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Scaling up polymer blobs

Researchers used simulations to study the scaling behavior of polymers at extreme limits, where it depends on their density and length. They found that polymer blends in ultrathin films displayed enhanced compatibility due to the simulations' ability to efficiently compute dense large-chain systems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateSep 27, 2012

Imprisoned molecules 'quantum rattle' in their cages

Researchers have created a 'nanolaboratory' inside a hollow spherical C60 Buckminsterfullerene molecule, allowing them to study the quantum mechanical principles governing the motion of imprisoned hydrogen and water molecules. The experiments revealed wave-like behavior and 'quantum rattling' of the guest molecules within the C60.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2012

Single molecules in a quantum movie

Researchers have successfully captured a quantum interference pattern from single dye molecules using live imaging. The experiment visualizes the dualities of particle and wave, randomness and determinism, locality and delocalization in a tangible way. This study has significant implications for understanding quantum physics and develo...

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 25, 2012

Seeing the quantum in chemistry: JILA scientists control chemical reactions of ultracold molecules

Physicists at JILA have observed chemical reactions near absolute zero, demonstrating that chemistry is possible at ultralow temperatures. By controlling ultracold molecules' internal states and molecular motions, scientists can study how the molecules scatter or interact with each other quantum mechanically.

Real-time gene monitoring developed

Researchers from USC and Cambridge have developed a method to track the activity of specific genes in real-time using a specially modified camera and computer vision techniques. This breakthrough has potential applications in various fields, including military, retail, and entertainment.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBMC Biotechnology·DateDec 16, 2008

Simple twists of fate

A novel Brandeis University study reports on molecular gymnastics performed by a protein involved in regulating DNA transcription. The research uses state-of-the-art tools and simple methods to observe the shape and behavior of individual DNA molecules.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 29, 2008

Unusual rods

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have identified a class of polyprismane molecules that exhibit auxetic behavior, getting thicker when stretched and thinner when compressed. This discovery has potential applications in bulletproof vests and medical technology.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 24, 2006

Water shows surprising behavior at molecular level

Researchers found that water molecules can move through tiny carbon nanotubes in short bursts, with changes in interaction causing the tube to empty or fill. This dynamic behavior has implications for understanding how water is conducted in biological channels and may contribute to developing new sensors.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalNature·DateNov 7, 2001