ACS Science Elements

How sweet-smelling fabrics could help fend off bacteria. A material in dissolvable sutures could help fight brain infections. Scientists are looking back in time for a possible solution to antibiotic resistance.

How scientists are closing in on a way to convert carbon dioxide into a potential energy source. Plant-based materials could soon play a more energetic role in our everyday lives. Predicting when athletes are about to run out of steam.

How researchers recreated the brilliant colors on ancient ivory carvings. Why some ancient artisans were far ahead of their time. Scientists are closing in on a way to improve the durability of the modern version of an ancient building material.

Saliva may protect older people from influenza. How to prevent vitamin B12 deficiency among vegetarians, vegans and the elderly. A new cancer treatment could help stop melanoma from spreading.

Why much of the world’s newly discovered fossil fuel reserves may be “unburnable.” Why there may be far less acreage available for biofuel crops than previously believed. How a small increase in energy conservation could have a big impact.

A new technology could help keep fruits and vegetables fresher longer. How an all-too-common weed “weeds out” its competition. How oysters create pearls of perfection.

How nature inspired the development of a potentially powerful and eco-friendly battery. Why recycling rechargeable lithium batteries should become a high priority. How nuclear power douses greenhouse gas emissions and saves lives.

Why a new study raises doubt about the effectiveness of green coffee bean weight-loss supplements. How scientists created caffeine-addicted bacteria. How coffee and green tea could help create better nanoparticles.

Why scientists are determined to reinvent the wheel. How a new form of genetic engineering could speed drug development. A few tweaks to one of the world’s oldest natural processes could help researchers harvest a crop of important medicinal compounds.

How an old remedy could help prevent bacterial infections. A new surgical technique could shorten certain operations and cause less scarring. How scientists are on the verge of creating a better bandage thanks to an idea borrowed from Mother Nature. An ancient blue pigment could help improve modern medicine.