Capturing a [c2]daisy chain using the threading-followed-by-swelling approach.

We have used the "threading-followed-by-swelling" approach to fix a daisy chain structure in solution, leading to the isolation of a captured [c2]daisy chain in 77% yield.

Protecting a squaraine near-IR dye through its incorporation in a slippage-derived [2]rotaxane.

The photophysical properties and chemical stability of a squaraine derivative were enhanced after using Na+ ions to template a high-yield slippage synthesis of a [2]rotaxane from the dye and a molecular cage.