Zinc(II)-enhanced probe offers quick detection of synthetic cannabinoids Synthetic cannabinoids, a class of new psychoactive substances, bind to cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 much more strongly than tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), raising public health concerns due to their toxicity and addiction risk.
https://phys.org/news/2025-03-....zincii-probe-quick-s

Synbiotic chocolate infused with pre- and probiotics could have potential health benefits Many people will soon load up Easter baskets with chocolate candy for children and adults to enjoy. On its own, dark chocolate has health benefits, such as antioxidants that neutralize damaging free radicals. And a report in ACS Food Science & Technology suggests that packing the sweet treat with pre- and probiotics could make it more healthful. Flavoring agents, however, can affect many properties, including moisture level and protein content of the chocolate product.
https://phys.org/news/2025-03-....synbiotic-chocolate-

Nature-inspired ceramic fiber aerogels advance thermal insulation Recently, a research group led by Prof. Wang Zhenyang and Zhang Shudong from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, developed a new type of ceramic fiber aerogel, SiC@SiO₂, featuring highly anisotropic thermal conductivity and extreme thermal stability through directional bio-inspired design.
https://phys.org/news/2025-03-....nature-ceramic-fiber

Molecular probe strategy enhances specific detection of psychoactive α-methyltryptamine Tryptamine psychoactive substances, such as α-methyltryptamine (AMT), are monoamine alkaloids characterized by an indole ring structure. Rapid, highly sensitive, and specific identification of trace amounts of AMT is crucial for maintaining social stability and ensuring public safety. However, accurately detecting AMT using specific fluorescent methods is challenging due to the presence of similar amine groups and benzene rings in various other amines.
https://phys.org/news/2025-03-....molecular-probe-stra

Decoding the complex dance of electrons in water In a new study, EPFL scientists visualized the intricate interplay between electron dynamics and solvent polarization in this process. This is a significant step in understanding a critical process of many chemical phenomena, and it might be the first step to improving energy conversion technologies. CTTS is like a dance of microbes where one electron […]
https://lifeboat.com/blog/2025..../03/decoding-the-com