Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a multidimensional technique that enhances vibrational spectroscopy, allowing for unprecedented detail in studying molecular vibrations. This new method enables femtosecond-resolved snapshots of molecular motions, providing insights into the fundamental mechanics of molecules.
Researchers found a novel natural, very dense polymorph of silica in the Shergotty meteorite, which challenges the accepted composition of Earth's lower mantle. The discovery suggests that free dense silica polymorphs could exist in the Earth's deep interior.
A UK research team has identified vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in human aortic tissue using near-infrared spectroscopy. The technology aims to predict which plaques are harmless and which pose a risk of rupture, enabling targeted treatment to prevent heart attacks and strokes.