ASAP (As Soon As Publishable)

The abnormally viscous and thick mucus is a hallmark of cystic fibrosis (CF). How the mutated CF gene causes abnormal mucus remains an unanswered question of paramount interest. Mucus is produced by the hydration of gel-forming mucin macromolecules that are stored in intracellular granules prior to release. Current understanding of mucin/mucus structure before and after secretion remains limited, and contradictory models exist. Here, we used a molecular viscometer and fluorescence lifetime imaging of human bronchoepithelial cells (Normal and CF) to measure nanometer-scale viscosity. We found significantly elevated intraluminal nanoviscosity in a population of CF mucin granules, indicating an intrinsic, presecretory mucin defect. Nanoviscosity influences protein conformational dynamics and function. Its elevation along the protein secretory pathway could arise from molecular overcrowding, impacting mucin’s post-translational processing, hydration, and mucus rheology after release. The nanoviscosity of secreted CF mucus was elevated compared to that of non-CF. Interestingly, it was higher after release than in granules. Validation experiments indicate that reduced mobility of water hydrating mucin macromolecules may contribute to the high nanoviscosity in mucus and mucin granules. This suggests that mucins have a weakly ordered state in granules but adopt a highly ordered, nematic crystalline structure when secreted. This challenges the traditional view of mucus as a porous agarose-like gel and suggests an alternative model for mucin organization before and after secretion. Our study also indicates that endoplasmic reticulum stress due to molecular overcrowding could contribute to mucus pathogenesis in CF cells. It encourages the development of therapeutics that target presecretory mechanisms in CF and other muco-obstructive lung diseases.

Electrochemical nitrate reduction (NO₃RR) to ammonia presents a promising alternative strategy to the traditional Haber–Bosch process. However, the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) reduces the Faradaic efficiency toward ammonia, while the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) increases the energy consumption. This study designs IrCu₄ alloy nanoparticles as a bifunctional catalyst to achieve efficient NO₃RR and OER while suppressing the unwanted HER. This is achieved by operating the NO₃RR at positive potentials using the IrCu₄ catalyst, which allows a Faradaic efficiency of 93.6% for NO₃RR. When applied to OER catalysis, the IrCu₄ alloy also shows excellent results, with a relatively low overpotential of 260 mV at 10 mA cm^–2. Stable ammonia production can be achieved for 50 h in a 16 cm² flow electrolyzer in simulated working conditions. Our research provides a pathway for optimizing NO₃RR through bifunctional catalysts in a tandem approach.

Understanding energy transport in semiconductors is critical for the design of electronic and optoelectronic devices. Semiconductor material properties, such as charge carrier mobility or diffusion length, are commonly measured in bulk crystals and determined using models that describe transport behavior in homogeneous media, where structural boundary effects are minimal. However, most emerging semiconductors exhibit nano- and microscale heterogeneity. Therefore, experimental techniques with high spatial resolution paired with models that capture anisotropy and domain boundary behavior are needed. We develop a diffusion tensor-based framework to analyze experimental photoluminescence (PL) diffusion maps accounting for material nano- and microstructure. Specifically, we quantify both carrier transport and recombination in single crystal and polycrystalline lead halide perovskites by globally fitting diffusion maps with spatial, temporal, and PL intensity data. We reveal a 29% difference in principal diffusion coefficients and alignment between electronically coupled grains for CH₃NH₃PbI₃ polycrystalline films. This framework allows for understanding and optimizing anisotropic energy transport in heterogeneous materials.

Since their inception in the early 1960s, the development and use of nanoscale materials have progressed tremendously, and their roles in diverse fields ranging from human health to energy and electronics are undeniable. The application of nanotechnology inventions has revolutionized many aspects of everyday life including various medical applications and specifically drug delivery systems, maximizing the therapeutic efficacy of the contained drugs by means of bioavailability enhancement or minimization of adverse effects. In this review, we utilize the CAS Content Collection, a vast repository of scientific information extracted from journal and patent publications, to analyze trends in nanoscience research relevant to drug delivery in an effort to provide a comprehensive and detailed picture of the use of nanotechnology in this field. We examine the publication landscape in the area to provide insights into current knowledge advances and developments. We review the major classes of nanosized drug delivery systems, their delivery routes, and targeted diseases. We outline the most discussed concepts and assess the advantages of various nanocarriers. The objective of this review is to provide a broad overview of the evolving landscape of current knowledge regarding nanosized drug delivery systems, to outline challenges, and to evaluate growth opportunities. The merit of the review stems from the extensive, wide-ranging coverage of the most up-to-date scientific information, allowing unmatched breadth of landscape analysis and in-depth insights.

Real-time monitoring of hemodynamics is crucial for diagnosing disorders within implanted vascular grafts and facilitating timely treatment. Integrating vascular grafts with advanced flexible electronics offers a promising approach to developing smart vascular grafts (SVGs) capable of continuous hemodynamic monitoring. However, most existing SVG devices encounter significant challenges in practical applications, particularly regarding biomechanical compatibility and the effective evaluation of vascular status. Here, we present a state-of-the-art SVG device seamlessly integrated with flow biosensors constructed by encapsulating patterned porous graphene within biocompatible polymers. The innovative use of porous graphene imparts the SVG with exceptional mechanical sensing performance, featuring a low strain detection limit of 0.0034% and dynamic stability exceeding 32,400 cycles, thus enabling precise hemodynamic perception. This high sensitivity allows the SVG to accurately diagnose vascular disorders, such as blockage degree and position, by collecting hemodynamic data from an artificial artery model. In vitro thrombi (blood clot) diagnostics, treatment simulation experiments, and in vivo tests using a rabbit model strongly validate the SVG’s outstanding and reliable performance in vascular healthcare. We have also developed a stand-alone and wireless system, demonstrating its capability for remote monitoring and managing vascular health. Our pioneering SVG system showcases great potential in vascular healthcare for precise hemodynamic monitoring of disorders, timely diagnostics, and even drug screening.

Carbon dioxide capture underpins an important range of technologies that can help to mitigate climate change. Improved carbon capture technologies that are driven by electrochemistry are under active development, and it was recently found that supercapacitor energy storage devices can reversibly capture and release carbon dioxide. So-called supercapacitive swing adsorption (SSA) has several advantages over traditional carbon dioxide capture technologies such as lower energy consumption and the use of nontoxic materials. However, the mechanism for the capture of CO₂ in these devices is poorly understood, making it challenging to design improved systems. Here, the mechanism of SSA is investigated via finite-element modeling with COMSOL of aqueous continuum transport equations, coupled to the CO₂ to bicarbonate reaction. This simple computational model reproduces the key experimental observations and shows that charging leads to bicarbonate depletion (or accumulation) in the electrodes, driving CO₂ capture (or release) at the gas-exposed electrode. This suggests that relevant aspects of the mechanism are captured without excluding other mechanisms that might be at play in parallel as well. At very low charging currents, both experiments and modeling reveal a decrease in the amount of carbon dioxide captured, suggesting the presence of competing processes at the two electrodes, and that SSA is an inherently kinetic phenomenon. This study highlights the importance of the operating conditions of these devices and may aid their development in the future.

To achieve a long cycle life and high-capacity performance for Li-O₂ batteries, it is critical to rationally modulate the formation and decomposition pathway of the discharge product Li₂O₂. Herein, we designed a highly efficient catalyst containing dual catalytic active sites of Pt single atoms (Pt_SAs) paired with high-entropy alloy (HEA) nanoparticles for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in Li-O₂ batteries. HEA is designed with a moderate d-band center to enhance the surface adsorbed LiO₂ intermediate (LiO₂(ads)), while Pt_SAs active sites exhibit weak adsorption energy and promote the soluble LiO₂ pathway (LiO₂(sol)). An optimal ratio between LiO₂(ads) and LiO₂(sol) pathway was realized to modulate Pt_SAs and HEA active sites via regulating the etching conditions in the dealloying synthesis process for obtaining high-performance Li-O₂ batteries. The ORR kinetics are accelerated, and the parasitic reactions are restrained in the Li-O₂ batteries. As a result, Li-O₂ batteries based on the HEA@Pt-Pt_SAs catalyst demonstrate an ultralow overpotential (0.3 V) and ultralong cycling performance of 470 cycles at 1000 mA g^–1. The insights into the synthetic strategies and the importance of balancing the ORR pathways will offer guidance for devising multisite synergistic catalysts to accelerate redox-reaction kinetics for Li-O₂ batteries.

Accurate imaging evaluations of pre- and post-treatment of cardiovascular diseases are pivotal for effective clinical interventions and improved patient outcomes. However, current imaging methods lack real-time monitoring capabilities with a high contrast and resolution during treatments. This study introduces PEGylated ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles (PUSIONPs), which have undergone comprehensive safety evaluations, boasting an r₁ value of 6.31 mM^–1 s^–1, for contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Systematic comparisons against common clinical methods in rabbits reveal that PUSIONPs-enhanced MRA exhibited improved vascular contrast, clearer vascular boundaries, and superior vessel resolution. Moreover, owing to their nanosize, PUSIONPs demonstrate significantly prolonged blood circulation compared to small molecular contrast agents such as Magnevist and Ultravist. This extended circulation enables captivating real-time monitoring of thrombolysis treatment for up to 4 h in rabbit models postsingle contrast agent injection. Additionally, in larger animal models such as beagles and Bama minipigs, PUSIONPs-enhanced MRA also showcases superior contrast effects, boundary delineation, and microvessel visualization, underscoring their potential to transform cardiovascular imaging, particularly in real-time monitoring and high-resolution visualization during treatment processes.

Regeneration of the injured endometrium, particularly the functional layer, is crucial for the prevention of uterine infertility. At present, clinical treatment using sodium hyaluronate hydrogel injection is limited by its relatively low fluidity, short-term retention, and insufficient bioactive ingredients, so it is necessary to develop an advanced healing-promoting hydrogel. The modulation of the microenvironment by Lactobacillus presents a bioactive component that can facilitate the regeneration of the functional layer. Our study introduces a multifunctional Lactobacillus-loaded poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-grafted bacterial cellulose (BC-g-PN@L) hydrogel designed with superior injectability and in situ stability. At 25 °C (room temperature), a uniform distribution is achieved with a low injection pressure of only 7.90 kPa. At 37 °C (body temperature), the BC-g-PN@L hydrogel forms a robust three-dimensional nanonetwork, providing space and substance exchange channels for Lactobacillus to maintain its viability and bioactivity. Enhanced by the hydrophobic isopropyl groups in poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) side chains and the rigid bacterial cellulose substrates, the BC-g-PN@L hydrogel exhibits prolonged retention properties in the uterine cavity, persisting for over 21 days. These attributes endow the BC-g-PN@L hydrogel with versatile pro-healing capacity and microenvironment modulation in a rat model of endometrial injury. Our BC-g-PN@L hydrogel promotes the development of advanced injectable hydrogels to facilitate both histological and functional repair of the injured endometrium.

To reduce the environmental impact of plastics, an increasing number of high-performance sustainable materials have emerged. Among them, wood-based high-performance structural materials have gained growing attention due to their outstanding mechanical and thermal properties. Here, we introduce phosphate groups onto the wood veneers for surface nanofibrillation, effectively altering both the molecular structure and surface morphology of wood, which enhances the interactions between wood veneers and endows the wood with excellent fire resistance properties. With these phosphorylated wood-based building blocks, “chemical welding” structural materials (CWSMs) obtained through chemical cross-linking exhibit excellent mechanical properties. The flexural strength of CWSM reaches 225 MPa, and the modulus reaches 16 GPa, surpassing those of various types of natural wood. At the same time, phosphorylation has endowed CWSM with excellent fire resistance, with a limiting oxygen index reaching 49%, making it completely noncombustible. More importantly, as a biomass-based structural material, CWSM exhibits mechanical, thermal, and fire resistance properties and degradability far superior to those of traditional petroleum-based plastics, making it an ideal candidate for plastic replacement.

Neural-electronic interfaces through delivering electroceuticals to lesions and modulating pathological endogenous electrical environments offer exciting opportunities to treat drug-refractory neurological disorders. Such an interface should ideally be compatible with the neural tissue and aggressive biofluid environment. Unfortunately, no interface specifically designed for the biofluid environments is available so far; instead, simply stacking an encapsulation layer on silicon-based substrates makes them susceptible to biofluid leakage, device malfunction, and foreign-body reactions. Here, we developed a biofluid-permeable and erosion-resistant wireless neural-electronic interface (BNEI) that is composed of a flexible 3D interconnected poly(l-lactide) fibrous network with a dense and axially aligned piezoelectrical molecular chain arrangement architecture. The organized molecular chain structure enhances the tortuous pathway and longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient of poly(l-lactide) fibers, improves their water barrier properties, and enables efficient conversion of low-intensity acoustic vibrations transmitted in biofluids into electrical signals, achieving long-term stable and wireless neuromodulation. A 3-month clinical trial demonstrated that the BNEI can effectively accelerate the pathological cascade in peripheral neuropathy for nerve regeneration and transcranially modulate cerebellar–cerebral circuit dynamics, suppressing seizures in temporal lobe epilepsy. The BNEI can be a clinically scalable approach for wireless neuromodulation that is broadly applicable to the modulation of neurohomeostasis in both the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Treatment of tumor brain metastases remains challenging due to the ineffectiveness of drugs in crossing the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Here, we proposed a potential strategy to target and modulate the meningeal lymphatic system for immunotherapy of breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) through peripheral administration. CT/fluorescence dual-modality imaging demonstrated that the phospholipid nanoprobe (α-PLNPs) through intracisternal magna injection effectively labeled and long-range tracked the meningeal lymphatic pathway from meningeal lymphatic vessels (MLVs) to periphery drainage cervical lymph nodes (CLNs). Interestingly, the reverse pathway from CLNs to MLVs was also successfully labeled with α-PLNPs through cervical subcutaneous injection, facilitating the noninvasive delivery of immunomodulators to the meningeal lymphatics. Given this, we used melittin-carrying α-M-PLNPs to trigger the modulation of the meningeal lymphatic reverse pathway, which effectively prevents BCBM and prolongs the survival of mice through activating the antigen-presenting cells in the CLNs and promoting the migration of CD8⁺ T cells into the metastatic brain tumors. This study highlights the potential of the meningeal lymphatic reverse pathway for the immunotherapy of BCBM, which holds great promise for central nervous system disease therapy without the need for drug delivery via BBB.

Core–shell structures demonstrate superior capability in customizing properties across multiple scales, offering valuable potential in catalysis, medicine, and performance materials. Integrating functional nanoparticles in a spatially controlled manner is particularly appealing for developing sophisticated architectures that support heterogeneous characteristics and tandem reactions. However, creating such complex structures with site-specific features remains challenging due to the dynamic microenvironment during the shell-forming process, which considerably impacts colloidal particle assembly. Here, we describe a method to spatially deploy nanoscale assemblies within microscale structures comprising a dense shell and a liquid core through colloidal surface decoration coupled with emulsion-based synthesis. Exploiting a spectrum of nanoparticles grafted with incrementally varying densities of organic ligands, we reveal that nanofeatures can be selectively sculpted onto the shell exterior, within the shell wall, and on the interior surface. The versatility of this mechanism is validated by systematically arranging nanoparticles with various compositions, shapes, and dimensions. Spatially integrated nanotitania endows the core–shell structures with localized photocatalytic abilities. Additionally, distinctive surface modifications enable the simultaneous yet independent implantation of diverse nanoparticles, yielding intricate architectures with programmable functions. This generalizable approach showcases a synthetic strategy to attain structural complexity and functional sophistication reminiscent of those of biological systems in nature.

Photothermal disinfection (PTD) offers promising potential for water purification due to its sustainable and broad-spectrum bactericidal properties, although it is hindered by slow charge separation in photosensitizers. Herein, we present a plasma-mediated PTD technique utilizing an efficient localized heating effect induced by incident light at specific wavelengths for rapid bacterial inactivation. A metallic CuS photosensitizer, derived from electronic waste through a biomimetic transmembrane confined-assembled strategy, facilitates collective and coherent oscillation of free electrons around Cu atoms in the near-infrared range. The resulting plasmon resonance effect generates abundant high-energy hot carriers, further enhancing the separation efficiency of carriers generated by plasmon-induced intrinsic excitation. The nonradiative dissipation of these carriers triggers a significant localized heating effect in water matrices, leading to comprehensive PTD performance against E. coli and B. subtilis. This study highlights the role of the plasmonic heating effect from waste-derived photosensitizers in enhancing PTD performance, inspiring the development of advanced water disinfection technologies.

Herein, we report the synthesis of two-dimensional Ta₂Se₂C (2D-Ta₂Se₂C) nanosheets using electrochemical lithiation in multilayer Ta₂Se₂C followed by sonication in deionized water. Multilayer Ta₂Se₂C was obtained via solid-state synthesis of Fe_xTa₂Se₂C followed by chemical etching of Fe. 2D-Ta₂Se₂C exhibited promising electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction from water compared to multilayer Ta₂Se₂C and 2D-TaSe₂. 2D-Ta₂Se₂C showed an overpotential at 10 mA·cm^–2 (η₁₀) of 264 mV, a Tafel slope of 91 mV·dec^–1, and an electrochemically active surface area of 17.61 m_ECSA²·g_catalyst^–1. The high performance could be attributed to the large surface area of single sheets which hence maximizes the number of exposed catalytic sites and increased density of vacancies, observed with transmission electron microscopy, during synthesis and processing.

Gut dysbiosis contributes to multiple pathologies, yet the mechanisms of the gut microbiota-mediated influence on systemic and distant responses remain largely elusive. This study aimed to identify the role of nanosized bacterial extracellular vesicles (bEVs) in mediating allodynia, i.e., pain hypersensitivity, in a diet-induced obesity (DIO) gut dysbiosis model. bEVs were enriched from the feces of lean (bEV^Lean) and DIO (bEV^DIO) mice by an approach combining ultracentrifugation and immunoprecipitation and then extensively analyzed for purity and bacterial characteristics. Next, bEVs were injected, either intraplantarly or intravenously, in mice to assess pain sensitivity. Fluorescence-labeled bEVs were injected in mice by enema to assess biodistribution. The effect of bEV on immune cells and inflammation was analyzed by array, immunophenotyping, microscopy, NF-κB activation, and cellular uptake assays. Results showed that bEV^DIO administration in wild-type mice replicated the allodynia phenotype observed in DIO mice for both mechanical and thermal stimuli. Importantly, this effect was compromised in TRPA1/TRPV1 double-knockout mice. Biodistribution analyses showed bEV entry into systemic circulation with subsequent localization at distant sites. Multiple analyses revealed that bEV^DIO exposure incited systemic inflammation, primarily through modulating the innate immune system. This inflammatory mechanism involved LPS on the bEV surface, activating TLR2- and TLR4-related pathways, as confirmed using TLR2 and TLR4 inhibitors and shaving bEV surface proteins. Interestingly, the enhanced cellular uptake of bEV^DIO was contingent on interactions involving LPS and proteins on bEVs and TLR2/TLR4 on monocytes. These findings illuminate the hitherto unexplored role of bEV as pivotal mediators of allodynia and inflammation linked to gut dysbiosis.

Tumor-specific T cells play a vital role in potent antitumor immunity. However, their efficacy is severely affected by the spatiotemporal orchestration of antigen-presentation as well as the innate immune response in dendritic cells (DCs). Herein, we develop a minimalist nanovaccine that exploits a dual immunofunctional polymeric nanoplatform (DIPNP) to encapsulate ovalbumin (OVA) via electrostatic interaction when the nanocarrier serves as both STING agonist and immune adjuvant in DCs. In vitro results reveal that the nanocarrier induces STING activation via facilitating interferon regulatory factor 3 phosphorylation by block poly 18-crown-6-yl methacrylate (P18C6MA) mediated K⁺ perturbation cascade with endoplasmic reticulum stress, and stimulates DC maturation via the Toll-like receptor 4 activation by primary amine. In vivo studies indicate that the smart nanovaccine dramatically inhibits tumor growth with a long-term immune memory response in both the B16-OVA and EG7-OVA tumor models. After combination with programmed death ligand-1 antibody (aPD-L1), mice survival rate is notably prolonged. In addition, DIPNP forms a personalized nanovaccine after resected autologous primary tumor cell membranes decoration with a high antitumor activity in a homologous distant tumor model. The rational design provides inspiration for personalized nanovaccine construction via immunofunctional nanocarriers.

The low-frequency resistance fluctuations, or noise, in electrical resistance not only set a performance benchmark in devices but also form a sensitive tool to probe nontrivial electronic phases and band structures in solids. Here, we report the measurement of such noise in the electrical resistance in twisted bilayer graphene (tBLG), where the layers are misoriented close to the magic angle (θ ∼ 1°). At high temperatures (T ≳ 60–70 K), the power spectral density (PSD) of the fluctuation inside the low-energy moiré bands is predominantly ∝1/f, where f is the frequency, being generally lowest close to the magic angle, and can be well-explained within the conventional McWhorter model of the ‘1/f noise’ with trap-assisted density-mobility fluctuations. At low T (≲10 K), the measured noise exhibits a strong two-level random telegraphic signal (RTS), especially close to the moiré gap, which exhibits a ∝1/f²-like PSD that can be attributed to poorly screened resonances of the Fermi energy to specific bands of defects in the encapsulating boron nitride (hBN) layers. The low-T noise within the moiré band exhibits a series of minima at the integral as well as half-integral fillings, which align with the frequently observed van Hove singularities in the density-of-states driven by strong Coulomb interaction. Apart from providing a comprehensive account of the origin and the magnitude of noise in tBLG, our experiment also reveals noise to be significantly more sensitive to the underlying interaction effects in tBLG than the conventional time-averaged transport.

The bulk phase of transition metal nitrides (TMNs) has long been a subject of extensive investigation due to their utility as coating materials, electrocatalysts, and diffusion barriers, attributed to their high conductivity and refractory properties. Downscaling TMNs into two-dimensional (2D) forms would provide valuable members to the existing 2D materials repertoire, with potential enhancements across various applications. Moreover, calculations have anticipated the emergence of uncommon physical phenomena in TMNs at the 2D limit. In this study, we use the atomic substitution approach to synthesize 2D W₅N₆ with tunable thicknesses from tens of nanometers down to 2.9 nm. The obtained flakes exhibit high crystallinity and smooth surfaces. Electrical measurements on 15 samples show an average electrical conductivity of 161.1 S/cm, which persists while thickness decreases from 45.6 to 2.9 nm. The observed weak gate-tuning effect suggests the semimetallic nature of the synthesized 2D W₅N₆. Further investigation of the conversion mechanism elucidates the crucial role of chalcogen vacancies in the precursor for initiating the reaction and strain in propagating the conversion. Our work introduces a desired semimetallic crystal to the 2D material library with mechanistic insights for future design of the synthesis.

Thermal energy, constantly being produced in natural and industrial processes, constitutes a significant portion of energy lost through various inefficiencies. Employing the thermogalvanic effect, thermocells (TECs) can directly convert thermal energy into electricity, representing a promising energy-conversion technology for efficient, low-grade heat harvesting. However, the use of high-cost platinum electrodes in TECs has severely limited their widespread adoption, highlighting the need for more cost-effective alternatives that maintain comparable thermoelectrochemical performance. In this study, a nanocomposite electrode featuring Ti₃C₂T_x with hollow microsphere structures is rationally designed. This design addresses the restacking issue inherent in MXene nanosheets, increases the electrochemically active surface area, and modifies the original MXene surfaces with oxygen terminations, leading to improved redox kinetics at the electrode–electrolyte interface, particularly in n-type TECs employing Fe^2+/3+ redox ions. The optimized n-type TEC achieved an output power of 84.55 μW cm^–2 and a normalized power density of 0.53 mW m^–2 K^–2 under a ΔT of 40 K, outperforming noble platinum-based TECs by a factor of 5.5. An integrated device consisting of 32 TEC units with a p–n connection is also fabricated, which can be successfully utilized to power various small electronics. These results demonstrate the potential of MXene-based composite electrodes to revolutionize TEC technology by offering a cost-effective, high-performance alternative to traditional noble metal electrodes and contributing to efficient low-grade heat harvesting.

Targeted drug delivery is a promising strategy for treating inflammatory diseases, with recent research focusing on the combination of neutrophils and nanomaterials. In this study, a targeted nanodrug delivery platform (Ac-PGP-tFNA, APT) was developed using tetrahedral framework nucleic acid (tFNA) along with a neutrophil hitchhiking mechanism to achieve precise delivery and anti-inflammatory effects. The tFNA structure, known for its excellent drug-loading capacity and cellular uptake efficiency, was used to carry a therapeutic agent─baicalin. The results demonstrate that the development of this drug delivery platform not only considerably enhances the bioavailability and effective concentration of the drug (baicalin) but also promotes the polarization of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages to anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages by modulating the interactions between the neutrophils and macrophages. This targeted therapeutic method effectively treats inflammatory conditions such as sepsis and introduces a strategy for managing inflammatory diseases characterized by neutrophil infiltration.

Pt-based intermetallic alloy particles with a Pt skin layer have higher catalytic activity than solid-solution alloy particles and have attracted considerable attention for practical applications in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. However, the reason for the superior performance of intermetallic alloys is not yet fully understood. Because the catalytic reaction proceeds on the topmost surface of the particle, it is necessary to clarify the relationship between the periodic structure of the intermetallic alloy and the Pt atomic coordination on the surface. This study investigated the Pt–Pt interatomic distance of a Pt skin layer formed on intermetallic Pt₃Co particles at atomic resolution through precise measurements using scanning transmission electron microscopy and theoretical calculations. The Pt atomic coordination on the surface shows good agreement between experimental observations and theoretical models, although the experimental image is a projection and thus provides indirect results. The theoretical calculation model revealed that structural relaxation at the Pt and Pt₃Co interfaces led to two distinct Pt bonding states at the surface, including asymmetric atomic coordination. The asymmetric coordination of the Pt site deepens the d-band center, diversifies the oxygen adsorption energies, and enhances catalytic activity. Further exploration and control of the unique surface Pt coordination environments formed on the periodic structures of intermetallic alloys should reveal promising routes for the development of catalytic particles.

A surfactant is an efficient and common additive used to enhance the spreading of droplets on hydrophobic surfaces. However, a high surfactant concentration is required to achieve the desired performance, resulting in environmental pollution and increased costs. Additionally, the pesticide loading capacity of surfactants at low concentrations (below their critical micelle concentrations) is a concern. Thus, in this study, we developed a strategy to enhance pesticide loading and droplet deposition by mixing small amounts of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) (0.1 wt %) and cationically modified cellulose nanocrystals (PCNC). The reduced surface tension, increased viscosity and adhesion, and electrostatic and hydrogen interactions resulted in a low retraction velocity, excellent spreading, and resistance to air turbulence. The improved loading content was facilitated by the hydrophobic domains of PCNC and SDS micelles.

Most traditional optical biosensors operate through molecular recognition, where ligand binding causes conformational changes that lead to optical perturbations in the emitting motif. Optical sensors developed from single-stranded DNA-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (ssDNA–SWCNTs) have started to make useful contributions to biological research. However, the mechanisms underlying their function have remained poorly understood. In this study, we combine experimental and computational approaches to show that ligand binding alone is not sufficient for optical modulation in this class of synthetic biosensors. Instead, the optical response that occurs after ligand binding is highly dependent on the chemical properties of the ligands, resembling mechanisms seen in activity-based biosensors. Specifically, we show that in ssDNA–SWCNT catecholamine sensors, the optical response correlates positively with the electron density on the aryl motif, even among ligands with similar ligand binding affinities. Importantly, despite the strong correlations with electrochemical properties, we find that catechol oxidation itself is not necessary to drive the sensor optical response. We discuss how these findings could serve as a framework for tuning the performance of existing sensors and guiding the development of new biosensors of this class.

Under a changing climate, enhancing the drought resilience of crops is critical to maintaining agricultural production and reducing food insecurity. Here, we demonstrate that seed priming with amorphous silica (SiO₂) nanoparticles (NPs) (20 mg/L) accelerated seed germination speed, increased seedlings vigor, and promoted seedling growth of rice under polyethylene glycol (PEG)-mimicking drought conditions. An orthogonal approach was used to uncover the mechanisms of accelerated seed germination and enhanced drought tolerance, including electron paramagnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), metabolomics, and transcriptomics. It was revealed that the unique surface chemistry of amorphous silica, characterized by an enrichment of silanol and siloxane groups, can catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species. This, in turn, initiates redox signaling and activates downstream drought-responsive genes. In addition, silica-primed seeds exhibited a significant enrichment of 18 amino acids and 6 sugars compared to those undergoing hydropriming, suggesting the accelerated mobilization of stored energy reserves. The drought-tolerance trait was observed in vegetative tissues of 35 day-old plants, where this tolerance was associated with an accelerated catabolism of amino acids and an enhanced anabolism of antioxidants. A separated field trial showed that SiO₂NPs seed priming not only increased rice grain yield by 7.77% (p = 0.051) and 6.48% (p = 0.066), respectively, under normal and drought conditions but also increased the grain amino acid content. These results demonstrate that a simple and cost-effective nanoseed-priming approach can convey life cycle-long drought tolerance while simultaneously increasing rice grain yield and nutrition quality, providing an effective and sustainable strategy to cultivate climate-resilient crops.

Recently, we reported on the simple, scalable synthesis of quantum-confined one-dimensional (1D) lepidocrocite titanate nanofilaments (1DLs). Herein, we show, using solid-state UV–vis spectroscopy, that reducing the concentration of aqueous 1DL colloidal suspensions from 40 to 0.01 g/L increases the band gap energy and light absorption onset of dried filtered films from ≈3.5 to ≈4.5 eV. This range is ascribed to quantum confinement as the system transitions from two-dimensional (2D) into 1D with dilution. It is only after the colloidal suspensions are dried and the 1DLs start to self-assemble into ribbons and sheets that the band gap values change. This self-assembly is manifested in the X-ray diffraction patterns and the emergence of a Raman band characteristic of 2D lepidocrocite titanates. In colloidal form, 1DLs exhibit a lyotropic liquid crystal phase with a critical concentration of between 10 and 1 g/L. Additionally, the Beer–Lambert law applies with a mass absorbance coefficient of 2 ± 0.4 Lg^–1 cm^–1. The optical absorbance edges of the colloidal suspensions are not a function of concentration. The experimental findings are theoretically supported by density functional theory calculations of the Raman vibrational modes and electronic band structures of the 1D and 2D lepidocrocite titanate atomic structures.

Inadequate vascularization significantly hampers wound recovery by limiting nutrient delivery. To address this challenge, we extracted membrane vesicles from Lactobacillus reuteri (LMVs) and identified their angiogenic potential via transcriptomic analysis. We further developed a composite hydrogel system (Gel-LMVs) by anchoring LMVs within carboxylated chitosan and cross-linking it with oxidized hyaluronic acid through a Schiff base reaction. The resulting Gel-LMVs exhibit good biocompatibility and retain the bioactivity of LMVs, which are released in a controlled manner to stimulate cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in vitro by modulating gene expression in critical signaling pathways. Moreover, in an in vivo model, Gel-LMVs upregulate vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (CD31), leading to accelerated vascularization in early healing stages, while concurrently reducing inflammation and augmenting collagen deposition to enhance wound healing quality. This approach to functionalizing biomaterials with probiotic-MVs offers an advanced strategy for wound healing.

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a prevalent inflammatory vascular disease characterized by plaque formation, primarily composed of foam cells laden with lipids. Despite lipid-lowering therapies, effective plaque clearance remains challenging due to the overexpression of the CD47 molecule on apoptotic foam cells, inhibiting macrophage-mediated cellular efferocytosis and plaque resolution. Moreover, AS lesions are often associated with severe inflammation and oxidative stress, exacerbating disease progression. Herein, we introduce a multifunctional nanomedicine (CEZP) targeting AS pathogenesis via a “cell efferocytosis–lipid degradation–cholesterol efflux” paradigm, with additional anti-inflammatory properties. CEZP comprises poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles encapsulated within a metal–organic framework shell coordinated with zinc ions (Zn²⁺) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), enabling CpG encapsulation. Upon intravenous administration, CEZP accumulates at AS plaque sites, facilitating macrophage uptake and orchestrating AS treatment through synergistic mechanisms. CpG enhances cellular efferocytosis, Zn²⁺ promotes intracellular lipid degradation, and EGCG upregulates adenosine 5′-triphosphate-binding cassette transporters for cholesterol efflux while also exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In vivo validation confirms CEZP’s ability to stabilize plaques, reduce lipid burden, and modulate the macrophage phenotype. Moreover, CEZP is excreted from the body without safety concerns, offering a low-toxicity nonsurgical strategy for AS plaque eradication.

Controlling charge transport at the interfaces of nanostructures is crucial for their successful use in optoelectronic and solar energy applications. Mixed-dimensional heterostructures based on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have demonstrated exceptionally long-lived charge-separated states. However, the factors that control the charge transport at these interfaces remain unclear. In this study, we directly image charge transport at the interfaces of single- and multilayered MoS₂ and (6,5) SWCNT heterostructures using transient absorption microscopy. We find that charge recombination becomes slower as the layer thickness of MoS₂ increases. This behavior can be explained by electron delocalization in multilayers and reduced orbital overlap with the SWCNTs, as suggested by nonadiabatic (NA) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Dipolar repulsion of interfacial excitons results in rapid density-dependent transport within the first 100 ps. Stronger repulsion and longer-range charge transport are observed in heterostructures with thicker MoS₂ layers, driven by electron delocalization and larger interfacial dipole moments. These findings are consistent with the results from NAMD simulations. Our results suggest that heterostructures with multilayer MoS₂ can facilitate long-lived charge separation and transport, which is promising for applications in photovoltaics and photocatalysis.

HfO₂-based thin films have garnered significant interest for integrating robust ferroelectricity into next-generation memory and logic chips, owing to their applicability with modern Si device technology. While numerous studies have focused on enhancing ferroelectric properties and understanding their fundamentals, the fabrication of ultrathin HfO₂-based ferroelectric films has seldom been reported. This study presents the concept of atomic-level stoichiometry control of ferroelectric Hf_xZr_yO_z films by examining the molecular-level interactions of precursor molecules in the atomic layer deposition (ALD) process through theoretical calculations. Atomic layer modulation (ALM) employs sequential precursor pulses, and the stoichiometries of Hf_xZr_yO_z films are determined by the chemical and physical reactions predicted by theoretical simulations. The Hf_xZr_yO_z ALM films demonstrate superior crystallinity and ferroelectricity compared to conventional Hf_xZr_yO_z ALD films, with large polarization values reaching 2P_r = 48.8 μC/cm² at a thickness of 4.5 nm. Because the ALM concept combines experimental and theoretical approaches, it can be applied to other applications that require multicomponent thin films with atomic-level stoichiometry control.

Atomically precise clusters such as [Pt₁₇(CO)₁₂(PPh₃)₈]^x+ (x = 1,2) (PPh₃ is triphenylphosphine) are known as precursors for making oxidation catalysts. However, the changes occurring to the cluster upon thermal activation during the formation of the active catalyst are poorly understood. We have used a combination of hybrid mass spectrometry and surface science to map the thermal decomposition of [Pt₁₇(CO)₁₂(PPh₃)₈](NO₃)₂. High-resolution mass and ion mobility spectrometry together with DFT-based modeling were used to probe the sequence of fragmentation reactions and fragment structures generated upon collisional excitation of [Pt₁₇(CO)₁₂(PPh₃)₈]²⁺. This was compared with thermal desorption spectroscopy of [Pt₁₇(CO)₁₂(PPh₃)₈](NO₃)₂ dropcast onto an inert graphite surface. In both cases, a characteristic sequence of CO and benzene desorption steps is observed followed at higher excitation energy by H₂ loss. This behavior is indicative of Pt-catalyzed C–H activation of phenyl groups during partial stripping of the ligand shell while the Pt₁₇P₈ cluster core is retained.

Blood-contacting medical devices can easily trigger immune responses, leading to thrombosis and hyperblastosis. Constructing microtexture that provides efficient antithrombotic and rapid reendothelialization performance on complex curved surfaces remains a pressing challenge. In this work, we present a robust and regular micronano binary texture on the titanium surface, characterized by exceptional mechanical strength and precisely controlled wettability to achieve excellent hemocompatibility. Systematic in vitro and in vivo investigations confirmed that the micronano binary texture with superhydrophilic modification effectively suppressed the adhesion and activation of plasma proteins and blood cells, thereby mitigating the subsequent coagulation cascade and thrombosis. Meanwhile, the modified surface significantly upregulated the gene expression involving cell–matrix adhesion, growth factor synthesis, and calcium-mediated cytoskeleton remodeling and then accelerated the formation of a healthy and stable endothelial cell layer. This enhancement of re-endothelialization was not observed with pure titanium and superhydrophobic surfaces. Hence, superhydrophilic micronano binary texture not only significantly inhibits thrombosis but also selectively enhances the integrity and viability of the endothelial cell layer, making it a promising strategy for improving the long-term anticoagulation performance of vascular implants.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering has been widely used for molecular/material characterization and chemical and biological sensing and imaging applications. In particular, plasmonic nanogap-enhanced Raman scattering (NERS) is based on the highly localized electric field formed within the nanogap between closely spaced metallic surfaces to more strongly amplify Raman signals than the cases with molecules on metal surfaces. Nanoparticle-based NERS offers extraordinarily strong Raman signals and a plethora of opportunities in sensing, imaging and many different types of biomedical applications. Despite its potential, several challenges still remain for NERS to be widely useful in real-world applications. This Perspective introduces various plasmonic nanogap configurations with nanoparticles, discusses key advances and critical challenges while addressing possible misunderstandings in this field, and provides future directions for NERS to generate stronger, more uniform, and stable signals over a large number of structures for practical applications.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a severe autoimmune disorder that wreaks havoc on the central nervous system, leading to a spectrum of motor and cognitive impairments. There is no cure, and current treatment strategies rely on broad immunosuppression, leaving patients vulnerable to infections. To address this problem, our approach aims to induce antigen-specific tolerance, a much-needed shift in MS therapy. We have engineered a tolerogenic therapy consisting of spray-dried particles made of a degradable biopolymer, acetalated dextran, and loaded with an antigenic peptide and tolerizing drug, rapamycin (Rapa). After initial characterization and optimization, particles were tested in a myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model of MS. Representing the earliest possible time of diagnosis, mice were treated at symptom onset in an early therapeutic model, where particles containing MOG and particles containing Rapa+MOG evoked significant reductions in clinical score. Particles were then applied to a highly clinically relevant late therapeutic model during peak disease, where MOG particles and Rapa+MOG particles each elicited a dramatic therapeutic effect, reversing hind limb paralysis and restoring fully functional limbs. To confirm the antigen specificity of our therapy, we immunized mice against the influenza antigen hemagglutinin (HA) and treated them with MOG particles or Rapa+MOG particles. The particles did not suppress antibody responses against HA. Our findings underscore the potential of this particle-based therapy to reverse autoimmunity in disease-relevant models without compromising immune competence, setting it apart from existing treatments.

Moisture-electric generators (MEGs) generate power by adsorbing water from the air. However, their performance at low temperatures is hindered due to icing. In the present work, MEG arrays are developed by laser engraving techniques and a modulated low-temperature hydrogel as the absorbent material. LTH effectively captures moisture and maintains ion dissociation and migration even at subzero temperatures. Based on the double electric layer pseudocapacitance model, the oscillating circuit theory is introduced to explain the effects of moisture absorption, evaporation, and ion migration on the output current of the MEG, and the circuit calculations are matched with the experimental results. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that LTH’s low-temperature stability results from preferential hydrogen bonding between glycerol molecules and H₂O, which disrupts H₂O–H₂O hydrogen bonds and slows water crystallization. A single MEG unit (0.25 cm²) can produce up to ∼0.8 V and ∼21.2 μW/cm² at room temperature, and at −35 °C with 16% RH, it generates ∼0.58 V and ∼14.35 μA. MEG realizes the following applications: MEG successfully drives electronic devices in snow; arrays of 16 MEGs can power portable electronics, and 384 MEGs can achieve up to 210 V; MEG absorbs moisture in water and drives LEDs by blowing up; MEG has a flexible wearable nature; MEG is used for respiratory monitoring and photoelectric sensors.

Higher-order DNA nanomaterials have emerged as programmable tools for probing biological processes, constructing metamaterials, and manipulating mechanically active nanodevices with the multifunctionality and high-performance attributes. However, their utility is limited by intricate mixtures formed during hierarchical multistage assembly, as standard techniques like gel electrophoresis lack the resolution and applicability needed for precise characterization and enrichment. Thus, it is urgent to develop a sorter that provides high separation resolution, broad scope, and bioactive functionality. Here, we present a versatile and scalable sorting pipeline based on a centrifugation parameter pool capable of distinguishing DNA nanomaterials across multiple scales. By tuning parameters, we achieved high-throughput classification of nanostructures, spanning from DNA tile-based constructs to DNA origami-based assemblies (∼50 MDa, 75,000 bp), surpassing conventional methods. Furthermore, we optimized the separation resolution to less than 78 kDa (∼120 bp) at a large scale by sorting DNA tetrahedron structures using this systematic parameter pool-assisted centrifugation strategy. This sorter maintains the integrity and functionality of bioactive materials, facilitating a seamless transition from assembly to application, allowing for integration with proteins and other components to achieve the fabrication of complex functional materials and programmable molecular machines across interdisciplinary fields within the nanotechnology community.

The field of nanopore sensing is now moving beyond nucleic acid sequencing. An exciting avenue is the use of nanopore platforms for the monitoring of biochemical reactions. Biological nanopores have been used for this application, but solid-state nanopore approaches have lagged. This is due to the necessity of using higher salt conditions (e.g., 4 M LiCl) to improve the signal-to-noise ratio which completely abolish the activities of many biochemical reactions. We pioneered a polymer electrolyte solid-state nanopore approach that maintains a high signal-to-noise ratio even at a physiologically relevant salt concentration. Here, we report the monitoring of the restriction enzyme SwaI and CRISPR-Cas9 endonuclease activities under physiological salt conditions and in real time. We investigated the dsDNA cleavage activity of these enzymes in a range of digestion buffers and elucidated the off-target activity of CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein endonuclease in the presence of single base pair mismatches. This approach enables the application of solid-state nanopores for the dynamic monitoring of biochemical reactions under physiological salt conditions.

Heterogeneous integration of emerging two-dimensional (2D) materials with mature three-dimensional (3D) silicon-based semiconductor technology presents a promising approach for the future development of energy-efficient, function-rich nanoelectronic devices. In this study, we designed a mixed-dimensional junction structure in which a 2D monolayer (e.g., graphene, MoS₂, and h-BN) is sandwiched between a metal (e.g., Ti, Au, and Pd) and a 3D semiconductor (e.g., p-Si) to investigate charge transport properties exclusively in an out-of-plane (OoP) direction. The role of 2D monolayers as either an OoP metal-to-semiconductor charge injection barrier or an OoP semiconductor-to-metal charge collection barrier was comparatively evaluated. Compared to monolayer graphene, monolayer MoS₂ and h-BN effectively modulate OoP metal-to-semiconductor charge injection through a barrier tunneling effect. Their effective OoP resistance and resistivity were extracted using a resistors-in-series model. Intriguingly, when functioning as a semiconductor-to-metal charge collection barrier, all 2D monolayers become electronically “transparent” (close to zero resistance) when a high OoP voltage (greater than the built-in voltage) is applied. As a mixed-dimensional integrated diode, the Ti/MoS₂/p-Si and Au/MoS₂/p-Si configurations exhibit both high OoP rectification ratios (5.4 × 10⁴) and conductance (1.3 × 10⁵ S/m²). Our work demonstrates the tunable OoP charge transport characteristics at a 2D/3D interface, suggesting the opportunity for 2D/3D heterogeneous integration, even with sub-1 nm thick 2D monolayers, to enhance modern Si-based electronic devices.

Optical metasurfaces, components composed of artificial nanostructures, are recognized for pushing boundaries of wavefront manipulation while maintaining a lightweight, compact design that surpasses conventional optics. Such advantages align with the current trends in optical systems, which demand compact communication devices and immersive holographic projectors, driving significant investment from the industry. Although interest in commercialization of optical metasurfaces has steadily grown since the initial breakthrough with diffraction-limited focusing, their practical applications have remained limited by challenges such as, massive-production yield, absence of standardized evaluation methods, and constrained design methodology. Here, this Perspective addresses the challenges in commercialization of optical metasurfaces, particularly focused on mass production, fabrication tolerance, performance evaluation, and integration into commercial systems. Additionally, we select the fields where metasurfaces may soon play significant roles and provide a perspective on their potentials. By addressing the challenges and exploring the solutions, this Perspective aims to foster discussions that will accelerate the utilization of optical metasurfaces and further build near-future metaphotonics platforms.

While thermoelectric conversion by a thermocapacitive cycle has been considered a promising green technology for low-grade heat recovery, our study finds that its practical feasibility is overestimated. During thermal charging, the coexistence and dynamic competition between thermal-induced voltage rise and self-discharge lead to the limitations of the thermocapacitive cycle. Therefore, the operational conditions in the charge-heat-discharge steps seriously restrict the thermal charging performance. The calculation of energy efficiency further confirms the economic infeasibility of the thermocapacitive cycle. This study provides insights into comprehending the principle and process of thermoelectric conversion by thermocapacitive cycle and will guide the rational development of capacitive heat-to-current converters.

Potassium metal batteries (KMBs) hold promise for stationary energy storage with certain cost and resource merits. Nevertheless, their practicability is greatly handicapped by dendrite-related anodes, and the target design of specialized separators to boost anode safety is in its nascent stage. Here, we develop a thermally robust biopolymeric separator customized via a solvent-exchange and amino-siloxane decoration strategy to render durable and safe KMBs. Through experimental investigation and theoretical computation, we reveal that the optimized porosity and surface functionalization could manage ion transport and interfacial chemistry, thereby enabling efficient K⁺ diffusion and a favorable solid electrolyte interphase to achieve prolonged cycling stability (over 3000 h). The thus-assembled full cell retains 80% of its initial capacity after 400 cycles at 0.5 A g^–1. The heat-proof property of the designed separator is further demonstrated. Our biopolymeric separator, affording multifunctional features, provides an appealing solution to circumvent instability and safety issues associated with potassium metal batteries.

Sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) exhibits a very high cycle stability by overcoming the shuttle effect of conventional Li–S batteries. However, there are still controversies in SPAN about the bonding types of sulfur with the matrix, their critical synthesis temperature regions, and their roles in the electrochemical lithium storage reaction, seriously hindering the economical synthesis of SPAN, the optimization of performances, and the exploration of other SPAN-like alternatives. The key to solving the above problems lies in accurate measurements of the thermodynamic evolution of bonding interactions in the synthesis process as well as in the electrochemical process. In this study, soft and tender X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is utilized to achieve a fine resolution of specific bonding interactions through the selective excitation of C, N, and S. Sulfur-involved bonding interactions have been elucidated, including the bonding type, critical temperature region, linking site, and their interplays. Furthermore, their contributions to lithium storage and their regulations on electrochemical performances are discussed. This study demonstrates the resolving capability of XAS for organic electrode materials and provides insights for further analyzing the cyclability of SPAN and rationally designing alternatives from the perspective of bonding interactions.

Precise patterning of sensing materials, particularly the long-range-ordered assembly of micro/nanostructures, is pivotal for improving sensor performance, facilitating miniaturization, and enabling seamless integration. This paper examines the importance of interfacial confined assembly in sensor patterning, including gas–liquid and liquid–liquid confined assembly, wettability-assisted or microstructure-assisted solid–liquid interfacial confined assembly, and tip-induced confined assembly. The application of capillary bridge confined assembly technology in chemical sensors, flexible electronics, and optoelectronics is highlighted. The advantages of capillary bridge confined assembly technology include the ability to achieve high-resolution patterning, scalability, and material arrangement in long-range order. It is, therefore, an ideal processing platform for next-generation sensors. Finally, the broad prospects of this technology in the miniaturization and integration of high-performance multifunctional sensors are discussed.

In our previous studies of metal nanoparticle growth, we have come to realize that the dynamic interplay between ligand passivation and metal deposition, as opposed to static facet control, is responsible for focused growth at a few active sites. In this work, we show that the same underlying principle could be applied to a very different system and explain the abnormal growth modes of liquid nanoparticles. In such a liquid active surface growth (LASG), the interplay between droplet expansion and simultaneous silica shell encapsulation gives rise to an active site of growth, which eventually becomes the long necks of nanobottles. For this synthetic control, the imbalance of the said interplay is the critical factor, as demonstrated by carefully designed control experiments. Thus, LASG provides a coherent mechanism that encompasses a wide range of liquid-derived nanostructures, including hollow nanospheres, asymmetric teardrops, and hollow nanobottles with an opening. By adapting nanosynthesis techniques from the solid to liquid realm, we believe that LASG would provide deeper insights and more sophisticated synthetic controls.

Spiking neural networks seek to emulate biological computation through interconnected artificial neuron and synapse devices. Spintronic neurons can leverage magnetization physics to mimic biological neuron functions, such as integration tied to magnetic domain wall (DW) propagation in a patterned nanotrack and firing tied to the resistance change of a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), captured in the domain wall-magnetic tunnel junction (DW-MTJ) device. Leaking, relaxation of a neuron when it is not under stimulation, is also predicted to be implemented based on DW drift as a DW relaxes to a low energy position, but it has not been well explored or demonstrated in device prototypes. Here, we study DW-MTJ artificial neurons capable of leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) behavior and demonstrate geometry-dependent leaking dynamics that results in repeatable, tunable LIF operation. Studying the behavior of five different device designs, we show tuning the geometry, stimulating fields and currents, and location of electrical contacts results in a wide range of neuron behavior. Additionally, implementation of an asymmetric notch allows for nonlinear pinning which increased expressivity without sacrificing leaking. The measured behavior is implemented in a simulated spiking neural network that outperforms a 1D model of continuous DW motion and approaches the performance of an ideal LIF activation function. The results show that the analog LIF capability of DW-MTJ neurons combines many desirable neuron functions into a single device, which can result in varied forms of multifunctional neuromorphic computing.

Modern-day applications demand onboard electricity generation that can be achieved using piezoelectric phenomena. Reducing the dimensionality of materials is a pathway to enhancing the piezoelectric properties. Transition-metal dichalcogenides have been shown to exhibit high piezoelectricity. Monolayer MoS₂ possesses strong piezoelectricity that is otherwise negligible in its bulk form. The presence of sulfur vacancy defects in two-dimensional MoS₂ can starkly reduce piezoelectric output due to enhanced charge screening. Oxygen passivation offers thermodynamically favorable and superior vacancy passivation. Here, we demonstrate an in situ oxygen passivation of sulfur vacancies achieved by performing chemical vapor deposition in atmospheric pressure conditions, resulting in a dramatically enhanced piezoelectric output. We achieved an out-of-plane effective piezoelectric coefficient d₃₃^eff 0.54 pm/V for the MoS₂ monolayer with sulfur vacancies (S_V-MoS₂) and 0.94 pm/V where sulfur vacancies are passivated by oxygen (O_P-MoS₂). The piezoelectric device (PED) based on O_P-MoS₂ exhibits 26% higher output voltage than S_V-MoS₂ with the maximum peak-to-peak value of 0.95 V. Additionally, we show that the O_P-MoS₂-based PED can charge a 330 nF capacitor 30% faster than the S_V-MoS₂ PED for up to 50 mV in 0.5 s by repetitive finger tapping. The evolution of piezoelectricity in MoS₂ with sulfur vacancy defect manipulation promises an avenue for scalable defect engineering for next-generation applications in miniaturized self-powered electronics and sensors across computing, healthcare, and size-, weight-, and power-constrained environments.

Block copolymers (BCPs) can form nanoparticles having different morphologies that can be used as photonic nanocrystals and are a platform for drug delivery, sensors, and catalysis. In particular, BCP nanoparticles having disk-like shape have been recently discovered. Such nanodisks can be used as the next-generation antitumor drug delivery carriers; however, the applicability of the existing nanodisks is limited due to their poor or unknown ability to respond to external stimuli. In this work, we showed that the simplest symmetric diblock copolymers in equilibrium can form nanodisks that can be reversibly switched into a multitude of various nanoparticles potentially applicable in nanophotonics, biomedicine, and hierarchical self-assembly. These structures include patchy and onion-like nanoparticles, striped ellipsoids, mixed morphology nanocolloids, and spherical micelles. The transitions between nanodisks and the aforementioned nanoparticles are sharp, direct, and can be achieved by tuning the block–block and polymer–solvent incompatibility. We demonstrated that this versatility of nanoparticle morphologies can be achieved upon reducing the nanoparticle size to approximately two lamellar periods of the BCP. Upon aggregation of such small nanocolloids, a larger assembly can be formed. In turn, these bigger particles could form many other structures including a chain-like supramolecular aggregate of nanodisks and a multilayered disk-like nanoparticle. We obtained our results by performing self-consistent field theory calculations according to an algorithm designed to produce equilibrium nanoparticle morphology. This work demonstrates that nanodisks prepared from the simplest type of BCPs are extremely tunable; therefore, symmetric diblock copolymers can become a platform for producing the next-generation stimuli-responsive nanoparticles.

Lanthanide atoms show long magnetic lifetimes because of their strongly localized 4f electrons, but electrical control of their spins has been difficult because of their closed valence shell configurations. We achieved electron spin resonance of individual lanthanide atoms using a scanning tunneling microscope to probe the atoms bound to a protective insulating film. The atoms on this surface formed a singly charged cation state having an unpaired 6s electron, enabling tunnel current to access their 4f electrons. Europium spectra display a rich array of transitions among the 54 combined electron and nuclear spin states. In contrast, samarium’s ground state is a Kramers doublet with a very large g-factor of 5. These results demonstrate that all-electronic sensing and control of individual lanthanide spins is possible for quantum devices and spin-based electronics by using their rarely observed monovalent cation state.

Human sweat has the potential to be sufficiently utilized for noninvasive monitoring. Given the complexity of sweat secretion, the sensitivity and selectivity of sweat monitoring should be further improved. Here, we developed an olfactory-inspired separation-sensing nanochannel-based electronic for sensitive and selective sweat monitoring, which was simultaneously endowed with interferent separation and target detection performances. The special separation-sensing strategy imparts functional composite membranes with a high sensitivity of 113 mV dec^–1 for potassium detection. The excellent mechanical properties and conformability of the Kevlar aramid nanofiber layer bring well-wearing performances to realize continuous wireless sweat monitoring. The recognition between functional molecules and target ions is proved at the molecular level in detail in the article. The replacement of functional molecules proves the universality of the strategy for performance enhancement in intricate biofluid analysis systems.

Quadruple perovskite oxides have received extensive attention in electronics and catalysis, owing to their cation-ordering structure and intriguing physical properties. However, their repertoires still remain limited. In particular, piezoelectricity from quadruple perovskites has been rarely reported due to the frustrated symmetry-breaking transition in A-site-ordered perovskite structures, disabling their piezoelectric applications. Herein, we report a feasible strategy to achieve piezoelectricity in CaCu₃Ti₄O₁₂ (CCTO) quadruple perovskite via cation defect engineering, specifically through a thermal-driven selective cation exsolution strategy to introduce Cu vacancies. The introduction of Cu point defects in CCTO locally destabilizes the constrained tilted TiO₆ octahedra framework, relaxing the octahedral tilting and inducing structural heterogeneity which, in turn, disrupts the high symmetry of the pristine cubic phase. As a result, the defective CCTO with localized asymmetry exhibits intense polarization and a robust piezoelectricity of 7 pC N^–1. The created piezoelectricity is further validated by its application as a piezo-photocatalyst, enabling efficient charge separation and transfer with a 2.5-times increment in the lifetime of photoexcitations. This enhancement leads to a 3.86- and 31-fold increase in the production of hydrogen peroxide and reactive oxygen species compared with individual piezocatalysis and photocatalysis, respectively. This study establishes a pathway to engineer piezoelectricity in quadruple perovskites, potentially unlocking a wide range of applications in modern microelectronics beyond the demonstrated piezo-photocatalysis.

Phase separation plays a crucial role in many natural and industrial processes, such as the formation of clouds and minerals and the distillation of crude oil. In metals and alloys, phase separation is an important approach often utilized to improve their mechanical strength for use in construction, automobile, and aerospace manufacturing. Despite its importance in many processes, the atomic details of phase separation are largely unknown. In particular, it is unclear how a different crystal phase emerges from the parent alloy. Here, using real-time in situ transmission electron microscopy, we describe the stages of the phase separation in face-centered cubic (fcc) AuRu alloy nanoparticles, resulting in a Ru phase with a hexagonal close-packed (hcp) crystal structure. Our observation reveals that the hcp Ru phase forms in two steps: the spinodal decomposition of the alloy produces metastable fcc Ru clusters, and as they grow larger, these clusters transform into hcp Ru domains. Our calculations indicate that the primary reason for the fcc-to-hcp transformation is the size-dependent competition between the interfacial and bulk energies of Ru domains. These insights into elusive, transient steps in the phase separation of alloys can aid in engineering nanomaterials with unconventional phases.

Inhalation delivery, offering a direct pathway for administering drugs to the lungs in the form of dry powders or aerosols, stands out as an optimal approach for the localized treatment of pulmonary diseases. However, the intricate anatomical architecture of the lung often poses challenges in maintaining effective drug concentrations within the lungs over extended periods. This highlights the pressing need to develop rational inhalable drug delivery systems that can improve treatment outcomes for respiratory diseases. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) assembled from inorganic metal ions and organic ligands, characterized by customizable porous architecture and chemical composition, modifiable porosity, vast surface area, straightforward surface modification, and adjustable biocompatibility, have garnered extensive attention in the biomedical sphere. The introduction of MOFs into inhalation therapy represents a promising avenue to navigate past the hurdles associated with traditional inhalation methods. Therefore, this review summarizes the characteristics of inhalation delivery together with the latest advances, challenges, and opportunities in utilizing inhalable MOFs for treating lung diseases and discusses prospects in this field alongside the potential pathways for translating this strategy into clinic.

Dimension-engineered synthesis of atomically thin II–VI nanoplatelets (NPLs) remains an open challenge. While CdSe NPLs have been made with confinement ranging from 2 to 11 monolayers (ML), CdTe NPLs have been significantly more challenging to synthesize and separate. Here we provide detailed mechanistic insight into the layer-by-layer growth kinetics of the CdTe NPLs. Combining ensemble and single-particle spectroscopic and microscopic tools, our work suggests that beyond 2 ML CdTe NPLs, higher ML structures initially appear as heteroconfined materials with colocalized multilayer structures. In particular, we observe strongly colocalized 3 and 4 ML emissions, accompanied by a broad trap emission. Accompanying transient absorption, single-particle optical, and atomic force microscopy analyses suggest islands of different MLs on the same NPL. To explain the nonstandard nucleation and growth of these heteroconfined structures, we simulated the growth conditions of NPLs and quantified how the monomer binding energy modifies the kinetics and permits single NPLs with multi-ML structures. Our findings suggest that the lower bond energy associated with CdTe relative to CdSe limits higher ML syntheses and explains the observed differences between CdTe and CdSe growth.

Immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells, which is characterized by releasing immunostimulatory “find me” and “eat me” signals, expressing proinflammatory cytokines and providing personalized and broad-spectrum tumor antigens draws increasing attention in developing a tumor vaccine. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the influenza virus (IAV) is efficient enough to induce ICD in tumor cells and an extra modification of IAV components such as hemeagglutinin (HA) will be helpful for the ICD-induced cells to elicit robust antitumor effects; in addition, to evaluate whether the membrane-engineering polylactic coglycolic acid nanoparticles (PLGA NPs) simulating ICD immune stimulation mechanisms hold the potential to be a promising vaccine candidate, a mouse melanoma cell line (B16–F10 cell) was infected with IAV rescued by the reverse genetic system, and the prepared cells and membrane-modified PLGA NPs were used separately to immunize the melanoma-bearing mice. IAV-infected tumor cells exhibit dying status, releasing high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and exposing calreticulin (CRT), IAV hemeagglutinin (HA), and tumor antigens like tyrosinase-related protein 2 (TRP2). IAV-induced ICD cells enhance biomass-derived carbon (BMDCs) migration, antigen uptake, cross-presentation, and maturation in vitro. Furthermore, immunization with IAV-induced ICD cells effectively suppressed tumor growth in melanoma-bearing mice. The isolated cell membrane inherited the immunological characteristics from the ICD cells and elicited robust antitumor immune responses through decorating PLGA NPs loading with a tumor-specific helper T-cell peptide and supplemented with ATP in a hydrogel system. This study indicated a promising strategy for developing cell-based and personalized tumor vaccines through fully taking advantage of the immune stimulation mechanisms of ICD occurrence in tumor cells, IAV modification, and nanoscale delivery.

The formation of non-ion conducting byproducts on zinc anode is notoriously detrimental to aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Herein, we successfully transform a representative detrimental byproduct, crystalline zinc hydroxide sulfate (ZHS) to fast-ion conducting solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) via amorphization and fluorination induced by suspending CaF₂ nanoparticles in dilute sulfate electrolytes. Distinct from widely reported nonhomogeneous organic–inorganic hybrid SEIs that exhibit structural and chemical instability, the designed single-phase SEI is homogeneous, mechanically robust, and chemically stable. These characteristics of the SEI facilitate the prevention of zinc dendrite growth and reduction of capacity loss during long-term cycling. Importantly, AZIB full cells based on this SEI-forming electrolyte exhibit exceptional stability over 20,000 cycles at 3 A/g with a charging voltage of 2.2 V without short circuits and electrolyte dry-out. This work suggests avenues for designing SEIs on a metal anode and provides insights into associated SEI chemistry.

Highly ordered nanocrystal (NC) assemblies, namely, superlattices (SLs), have been investigated as materials for optical and optoelectronic devices due to their unique properties based on interactions among neighboring NCs. In particular, lead halide perovskite NC SLs have attracted significant attention owing to their extraordinary optical characteristics of individual NCs and collective emission processes like superfluorescence (SF). So far, the primary method for preparing perovskite NC SLs has been the drying-mediated self-assembly method, in which the colloidal NCs spontaneously assemble into SLs during solvent evaporation. However, this method lacks controllability because NCs form random-sized SLs at random positions on the substrate, rendering NC assemblies in conjunction with device structures, such as photonic waveguides or microcavities, challenging. Here, we demonstrate template-assisted self-assembly to deterministically place perovskite NC SLs and control their geometrical properties. A solution of CsPbBr₃ NCs is drop-casted on a substrate with lithographically defined hollow structures. After solvent evaporation and removal of excess NCs from the substrate surface, NCs remain only in the templates, thereby defining the position and size of these NC assemblies. We performed photoluminescence (PL) measurements on these NC assemblies and observed signatures of SF, similar to those in spontaneously assembled SLs. Our findings are crucial for optical devices that harness embedded perovskite NC assemblies and enable fundamental studies on how these collective effects can be tailored through the SL geometry.

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, coupled with the limited effectiveness of existing antibiotics in eradicating biofilms, presents a significant threat to global health care. This critical situation underscores the urgent need for the discovery and development of antimicrobial agents. Recently, peptide-derived antimicrobial nanomaterials have shown promise in combating such infections. Amino acid noncovalent forces, notably π–π stacking and electrostatic interactions, remain underutilized for guiding the coassembly of peptides into bacteriostatic nanomaterials. Thus, we constructed a dimeric nanopeptide system using the disulfide bonds of cysteine. The self-assembly of dimeric peptides into nanofibers was realized by the interaction of π–π aromatic amino acids (Trp, Phe, and Pyr) and the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged amino acids (Asp and Arg). The optimal dimeric peptide 2D2W exhibits potent antibacterial activity against resistant bacteria and is nontoxic. Mechanistically, 2D2W penetrated the outer membrane after electrostatic adsorption, resulting in plasma membrane depolarization, homeostatic disruption, and ultimately bacterial death. In a mouse model of peritonitis, 2D2W demonstrated efficacy in the in vivo treatment of bacterial infections. In conclusion, the design of dimeric nanopeptides co-driven by intermolecular forces provides a promising avenue for the development of high-performance antimicrobial nanomaterials. These advances may also facilitate the application and advancement of peptide-based bacteriostatic agents in clinical practice.

Microrobots are poised to transform biomedicine by enabling precise, noninvasive procedures. However, current magnetic microrobots, composed of solid monolithic particles, present fundamental challenges in engineering intersubunit interactions, limiting their collective effectiveness in navigating irregular biological terrains and confined spaces. To address this, we design hierarchically assembled microrobots with multiaxis mobility and collective adaptability by engineering the potential magnetic interaction energy between subunits to create stable, self-reconfigurable structures capable of carrying and protecting cargo internally. Using double emulsion templates and magnetic control techniques, we confine 10 nm iron oxide and 15 nm silica nanoparticles within the shell of 100 μm microcapsules that form multiunit robotic collectives. Unexpectedly, we find that asymmetric localization of iron oxide nanoparticles in the microcapsules enhances the intercapsule potential energy, creating stable connections under rotating magnetic fields without altering the magnetic susceptibility. These robotic microcapsule collectives exhibit emergent behaviors, self-reconfiguring into kinematic chain-like structures to traverse complex obstacles, arched confinements, and adhesive, rugged biological tissues that typically impede microscale systems. By harnessing these functions, we demonstrate targeted antifungal delivery using a localized biofilm model on mucosal tissues, showing effective killing ofCandida without binding or causing physical damage to host cells. Our findings show how hierarchical assembly can produce cargo-carrying microrobots with collective, self-adaptive mobility for traversing complex biological environments, advancing targeted delivery for biomedical applications.

The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of polycrystalline perovskite solar cells (PC–PSCs) have now reached a plateau after a decade of rapid development, leaving a distinct gap from their Shockley-Queisser limit. To continuously mitigate the PCE deficit, nonradiative carrier losses resulting from defects should be further optimized. Single-crystal perovskites are considered an ideal platform to study the efficiency limit of perovskite solar cells due to their intrinsically low defect density, as demonstrated in bulk single crystals. However, current single-crystal perovskite solar cells (SC-PSCs) based on single-crystal thin film (SCTF) suffer from severe nonradiative carrier losses at the interface and in the bulk simultaneously due to the immature SCTF growth techniques. In this study, we show that the SC-PSCs can outperform state-of-the-art PC–PSCs, with MAPbI₃ as an example, by suppressing carrier losses at the interface and in the bulk in device-compatible SCTFs through precisely controlling their growth.

Extracellular matrix (ECM)-based small-diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs, inner diameter (ID) < 6 mm) hold great promise for clinical applications. However, existing ECM-based SDVGs suffer from limited donor availability, complex purification, high cost, and insufficient mechanical properties. SDVGs with ECM-like structure and function, and good mechanical properties were rapidly prepared by optimizing common materials and preparation, which can improve their clinical prospects. Here, we rapidly prepared an electrospinning film-collagen/red blood cell membrane-genipin hydrogel tube (ES-C/Rm-G-ht, ID = 2 mm) by the combination of the cross-linking of genipin, plastic compression, electrospinning, and rolling without a biological adhesive, which had a shorter preparation time of less than 17 h compared to the existing ECM-based SDVGs (preparation time of 4–18 weeks). ES-C/Rm-G-ht exhibited a layered honeycomb-like structure and demonstrated the ECM-like functions to promote the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells, and prevent thrombus and inflammation. Furthermore, ES-C/Rm-G-ht, possessing sufficient mechanical strength, showed high patency, rapid endothelialization (95%), good regeneration of smooth muscle cell layers and ECM, and effective antistenosis capability after implantation in the rabbit’s carotid artery for 31 days. This work provides a straightforward, cost-effective, and promising strategy to prepare SDVGs with ECM-like structure and function, which is an ideal alternative for vascular grafts and autologous vessels in the current clinic.

The formation of large polarons resulting from the Fröhlich coupling of photogenerated carriers with the polarized crystal lattice is considered crucial in shaping the outstanding optoelectronic properties in hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite crystals. Until now, the initial polaron dynamics after photoexcitation have remained elusive in the hybrid perovskite system. Here, based on the terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and optical-pump terahertz probe, we access the nature of interplay between photoexcited unbound charge carriers and optical phonons in MAPbBr₃ within the initial 5 ps after excitation and have demonstrated the simultaneous existence of both electron- and hole-polarons, together with the photogenerated carrier dynamic process. Two resonant peaks in the frequency-dependent photoconductivity are interpreted by the Drude–Smith–Lorentz model along with the ab initio excitation calculation, revealing that the electron-/hole-polaron is related to the vibration modes of the stretched/contracted Pb–Br bond. The red /blue shift of the corresponding peaks as the fingerprints of electron-/hole-polaron provides a channel for observing their dynamic behavior. Different from polarons with long lifetime (>300 ps) in single-crystalline grains, we observed in thin films the transient process from the formation to the dissociation of polarons occurring at timescales within ∼5 ps, resulting from the Mott phase transition for carriers at high concentrations. Moreover, the observation of the polaron dynamic process of the virtual state-assisted band gap transition (800 nm excitation) further reveals the competition of carriers cooling and polaron formation with photocarrier density. Our observations demonstrate a strategy for direct observation and manipulation of bipolar polaron transport in hybrid perovskites.

High-precision molecular manipulation techniques are used to control the distance between radical molecules on superconductors. Our results show that the molecules can host single electrons with a spin 1/2. By changing the distance between tip and sample, a quantum phase transition from the singlet to doublet ground state can be induced. Due to local screening and charge redistribution, we observe either charged or neutral molecules, which couple in a sophisticated way, showing quantum spin behavior that deviates from the classical spins. Dimers at different separations show multiple Yu-Shiba-Rusinov peaks in tunneling spectroscopy of varying intensity, which are in line with the superconducting two-impurity Anderson model, where singlet (S = 0) and doublet (S = 1/2) ground states are found. The assembly of chains of 3, 4, and 5 molecules shows alternating charge patterns, where the edge molecules always host a charge/spin. The tetramer is observed in two configurations, where the neutral site is moved by one position. We show that these two configurations can be switched by the action of the probing tip in a nondestructive manner, demonstrating that the tetramer is an information unit, based on single-electron charge reorganization.

A spin valve represents a well-established device concept in magnetic memory technologies, whose functionality is determined by electron transmission, controlled by the relative alignment of magnetic moments of the two ferromagnetic layers. Recently, the advent of valleytronics has conceptualized a valley spin valve (VSV)─a device that utilizes the valley degree of freedom and spin-valley locking to achieve a similar valve effect without relying on magnetism. In this study, we propose a nonvolatile VSV (n-VSV) based on a two-dimensional (2D) ferroelectric semiconductor where resistance of n-VSV is controlled by a ferroelectric domain wall between two uniformly polarized domains. Focusing on the 1T″ phase of MoS₂, which is known to be ferroelectric down to a monolayer and using density functional theory combined with quantum transport calculations, we demonstrate that switching between the uniformly polarized state and the state with oppositely polarized domains separated by a domain wall results in a resistance change of as high as 10⁷. This giant VSV effect occurs due to transmission being strongly dependent on matching (mismatching) the valley-dependent spin polarization in the two domains with the same (opposite) ferroelectric polarization orientations, when the chemical potential of 1T″-MoS₂ lies within the spin-split valleys. The proposed n-VSV can be employed as a functional device for high-performance nonvolatile valleytronics.

Van der Waals electrode integration is a promising strategy to create nearly perfect interfaces between metals and 2D materials, with advantages such as eliminating Fermi-level pinning and reducing contact resistance. However, the lack of a simple, generalizable pick-and-place transfer technology has greatly hampered the wide use of this technique. We demonstrate the pick-and-place transfer of prefabricated electrodes from reusable polished hydrogenated diamond substrates without the use of any sacrificial layers due to the inherent low-energy and dangling-bond-free nature of the hydrogenated diamond surface. The technique enables transfer of arbitrary-metal electrodes and an electrode array, as demonstrated by successful transfer of eight different elemental metals with work functions ranging from 4.22 to 5.65 eV. We also demonstrate the electrode array transfer for large-scale device fabrication. The mechanical transfer of metal electrodes from diamond to van der Waals materials creates atomically smooth interfaces with no interstitial impurities or disorder, as observed with cross-section high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. As a demonstration of its device application, we use the diamond transfer technique to create metal contacts to monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide semiconductors with high-work-function Pd, low-work-function Ti, and semimetal Bi to create n- and p-type field-effect transistors with low Schottky barrier heights. We also extend this technology to air-sensitive materials (trilayer 1T’ WTe₂) and other applications such as ambipolar transistors, Schottky diodes, and optoelectronics. This highly reliable and reproducible technology paves the way for new device architectures and high-performance devices.

Theory and simulations are used to demonstrate implementation of a variational Bayes algorithm called “active inference” in interacting arrays of nanomagnetic elements. The algorithm requires stochastic elements, and a simplified model based on a magnetic artificial spin ice geometry is used to illustrate how nanomagnets can generate the required random dynamics. Examples of tracking and PID control are demonstrated and shown to be consistent with the original stochastic differential equation formulation of active inference. Interestingly, nonlinear response in the form of spikes and spike trains not predicted by the original theory can appear in the nanomagnet system for certain temperature regimes. A theoretical approach using a mean-field approximation for spin systems is proposed, which describes the transition to nonlinear response. Finally, the possibility to create simple magnetic arrays using realistic models is shown with micromagnetic simulations of a simple 17 element array of nanomagnets that include magnetic anisotropies, and exchange and dipolar interactions. Possible applications are simulated to illustrate how nanomagnetic arrays can be used as the stochastic element for feedback control of processes, investigation and control of magnetic state evolution, and as a method to optimize pulsed field magnetic switching protocols.

Artificial dimension control has been playing a vital role in electronic structure manipulation and properties generation. However, systematic investigations into the dimensional regulation, such as transformation from two-dimensional (2D) materials to well-controlled one-dimensional (1D) ribbons, remain insufficient via molecular beam epitaxy. Here, high-quality ultranarrow zigzag CuTe nanoribbons are atomically precisely prepared via the dimensional regulation induced by adjusting the Te chemical potential, utilizing CuSe monolayer as the starting 2D template. Introducing Te atoms into the CuSe monolayer and subsequent annealing, Te atoms replace Se atoms within CuSe lattice. As the Te substitution ratio increases, strain accumulates and elongated nanopores emerge, which expand and interconnect to form 1D CuSe_1–xTe_x (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) nanoribbons and ultimately coalesce into a 1D ultranarrow zigzag CuTe nanoribbons with a honeycomb lattice. The entire structural transformation is verified through scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and density functional theory (DFT). Contrary to the 2D semiconducting nature of CuSe and CuSe_1–xTe_x monolayers, newly formed 1D CuTe nanoribbons exhibit metallic properties. Intriguingly, DFT calculations further reveal spin-polarized states at the zigzag edges of CuTe nanoribbons. Our proposed dimensional regulation strategy from 2D materials to well-controlled 1D nanoribbons presents avenues for refining and enhancing the synthesis process.

Optical metasurfaces, arrays of nanostructures engineered to manipulate light, have emerged as a transformative technology in both research and industry due to their compact design and exceptional light control capabilities. Their strong light–matter interactions enable precise wavefront modulation, polarization control, and significant near-field enhancements. These unique properties have recently driven their application in biomedical fields. In particular, metasurfaces have led to breakthroughs in biomedical imaging technologies, such as achromatic imaging, phase imaging, and extended depth-of-focus imaging. They have also advanced cutting-edge biosensing technologies, featuring high-quality factor resonators and near-field enhancements. As the demand for device miniaturization and system integration increases, metasurfaces are expected to play a pivotal role in the development of next-generation biomedical devices. In this review, we explore the latest advancements in the use of metasurfaces for biomedical applications, with a particular focus on imaging and sensing. Additionally, we discuss future directions aimed at transforming the biomedical field by leveraging the full potential of metasurfaces to provide compact, high-performance solutions for a wide range of applications.

Thermally driven membrane desalination processes have garnered significant interest for their potential in the treatment of hypersaline wastewater. However, achieving high rejection rates for volatiles while maintaining a high water flux remains a considerable challenge. Herein, we propose a thermo-osmosis-evaporation (TOE) system that utilizes molecular intercalation-regulated graphene oxide (GO) as the thermo-osmotic selective permeation layer, positioned on a hydrophobic poly(vinylidene fluoride) fibrous membrane serving as the thermo-evaporation layer. By carefully constructing architectural interlaminar nanochannels of GO membranes via simultaneously confining small molecules to enlarge the interlayer spacing and incorporating polymers within the GO interlayers to create a dense network, the resultant demonstrates a rejection rate of 100% for NaCl and 97.41% for volatile phenylamine, with a water permeance of 63.80 L m^–2 h^–1 at a temperature difference of 40 °C, outperforming previously reported GO-based membranes. Simulation and calculation results reveal that the polymer network between the GO interlayers facilitates the high-efficiency separation of nonvolatile ions and volatile molecules, while the enlarged channels reduce vapor diffusion resistance. This study provides valuable insights for the design of advanced membranes and serves as inspiration for the continued development of the TOE system for complex hypersaline wastewater treatment.

The synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with excellent luminescent properties and their effective application in the field of bionic sensing remain a formidable challenge. Herein, a series of COFs with different numbers of hydroxyl groups are successfully synthesized, and the number of hydroxyl groups on the benzene-1,3,5-tricarbaldehyde (BTA) linker influences the properties of the final COFs. The COF (HHBTA-OH) prepared with hydrazine hydrate (HH) and BTA containing one hydroxyl group as the ligands exhibits the best fluorescent performance. MA@HHBTA-OH is formed by the reaction of HHBTA-OH with meldrum’s acid (MA) and has its extremely high hydrophilicity, dispersibility, and strong red fluorescence, which can imitate the human gustatory system to detect bitter substances. MA@HHBTA-OH was combined with agarose (AG) to construct a MA@HHBTA-OH@AG film for assessing food freshness. In addition, an acoustic MA@HHBTA-OH@MF sensor is fabricated by integrating luminescent MA@HHBTA-OH with melamine foam (MF) through a strong hydrogen bond. MA@HHBTA-OH@MF functions like an eardrum and recognizes sound through pressure waves with excellent mechanical sensing performance. In summary, biomimetic luminescent sensors based on MA@HHBTA-OH were successfully constructed, which can monitor auditory, gustatory, and olfactory information to achieve the multimode perception of sound, bitter substances, and food freshness.

The combination of an ordinary s-type superconductor with three-dimensional topological insulators creates a promising platform for fault-tolerant topological quantum computing circuits based on Majorana braiding. The backbone of the braiding mechanism are three-terminal Josephson junctions. It is crucial to understand the transport in these devices for further use in quantum computing applications. We present low-temperature measurements of topological insulator-based three-terminal Josephson junctions fabricated by a combination of selective-area growth of Bi_0.8Sb_1.2Te₃ and shadow mask evaporation of Nb. This approach allows for the in situ fabrication of Josephson junctions with an exceptional interface quality, important for the study of the proximity-effect. We map out the transport properties of the device as a function of bias currents and prove the coupling of the junctions by the observation of a multiterminal geometry-induced diode effect. We find good agreement of our findings with a resistively and capacitively shunted junction network model.

Nitrogen fertilizer delivery inefficiencies limit crop productivity and contribute to environmental pollution. Herein, we developed Zn- and Fe-doped hydroxyapatite nanomaterials (ZnHAU, FeHAU) loaded with urea (∼26% N) through hydrogen bonding and metal–ligand interactions. The nanomaterials attach to the leaf epidermal cuticle and localize in the apoplast of leaf epidermal cells, triggering a slow N release at acidic conditions (pH 5.8) that promote wheat (Triticum aestivum) growth and increased N uptake compared to conventional urea fertilizers. ZnHAU and FeHAU exhibited prolonged N release compared to urea in model plant apoplast fluid pH in vitro (up to 2 days) and in leaf membranes in plants (up to 10 days) with a high N retention (32% to 53%) under simulated high rainfall events (50 mm). Foliar N delivery doses of up to 4% as ZnHAU and FeHAU did not induce toxicity in plant cells. The foliar-applied ZnHAU and FeHAU enhanced fresh and dry biomass by ∼214% and ∼161%, and N uptake by ∼108% compared to foliar-applied urea under low soil N conditions in greenhouse experiments. Controlled N release by leaf-attached nanomaterials improves N delivery and use efficiency in crop plants, creating nanofertilizers with reduced environmental impact.

The emerging combination of chemotherapy and radionuclide therapy has been actively investigated to overcome the limitations of monotherapy and augment therapeutic efficacy. However, it remains a challenge to design a single delivery vehicle that can incorporate chemotherapeutics and radionuclides into a compact structure. Here, a chelator DOTA- or NOTA-modified Evans blue conjugated camptothecin molecule (EB-CPT) nanoprodrug was synthesized, which could self-assemble into nanoparticles due to its inherent amphiphilicity. The nanoparticles could then be effectively labeled with therapeutic radionuclide lutetium-177 (¹⁷⁷Lu) or diagnostic radionuclides gallium-68 (⁶⁸Ga)/copper-64 (⁶⁴Cu) with high radiolabeling efficiency and radiochemical stability. Impressively, a single-dose chemoradiation therapy of [¹⁷⁷Lu]Lu-DOTA-EB-CPT plus EB-CPT effectively inhibited tumor growth in HCT116 tumor-bearing mice compared to the respective individual therapeutic approach. The [⁶⁴Cu]Cu-NOTA-EB-CPT nanoparticles also exhibited excellent in vivo characteristics including favorable blood circulation properties and prolonged tumor retention in tumor-bearing mice. The safety, feasibility, tolerability, and biodistribution of [⁶⁸Ga]Ga-NOTA-EB-ss-CPT were also preliminarily characterized in a first-in-human study. This study presents a simple but robust EB-CPT radiopharmaceutical that leverages EB as an albumin binder to strike a delicate balance between enhanced tumor accumulation, safety, and diagnostic efficacy, facilitating an integrated theranostic strategy within a single molecular structure. This radionuclide-labeled EB-CPT nanomedicine presents a step toward clinical translation of the combination of chemotherapy and radiotheranostics.

Flexible on-skin electronics present tremendous popularity in intelligent electronic skins (e-skins), healthcare monitoring, and human-machine interfaces. However, the reported e-skins can hardly provide high permeability, good stretchability, and large sensitivity and are limited in long-term stability and efficient recyclability when worn on the human body. Herein, inspired from the human skin, a permeable, stretchable, and recyclable cellulose aerogel-based electronic system is developed by sandwiching a screen-printed silver sensing layer between a biocompatible CNF/HPC/PVA (cellulose nanofiber/hydroxypropyl cellulose/poly(vinyl alcohol)) aerogel hypodermis layer and a permeable polyurethane layer as the epidermis layer. The cellulose aerogel displays a high tensile strength of 1.14 MPa and tensile strain of 43.5% while maintaining good permeability. The cellulose aerogel-based electronics embrace appealing sensing performances with high sensitivity (gauge factor ≈ 238), ultralow detection limit (0.1%), and fast response time (18 ms) under strain stimulus. Owing to the disconnection and reconnection of microcracks in the sensing layer, both strain/humidity sensing and thermal healthcare can be easily achieved. The permeable electronics can be further integrated into an electronic mask for patient-centered healthcare with a power supply system, switching control device, and wireless Bluetooth module. Moreover, the prepared electronic system enables long-term wearing on human skin without skin irritation, and all components of the electronics can be recaptured/reused in water. This material strategy highlights the potential of next-generation on-skin electronics with high permeability and good environmental friendliness.

The exponential growth of the Internet of Things (IoTs) has led to the widespread deployment of millions of sensors, crucial for the sensing layer’s perception capabilities. In particular, there is a strong interest in intelligent photonic sensing. However, the current photonic sensing device and chip typically offer limited functionality, and the devices providing their power take up excessive amounts of space. There is a pressing need for smart, multifunctional sensing chips with the capability of intelligent recognition. Here, we propose and demonstrate the functionalities of a two-dimensional van der Waals photonic bipolar junction transistor (2D-vdW photonic BJT) in simultaneous sensing and discerning different wavelength bands of light. Also, a dual-function chip application is given. The optoelectronic detection characteristics in the vision-near-infrared (vis-NIR) band and photovoltaic characteristics are systematically studied. It exhibits negative photoconductivity (NPC) for the 1064 nm laser while maintaining positive photoconductivity (PPC) for the 638 and 1550 nm lasers. Also, the electrical tunable response is realized. Moreover, the function of this chip under real-application conditions has shown its efficacy in applications such as detecting dim light with ∼10 lx illuminance, identifying wavelength bands, and generating power photovoltaically. This work provides a solution for the interconnection of everything.