Molecules, in isolation, have their characteristics, but it is within aggregates that their true potential often reveals itself. These molecular assemblies, formed when two or more chromophores or light-absorbing molecules interact, provide a rich landscape for exploring photophysical properties. Aggregation transforms the behaviour of these molecules, allowing them to effectively engage in energy transfer and
Chemistry
In the fight against climate change and rising carbon dioxide levels, researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have unveiled a novel material that demonstrates significant potential for capturing and releasing CO2 effectively. Utilizing lignin—a natural polymer abundant in plants and a key component of wood—this innovative biomass-based material offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional
Ammonia has long been a cornerstone of global agriculture and industrial processes, largely due to its indispensable role as a fertilizer. However, conventional production methods, primarily the Haber-Bosch process, come with significant drawbacks. This methodology is energy-intensive and generates roughly 1.8% of the world’s CO2 emissions, posing a major challenge in an era increasingly focused
As technology progresses, the relentless pursuit of miniaturization in electronics has consistently driven innovation in microchip design. Traditionally, this trend has adhered closely to Moore’s Law, which posits that transistor density on silicon chips doubles approximately every two years. However, as electronic devices shrink, we are reaching the threshold of physical limitations inherent to silicon-based
The immunoproteasome plays a crucial role in the cellular immune response, acting as a key player in the identification and breakdown of foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. This specialized enzyme complex dismantles intruders into manageable fragments that can be presented to immune cells, effectively educating the immune system on how to target these
Rare-earth elements (REEs) are essential components in a multitude of modern technologies, ranging from smartphones and electric vehicles to renewable energy solutions like wind turbines. Despite their ubiquity, the extraction and purification processes for these materials are fraught with environmental challenges and are largely dominated by operations in China. Recent advancements at Sandia National Laboratories
Recent advancements in the realm of water pollution control have unveiled promising methodologies that address global environmental challenges. Researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China and the Suzhou Institute for Advanced Study have made significant strides by introducing a new technique involving single-atom catalysts (SACs) within a Fenton-like catalytic framework. Their work,
Recent advancements in molecular biology have brought to light the intricate processes that underline the fundamental role of ribosomes in protein synthesis. At the forefront of this research are the scientists at the University of Tsukuba, who have ingeniously developed a robust model that mimics the internal environment of ribosomes, the cellular structures responsible for
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are pivotal in modern medicine, as they are the targets of roughly one-third of all FDA-approved drugs. These receptors, found on the surface of human cells, play crucial roles in a variety of physiological processes. From managing heart rhythms to controlling allergic reactions, GPCRs help facilitate life-saving therapeutic interventions. However, recent
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is often referred to as the energy currency of the cell; it plays a critical role in various biological processes that are essential for life. From muscle contraction to cellular signaling, ATP is involved in an array of functions that maintain cellular health and operation. Its production is of paramount importance, as
In an era where sustainability is at the forefront of scientific research, innovative materials derived from natural sources are garnering attention for their potential applications across various fields. Recently, a significant breakthrough emerged from a research collaboration involving the University of Leeds and several other esteemed institutions. Researchers have created an oil-free super-lubricant using potato
Lithium-ion batteries have become an integral part of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. Their high energy density and ability to recharge quickly make them a preferred choice over traditional battery types. However, the safety concerns surrounding these batteries have emerged as a critical issue due to the volatile nature of their
The ever-increasing interest in hydrogen as a sustainable energy resource brings to light an essential question: how do we effectively store this volatile gas for safe and efficient use? As we pivot away from fossil fuels, hydrogen emerges as a key player in the energy transition, holding promises for cleaner energy scenarios. Researchers around the
In a remarkable breakthrough, researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have pioneered a groundbreaking treatment that effectively captures and neutralizes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” Published in the esteemed journal Nature Communications Engineering, this innovation presents a potential game-changer in the ongoing fight against the pervasive water contamination
The quest for sustainable energy solutions has made photocatalytic hydrogen production a focal point in scientific research since its inception in the early 1970s with the groundbreaking work of Honda and Fujishima. The field has evolved considerably over the decades, with prominent studies emphasizing the need to understand reactive electron species and their roles in