10 May 2024 | Open Access Polar Bloch points in strained ferroelectric films Authors predict polar Bloch points with negative capacitance in tensile-strained ultrathin ferroelectric PbTiO3 film by phase-field simulations, observing their polarization structures by scanning transmission electron microscopic imaging. Yu-Jia Wang, Yan-Peng Feng & Xiu-Liang Ma Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Unconventional superconductivity without doping in infinite-layer nickelates under pressure The authors theoretically study the pressure dependence of the phase diagram of the nickelate PrNiO2 with and without Sr doping. At high pressure, they find that the superconducting dome is significantly enhanced in both Tc and doping-range of superconductivity compared with ambient pressure, with a maximal Tc of 100 K around 100 GPa in absence of external doping. Simone Di Cataldo, Paul Worm & Karsten Held Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Vitrification-enabled enhancement of proton conductivity in hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks Proton conduction is one of the interesting applications of hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks. Here, the authors report hydrogen-bonded organic framework that can be transformed into glassy state, effectively mitigating grain boundary effects, and significantly enhancing proton conduction performance. Feng-Fan Yang, Xiao-Lu Wang & Linfeng Liang Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Deciphering complexity in Pd–catalyzed cross-couplings Knowledge about the full reaction signature, such as the complete profile of products and side-products is important in accelerating discovery chemistry. Here, the authors report a methodology using high-throughput experimentation and multivariate data analysis to examine Palladium- catalyzed cross-coulpling reactions. George E. Clarke, James D. Firth & Ian J. S. Fairlamb Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Nested non-covalent interactions expand the functions of supramolecular polymer networks Supramolecular polymer networks have unique and useful properties due to the reversible nature of their cross-links. Here, the authors show that when two distinct supramolecular interaction classes exist within a single cross-link, new functions can result. David J. Lundberg, Christopher M. Brown & Jeremiah A. Johnson Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Halide Perovskite Inducing Anomalous Nonvolatile Polarization in Poly(vinylidene fluoride)-based Flexible Nanocomposites Wang et al. report large nonvolatile polarization in stretchable polymer ferroelectrics incorporating perovskite nanocrystals. The built-in electric field from poled ferroelectrics stabilises Frenkel defects via interfacial coupling, which can also enhance the polarization of nonferroelectrics. Yao Wang, Chen Huang & Jiangyu Li Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Overcoming strength-ductility tradeoff with high pressure thermal treatment Conventional material processing methods often suffer by strength-ductility trade-off. Here, the authors show high-pressure and high-temperature treatment can transform an eutectic high entropy alloy to having a hierarchical microstructure with simultaneous enhancements of strength and ductility. Yao Tang, Haikuo Wang & Haofei Zhou Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Spin-orbit-splitting-driven nonlinear Hall effect in NbIrTe4 Previous work proposed the Berry curvature dipole as the mechanism of the nonlinear Hall effect. Lee et al. establish the sign-changing Berry curvature hot spots from spin-orbit split bands as the origin of the Berry curvature dipole and link it to the nonlinear Hall effect in the topological semimetal NbIrTe4. Ji-Eun Lee, Aifeng Wang & Hyejin Ryu Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Efficient characterizations of multiphoton states with an ultra-thin optical device Shadow tomography is efficient for quantum state characterization. Here, the authors implement shadow tomography on photonic states with a single metasurface, which alleviates the complexity in measurement Kui An, Zilei Liu & He Lu Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Mechanically induced correlated errors on superconducting qubits with relaxation times exceeding 0.4 ms Significant efforts have been dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of decoherence in superconducting qubits. Here, using time-resolved error measurements, the authors link errors present in transmon qubits based on Nb electrodes to mechanical vibrations of a commonly used pulse tube cooler. Shingo Kono, Jiahe Pan & Tobias J. Kippenberg Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Single-photon detection using large-scale high-temperature MgB2 sensors at 20 K Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors require operation at T < 4 K, and successful attempts to extend their operation at 20 K and above using high-TC BSCCO flakes come at the cost of lower scalability to large areas. Here, the authors break this trade-off by using high-quality MgB2 films and exploiting a helium-ion beam-based irradiation process. Ilya Charaev, Emma K. Batson & Karl K. Berggren Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Integrating spin-dependent emission and dielectric switching in FeII catenated metal-organic frameworks Incorporating spin crossover motifs into mechanically interlocked molecules offers various switchable properties. Here, the authors report two FeII catenated metal-organic frameworks that exhibit spin dependent luminescence and dielectric switching. Xue-Ru Wu, Shu-Qi Wu & Hui-Zhong Kou Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Correlating activities and defects in (photo)electrocatalysts using in-situ multi-modal microscopic imaging Physicochemical heterogeneity poses a significant constraint in photocatalyst advancement. Here the authors introduce a multimodal optical microscopy platform to assess activity and defects concurrently in photoelectrocatalysts, revealing that disorder can unexpectedly enhance local photoelectrocatalytic performance in certain instances. Camilo A. Mesa, Michael Sachs & Raj Pandya Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Frequency comb generation via synchronous pumped χ(3) resonator on thin-film lithium niobate Here the authors use on-chip amplitude and phase modulation to synchronously pump a resonator on thin-film lithium niobate for frequency comb generation. They find that pulsed pumping significantly mitigates stimulated Raman scattering and improves the overall efficiency of the device. Rebecca Cheng, Mengjie Yu & Marko Lončar Matters Arising 09 May 2024 | Open Access Technical challenges of studying the impact of plasma components on the efficacy of lipid nanoparticles for vaccine and therapeutic applications Jens B. Simonsen Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Bicontinuous RuO2 nanoreactors for acidic water oxidation Developing stable water oxidation catalysts is of great importance for proton-exchange membrane water electrolyzers. Here the authors report a bicontinuous nanoreactor composed of multiscale defected RuO2 nanocrystals for robust acidic water oxidation reactivity. Ding Chen, Ruohan Yu & Shichun Mu Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access A locally solvent-tethered polymer electrolyte for long-life lithium metal batteries Solid polymer electrolytes containing N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) exhibit improved Li+ conductivity but poor cycle life due to incompatibility between the Li metal anode and DMF. Here, the authors report a polymer electrolyte composited with Hofmann-DMF complex that achieves both high Li+ conductivity and long cycle life. Yanfei Zhu, Zhoujie Lao & Guangmin Zhou Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Neutron scattering and neural-network quantum molecular dynamics investigation of the vibrations of ammonia along the solid-to-liquid transition Through neutron scattering experiments coupled with machine learning, the authors uncover the strong role of nuclear quantum effects in the dynamics of ammonia in both its solid and technologically relevant liquid phase. T. M. Linker, A. Krishnamoorthy & P. D. Vashishta Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Sustainable 3D printing by reversible salting-out effects with aqueous salt solutions Here, the authors show a facile and sustainable 3D printing by utilizing a reversible salting-out effect on poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) solutions. Aqueous salt solutions lower the phase transition temperature of PNIPAM solutions below 10 °C and instantly solidify the PNIPAM solutions upon contact. Donghwan Ji, Joseph Liu & Jinhye Bae Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Bulk transparent supramolecular glass enabled by host–guest molecular recognition Strategies to produce supramolecular glass and the study of its intrinsic structure and mechanical properties remains largely unexplored. Here, the authors prepare a supramolecular glass via the host–guest recognition between methyl-β-cyclodextrin and para-hydroxybenzoic acid with recyclability, compatibility, and thermal processability. Changyong Cai, Shuanggen Wu & Shengyi Dong Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Effect of crystal facets in plasmonic catalysis Crystal facets are known to be important in traditional heterogeneous catalysis, yet this effect has not been studied in plasmon-assisted catalysis. Here, the authors investigate the impact facets have on CO2 reduction using plasmonic Au NPs. Yicui Kang, Simão M. João & Emiliano Cortés Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Large transverse thermoelectric effect induced by the mixed-dimensionality of Fermi surfaces The conversion between longitudinal heat flow and transverse charge current is a promising energy harvesting technology. Here, the authors show the large transverse thermoelectric effect induced by the mixed-dimensionality of Fermi surfaces. Hikari Manako, Shoya Ohsumi & D. Aoki Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Phase-separated droplets swim to their dissolution Here the authors identify a generic coupling in phase-separated liquids between motility and phase equilibria perturbations: phase-separated droplets swim to their dissolution. This suggests alternative transport mechanism for biomolecular condensates. Etienne Jambon-Puillet, Andrea Testa & Eric R. Dufresne Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Levitation and dynamics of bodies in supersaturated fluids When a solid object is placed in a supersaturated environment, it can exhibit interesting dynamics. Spagnolie et al. conducted an experiment using raisins and 3D-printed bodies in carbonated water and found that the motion of the solid object is influenced by the accumulation and release of bubbles as they reach the surface. Saverio E. Spagnolie, Samuel Christianson & Carsen Grote Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Neural network kinetics for exploring diffusion multiplicity and chemical ordering in compositionally complex materials The inherent chemical complexity in compositionally complex materials present a challenge in studying atomic diffusion. Here, the authors introduce a neural network kinetics scheme to effectively address this issue and reveal anomalous diffusion behavior in complex concentrated alloys. Bin Xing, Timothy J. Rupert & Penghui Cao Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Gas adsorption and framework flexibility of CALF-20 explored via experiments and simulations CALF-20 is a water stable structure capable of selectively separating CO2 from flue gas. Here authors use a close feedback loop between theory and experiments to understand CO2/water adsorption and framework flexibility of CALF-20. Rama Oktavian, Ruben Goeminne & Peyman Z. Moghadam Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Self-assembly of nanocrystal checkerboard patterns via non-specific interactions The self-assembly of nanocrystals into checkerboard lattice patterns is difficult to control. Here, the authors investigate the formation of such patterns from hydrophilic/hydrophobic bifunctionalized Ag nanocubes and use multiscale simulations to understand the effects of physical forces. Yufei Wang, Yilong Zhou & Andrea R. Tao Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Nonvolatile optical phase shift in ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide The authors present nonvolatile optical phase shift induced by ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide deposited on a SiN waveguide. This finding paves the way for largescale programmable photonic circuits for communication, computing, and sensing. Kazuma Taki, Naoki Sekine & Mitsuru Takenaka Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Implication of thermal signaling in neuronal differentiation revealed by manipulation and measurement of intracellular temperature The role of subcellular thermogenesis during neuronal differentiation remains poorly understood. Here, the authors employ methods to monitor local intracellular temperature, and they investigate the effects of non-invasive temperature changes on cell differentiation using neuron-like cells. Shunsuke Chuma, Kazuyuki Kiyosue & Yoshie Harada Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Visualizing the gas-sensitive structure of the CuZn surface in methanol synthesis catalysis Industrial methanol synthesis uses materials based on Cu and ZnO. We present high-resolution imaging of active surfaces which reveals how Zn species are transported at the active Cu interface in diffusion processes controlled by the reactant gas composition. Sigmund Jensen, Mathias H. R. Mammen & Jeppe V. Lauritsen Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Interplay of structural preorganization and conformational sampling in UDP-glucuronic acid 4-epimerase catalysis Enzymes involve structural flexibility in their function, but understanding enzyme catalysis as connected to protein motions is a major challenge. Here, the authors obtain energetic description of C-H activation in nicotinamide coenzyme-dependent UDP-glucuronic acid C4 epimerase based on temperature kinetic studies and isotope effect measurements. Christian Rapp, Annika Borg & Bernd Nidetzky Review Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Critical learning from industrial catalysis for nanocatalytic medicine The knowledge gained from industrial catalysis benefits advancements of nanocatalytic medicines. Here the authors review the similarities, differences and connections in catalytic reactions between industrial and medical applications to support deep understanding and rational design of nanocatalytic medicines. Zhaokui Jin, Lingdong Jiang & Qianjun He Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Finely manipulating room temperature phosphorescence by dynamic lanthanide coordination toward multi-level information security Room temperature phosphorescent materials have many desirable properties, but fine control of these can be challenging. Here, the authors report a strategy for this control by dynamic lanthanide coordination in combination with organic phosphors. Longqiang Li, Jiayin Zhou & Tao Chen Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Constructing ordered and tunable extrinsic porosity in covalent organic frameworks via water-mediated soft-template strategy The synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) by a soft-template methodology is challenging. Here, the authors attach the soft templates to the COFs backbone via ion bonds, avoiding crystallization incompatibilities and allowing subsequent removal of the template by ion exchange for enhanced U(VI)/Th(IV) adsorption performance. Ningning He, Yingdi Zou & Lijian Ma Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Converting inorganic sulfur into degradable thermoplastics and adhesives by copolymerization with cyclic disulfides The inherent instability of poly(sulfur) renders the conversion of elementary sulfur into sulfur-rich polymers challenging which limits the use of this industrial by-product. Here, the authors demonstrate that inorganic sulfur can be utilized by copolymerizing with cyclic disulfides, producing high-performance thermoplastic elastomers with self-healing ability and degradability. Yuanxin Deng, Zhengtie Huang & Da-Hui Qu Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access A linear response framework for quantum simulation of bosonic and fermionic correlation functions As quantum simulations advance, the ability to measure response functions of simulated systems becomes increasingly important. Here the authors present a linear response framework for computing fermionic and bosonic response functions on a quantum computer, demonstrating advantages over existing methods. Efekan Kökcü, Heba A. Labib & A. F. Kemper Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access N2 cleavage by silylene and formation of H2Si(μ-N)2SiH2 So far, only homoleptic N2 complexes of silicon have been reported under matrix-isolation conditions including but the activation of more inert nitrogen by silylenes remains challenging. Here the authors report on the activation of dinitrogen by silylenes under cryogenic conditions. Liyan Cai, Bing Xu & Xuefeng Wang Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Anti-resonant acoustic waveguides enabled tailorable Brillouin scattering on chip Achieving acoustic waveguides with low loss, tailorability, and easy fabrication is a considerable challenge. Here, the authors introduce suspended anti-resonant acoustic waveguides with superior confinement and high selectivity of acoustic modes, supporting both forward and backward SBS on chip. Peng Lei, Mingyu Xu & Xiaopeng Xie Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Cellulose nanofiber-mediated manifold dynamic synergy enabling adhesive and photo-detachable hydrogel for self-powered E-skin Certain devices require rapid adhesion and detachment, but achieving both can be challenging. Here, the authors report the development of a supramolecular hydrogel with reversible tough adhesion and triggered photodetachment. Lei Zhang, Lu Chen & Chaoji Chen Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access “On-Water” accelerated dearomative cycloaddition via aquaphotocatalysis Developing water compatible synthetic methods for Sulfur(VI) fluoride exchange (SuFEx) chemistry is of paramount importance. Here the authors demonstrate a catalytic dearomative [2+2] photocycloaddition that significantly speeds up the synthesis of heterocyclic alkyl SuFEx hubs, leveraging the unique reactivity at the water-oil interface. Soo Bok Kim, Dong Hyeon Kim & Han Yong Bae Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Multi-color dual wavelength vat photopolymerization 3D printing via spatially controlled acidity Dual wavelength vat photopolymerization has emerged as a powerful approach to create multimaterial objects but require changing the resin during the printing process. Here, the authors develop a method of dual-wavelength 3D printing that can directly access multicolor parts without requiring changing of resin feedstocks or introduction of new materials during the printing process. Kyle C. H. Chin, Grant Ovsepyan & Andrew J. Boydston Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Controlling chaos using edge computing hardware Creating accurate digital twins and controlling nonlinear systems displaying chaotic dynamics is challenging due to high system sensitivity to initial conditions and perturbations. The authors introduce a nonlinear controller for chaotic systems, based on next-generation reservoir computing, with improved accuracy, energy cost, and suitable for implementation with field-programmable gate arrays. Robert M. Kent, Wendson A. S. Barbosa & Daniel J. Gauthier Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Capture of single Ag atoms through high-temperature-induced crystal plane reconstruction Terminal hydroxyl groups on γ-Al2O3 surfaces serve as anchoring sites for Ag. Based on the surface energy of different crystal planes of γ-Al2O3 at various temperatures, the authors propose a high-temperature-induced crystal plane transformation method to construct terminal hydroxyl anchoring sites. Jiaxin Li, Kai Li & Hong He Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Revealing the three-dimensional arrangement of polar topology in nanoparticles Low-dimensional ferroelectric systems are predicted to have topologically nontrivial polar structures, such as vortices or skyrmions. Here authors present atomic-scale 3D topological polar structures in BaTiO3 nanoparticles using atomic electron tomography and revealed their size-dependent transitions. Chaehwa Jeong, Juhyeok Lee & Yongsoo Yang Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Probing the activated complex of the F + NH3 reaction via a dipole-bound state Experimental characterization of the transition state in chemical reactions is challenging due to its transient nature. Here, Zhang et al. observe quantum states near the activated complex region of the F + NH3 → HF + NH2 reaction via a dipole-bound state of the FNH3- anion formed upon photodetachment, which allows probing regions of reactive potential energy surfaces out of the Franck-Condon-active areas. Rui Zhang, Shuaiting Yan & Chuangang Ning Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Observation of interlayer plasmon polaron in graphene/WS2 heterostructures Here, the authors report the observation of an interlayer plasmon polaron in heterostructures composed of graphene and monolayer WS2. This is manifested in the ARPES spectra as a strong quasiparticle peak accompanied by several carrier density-dependent shake-off replicas around the WS2 conduction band minimum. Søren Ulstrup, Yann in ’t Veld & Jyoti Katoch10 May 2024 | Open Access Polar Bloch points in strained ferroelectric films Authors predict polar Bloch points with negative capacitance in tensile-strained ultrathin ferroelectric PbTiO3 film by phase-field simulations, observing their polarization structures by scanning transmission electron microscopic imaging. Yu-Jia Wang, Yan-Peng Feng & Xiu-Liang Ma Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Unconventional superconductivity without doping in infinite-layer nickelates under pressure The authors theoretically study the pressure dependence of the phase diagram of the nickelate PrNiO2 with and without Sr doping. At high pressure, they find that the superconducting dome is significantly enhanced in both Tc and doping-range of superconductivity compared with ambient pressure, with a maximal Tc of 100 K around 100 GPa in absence of external doping. Simone Di Cataldo, Paul Worm & Karsten Held Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Vitrification-enabled enhancement of proton conductivity in hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks Proton conduction is one of the interesting applications of hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks. Here, the authors report hydrogen-bonded organic framework that can be transformed into glassy state, effectively mitigating grain boundary effects, and significantly enhancing proton conduction performance. Feng-Fan Yang, Xiao-Lu Wang & Linfeng Liang Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Deciphering complexity in Pd–catalyzed cross-couplings Knowledge about the full reaction signature, such as the complete profile of products and side-products is important in accelerating discovery chemistry. Here, the authors report a methodology using high-throughput experimentation and multivariate data analysis to examine Palladium- catalyzed cross-coulpling reactions. George E. Clarke, James D. Firth & Ian J. S. Fairlamb Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Nested non-covalent interactions expand the functions of supramolecular polymer networks Supramolecular polymer networks have unique and useful properties due to the reversible nature of their cross-links. Here, the authors show that when two distinct supramolecular interaction classes exist within a single cross-link, new functions can result. David J. Lundberg, Christopher M. Brown & Jeremiah A. Johnson Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Halide Perovskite Inducing Anomalous Nonvolatile Polarization in Poly(vinylidene fluoride)-based Flexible Nanocomposites Wang et al. report large nonvolatile polarization in stretchable polymer ferroelectrics incorporating perovskite nanocrystals. The built-in electric field from poled ferroelectrics stabilises Frenkel defects via interfacial coupling, which can also enhance the polarization of nonferroelectrics. Yao Wang, Chen Huang & Jiangyu Li Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Overcoming strength-ductility tradeoff with high pressure thermal treatment Conventional material processing methods often suffer by strength-ductility trade-off. Here, the authors show high-pressure and high-temperature treatment can transform an eutectic high entropy alloy to having a hierarchical microstructure with simultaneous enhancements of strength and ductility. Yao Tang, Haikuo Wang & Haofei Zhou Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Spin-orbit-splitting-driven nonlinear Hall effect in NbIrTe4 Previous work proposed the Berry curvature dipole as the mechanism of the nonlinear Hall effect. Lee et al. establish the sign-changing Berry curvature hot spots from spin-orbit split bands as the origin of the Berry curvature dipole and link it to the nonlinear Hall effect in the topological semimetal NbIrTe4. Ji-Eun Lee, Aifeng Wang & Hyejin Ryu Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Efficient characterizations of multiphoton states with an ultra-thin optical device Shadow tomography is efficient for quantum state characterization. Here, the authors implement shadow tomography on photonic states with a single metasurface, which alleviates the complexity in measurement Kui An, Zilei Liu & He Lu Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Mechanically induced correlated errors on superconducting qubits with relaxation times exceeding 0.4 ms Significant efforts have been dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of decoherence in superconducting qubits. Here, using time-resolved error measurements, the authors link errors present in transmon qubits based on Nb electrodes to mechanical vibrations of a commonly used pulse tube cooler. Shingo Kono, Jiahe Pan & Tobias J. Kippenberg Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Single-photon detection using large-scale high-temperature MgB2 sensors at 20 K Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors require operation at T < 4 K, and successful attempts to extend their operation at 20 K and above using high-TC BSCCO flakes come at the cost of lower scalability to large areas. Here, the authors break this trade-off by using high-quality MgB2 films and exploiting a helium-ion beam-based irradiation process. Ilya Charaev, Emma K. Batson & Karl K. Berggren Article 10 May 2024 | Open Access Integrating spin-dependent emission and dielectric switching in FeII catenated metal-organic frameworks Incorporating spin crossover motifs into mechanically interlocked molecules offers various switchable properties. Here, the authors report two FeII catenated metal-organic frameworks that exhibit spin dependent luminescence and dielectric switching. Xue-Ru Wu, Shu-Qi Wu & Hui-Zhong Kou Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Correlating activities and defects in (photo)electrocatalysts using in-situ multi-modal microscopic imaging Physicochemical heterogeneity poses a significant constraint in photocatalyst advancement. Here the authors introduce a multimodal optical microscopy platform to assess activity and defects concurrently in photoelectrocatalysts, revealing that disorder can unexpectedly enhance local photoelectrocatalytic performance in certain instances. Camilo A. Mesa, Michael Sachs & Raj Pandya Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Frequency comb generation via synchronous pumped χ(3) resonator on thin-film lithium niobate Here the authors use on-chip amplitude and phase modulation to synchronously pump a resonator on thin-film lithium niobate for frequency comb generation. They find that pulsed pumping significantly mitigates stimulated Raman scattering and improves the overall efficiency of the device. Rebecca Cheng, Mengjie Yu & Marko Lončar Matters Arising 09 May 2024 | Open Access Technical challenges of studying the impact of plasma components on the efficacy of lipid nanoparticles for vaccine and therapeutic applications Jens B. Simonsen Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Bicontinuous RuO2 nanoreactors for acidic water oxidation Developing stable water oxidation catalysts is of great importance for proton-exchange membrane water electrolyzers. Here the authors report a bicontinuous nanoreactor composed of multiscale defected RuO2 nanocrystals for robust acidic water oxidation reactivity. Ding Chen, Ruohan Yu & Shichun Mu Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access A locally solvent-tethered polymer electrolyte for long-life lithium metal batteries Solid polymer electrolytes containing N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) exhibit improved Li+ conductivity but poor cycle life due to incompatibility between the Li metal anode and DMF. Here, the authors report a polymer electrolyte composited with Hofmann-DMF complex that achieves both high Li+ conductivity and long cycle life. Yanfei Zhu, Zhoujie Lao & Guangmin Zhou Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Neutron scattering and neural-network quantum molecular dynamics investigation of the vibrations of ammonia along the solid-to-liquid transition Through neutron scattering experiments coupled with machine learning, the authors uncover the strong role of nuclear quantum effects in the dynamics of ammonia in both its solid and technologically relevant liquid phase. T. M. Linker, A. Krishnamoorthy & P. D. Vashishta Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Sustainable 3D printing by reversible salting-out effects with aqueous salt solutions Here, the authors show a facile and sustainable 3D printing by utilizing a reversible salting-out effect on poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) solutions. Aqueous salt solutions lower the phase transition temperature of PNIPAM solutions below 10 °C and instantly solidify the PNIPAM solutions upon contact. Donghwan Ji, Joseph Liu & Jinhye Bae Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Bulk transparent supramolecular glass enabled by host–guest molecular recognition Strategies to produce supramolecular glass and the study of its intrinsic structure and mechanical properties remains largely unexplored. Here, the authors prepare a supramolecular glass via the host–guest recognition between methyl-β-cyclodextrin and para-hydroxybenzoic acid with recyclability, compatibility, and thermal processability. Changyong Cai, Shuanggen Wu & Shengyi Dong Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Effect of crystal facets in plasmonic catalysis Crystal facets are known to be important in traditional heterogeneous catalysis, yet this effect has not been studied in plasmon-assisted catalysis. Here, the authors investigate the impact facets have on CO2 reduction using plasmonic Au NPs. Yicui Kang, Simão M. João & Emiliano Cortés Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Large transverse thermoelectric effect induced by the mixed-dimensionality of Fermi surfaces The conversion between longitudinal heat flow and transverse charge current is a promising energy harvesting technology. Here, the authors show the large transverse thermoelectric effect induced by the mixed-dimensionality of Fermi surfaces. Hikari Manako, Shoya Ohsumi & D. Aoki Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Phase-separated droplets swim to their dissolution Here the authors identify a generic coupling in phase-separated liquids between motility and phase equilibria perturbations: phase-separated droplets swim to their dissolution. This suggests alternative transport mechanism for biomolecular condensates. Etienne Jambon-Puillet, Andrea Testa & Eric R. Dufresne Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Levitation and dynamics of bodies in supersaturated fluids When a solid object is placed in a supersaturated environment, it can exhibit interesting dynamics. Spagnolie et al. conducted an experiment using raisins and 3D-printed bodies in carbonated water and found that the motion of the solid object is influenced by the accumulation and release of bubbles as they reach the surface. Saverio E. Spagnolie, Samuel Christianson & Carsen Grote Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Neural network kinetics for exploring diffusion multiplicity and chemical ordering in compositionally complex materials The inherent chemical complexity in compositionally complex materials present a challenge in studying atomic diffusion. Here, the authors introduce a neural network kinetics scheme to effectively address this issue and reveal anomalous diffusion behavior in complex concentrated alloys. Bin Xing, Timothy J. Rupert & Penghui Cao Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Gas adsorption and framework flexibility of CALF-20 explored via experiments and simulations CALF-20 is a water stable structure capable of selectively separating CO2 from flue gas. Here authors use a close feedback loop between theory and experiments to understand CO2/water adsorption and framework flexibility of CALF-20. Rama Oktavian, Ruben Goeminne & Peyman Z. Moghadam Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Self-assembly of nanocrystal checkerboard patterns via non-specific interactions The self-assembly of nanocrystals into checkerboard lattice patterns is difficult to control. Here, the authors investigate the formation of such patterns from hydrophilic/hydrophobic bifunctionalized Ag nanocubes and use multiscale simulations to understand the effects of physical forces. Yufei Wang, Yilong Zhou & Andrea R. Tao Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Nonvolatile optical phase shift in ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide The authors present nonvolatile optical phase shift induced by ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide deposited on a SiN waveguide. This finding paves the way for largescale programmable photonic circuits for communication, computing, and sensing. Kazuma Taki, Naoki Sekine & Mitsuru Takenaka Article 09 May 2024 | Open Access Implication of thermal signaling in neuronal differentiation revealed by manipulation and measurement of intracellular temperature The role of subcellular thermogenesis during neuronal differentiation remains poorly understood. Here, the authors employ methods to monitor local intracellular temperature, and they investigate the effects of non-invasive temperature changes on cell differentiation using neuron-like cells. Shunsuke Chuma, Kazuyuki Kiyosue & Yoshie Harada Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Visualizing the gas-sensitive structure of the CuZn surface in methanol synthesis catalysis Industrial methanol synthesis uses materials based on Cu and ZnO. We present high-resolution imaging of active surfaces which reveals how Zn species are transported at the active Cu interface in diffusion processes controlled by the reactant gas composition. Sigmund Jensen, Mathias H. R. Mammen & Jeppe V. Lauritsen Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Interplay of structural preorganization and conformational sampling in UDP-glucuronic acid 4-epimerase catalysis Enzymes involve structural flexibility in their function, but understanding enzyme catalysis as connected to protein motions is a major challenge. Here, the authors obtain energetic description of C-H activation in nicotinamide coenzyme-dependent UDP-glucuronic acid C4 epimerase based on temperature kinetic studies and isotope effect measurements. Christian Rapp, Annika Borg & Bernd Nidetzky Review Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Critical learning from industrial catalysis for nanocatalytic medicine The knowledge gained from industrial catalysis benefits advancements of nanocatalytic medicines. Here the authors review the similarities, differences and connections in catalytic reactions between industrial and medical applications to support deep understanding and rational design of nanocatalytic medicines. Zhaokui Jin, Lingdong Jiang & Qianjun He Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Finely manipulating room temperature phosphorescence by dynamic lanthanide coordination toward multi-level information security Room temperature phosphorescent materials have many desirable properties, but fine control of these can be challenging. Here, the authors report a strategy for this control by dynamic lanthanide coordination in combination with organic phosphors. Longqiang Li, Jiayin Zhou & Tao Chen Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Constructing ordered and tunable extrinsic porosity in covalent organic frameworks via water-mediated soft-template strategy The synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) by a soft-template methodology is challenging. Here, the authors attach the soft templates to the COFs backbone via ion bonds, avoiding crystallization incompatibilities and allowing subsequent removal of the template by ion exchange for enhanced U(VI)/Th(IV) adsorption performance. Ningning He, Yingdi Zou & Lijian Ma Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Converting inorganic sulfur into degradable thermoplastics and adhesives by copolymerization with cyclic disulfides The inherent instability of poly(sulfur) renders the conversion of elementary sulfur into sulfur-rich polymers challenging which limits the use of this industrial by-product. Here, the authors demonstrate that inorganic sulfur can be utilized by copolymerizing with cyclic disulfides, producing high-performance thermoplastic elastomers with self-healing ability and degradability. Yuanxin Deng, Zhengtie Huang & Da-Hui Qu Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access A linear response framework for quantum simulation of bosonic and fermionic correlation functions As quantum simulations advance, the ability to measure response functions of simulated systems becomes increasingly important. Here the authors present a linear response framework for computing fermionic and bosonic response functions on a quantum computer, demonstrating advantages over existing methods. Efekan Kökcü, Heba A. Labib & A. F. Kemper Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access N2 cleavage by silylene and formation of H2Si(μ-N)2SiH2 So far, only homoleptic N2 complexes of silicon have been reported under matrix-isolation conditions including but the activation of more inert nitrogen by silylenes remains challenging. Here the authors report on the activation of dinitrogen by silylenes under cryogenic conditions. Liyan Cai, Bing Xu & Xuefeng Wang Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Anti-resonant acoustic waveguides enabled tailorable Brillouin scattering on chip Achieving acoustic waveguides with low loss, tailorability, and easy fabrication is a considerable challenge. Here, the authors introduce suspended anti-resonant acoustic waveguides with superior confinement and high selectivity of acoustic modes, supporting both forward and backward SBS on chip. Peng Lei, Mingyu Xu & Xiaopeng Xie Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Cellulose nanofiber-mediated manifold dynamic synergy enabling adhesive and photo-detachable hydrogel for self-powered E-skin Certain devices require rapid adhesion and detachment, but achieving both can be challenging. Here, the authors report the development of a supramolecular hydrogel with reversible tough adhesion and triggered photodetachment. Lei Zhang, Lu Chen & Chaoji Chen Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access “On-Water” accelerated dearomative cycloaddition via aquaphotocatalysis Developing water compatible synthetic methods for Sulfur(VI) fluoride exchange (SuFEx) chemistry is of paramount importance. Here the authors demonstrate a catalytic dearomative [2+2] photocycloaddition that significantly speeds up the synthesis of heterocyclic alkyl SuFEx hubs, leveraging the unique reactivity at the water-oil interface. Soo Bok Kim, Dong Hyeon Kim & Han Yong Bae Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Multi-color dual wavelength vat photopolymerization 3D printing via spatially controlled acidity Dual wavelength vat photopolymerization has emerged as a powerful approach to create multimaterial objects but require changing the resin during the printing process. Here, the authors develop a method of dual-wavelength 3D printing that can directly access multicolor parts without requiring changing of resin feedstocks or introduction of new materials during the printing process. Kyle C. H. Chin, Grant Ovsepyan & Andrew J. Boydston Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Controlling chaos using edge computing hardware Creating accurate digital twins and controlling nonlinear systems displaying chaotic dynamics is challenging due to high system sensitivity to initial conditions and perturbations. The authors introduce a nonlinear controller for chaotic systems, based on next-generation reservoir computing, with improved accuracy, energy cost, and suitable for implementation with field-programmable gate arrays. Robert M. Kent, Wendson A. S. Barbosa & Daniel J. Gauthier Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Capture of single Ag atoms through high-temperature-induced crystal plane reconstruction Terminal hydroxyl groups on γ-Al2O3 surfaces serve as anchoring sites for Ag. Based on the surface energy of different crystal planes of γ-Al2O3 at various temperatures, the authors propose a high-temperature-induced crystal plane transformation method to construct terminal hydroxyl anchoring sites. Jiaxin Li, Kai Li & Hong He Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Revealing the three-dimensional arrangement of polar topology in nanoparticles Low-dimensional ferroelectric systems are predicted to have topologically nontrivial polar structures, such as vortices or skyrmions. Here authors present atomic-scale 3D topological polar structures in BaTiO3 nanoparticles using atomic electron tomography and revealed their size-dependent transitions. Chaehwa Jeong, Juhyeok Lee & Yongsoo Yang Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Probing the activated complex of the F + NH3 reaction via a dipole-bound state Experimental characterization of the transition state in chemical reactions is challenging due to its transient nature. Here, Zhang et al. observe quantum states near the activated complex region of the F + NH3 → HF + NH2 reaction via a dipole-bound state of the FNH3- anion formed upon photodetachment, which allows probing regions of reactive potential energy surfaces out of the Franck-Condon-active areas. Rui Zhang, Shuaiting Yan & Chuangang Ning Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Observation of interlayer plasmon polaron in graphene/WS2 heterostructures Here, the authors report the observation of an interlayer plasmon polaron in heterostructures composed of graphene and monolayer WS2. This is manifested in the ARPES spectra as a strong quasiparticle peak accompanied by several carrier density-dependent shake-off replicas around the WS2 conduction band minimum. Søren Ulstrup, Yann in ’t Veld & Jyoti KatochArticle 08 May 2024 | Open Access Diamond with Sp2-Sp3 composite phase for thermometry at Millikelvin temperatures To measure temperatures close to absolute zero, authors developed a kind of composite phase diamond (CPD) that can measure temperature at the millikelvin level, making it a promising candidate for next–generation cryogenic temperature sensors. Jianan Yin, Yang Yan & Jian Lu Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Evidence for a finite-momentum Cooper pair in tricolor d-wave superconducting superlattices The authors study a YbCoIn5/CeCoIn5/YbRhIn5 heterostructure. Using non-reciprocity in the second harmonic transport response, they demonstrate the existence of a specific form of finite-momentum pairing called a helical superconducting state, where the phase of the order parameter is spontaneously spatially modulated. T. Asaba, M. Naritsuka & Y. Matsuda Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access High yield electrosynthesis of oxygenates from CO using a relay Cu-Ag co-catalyst system Using CO and H2O to electrosynthesize oxygenates is a possible low-carbon synthetic route. Here, the authors study the CO adsorption behavior on Ag catalysts and design a Cu-Ag nanostructure catalyst with a relay mechanism that enhances the electrosynthesis of oxygenates. Nannan Meng, Zhitan Wu & Kian Ping Loh Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Efficient recovery and recycling/upcycling of precious metals using hydrazide-functionalized star-shaped polymers Despite the use of amine-functionalized polymers as metal adsorbents, they are generally ineffective at recovering precious metals. Here the authors prepare a star-shaped, hydrazide-functionalized polymer as a recoverable standalone adsorbent with high precious metal adsorption capability/selectivity and practical feasibility. Seung Su Shin, Youngkyun Jung & Jung-Hyun Lee Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access A wireless controlled robotic insect with ultrafast untethered running speeds The BHMbot provides an efficient running gait and a novel actuation mechanism for insect scale legged microrobots to solve the bottleneck problem of the severe running speed degradation after carrying essential payloads for untethered locomotion. Zhiwei Liu, Wencheng Zhan & Xiaojun Yan Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Tracing fossil-based plastics, chemicals and fertilizers production in China Plastics, chemical production, and fertilizers commonly rely on fossil fuels. Here the authors examine these uses in China and find that in 2017, 5%, 15%, and 7% of China’s total coal, crude oil, and natural gas were used as feedstocks in the chemical industry. Meng Jiang, Yuheng Cao & Bing Zhu Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Distributed electrified heating for efficient hydrogen production Conventional chemical engineering has limitations on heat transfer, leading to large setups. Here, authors propose a distributed electrified heating method, realizing fast and uniform heating of gaseous reactants, promising an energy-concentrated and compact reactor design. Hanmin Yang, Ilman Nuran Zaini & Tong Han Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access From creep to flow: Granular materials under cyclic shear Granular materials exhibit yielding behaviors rather different from glasses that can be elastic. Here, Yuan et al. show a cross-over from creep to diffusive dynamics in three-dimensional granular systems under cyclic shear and that the relaxation process depends on the roughness of the constituent particles. Ye Yuan, Zhikun Zeng & Yujie Wang Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Semantic regularization of electromagnetic inverse problems Solving ill-posed inverse problems require regularisation based on prior knowledge, which is formulated mathematically or learned from data. Here, the authors demonstrated the concept of semantic regularisation based on large language model to circumvent the current limitation. Hongrui Zhang, Yanjin Chen & Lianlin Li Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access General strategy for developing thick-film micro-thermoelectric coolers from material fabrication to device integration The micro-thermoelectric coolers face challenges in high-performance material preparation and high-density device integration. Here, the authors combine Bi2Te3-based film prepared by powder direct molding with micro-thermoelectric cooler integrated via phase-change batch transfer. Xiaowen Sun, Yuedong Yan & Yuan Deng Article 08 May 2024 | Open Access Spontaneous persistent activity and inactivity in vivo reveals differential cortico-entorhinal functional connectivity Cortico-entorhinal interactions remain poorly understood. Here, the authors demonstrate that a model of interacting networks predicts spontaneous persistent activity and inactivity in the medial, but not lateral, entorhinal cortex in vivo. Krishna Choudhary, Sven Berberich & Mayank R. Mehta Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access One pot conversion of phenols and anilines to aldehydes and ketones exploiting α gem boryl carbanions For the carbonylation reactions to synthesize aldehyde, ester, amide, and other carbonyl derivatives, a transition metal-free and CO- free reaction was challenging but highly demanded. Here, the authors report a transition metal-free and CO- free method for deoxygenetive/denitrogenetive conversion of phenols and anilines to aldehydes and ketones. Kanak Kanti Das, Debasis Aich & Santanu Panda Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Electrochemical C−H deuteration of pyridine derivatives with D2O Despite the established C − H deuteration of pyridine derivatives synthetic methods with good D-incorporation, under milder conditions with easy operation procedures is still on the way. Here, the authors develop a straightforward, metal-free, and acid-/base-free electrochemical C4-selective C − H deuteration of pyridine derivatives with high selectivity and excellent D-incorporation at room temperature, which use D2O as economic and convenient D-source. Zhiwei Zhao, Ranran Zhang & Youai Qiu Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access 3D printing with a 3D printed digital material filament for programming functional gradients 3D printing of functional gradients often requires specialized equipment and costly materials, constraining scalability. Here, using a conventional desktop FDM printer, authors present a 3D printing strategy using a filament that is itself 3D-printed to produce functional gradients. Sang-Joon Ahn, Howon Lee & Kyu-Jin Cho Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access A filtering reconfigurable intelligent surface for interference-free wireless communications A filtering reconfigurable intelligent surface is presented with sharp frequency-selecting and 2-bit phase-shifting properties, offering to advance the development of wireless communications with anti-interference and signal-manipulation abilities. Jing Cheng Liang, Lei Zhang & Tie Jun Cui Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Universal Murray’s law for optimised fluid transport in synthetic structures Improving mass transfer through hierarchically porous synthetic materials is a great challenge. Here the authors address this by expanding the original Murray’s law, a biomimetic principle defining the branching of veins in living structures. Binghan Zhou, Qian Cheng & Tawfique Hasan Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access In-silico-assisted derivatization of triarylboranes for the catalytic reductive functionalization of aniline-derived amino acids and peptides with H2 Machine learning has not been strategically applied to design main-group catalysts. Here, the authors built an in-silico library of triarylboranes, which was used to identify reactive catalysts for functionalizing amino acids and peptides with H2. Yusei Hisata, Takashi Washio & Yoichi Hoshimoto Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Radiative cooling and indoor light management enabled by a transparent and self-cleaning polymer-based metamaterial Transparent roofs offer a solution for harnessing natural light in sustainable buildings. Here, authors demonstrate a polymer-based metamaterial with micro-pyramid surface structures that diffuses sunlight while offering passive cooling and self-cleaning properties. Gan Huang, Ashok R. Yengannagari & Bryce S. Richards Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Starch-mediated colloidal chemistry for highly reversible zinc-based polyiodide redox flow batteries The development of porous membranes that could work under high power density brings promise but a challenge with polyiodide cross-over for aqueous Zn-I flow batteries. Here, the authors develop a colloidal starch-based catholyte to inhibit cross-over that endows reversible flow cell performance. Zhiquan Wei, Zhaodong Huang & Chunyi Zhi Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Free-standing ultrathin silicon wafers and solar cells through edges reinforcement Lightweight and flexible thin crystalline silicon solar cells have huge market potential but remain relatively unexplored. Here, authors present a thin silicon structure with reinforced ring to prepare free-standing 4.7-μm 4-inch silicon wafers, achieving efficiency of 20.33% for 28-μm solar cells. Taojian Wu, Zhaolang Liu & Wenzhong Shen Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Spin disorder control of topological spin texture Stabilizing non-trivial magnetic spin textures at room temperature remains challenging. Here, the authors propose introducing magnetic atoms into the van der Waals gap of 2D magnets Fe3GaTe2 to stabilize the magnetic spin textures beyond skyrmion. Hongrui Zhang, Yu-Tsun Shao & Ramamoorthy Ramesh Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Miniature computational spectrometer with a plasmonic nanoparticles-in-cavity microfilter array Conventional spectrometers can be bulky and efforts are being made to develop miniaturised versions. Here, the authors present a miniature computational spectrometer based on silver nanoparticles in Fabry-Pérot microcavities for measuring visible spectra. Yangxi Zhang, Sheng Zhang & A. Ping Zhang Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Atomic-level polarization reversal in sliding ferroelectric semiconductors Polarization reversal dynamics in sliding ferroelectrics is important for the application in slidetronics. Here, the authors observe the interlayer directional sliding induced polarization switching with simultaneous hysteresis response in γ-InSe:Y. Fengrui Sui, Haoyang Li & Chungang Duan Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Quantum fluctuations lead to glassy electron dynamics in the good metal regime of electron doped KTaO3 An electron glass state usually occurs in disordered insulating systems. Here the authors report evidence of glassy dynamics of conduction electrons in an electron-doped quantum paraelectric material KTaO3, in the good metal regime, where quantum fluctuations play an important role. Shashank Kumar Ojha, Sankalpa Hazra & Srimanta Middey Article 07 May 2024 | Open Access Integrated optimization modelling framework for low-carbon and green regional transitions through resource-based industrial symbiosis This study reports a quantitative tool for resource-based industries aimed at supporting sustainable, low-carbon regional transitions. The results provide optimal transition paths over traditional methods, highlighting the need for cleaner technology and industrial symbiosis. Xin Xie, Hang Fu & Shanying Hu Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Topologically trivial gap-filling in superconducting Fe(Se,Te) by one-dimensional defects Previous measurements of FeSe0.45Te0.55 found one-dimensional (1D) defects that were interpretated as domain walls hosting propagating Majorana topological modes. Here, the authors reveal that these 1D defects correspond to sub-surface debris and show that the filling of the superconducting gap on these defects is topologically trivial. A. Mesaros, G. D. Gu & F. Massee Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Revealing the spatial nature of sublattice symmetry Sublattice symmetry has long been synonymous with chiral symmetry when it comes to topological classification. Here, the authors challenge this notion by systematically investigating sublattice symmetry and revealing its spatial nature with a precise description in terms of symmetry algebra and representation. Rong Xiao & Y. X. Zhao Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Enantioselective synthesis of chiral α,α-dialkyl indoles and related azoles by cobalt-catalyzed hydroalkylation and regioselectivity switch Catalytic and enantioselective construction of chiral α,α-dialkyl indoles represents an important yet challenging objective to be developed. Herein the authors describe a cobalt catalyzed enantioselective anti-Markovnikov alkene hydroalkylation via the remote stereocontrol for the synthesis of α,α-dialkyl indoles and other N-heterocycles. Jiangtao Ren, Zheng Sun & Zhihui Shao Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Low-index mesoscopic surface reconstructions of Au surfaces using Bayesian force fields Metal surfaces have long been known to reconstruct, but key mechanistic aspects are poorly understood. Here, the authors use Bayesian force fields to gain insights into gold surface reconstructions that are crucial for material science and catalysis. Cameron J. Owen, Yu Xie & Boris Kozinsky Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Decarboxylative stereoretentive C–N coupling by harnessing aminating reagent Accessing chiral alkylamines is highly important due to their ubiquity in bioactive molecules. Here, the authors present the development of stereoretentive decarboxylative amidation of carboxylic acids using dioxazolone under ambient conditions. Jeonguk Kweon, Bumsu Park & Sukbok Chang Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access A fast-charging/discharging and long-term stable artificial electrode enabled by space charge storage mechanism Lithium-ion batteries with fast-charging properties are urgently needed for wide adoption of electric vehicles. Here, the authors show a fast charging/discharging and long-term stable electrode made from a mixed electronic/ionic conductor material enabled by a space charge mechanism. Linyi Zhao, Tiansheng Wang & Guihua Yu Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Realizing thermoelectric cooling and power generation in N-type PbS0.6Se0.4 via lattice plainification and interstitial doping The authors fabricate a thermoelectric cooling device based on n-type PbS based material, which exhibits a remarkable cooling temperature difference of 36.9 K at room temperature, and the single-leg power generation efficiency of 8%. Lei Wang, Yi Wen & Li-Dong Zhao Article 06 May 2024 | Open Access Synthetic molecular switches driven by DNA-modifying enzymes Molecular switches are ubiquitous in the biochemistry regulatory network. Here, the authors construct synthetic molecular switches controlled by DNA-modifying enzymes such as DNA polymerase and nicking endonuclease to control and cascade assembly and disassembly. Hong Kang, Yuexuan Yang & Bryan Wei Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Carbon–nitrogen transmutation in polycyclic arenol skeletons to access N-heteroarenes Developing skeletal editing tools, especially to realize the single-atom transmutation in a ring system without altering the ring size is challenging. Here, the authors introduce a skeletal editing strategy that enables polycyclic arenols to be readily converted into N-heteroarenes through carbon–nitrogen transmutation. Hong Lu, Yu Zhang & Hao Wei Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access High-density, highly sensitive sensor array of spiky carbon nanospheres for strain field mapping Accurate mapping of strain distribution calls for strain sensor arrays with high sensitivity, high sensing density and inter-unit consistency. Here, the authors report an array made from ordered assembly of monodispersed spiky carbon nanospheres to achieve the above features simultaneously. Shuxing Mei, Haokun Yi & Limin Wu Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Giant dielectric tunability in ferroelectric ceramics with ultralow loss by ion substitution design The authors realize composite optimization in dielectric tunable materials by simultaneously achieving low electric field, large tunability, and low loss through ion substitution design in ferroelectric tunable materials. Ruitao Li, Diming Xu & Di Zhou Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Coordination cages integrated into swelling poly(ionic liquid)s for guest encapsulation and separation The efficient encapsulation of guests by coordination cages in the solid state is prevented by their flexibility, dynamicity, and metal-ligand bond reversibility. Here, the authors report coordination cages integrated into poly(ionic liquid)s to control swelling and mechanical properties of the gels and develop efficient and regenerable supramolecular separation materials. Xiang Zhang, Dawei Zhang & Mingyuan He Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Magnetic steering continuum robot for transluminal procedures with programmable shape and functionalities Interaction with surrounding lumina leads to potential medical risks in transluminal procedures. Here, the authors report a magnetic steering continuum robot that achieve autonomous shaping without the need for environmental interaction. Liyang Mao, Peng Yang & Hui Xie Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access The role of memory-dependent friction and solvent viscosity in isomerization kinetics in viscogenic media Molecular isomerization in solution is dependent on coupling of solute and solvent via memory-dependent friction. Here, by applying memory kernel extraction to molecular dynamics simulations, the authors demonstrate the role of friction in determining isomerization kinetics. Benjamin A. Dalton, Henrik Kiefer & Roland R. Netz Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Ozone as an environmental driver of influenza Temperature and absolute humidity are associated with influenza activity, and recent data from Hong Kong have suggested ozone as an additional environmental driver. Here, the authors investigate the relationship between ozone and influenza transmission using surveillance data from the USA and find evidence for an inhibitory effect. Fang Guo, Pei Zhang & Linwei Tian Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Controlling the broadband enhanced light chirality with L-shaped dielectric metamaterials L-shaped silicon metamaterials are realized exhibiting broadband and enhanced chirality. The current work sets new benchmarks in the assembly of ultrathin dielectric chiral metamaterials that can efficiently control chiral light-matter interactions. Ufuk Kilic, Matthew Hilfiker & Christos Argyropoulos Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Symmetry breaking in optimal transport networks Finding an optimal shape for transport networks, represented as multilayer structures, is a challenging problem. The authors propose analytical and computational frameworks to analyze sharp transitions from symmetric to asymmetric shapes in optimal networks, that can be applied for planning and development of improved multimodal transportation systems within a city. Siddharth Patwardhan, Marc Barthelemy & Filippo Radicchi Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Facilitating the dry reforming of methane with interfacial synergistic catalysis in an Ir@CeO2−x catalyst Dry reforming of methane is an attractive route to convert greenhouse gases into valuable syngas. Here, the authors demonstrate design strategy to prepare efficient catalysts towards activation of both C–H and C = O bonds and provide atomic-level insights into interfacial synergistic catalysis. Hui Wang, Guoqing Cui & Min Wei Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access Effects of emissions caps on the costs and feasibility of low-carbon hydrogen in the European ammonia industry Decarbonizing the European ammonia industry: Less stringent emissions caps for electrolytic hydrogen production can significantly reduce costs and land use while still achieving more than 90% reduction in emissions relative to fossil-based hydrogen. Stefano Mingolla, Paolo Gabrielli & Zhongming Lu Article 04 May 2024 | Open Access A statistical resolution measure of fluorescence microscopy with finite photons Abbe’s diffraction limit has been a defining concept for microscopy. With finite photon, photon noise remains one essential factor yet to be considered in the theoretical resolution limit. Here, the authors introduced information-based resolution limit allowing for photon-considered resolution assessment of various microscopy and super-resolution modalities. Yilun Li & Fang Huang Article 03 May 2024 | Open Access Color morphing surfaces with effective chemical shielding Photochromic materials suffer from degradation when exposed to harsh chemical environments, but this can be overcome by providing chemical shielding via superomniphobicity. Here, the authors show the design rationale and careful materials selection for fabrication of color morphing surfaces that can simultaneously display excellent chemical resistance. Adil Majeed Rather, Sravanthi Vallabhuneni & Arun Kumar Kota Article 03 May 2024 | Open Access Polymer hetero-electrolyte enabled solid-state 2.4-V Zn/Li hybrid batteries Zn batteries suffer from low voltage due to the high redox potential of the Zn anode and the low potential of traditional cathodes. Here, the authors develop a polymer hetero-electrolyte, which allows separated Zn and Li reversibility and achieves a 2.4 V-Zn battery based on the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode. Ze Chen, Tairan Wang & Chunyi Zhi Article 03 May 2024 | Open Access Bose-Einstein condensation of non-ground-state caesium atoms Bose-Einstein condensates (BEC) of ultracold atoms serve as low-entropy sources for a multitude of quantum-science applications. Here, the authors realize a non-ground-state caesium BEC with tunable interactions and tunable loss, opening up new possibilities for polaron and impurity physics. Milena Horvath, Sudipta Dhar & Hanns-Christoph Nägerl Article 03 May 2024 | Open Access Observation of dichotomic field-tunable electronic structure in twisted monolayer-bilayer graphene The phase diagram of twisted monolayer-bilayer graphene depends on the electric field direction, exhibiting phases similar to twisted bilayer and double-bilayer graphene. Here the authors study the field dependent electronic structure, in particular flat bands, using nano-ARPES and explain the field-tunability. Hongyun Zhang, Qian Li & Shuyun Zhou Article 03 May 2024 | Open Access Cell-penetrating protein-recognizing polymeric nanoparticles through dynamic covalent chemistry and double imprinting Molecular recognition of proteins is essential for achieving their biological functions but it is challenging to prepare selective protein-binding materials. Here the authors report a method that combines dynamic covalent chemistry and double molecular imprinting to construct protein-recognizing nanoparticles capable of specific inhibition of protein–protein interactions. Avijit Ghosh, Mansi Sharma & Yan Zhao