Mona Lisa’s Secret

Mona Lisa’s Secret

The reason behind Mona Lisa's enigmatic smile has been exposed as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy unveils Da Vinci’s sfumato technique

Counterfeit Spectroscopy

Counterfeit Spectroscopy

Detection of counterfeit notes is possible by direct analysis of Brazilian real, US$ dollar, and euro bills using ambient mass spectrometry

Colorful Warning

Colorful Warning

New rhodium complex displays ability to selectively detect CO at levels suitable for use in warning devices

Blue Bananas

Blue Bananas

Unique blue fluorescent chlorophyll decomposition products in banana leaves not mere detoxification products

Scaffold Synthesis

Scaffold Synthesis

The enantioselective synthesis of alkaloids, using a tricyclic (R)-phenylglycinol-derived lactam scaffold is reported.

Long Fuse

Long Fuse

George Whitesides describes how dots of salt can be used to transmit information for times electronics or batteries fail.