where the mind remains sharp within an immobile body. However, new case studies suggest this final phase may actually represent a degenerative disorder of consciousness, akin to severe dementia. This distinction is vital for understanding why brain-computer interfaces sometimes fail to aid communication.
By Gobert, Merida, Maby, Seguin, Jung, Morlet, André-Obadia, Dailler, Berthomier, Otman, Le Bars, Scheiber, Hammers, Bernard, Costes, Bouet, Mattout
Fluctuating soil moisture boosts the accumulation of dissolved organic matter (DOM), a key component of soil carbon. Curiously, the reason depends on the overall conditions: during drought, the increase comes from weaker bacterial activity, whereas in wet soil, it's driven by more active, metabolising bacteria.
By Liu J, Yuan M, Chen X, Lv Y, Tu Z, Fang X, Ren F, Kuang J, Shi Z.
A massive meta-analysis involving nearly 750,000 patients indicates that drugs designed for diabetes, obesity, and heart failure may significantly reduce the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The findings suggest that optimising metabolic health could be as effective as targeting the heart's electrical system directly.
By Raveendra, Nadarajah, Larvin, Farooq, Haris, Cutting, Kang, Wilkinson, Dalakoti, Kotecha, Lip, Boriani, Camm, Van Gelder, Wu, Gale
A comprehensive review examines how merging three distinct catalytic cycles may overcome traditional synthetic limitations. The authors argue this approach enhances selectivity and enables complex reactions under milder conditions.
By Dhayalan
Machine learning is becoming an essential tool in chemistry, particularly for designing complex organometallic catalysts. By identifying patterns in data, these algorithms help scientists navigate the immense number of potential chemical combinations to optimise reactions and discover new catalysts.
By Casillo, Scattolin, Nolan