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How the 100th protein structure solved at Diamond impacts our understanding of how insects smell

Researchers at Rothamsted Research and Birkbeck University use Diamond Light Source's X-rays to unravel the mechanisms linked to pheromone detection in silkworm moths. This breakthrough has significant implications for developing new eco-friendly pest control methods, which could also benefit biosensors and detect explosives.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateSep 29, 2009

Making nanoparticles in artificial cells

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have successfully produced cadmium sulphide particles in microscopically small membrane bubbles, achieving control over nanoparticle size for the first time. The method uses biomimetic compartments similar to cell membranes to synthesize nanoparticles, offering a new approach to optical informati...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalSmall·DateJun 26, 2009

Leading edge facility to strip history bare

A new research platform at Diamond Light Source will enable cultural heritage scientists to scan and image large relics up to two tonnes in weight with incredible precision. This will help uncover ancient secrets and answer questions about the origin, history, and technology used to create artefacts.

Circadian math: 1 plus 1 doesn't always equal 2

A new study reveals that short-wavelength light, like natural blue sky light, is highly effective at stimulating the human circadian system. Exposure to multiple wavelengths of light simultaneously can result in less total stimulation compared to viewing individual colors separately, a phenomenon known as spectral opponency.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNeuroscience Letters·DateJun 6, 2008

Where mathematics and astrophysics meet

Mathematicians Dmitry Khavinson and Genevra Neumann describe how their work on the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra led them to questions in astrophysics, specifically gravitational lensing. Their result resolves a conjecture of Sun Hong Rhie, establishing that the number of zeros of certain rational harmonic functions is 5n - 5.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateJun 5, 2008

Can one 'pin down' electrons?

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have made the first measurement of entangled states in nitrogen, resolving a long-standing debate on electron localization. The study uses COLTRIMS technology to probe the pathways of two electrons, demonstrating that electron location can only be determined for the complete system.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Scientists see Norwalk virus' Achilles heel

Researchers at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron have determined the structure of the enzyme responsible for the Norwalk virus's genetic replication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of drugs that can effectively treat outbreaks of this highly contagious and untreatable bug.

SourceCanadian Light Source, Inc.·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 19, 2008

Brilliant perspectives

PETRA III will be one of the world's leading sources for short-wavelength X-rays, enabling innovative research in medicine, materials science, and molecular biology. The new facility will feature 14 experimental stations and a unique combination of light sources, attracting scientists from Germany and abroad.

A boost for solar cells with photon fusion

Researchers develop innovative process to combine low-energy photons in sunlight into higher-energy shortwave photons, boosting solar cells' efficiency. This breakthrough could enable the use of previously lost light energy, leading to a significant increase in solar cell efficiency.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 2006

Making hair realistic in computer animation

A new method for rendering realistic hair in computer animation has been developed by Cornell researchers, allowing for more accurate simulations of light scattering and diffusion. This breakthrough reduces computation time by 87.5%, enabling the creation of more realistic blond and light-colored hairstyles.

Discovery Of A Young Near-By Supernova Remnant

A team of scientists has discovered a young and previously unknown supernova remnant located just 700 light years away from the Vela supernova remnant. The remnant is exceptionally close to Earth, with an age of at most 1500 years, making it the nearest supernova remnant to have occurred during recent human history.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 1998