Physical sciences articles from across Nature Portfolio

Electrocatalytic mechanisms may underpin the function of what appear to be thermocatalytic reactions. Now, a probe molecule-based approach directly measures the extent of electrochemical polarization in operating catalysts.

Using a single ruthenium catalyst, site-selective C–H functionalization methods are developed for the installation of silylmethyl synthetic handles at either ortho or meta positions on diverse arenes, enabling a wide range of downstream transformations. Mechanistic studies highlight that biscyclometallated ruthenium(II) species are key to this reactivity, offering insight for future developments.

The catalytic enantioselective formation of alkyl−alkyl bonds from simple feedstock chemicals remains a formidable challenge in organic synthesis. Now, an enantioconvergent approach that couples styrenyl aziridines with unactivated olefins using a chiral nickel catalyst and visible light has been developed.

This review examines imaging-based nanophotonic biosensing and interferometric label-free imaging, with a particular focus on vesicle detection. It specifically compares dielectric and plasmonic metasurfaces for label-free protein and extracellular vesicle detection, highlighting their respective advantages and limitations.

The transition to electric mobility is a cornerstone of global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency. This editorial explores the critical role of integrating electric mobility systems with power grids to ensure sustainable transport solutions. Drawing from research presented in this special collection, we analyze key challenges in optimizing charging infrastructure, managing vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interactions, ensuring equity in energy access, and strengthening governance frameworks. The findings emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary solutions that align technological innovation with policy measures to build a resilient and sustainable transport-energy nexus.