Researchers from Delft University of Technology in The Netherlands have been able to see the magnetic nucleus of an atom switch back and forth in real time. They read out the nuclear ‘spin’ via the electrons in the same atom through the needle of a scanning tunneling microscope. To their surprise, the spin remained stable for several seconds, offering prospects for enhanced control of the magnetic nucleus. The research, published in Nature Communications, is a step forward for quantum sensing at the atomic scale.

From medicine to electronics and optics, new materials developed by scientists at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) can be applied in various fields where cleanliness, precision, and durability are essential. They stand out not only for their functionality but also for their sustainability: they are made from renewable raw materials, and no solvents are used during production.

Study coordinated by Ca’ Foscari University of Venice opens new perspectives on the complex behaviour of prehistoric human populations. It’s the first time that the indigotin molecule has been found on such ancient artefacts, demonstrating the processing of Isatis tinctoria L., a non-edible plant: hypotheses are open on its use as a dye or medicine.

As turbulence is often absent in microscopic systems, efficient mixing depends on local forces. Most effective mixing strategies at the microscale share universal physical principles. Optimal mixing strategies reveal fundamental limits to information erasure in microscale fluid flows.