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Clarifiying complex chemical processes with quantum computers

Researchers from ETH Zurich and Microsoft Research demonstrate that quantum computers can evaluate complex chemical reactions scientifically relevant results. Quantum computers can potentially calculate the reaction mechanism of nitrogenase step by step, but they will serve as a supplement to classical computers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2017

Small scale, big improvements

Researchers developed a new method to study chemical reactions at atomic scale, allowing for real-time observations of the solid-liquid interface. This technique helps improve water purification methods and understand supercapacitor performance.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2017

Spotting the invisible

Researchers at Umeå University have successfully mapped the structure and function of a transient enzyme state using X-ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy. The study reveals that the transient state is essential for enzyme function and provides clues on how enzymes speed up reactions with incredible specificity and efficacy.

SourceUmea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 31, 2017

Researchers imitate molecular crowding in cells

Chemists from the University of Basel have successfully simulated molecular crowding in artificial vesicles, offering insights into the development of nanoreactors and artificial organelles. The study reveals that the crowding effect influences enzymatic kinetics, enabling specific control over chemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalSmall·DateMar 1, 2017

Better material insights with gentle e-beams

Researchers have developed a new method using gentle e-beams to study electron collisions with liquids, recording 2-dimensional spectra of molecules and measuring electronic excitation. This approach has shown promising results in evaluating quantum theoretical methods and may help identify alternatives to the greenhouse gas SF6.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJun 21, 2016

Nanotubes' 'stuffing' as is

A scientist at Lomonosov Moscow State University studied the influence of carbon nanotube 'stuffing' on their electronic properties. The researcher identified four main reasons why this method is promising for tailoring electronic properties.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalProgress in Materials Science·DateJun 2, 2016

Pharmacy on demand

A compact, portable pharmaceutical manufacturing system can be reconfigured to produce a variety of drugs on demand. The system is designed to provide an alternative for special situations, such as emergency outbreaks or manufacturing plant shutdowns.

Liposomes cannot penetrate the skin

Researchers from University of Southern Denmark found that liposomes cannot penetrate the human skin barrier intact. The study used a nanoscope to directly observe individual molecules and liposomes, revealing no penetration without breaking down. This challenges previous assumptions about liposome efficacy in skincare and medicine.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2016