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One synthetic molecule, two doorways into cell

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a synthetic ion channel molecule with two distinct openings, allowing for different-shaped paths into a cell. The molecule's rotation and attachment to lipids control its conductance states, offering potential insights into the unique functioning of these channels in living organisms.

SourceKyoto University·JournalChem·DateMar 13, 2017

Serendipity uncovers borophene's potential

Researchers at Northwestern University successfully integrated borophene with an organic material, forming a self-assembled monolayer next to the borophene sheet. This breakthrough enables the formation of well-controlled interfaces between distinct materials, which is crucial for creating diodes and photovoltaics.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 22, 2017

Molecular phenomenon discovered by advanced NMR facility

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a molecular phenomenon where a guanosine derivative changes its supramolecular structure upon transitioning from solution to solid state and vice versa. This defies chemical precedent, suggesting a complex interplay between molecular interactions in different environments.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateFeb 17, 2017

Full(erene) potential

Researchers at UCSB have developed a simple method to master the electrical properties of polymer semiconductors by adding specific molecules that 'trap' charge carriers. This technique allows for efficient design and manufacture of organic circuitry with varying complexity, while maintaining economical manufacturing costs.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 2, 2017

Hydrogen from sunlight -- but as a dark reaction

Scientists have developed a biomimetic photosynthesis approach using graphitic carbon nitride material to store and release light-generated electrons for catalytic hydrogen production. This technology enables the production of storable solar fuels independent of solar irradiation intermittency.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 9, 2016

Nanocellulose in medicine and green manufacturing

Researchers have developed a method to improve the performance of cellulose nanocrystals, making them suitable for sustainable materials, biomedical applications and green manufacturing. The improved nanocrystals can be used in dental regenerative medicine, replacing synthetic materials with an environmentally friendly alternative.

SourceAmerican University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 7, 2016

Growing stem cells on a chip

A team of researchers has created a microfluidic device that allows for the growth of human pluripotent stem cells in optimal, three-dimensional conditions. This technology enables fine-tuning of the culture environment and creates an ideal artificial microenvironment for hPSC analysis.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateOct 24, 2016

Expanding when it shouldn't: New material with exceptional negative compressibility

Researchers at the Polish Academy of Sciences have discovered a material that expands when subjected to hydrostatic pressure, defying intuition. The sodium amidoborane crystal's unique properties are attributed to the formation of new hydrogen bonds between adjacent molecules, leading to an abrupt increase in linear dimensions.

Closer to reality: What can we really see when we look at a sample?

A new description of electron scattering in surface layers enables faster materials analysis and better understanding of sample properties. The theoretical tools used in spectroscopies can exhibit great 'malice', but a new analytical method simplifies calculations of the Chandrasekhar function, reducing errors.

Scientists bridge different materials by design

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have designed and constructed interfaces between materials with different structures, leading to improved physical properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of better batteries, fuel cells, and other devices that rely on well-ordered interfaces between materials.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 4, 2016

New industrial possibilities for nanoporous thin films

Researchers at KU Leuven have developed an alternative production method to create nanoporous thin films, expanding their industrial possibilities. These materials can be used as catalysts, absorb large amounts of material, and store gases, opening up new applications in fields like nanoelectronics.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 14, 2015