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Physicists observe rare nuclear isomer in ytterbium-150 for first time, advancing nuclear structure research

Researchers observe rare nuclear isomer in ytterbium-150, measuring its half-life and establishing its decay scheme. The study reveals an isomeric relay mechanism, shifting the configuration of nuclei within the 10+ isomeric chain, extending its persistence into the proton drip line region.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2026

TIFR Hyderabad researchers devise strategy to enhance control over separating chemical isomers

A team of researchers at TIFR Hyderabad has devised a strategy to enhance control over the separation of chemical isomers using a nanoporous metal-organic framework. This approach enables fine-tuning of molecular interactions and diffusion processes, allowing for more efficient and sustainable separation methods.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2024

Towards the realization of compact and portable nuclear clocks

Researchers from Okayama University successfully controlled the population of the thorium-229 isomeric state using X-rays, a crucial step towards building a compact and portable nuclear clock. This achievement demonstrates the potential for nuclear clocks to advance fundamental physics research and other applications such as GPS systems.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2024

Isomerism can control and increase the diversity of structure of covalent organic frameworks, emerging nanoporous solids

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology discovered a method to generate three types of structural isomers in 3D-COFs, increasing their diversity and potential applications. The creation of these isomers allows for tunable properties such as density and pore size.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2024

A novel green photoreactor for the synthesis of desirable chiral enantiomers

A team of Japanese researchers has successfully developed a recycling photoreactor that enables the synthesis of optically pure compounds with high yields, achieving an optical purity of 98-99%. The system uses a two-step rapid photoracemization process and can produce enantiomerically pure chiral sulfoxides in yields higher than 80%.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Toward tunable molecular switches from organic compounds

Researchers at Hokkaido University and Kyushu University have developed a technique to synthesize potential molecular switches from anthraquinodimethanes (AQDs), a group of overcrowded organic molecules. The synthesized derivatives can stably form twisted and folded isomers, as well as other isomeric forms, in different solvents.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalMaterials Chemistry Frontiers·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023

Taming of a shape-shifter molecule

Researchers have successfully integrated the shape-shifting molecule bullvalene into a coordination cage, restricting its fluctuating behavior and enabling controlled molecular recognition. This breakthrough could lead to the development of responsive materials with fast adaptation capabilities.

SourceWiley·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2022

Newly identified mediator of inflammation resolution stimulates tissue regeneration and controls granuloma formation

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered a new mediator, 4S, 5S-epoxy-resolvin, that resolves acute inflammation and stimulates tissue regeneration. The study found that this mediator also controls granuloma formation in human leukocytes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Discovery for grouping atoms invokes Pasteur

Scientists have discovered a new method for combining atoms into shape-shifting molecules, enabling the creation of novel materials and drugs with unique properties. This breakthrough builds upon past discoveries of isomerism, paving the way for the development of countless new compounds.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 21, 2018

Water caged in buckyballs

Water molecules were successfully trapped inside fullerene spheres (buckyballs) to study spin isomers, with 70-90% filled cages observed. The results show a second-order rate law in spin conversion, highlighting the importance of molecular interactions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateMay 20, 2014

Sustainable new catalysts fueled by a single proton

A Boston College research team has designed novel small-molecule catalysts triggered by a single proton, enabling efficient and selective fine chemical synthesis. The catalysts, derived from abundant amino acid valine, promote reactions at room temperature with minimal waste generation.

SourceBoston College·JournalNature·DateFeb 13, 2013

Electronic nose out in front

A new DNA-based chemical sensor has been developed, capable of discriminating between very similar molecules, even at low concentrations. The system uses carbon nanotubes and fine-tuned DNA strands to produce a measurable electrical signal when exposed to target chemicals.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMay 2, 2012