20 July 2024 | Open Access Electrochemical deoxygenative amination of stabilized alkyl radicals from activated alcohols Secondary arylalkylamines represent important building blocks for organic synthesis, and as such their straightforward synthesis from readily available chemicals remains a priority in organic chemistry. Here, the authors report a synthesis of arylalkylamines from nitroarenes and carbazates via paired electrolysis. Jia Xu, Yilin Liu & Yi Wang Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Iron photocatalysis via Brønsted acid-unlocked ligand-to-metal charge transfer Reforming 3d-metal-based visible light catalytic platforms for inert bulk chemical activation is highly desirable. Herein, the authors report the use of a Brønsted acid to unlock robust and practical iron ligand-to-metal charge transfer photocatalysis for the activation of multifarious inert haloalkylcarboxylates to produce halogencontaining alkyl radicals. Xiaoyu Jiang, Yu Lan & Linbin Niu Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Facile access to bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes by Lewis acid-catalyzed formal cycloaddition between silyl enol ethers and bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes Saturated three-dimensional carbocycles have gained increasing prominence in synthetic and medicinal chemistry. Here, the authors present facile access to a variety of bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes via a stepwise two-electron formal (3 + 2) cycloaddition between silyl enol ethers and bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes under Lewis acid catalysis. Sai Hu, Yuming Pan & Li Deng Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Catalyst-free selective oxidation of C(sp3)-H bonds in toluene on water The anisotropic water interfaces provide an environment to drive various chemical reactions not seen in bulk solutions. Here the authors report that the oil-water interface activates and oxidizes C(sp3)-H bonds in toluene, yielding benzaldehyde with high selectivity and conversion under mild, catalyst-free conditions. Kyoungmun Lee, Yumi Cho & Siyoung Q. Choi Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Modelling of negative equivalent magnetic reluctance structure and its application in weak-coupling wireless power transmission Metamaterial applications face challenges in managing magnetic fields beyond direct transmission paths where they cannot be reflected or refracted. Here, authors propose and test a Negative Equivalent Magnetic Reluctance model to improve efficiency in weak-coupling wireless power transmission. Yuanxi Chen, Shuangxia Niu & Hongjian Lin Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Structure and exfoliation mechanism of two-dimensional boron nanosheets The exfoliation of 2D nanosheets from nonlayered 3D crystals has the potential to generate new 2D materials, but the exfoliation mechanisms remain unclear. Here, the authors identify the important role of intrinsic stacking faults in 3D boron crystals in the liquid-phase exfoliation of 2D boron nanosheets. Jing-Yang Chung, Yanwen Yuan & Slaven Garaj Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Modelling chemical processes in explicit solvents with machine learning potentials Modelling reactions in solution is challenging. Machine learning potentials offer promising alternatives but need large datasets. Here the authors report an automated active learning approach using descriptor-based selectors to model Diels-Alder reactions. Hanwen Zhang, Veronika Juraskova & Fernanda Duarte Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Self-powered and speed-adjustable sensor for abyssal ocean current measurements based on triboelectric nanogenerators This study shows a self-powered deep-sea current measurement system using a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) that measures currents from 0.02 to 6.69 m/s and withstands over 45 MPa pressure. Successful operation at 4531 m depth in the South China Sea is demonstrated. Yuan Chao Pan, Zhuhang Dai & Yang Yang Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Malleable, printable, bondable, and highly conductive MXene/liquid metal plasticine with improved wettability This work offers a convenient method (solvent-assisted dispersion) for assembling liquid metals with MXene and other low-dimensional materials, paving a path for the development of multifunctional soft devices. Haojie Jiang, Bin Yuan & Wei Lu Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Reversible metal cluster formation on Nitrogen-doped carbon controlling electrocatalyst particle size with subnanometer accuracy Copper-nitrogen co-doped carbon catalysts reversibly transform into metal clusters, when employed for the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction. Here, by applying potential pulses, the authors show the size of the formed metal clusters can be finely tuned, allowing on-the-fly steering of the distribution of reaction products. Janis Timoshenko, Clara Rettenmaier & Beatriz Roldan Cuenya Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Towards enhanced functionality of vagus neuroprostheses through in silico optimized stimulation Advancements in bioelectronic therapies offer new hope for treating various disorders. Here, the authors present an accurate, subject-specific model of vagus nerve stimulation for enhancing efficacy and reducing side effects. Federico Ciotti, Robert John & Stanisa Raspopovic Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Electrochromic windows with fast response and wide dynamic range for visible-light modulation without traditional electrodes Cheng Yang and co-workers develop an “electrode-free” electrochromic window, featuring a simplified fabrication process and delivering superior optical modulation capability. Zhuofei Jia, Yiming Sui & Cheng Yang Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Electrothermal mineralization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances for soil remediation Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants in soil. Here, the authors developed a rapid electrothermal mineralization method that can efficiently mineralize PFAS while maintaining soil properties. Yi Cheng, Bing Deng & James M. Tour Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Extremely large magnetoresistance in twisted intertwined graphene spirals Twisted graphene spirals are emerging material structures that may host topological phenomena. Here, the authors demonstrate extremely large magnetoresistance and a metal-insulator transition in twisted graphene spirals. Yiwen Zhang, Bo Xie & Jun Li Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Anomalous friction of supercooled glycerol on mica Understanding liquid friction on solid surfaces is key for fluid transport, with recent findings highlighting the role of solid internal excitations. Authors use AFM to show that supercooled glycerol’s slip length on mica increases unexpectedly strongly with decreasing temperature. The observations suggest that resonating vibrations within surface play a key role in liquid friction, challenging existing models. Mathieu Lizée, Baptiste Coquinot & Lydéric Bocquet Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Utilizing cost-effective pyrocarbon for highly efficient gold retrieval from e-waste leachate The demand for gold recovery from E-Waste is significant due to its high value. Here, authors present a practical method for extracting gold from an actual E-waste leachate using alginate-derived pyrocarbon. This approach yields a 23.96 karat gold product and demonstrates strong economic viability. Kaixing Fu, Xia Liu & Jinming Luo Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Kupffer cells determine intrahepatic traffic of PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin Here, authors looked at the roles of Kupffer cells in determining intrahepatic traffic of PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin, providing information for design and clinical applications of liposomal therapeutics. Kuan Jiang, Kaisong Tian & Changyou Zhan Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Benzoxazole-derivatives enhance progranulin expression and reverse the aberrant lysosomal proteome caused by GRN haploinsufficiency Heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in the GRN gene are a major cause of hereditary frontotemporal dementia, and there is currently no treatment. Here, the authors report and utilize small molecule positive regulators of GRN expression to boost progranulin levels from the remaining functional GRN allele, thus restoring progranulin levels back to normal within the brain. Rachel Tesla, Charlotte Guhl & Joachim Herz Article 20 July 2024 | Open Access Two-dimensional and high-order directional information modulations for secure communications based on programmable metasurface The authors showcase a directional information modulation scheme based on a programmable metasurface, which opens a new route to ensure physical-layer security and serves as a stepping stone toward endogenous secure communications. Hui Xu, Jun Wei Wu & Tie Jun Cui Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Radiative cooling assisted self-sustaining and highly efficient moisture energy harvesting Harvesting electricity from ubiquitous water vapor represents a promising route to alleviate the energy crisis. Here, authors report a bilayer polymer enabling self-sustaining moisture-electric generation by establishing a stable internal water flow through thermal exchange with the environment. Chenyue Guo, Huajie Tang & Dongliang Zhao Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Boosting electrochemical oxygen reduction to hydrogen peroxide coupled with organic oxidation Electrochemical oxygen reduction is a promising method for H2O2 production but suffers from poor activity and low yield. In this work, the authors present Ni single atom catalyst for efficient H2O2 production which is further coupled with organic oxidation reaction to enhance the economic feasibility of the system. Yining Sun, Kui Fan & Xue Duan Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Ampere-level CO2 electroreduction with single-pass conversion exceeding 85% in acid over silver penetration electrodes Suppression of the competing H2 evolution reaction in CO2 electroreduction in strong acids remains a considerable challenge. Here, authors report a silver-based electrode that enables CO2 conversion to CO exceeding 85% at ampere-level current densities in pH = 1 electrolytes. Shoujie Li, Xiao Dong & Wei Wei Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Electron iso-density surfaces provide a thermodynamically consistent representation of atomic and molecular surfaces The precise definition of the surface of atoms and molecules has long been an open issue. Here, the authors combine theory and experimental thermodynamic measurements to define atomic and molecular surfaces from electron iso-density surfaces contoured at a value of 0.0016 a.u. Amin Alibakhshi & Lars V. Schäfer Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access A universal packaging substrate for mechanically stable assembly of stretchable electronics Preventing the strain-induced delamination between the module and the substrate has been a critical challenge. The authors developed a stretchable packaging substrate that enables stable module/substrate interfaces under large deformation, preventing the interfacial delamination of stretchable electronics. Yan Shao, Jianfeng Yan & Yanhao Yu Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Facet sensitivity of iron carbides in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis The impact of facets on Fischer-Tropsch synthesis has primarily been explored through theoretical studies or on single-crystal surfaces, lacking experimental data on practical catalysts. Here, the authors provide experimental evidence of the facet sensitivity of iron carbides during syngas conversion by creating {202} and {112} χ-Fe5C2 facets. Wenlong Wu, Jiahua Luo & Jie Zeng Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Intramolecular dynamic coupling slows surface relaxation of polymer glasses The glassy materials show a few layers of molecules at the outmost surface which are in a mobile state while the molecules in the glass interior remain frozen, but manipulation of this outer layer remains challenging. Here, the authors provided a strategy to tune the mobility of the surface layer by devising polymer surfaces occupied by chain loops of various penetration depths. Houkuan Tian, Jintian Luo & Biao Zuo Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Emittance preservation in a plasma-wakefield accelerator High beam quality is key for particle-accelerator applications in high-energy physics and photon science. Here, authors demonstrate gigavolt-per meter acceleration of electron bunches in a plasma-wakefield accelerator with no degradation of emittance, while also preserving charge and energy spread. C. A. Lindstrøm, J. Beinortaitė & J. Osterhoff Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Light-induced Kondo-like exciton-spin interaction in neodymium(II) doped hybrid perovskite The Kondo effect usually refers to increased electrical resistance in metals due to spin-spin interactions between localized magnetic impurities and conduction electrons. Here the authors report a Kondo-like coupling between a light-induced exciton and localized impurity spins in Nd-doped hybrid perovskite. Xudong Xiao, Kyaw Zin Latt & Tao Xu Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Ferroelectric polarization and magnetic structure at domain walls in a multiferroic film The ferroelectric polarization generally reduces at the domain walls. Here, the authors demonstrate that a huge enhancement (43%) of ferroelectric polarization in ε-Fe2O3 in the domain wall with a low bound charge density. Ang Tao, Yixiao Jiang & Xiu-Liang Ma Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Water training initiates spatially regulated microstructures with competitive mechanics in hydroadaptive polymers Using water as a medium for dynamic modulation of competitive plasticity and viscoelasticity provides a unique perspective to attain adaptive materials compared to conventional passive polymer processing. Here the authors report cellulose phenoxyacetate as a sustainable polymer with unusual water- responsive dual mechanic functionalities. Wenbo Chen, Caoxing Huang & Kai Zhang Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Visible light-induced chemoselective 1,2-diheteroarylation of alkenes Visible-light photocatalysis has evolved as a powerful technique to enable controllable radical reactions and the exploration of new photocatalytic mode for product diversity is of great significance. Herein, the authors present a photo-induced chemoselective 1,2-diheteroarylation of unactivated alkenes utilizing halopyridines and quinolines. Shi-Yu Guo, Yi-Peng Liu & Qing-An Chen Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access A single-particle mechanofluorescent sensor A mechano-fluorescence sensor system using polydiacetylene (PDA) particles monitors mechanical stresses in microchannels mimicking stenotic vessels, with fluorescence varying by fluid viscosity and particle collisions, aiding in in-vitro simulations. Narges Ahmadi, Jieun Lee & Bum Jun Park Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access One-step syntheses of diaza-dioxa-fenestranes via the sequential (3 + 2) cycloadditions of linear precursors and their structural analyses Fenestranes, in which four rings share one carbon atom, have garnered much attention because of their flattened quaternary carbon centers. Here, the authors report one-step syntheses of diaza-dioxa-fenestranes via the sequential (3 + 2) cycloadditions. Shinichiro Fuse, Hiroki Ishikawa & Takashi Takahashi Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access High-purity ethylene production via indirect carbon dioxide electrochemical reduction Producing high-purity ethylene from direct CO2 electroreduction is challenging due to unwanted byproducts and unreacted CO2. Here, authors introduce an indirect method using 2-bromoethanol as a mediator, which reduces to ethylene with near-unity selectivity over an Ag catalyst. Wenpeng Ni, Houjun Chen & Shiguo Zhang Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Microplastic detection and remediation through efficient interfacial solar evaporation for immaculate water production Freshwater scarcity and microplastics (MPs) pollution are two concerning and intertwined global challenges. Here, authors design an interfacial solar evaporation platform (ISEP) combined with a MPs adsorbent. The well-designed ISEP can produce clean water and simultaneously boost MPs removal. Zhen Yu, Yang Li & Swee Ching Tan Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Experimentally validating sabatier plot by molecular level microenvironment customization for oxygen electroreduction Sabatier volcano plot enables the forecast of electrocatalytic activity for oxygen reduction. Here, the authors propose a secondary sphere microenvironment customization strategy to promote the catalytic efficiency of cobalt porphyrin-based polymers and experimentally validate the Sabatier principle. Bingyu Huang, Qiao Gu & Yiwang Chen Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Bidirectional microwave-optical transduction based on integration of high-overtone bulk acoustic resonators and photonic circuits Coherent interconversion between microwave and optical frequencies is crucial for developing quantum networks. To this end, the authors integrate piezoelectric actuators on photonic integrated circuits, enabling bidirectional transduction mediated by high-overtone bulk acoustic resonances. Terence Blésin, Wil Kao & Tobias J. Kippenberg Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access Evidence of a distinct collective mode in Kagome superconductors Collective bosonic modes can offer important information for understanding a wide range of superconductors. Here, the authors report evidence of a bosonic mode in the scanning tunnelling spectra of the kagome superconductor CsV3-xTaxSb5, which is tentatively interpreted as the Leggett mode. Bin Hu, Hui Chen & Hong-Jun Gao Article 19 July 2024 | Open Access AI-assisted discovery of high-temperature dielectrics for energy storage Dielectrics are essential for modern energy storage, but currently have limitations in energy density and thermal stability. Here, the authors discover dielectrics with 11 times the energy density of commercial alternatives at elevated temperatures. Rishi Gurnani, Stuti Shukla & Rampi Ramprasad Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Total syntheses of (–)-macrocalyxoformins A and B and (–)-ludongnin C The complex and diverse molecular architectures along with broad biological activities of ent-kauranoids natural products attract increasing interest from synthetic chemists. Herein, the authors report the enantioselective total syntheses of C-19 oxygenated enmein-type ent-kauranoids, including (–)-macrocalyxoformins A and B and (–)-ludongnin C. Zichen Cao, Wenxuan Sun & Chao Li Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Reversible modulation of superconductivity in thin-film NbSe2 via plasmon coupling Light excitation has been recognized as an appealing tuning knob for superconducting circuits, but usually its efficiency is limited by the low photoresponse of superconductors. Here, the authors demonstrate efficient reversible modulations of superconductivity in thin films of NbSe2 via near-field coupling to plasmonic Au nanoparticles. Guanghui Cheng, Meng-Hsien Lin & Changgan Zeng Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Coupling photocatalytic CO2 reduction and CH3OH oxidation for selective dimethoxymethane production This study unravels the efficient photocatalytic route for synthesizing dimethoxymethane by coupling CO2 reduction integrated with CH3OH oxidation by using a silver and tungsten comodified blue titanium dioxide catalyst under mild conditions. Yixuan Wang, Yang Liu & Hyoyoung Lee Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Inverse mapping of quantum properties to structures for chemical space of small organic molecules A mapping linking a desired molecular property to a 3D structure would facilitate molecular design. Here, the authors parameterize the chemical space of small organic molecules using quantum properties via machine learning, providing insights into targeted molecular design. Alessio Fallani, Leonardo Medrano Sandonas & Alexandre Tkatchenko Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Pyridine-based strategies towards nitrogen isotope exchange and multiple isotope incorporation The rapid access to isotopically labeled organic molecules is a sine qua non condition to support these societally vital areas of research. Here the authors present a solution to access labeled pyridines by a nitrogen isotope exchange reaction based on a Zincke activation strategy. Minghao Feng, Maylis Norlöff & Davide Audisio Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Regioselective hydroamination of unactivated olefins with diazirines as a diversifiable nitrogen source Nitrogen-containing compounds play an indispensable role in medicine, agriculture and materials, but alkylated derivatives especially in sterically congested environments, remain a challenge to prepare. Here, the authors report a versatile method for the regioselective hydroamination of readily available unactivated olefins with diazirines. Qingyu Xing, Preeti P. Chandrachud & Justin M. Lopchuk Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Machine learning aided design of single-atom alloy catalysts for methane cracking The process of CH4 cracking into H2 and carbon has garnered significant attention for hydrogen production, but traditional catalytic methods are hampered by severe carbon deposition. Here, a machine-learning model has been developed to expedite the screening of CH4 cracking catalysts from 10,950 types of single-atom alloy surfaces. Jikai Sun, Rui Tu & Weiqiao Deng Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Large-scale photonic network with squeezed vacuum states for molecular vibronic spectroscopy Proof-of-principle photonic quantum simulations of molecular vibronic spectra have been realised, but scalability to more complex systems is hindered by the difficulties in generating squeezed coherent states with multiple modes. Here, the authors demonstrate an alternative approach relying on vacuum-squeezed state. Hui Hui Zhu, Hao Sen Chen & Ai Qun Liu Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Dissecting diazirine photo-reaction mechanism for protein residue-specific cross-linking and distance mapping Photo-cross-linking (PXL) with alkyl diazirines can provide stringent distance restraints and offer insights into protein structures, but unambiguous identification of cross-linked residues hinders data interpretation. Here, the authors report a quantitative analysis of alkyl diazirine photo-cross-linking reactions and reveal a two-step mechanism, enabling selective targeting of buried polar residues. Yida Jiang, Xinghe Zhang & Chun Tang Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Closed magnetic topology in the Venusian magnetotail and ion escape at Venus Magnetic reconnection dynamics in Venus’ magnetosphere are not well-known due to limited observations. Here, the authors show direct evidence for closed magnetic topology in Venus’ magnetotail and a link between the cold ion flow in the magnetotail and its direct magnetic connectivity to the ionosphere. Shaosui Xu, David L. Mitchell & Moa Persson Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Wide-energy programmable microwave plasma-ionization for high-coverage mass spectrometry analysis Ion source technology in mass spectrometry still has limitations in analyte coverage. Here, the authors present a wide-energy programmable microwave plasma ionization mass spectrometry system that enables MS analysis with high coverage. Fengjian Chu, Gaosheng Zhao & Xiaozhi WangArticle 18 July 2024 | Open Access Constrained patterning of orientated metal chalcogenide nanowires and their growth mechanism Nanowires made of transition metal chalcogenides are promising as connecting elements in devices, but so far only isotropic growth is feasible. Here, the authors regulate the growth orientation of nanowires by introducing external stimuli into graphite-confined MoTe2 heterostructures. Qishuo Yang, Yun-Peng Wang & Junhao Lin Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Recognition of anion-water clusters by peptide-based supramolecular capsules Due to the biological and technological importance of anion-mediated processes, the development of selective recognition methods which account for the hydration sphere of anions is highly relevant. Here, the authors describe a supramolecular capsule that recognizes hydrated anion clusters by disassembling to trap them between its two subunits. Victoria López-Corbalán, Alberto Fuertes & Juan R. Granja Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Micromachined structures decoupling Joule heating and electron wind force Understanding the impact of the athermal effect on microstructures is crucial for designing and manufacturing semiconductor and metal materials. Here, the authors propose a method using pre-micromachined structures to decouple thermal and athermal effects and experimentally validate its feasibility. Shaojie Gu, Yasuhiro Kimura & Yuhki Toku Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access In situ evidence of the magnetospheric cusp of Jupiter from Juno spacecraft measurements Jovian cusps are not well-known due to limited observations. Here, the authors show that the characteristics of charged particles in the Jovian cusps are similar to those of the Earth and Saturn cusps, and Jupiter’s polar cusp is located in the dusk-side sector, contradicting Earth-based predictions of a near-noon location. Y. Xu, C. S. Arridge & Y. Wei Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Unraveling iron oxides as abiotic catalysts of organic phosphorus recycling in soil and sediment matrices Iron oxides serve as both adsorbents and catalysts to generate inorganic phosphorus from organic phosphorus in environmental matrices. This abiotic dephosphorylation, which is comparable to enzymatic rates, is a missing piece in phosphorus cycling. Jade J. Basinski, Sharon E. Bone & Ludmilla Aristilde Article 18 July 2024 | Open Access Node-layer duality in networked systems Various real-world networks in social science, technology, and biology, can be presented as multilayer structures. To better understand their properties and function, the authors propose a concept of topological duality interpreting multilayer networks as two arrangements with nodes and layers switching their roles. Charley Presigny, Marie-Constance Corsi & Fabrizio De Vico Fallani Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Non-volatile 2D MoS2/black phosphorus heterojunction photodiodes in the near- to mid-infrared region In-sensor computing architectures can provide energy-efficient multifunctional capabilities, but their application to the mid-infrared range is challenging. Here, the authors report the realization of non-volatile MoS2/black phosphorus photovoltaic detectors, integrating near- to mid-infrared photodetection, memory and computing functionalities. Yuyan Zhu, Yang Wang & Peng Zhou Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Selective nitrogen insertion into aryl alkanes Substituted amines, especially nitrogen containing alkyl heterocyclic compounds, are widely found in nature products and drugs, but generally accessing these compounds requires multiple steps. Herein, the authors report a molecular editing strategy for the synthesis of nitrogen-containing compounds using aryl alkanes as starting materials. Zheng Zhang, Qi Li & Chun Zhang Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Anomalous flocking in nonpolar granular Brownian vibrators An experimental method is needed to measure the effective interparticle attraction resulting from inelastic collisions for a quantitative study of non-equilibrium systems. In this study, the authors report the large-scale collective motion of non-polar particles and identify the phase transition point between the granular fluid phase and the collective fluid phase. Yangrui Chen & Jie Zhang Perspective 17 July 2024 | Open Access Non-technological barriers: the last frontier towards AI-powered intelligent optical networks The author sheds light on critical non-technological barriers that significantly limit the broad utilization of machine learning in optical networks and presents several prospective solutions. Various pathways are discussed for the evolving machine learning potential for its desired penetration, credibility, and impact in real-world optical networks. Faisal Nadeem Khan Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access 1,3-Difunctionalization of [1.1.1]propellane through iron-hydride catalyzed hydropyridylation Current methodologies for the functionalization of [1.1.1]propellane primarily focus on achieving 1,3-difunctionalized bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane or ring-opened cyclobutene moiety. Here, the authors report an approach for the 1, 3-difunctionalization of [1.1.1]propellane, enabling access to a diverse range of highly functionalized cyclobutanes. Changha Kim, Yuhyun Kim & Sungwoo Hong Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access How molecular architecture defines quantum yields Chemical topology is important in bond-forming reactions, but understanding the relationship between them is challenging. Here, the authors report a study considering photo-induced cyclisations for a series of monodisperse macromolecules with defined spacers and apply their findings to 3D printing. Fred Pashley-Johnson, Rangika Munaweera & Christopher Barner-Kowollik Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Imaging nanomagnetism and magnetic phase transitions in atomically thin CrSBr The discover of van der Waals materials that retain magnetic ordering down to monolayers has fostered considerable interest, however, these materials are often hampered by poor environmental stability. Here, Tschudin, Broadway and coauthors study the magnetic properties of CrSBr, using NV-center based magnetometry, detailing magnetization reversal under applied magnetic fields Märta A. Tschudin, David A. Broadway & Patrick Maletinsky Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Alloying and confinement effects on hierarchically nanoporous CuAu for efficient electrocatalytic semi-hydrogenation of terminal alkynes Electrocatalytic alkyne semi-hydrogenation to alkenes is challenging due to the hydrogen evolution competing reaction and over-hydrogenation. Here, the authors report Cu50Au50 alloy for high selectivity towards styrene production. Linghu Meng, Cheng-Wei Kao & Yongwen Tan Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Bionic e-skin with precise multi-directional droplet sliding sensing for enhanced robotic perception Electronic skins are limited in perceiving liquid sliding information as realistically as humans and provide real-time feedback. Here, Xu et al. developed a self-powered bionic droplet electronic skin with co-layer interlaced electrode networks and overpass connection technology to sense complex water motion. Yunlong Xu, Zhongda Sun & Chengkuo Lee Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Learning a reactive potential for silica-water through uncertainty attribution Accurate molecular dynamics of silicate reactivity in aqueous solution at large length and time scale is required to decipher silica condensation. Here, authors developed a potential with a new active learning method to capture silica-water interactions. Swagata Roy, Johannes P. Dürholt & Rafael Gómez-Bombarelli Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Asymmetric Ru-In atomic pairs promote highly active and stable acetylene hydrochlorination Stable operation of acetylene hydrochlorination remains a challenge due to over-chlorination of Ru. Here, the authors propose a Ru-In atom pair with d-p orbital coupling that switches the thermodynamics of chlorination process and improves stability. Yurui Fan, Haomiao Xu & Naiqiang Yan Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Turning copper into an efficient and stable CO evolution catalyst beyond noble metals For electrochemical CO2 reduction to CO, there exists a trade-off between selectivity and activity for noble metal catalysts. Here, authors report a Cu-based trimetallic catalyst that is selective to CO, challenging the monopoly of noble metals in CO2-to-CO conversion. Jing Xue, Xue Dong & Chuan Xia Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Anti-distortion bioinspired camera with an inhomogeneous photo-pixel array Curvature of image sensors that match the focal plane of the lens facilitate focussing but can cause image distortion. Here, an anti-distortion single-lens camera was developed using a curved image sensor with a photo-pixel distribution pattern warped like image warping to correctively reverse distortion. Changsoon Choi, Henry Hinton & Donhee Ham Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Nanosecond chain dynamics of single-stranded nucleic acids By combining single-molecule spectroscopy, nanophotonic enhancement, and molecular simulations, the authors reveal the extremely rapid chain dynamics of single-stranded nucleic acids. Mark F. Nüesch, Lisa Pietrek & Benjamin Schuler Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Visualization and standardized quantification of surface charge density for triboelectric materials A surface charge visualization and standardized quantification method and surface charge tuning is achieved for triboelectric materials, delivering essential tools for contact electrification and high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators. Yi Li, Yi Luo & Zhong Lin Wang Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Learning interpretable dynamics of stochastic complex systems from experimental data Discovering the governing laws of dynamics from data, relevant to biology and social science, remains challenging for systems exhibiting stochasticity. The authors propose an approach to infer the stochastic differential equations of complex systems from experimental data. Ting-Ting Gao, Baruch Barzel & Gang Yan Article 17 July 2024 | Open Access Realization of a two-dimensional Weyl semimetal and topological Fermi strings 2D Weyl semimetals are spin-polarized analogues of graphene that promise access to various topological properties of matter. Here, the authors evidence spin-polarized Weyl cones, Weyl nodes, and Fermi strings in monolayer bismuthene. Qiangsheng Lu, P. V. Sreenivasa Reddy & Guang Bian Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Dual-quartet phosphorescent emission in the open-shell M1Ag13 (M = Pt, Pd) nanoclusters Exploring the dual-emission mechanism in open-shell nanoclusters with doublet or quartet emissions remains challenging. Here, the authors reveal the origin of dual-quartet phosphorescent emission in the open-shell M1Ag13 (M = Pt, Pd) nanoclusters. Cao Fang, Chang Xu & Manzhou Zhu Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Laser nanofabrication inside silicon with spatial beam modulation and anisotropic seeding The authors report controlled laser nanofabrication inside silicon. The dimensional barrier is overcome by spatially modulated lasers and anisotropic feedback from preformed structures. Features down to 100 nm is achieved, improving the state-of-the-art by an order-of-magnitude. Rana Asgari Sabet, Aqiq Ishraq & Onur Tokel Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Spin occupancy regulation of the Pt d-orbital for a robust low-Pt catalyst towards oxygen reduction Developing highly durable and active low-platinum electrocatalysts is crucial for advancing proton exchange membrane fuel cell technology. Here, the authors report PtFe on a single-atom Fe-N-C substrate to regulate the spin occupancy state of the Pt d-orbital for enhanced oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Dongping Xue, Yifang Yuan & Jia-Nan Zhang Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Surface properties of the seas of Titan as revealed by Cassini mission bistatic radar experiments It’s known that Saturn’s largest moon Titan has liquids on its surface. Here, the authors show bistatic investigation of Titan’s three polar lakes, which allows direct estimates of effective relative dielectric constant and small-scale roughness. Valerio Poggiali, Giancorrado Brighi & Marco Zannoni Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Molecularly specific detection towards trace nitrogen dioxide by utilizing Schottky-junction-based Gas Sensor Here, trace detection of NO2 is achieved with a 2D Schottky-junction Bi2O2Se gas sensor. Simultaneous signals allow for detection in the ppt range, and impedance angle analysis allows for molecular specificity. Shipu Xu, Xuehan Zhou & Hailin Peng Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access A cryogenic on-chip microwave pulse generator for large-scale superconducting quantum computing Integrating a control interface with a quantum processor as the number of qubits scales is a significant challenge. Here the authors report a cryogenic on-chip microwave pulse generator for superconducting qubits with high degree of controllability, negligible heat load, and a small footprint. Zenghui Bao, Yan Li & Luming Duan Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Controlling 229Th isomeric state population in a VUV transparent crystal Thorium-229 has the extraordinarily low-energy nuclear state and therefore has potential in atomic clocks. Here, the authors measured the radiative branching fraction of the “clock state”, which is consistent with unity in crystals, and found that this state can be de-populated by X-ray beam irradiation. Takahiro Hiraki, Koichi Okai & Koji Yoshimura Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Unidirectional guided-wave-driven metasurfaces for arbitrary wavefront control Here the authors develop a class of metasurfaces based on robust, unidirectional waves. Such metasurfaces, driven by guided one-way waves, may facilitate their on-chip integration, as well as the precise manipulation of wavefronts on deep-subwavelength scales. Shiqing Li, Kosmas L. Tsakmakidis & Linfang Shen Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Voltage control of multiferroic magnon torque for reconfigurable logic-in-memory The authors demonstrate voltage-controlled multiferroic magnon torque in BiFeO3 heterostructures, enabling reconfigurable logic-in-memory devices. This work highlights potential for low-power, scalable magnonics in room-temperature computing. Yahong Chai, Yuhan Liang & Tianxiang Nan Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Closing Kok’s cycle of nature’s water oxidation catalysis The Kok cycle describes the mechanism by which water is oxidized through a 5-step process. Here authors use theoretical calculations to reveal how the natural water oxidation catalyst “Mn4CaO5 cluster” is reconstituted after O2 release during photosynthesis and discover the structural isomerism in the first state of Kok’s cycle. Yu Guo, Lanlan He & Licheng Sun Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Simultaneous control of carrier transport and film polarization of emission layers aimed at high-performance OLEDs The spontaneous orientation polarization in the emissive layer induced by vacuum deposition should be controlled to improve the efficiency of organic light-emitting diodes. Here, the authors report the control through the delicate design of host molecules, achieving high device operational stability. Masaki Tanaka, Chin-Yiu Chan & Chihaya Adachi Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Phase interface engineering enables state-of-the-art half-Heusler thermoelectrics Introduction of any interface will inevitably lead to a decrease in carrier mobility. Here, authors employ atomic layer deposition technology to construct composite phase interfaces, decoupling the interrelated thermoelectric parameters in n-type ZrNiSn materials. Yihua Zhang, Guyang Peng & Lipeng Hu Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Non-volatile magnon transport in a single domain multiferroic La-substitution in BiFeO3 enables an electric field-driven conversion of a multi-domain into a single ferroelectric domain accompanied by a single variant spin cycloid. A single domain multiferroic generates 400% larger non-local inverse spin Hall voltage at the output. Sajid Husain, Isaac Harris & Ramamoorthy Ramesh Article 16 July 2024 | Open Access Revealing the atomic and electronic mechanism of human manganese superoxide dismutase product inhibition Human manganese superoxide dismutase is an oxidoreductase that converts superoxide to molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide with proton-coupled electron transfers (PCETs), and has evolved to be highly product inhibited to limit the formation of hydrogen peroxide. Here, the authors use neutron diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy of the product-bound, trivalent, and divalent states of the enzyme to identify the product-inhibited complex and propose a PCET mechanism. Jahaun Azadmanesh, Katelyn Slobodnik & Gloria E. O. Borgstahl Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Laboratory infrared spectra and fragmentation chemistry of sulfur allotropes Sulfur allotropes are proposed to be an important sulfur reservoir in molecular clouds, but spectroscopic data to test this hypothesis are limited. Here the authors measure laboratory far-infrared spectra of cold isolated S8 molecules, which show a near-perfect match with calculations, and examine their fragmentation pathways. Piero Ferrari, Giel Berden & Joost M. Bakker Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Robust structural superlubricity under gigapascal pressures An unexpectedly strong pressure-resistance and wear-free feature of structural superlubricity is reported. The breakdown pressure beyond which wear is triggered can exceed material strengths, and is determined by structural and electronic effects. Taotao Sun, Enlai Gao & Zhiping Xu Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access pH drives electron density fluctuations that enhance electric field-induced liquid flow The authors combine optical surface measurements and simulations to delve into the pH-dependent electrophoretic mobility of hexadecane nanodroplets in water and show the importance of going beyond classical continuum models for an accurate description. S. Pullanchery, S. Kulik & S. Roke Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Actinium chelation and crystallization in a macromolecular scaffold Despite the progression of Actinium-225 (225Ac) radiopharmaceuticals, there is still a limited understanding of Ac coordination chemistry due to its radioactivity, poor availability, and lack of stable isotopes. Here, the authors demonstrate a platform to characterize the solution and solid-state behavior of the longest-lived Ac isotope, 227Ac. Jennifer N. Wacker, Joshua J. Woods & Rebecca J. Abergel Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Analytical realization of complex thermal meta-devices Heat-manipulating meta-device with complex geometry is difficult to realize due to highly anisotropic properties. Here, authors developed an analytical de-homogenization approach that efficiently generates near-optimal and concise microstructures to achieve any imaginable thermal functionalities. Weichen Li, Ole Sigmund & Xiaojia Shelly Zhang Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Direct observation of twisted stacking domains in the van der Waals magnet CrI3 Artificial stacking of van der Waals materials is an effective method to design and investigate emergent physical properties in condensed matter systems. Here, the authors characterize the natural twisted layer structure of CrI3, showing its dependence on the sample fabrication process and its implications for the magnetic properties of the material. Myeongjin Jang, Sol Lee & Kwanpyo Kim Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Large-scale 2D heterostructures from hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks and graphene with distinct Dirac and flat bands Here authors present bottom-up fabrication of 2D large-scale organic-inorganic heterostructure with clean interface and highly-crystalline structure via a self-lifting effect with observing distinct Dirac and narrow bands. Xin Zhang, Xiaoyin Li & Feng Liu Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access AI-NERD: Elucidation of relaxation dynamics beyond equilibrium through AI-informed X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy Editorial summary: Understanding non-equilibrium dynamics in materials is hindered by the difficulty of collecting and analyzing experimental data. Here, authors develop an machine learning framework for categorizing and tracking dynamics using time-resolved XPCS. James P. Horwath, Xiao-Min Lin & Mathew J. Cherukara Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access I/O-efficient iterative matrix inversion with photonic integrated circuits Integrated photonic iterative processors provide a novel I/O-efficient computing paradigm for matrix-inversion-intensive tasks, achieving higher speed and energy efficiency than state-of-the-art electronic and photonic processors. Minjia Chen, Yizhi Wang & Qixiang Cheng Article 15 July 2024 | Open Access Discovery of a terpene synthase synthesizing a nearly non-flexible eunicellane reveals the basis of flexibility Eunicellane diterpenoids are bioactive compounds with a typical 6,10-bicycle, and their scaffolds exhibit innate structural flexibility, but the mechanistic basis for controlling flexibility was unknown. Here, the authors report a genome mining-based discovery of a terpene synthase, MicA, that synthesizes a nearly non-flexible eunicellane skeleton, and propose that configurations of bridging carbons and their adjacent double bond govern flexibility in eunicellane structures. Jinfeng Li, Bao Chen & Baofu Xu Article 14 July 2024 | Open Access Highly selective urea electrooxidation coupled with efficient hydrogen evolution Urea electrooxidation often produces harmful cyanates and nitrites instead of N2, limiting its use in wastewater denitrification. Here, the authors develop an asymmetric Ni–O–Ti catalytic sites on Ti foam that reduce these byproducts, achieve 99% N2 selectivity, and boost H2 evolution. Guangming Zhan, Lufa Hu & Lizhi Zhang Article 14 July 2024 | Open Access Evaporate-casting of curvature gradient graphene superstructures for ultra-high strength structural materials Through precise adjustments to the curvature gradient inherent in stacked graphene assembly walls, a highly controllable water casting process for self-shaping with an accuracy of ca. 10 μm is demonstrated for making shaped functional materials. Bing Lu, Li Yu & Liangti Qu Article 14 July 2024 | Open Access Exceptional figure of merit achieved in boron-dispersed GeTe-based thermoelectric composites Doping approach is a conventional method to increase ZT values of thermoelectric materials. Here, authors propose a facile strategy to enhance thermoelectric performance by mixing boron particles into GeTe-based thermoelectric materials, leading to a ZT value of 2.45 at 613 K. Yilin Jiang, Bin Su & Jing-Feng Li Article 14 July 2024 | Open Access Evolving scientific discovery by unifying data and background knowledge with AI Hilbert Scientific discovery is a highly relevant task in natural sciences, however generating scientifically meaningful laws and determining their consistency remains challenging. The authors introduce an approach that exploits both experimental data and underlying theory in symbolic form to generate formulas that hold scientific significance by solving polynomial optimization problems. Ryan Cory-Wright, Cristina Cornelio & Lior Horesh Article 14 July 2024 | Open Access Potential of artificial intelligence in reducing energy and carbon emissions of commercial buildings at scale AI reduces building energy and emissions in design/construction, equipment, occupancy, and control/operation. By accelerating high-efficiency and net-zero buildings, AI could cut energy and emissions by 40-90% by 2050 combined with adequate policies. Chao Ding, Jing Ke & Nan Zhou