Precise Control Research Articles

Long-lived entanglement of molecules in magic-wavelength optical tweezers

Abstract Realizing quantum control and entanglement of particles is crucial for advancing both quantum technologies and fundamental science. Substantial developments in this domain have been achieved in a variety of systems1–5. In this context, ultracold polar molecules offer new and unique opportunities because of their more complex internal structure associated with vibration and rotation, coupled with the existence of long-range interactions6,7. However, the same properties make molecules highly sensitive to their environment8–10, affecting their coherence and utility in some applications. Here we show that by engineering an exceptionally controlled environment using rotationally magic11,12 optical tweezers, we can achieve long-lived entanglement between pairs of molecules using detectable hertz-scale interactions. We prepare two-molecule Bell states with fidelity $$0.92{4}_{-0.016}^{+0.013}$$ 0.92 4 − 0.016 + 0.013 , limited by detectable leakage errors. When correcting for these errors, the fidelity is $$0.97{6}_{-0.016}^{+0.014}$$ 0.97 6 − 0.016 + 0.014 . We show that the second-scale entanglement lifetimes are limited solely by these errors, providing opportunities for research in quantum-enhanced metrology7,13, ultracold chemistry14 and the use of rotational states in quantum simulation, quantum computation and as quantum memories. The extension of precise quantum control to complex molecular systems will enable their additional degrees of freedom to be exploited across many domains of quantum science15–17.

Tuning Fork Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy for Resolving Morphological and Redox Properties of Single Ag Nanowires.

We report a Tuning Fork Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy (TF-SECCM) technique for providing morphological and electrochemical information on single redox-active entities. This new operation configuration of SECCM utilizes an electrolyte-filled nanopipette tip mounted onto a tuning fork force sensor to obtain a precise tip-sample distance control and surface morphological mapping capabilities. Redox activities of regions of interest (ROIs) can be investigated by scanning electrode potential by moving the nanopipette to any target regions while maintaining the constant force engagement of the tip with the sample. Using silver nanowires (Ag NWs) as a model system due to their extensive utilization in energy and sensing devices, TF-SECCM provides not only the topography of single Ag NWs but also their distinctive redox activities, catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activities, and electrolyte anion adsorption/desorption features in contrast to NW bundles and a supporting substrate.

Controlled ligation and elongation of uniformly truncated amyloid nanofibrils.

This study investigates the production and inter-fibril interactions of uniformly truncated amyloid nanofibrils. By varying extrusion cycles (0, 50, and 100) and using carbonate filters with 100 nm and 200 nm pore sizes, precise fibril length control was achieved. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirmed that the mean length of the truncated fibrils corresponded to the respective pore size as extrusion cycles increased. AFM imaging combined with bicinchoninic acid assay analysis elucidated the mechanism underlying fibril truncation during extrusion. Subsequent incubation at 60 °C revealed that 200 nm-long fibrils assembled into denser structures than 100 nm-long fibrils, likely due to strain energy introduced during truncation, which appears to facilitate twisting during ligation and elongation between truncated fibrils. These findings advance understanding of the end-to-end elongation mechanisms of amyloid nanofibrils, shedding light on their structural dynamics and polymorphic properties.

Droplet-Based EPR Spectroscopy for Real-Time Monitoring of Liquid-Phase Catalytic Reactions.

In situ monitoring is essential for catalytic process design, offering real-time insights into active structures and reactive intermediates. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy excels at probing geometric and electronic properties of paramagnetic species during reactions. Yet, state-of-the-art liquid-phase EPR methods, like flat cells, require custom resonators, consume large amounts of reagents, and are unsuited for tracking initial kinetics or use with solid catalysts. To overcome these limitations, a droplet-based microfluidics platform is introduced for real-time EPR monitoring of liquid-phase catalytic reactions. By encapsulating solid and dissolved species within nanoliter droplets, this approach enables precise control over mass transport, reduces reagent consumption, and maintains uniform residence times irrespective of acquisition duration, permitting precise analysis of each spectral component under identical conditions. The platform's compatibility with standard resonators facilitates straightforward integration into any EPR spectrometer. Its versatility is demonstrated by monitoring dynamic ligand exchange processes, key for activating homogeneous catalysts, and tracking redox and radical kinetics in ascorbic acid oxidation by Cu(II) catalysts. Importantly, this method captures both supported and dissolved transition metal species, offering comprehensive insights into catalyst deactivation via metal leaching. This microfluidic approach sets a new standard for liquid-phase in situ EPR measurements, advancing studies of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalytic systems.

Trends of Soil and Solution Nutrient Sensing for Open Field and Hydroponic Cultivation in Facilitated Smart Agriculture

Efficient management of soil nutrients is essential for optimizing crop production, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices, and addressing the challenges posed by population growth and environmental degradation. Smart agriculture, using advanced technologies, plays an important role in achieving these goals by enabling real-time monitoring and precision management of nutrients. In open-field soil cultivation, spatial variability in soil properties demands site-specific nutrient management and integration with variable-rate technology (VRT) to optimize fertilizer application, reduce nutrient losses, and enhance crop yields. Hydroponic solution cultivation, on the other hand, requires precise monitoring and control of nutrient solutions to maintain optimal conditions for plant growth, ensuring efficient use of water and fertilizers. This review aims to explore recent trends in soil and solution nutrient sensing technologies for open-field soil and facilitated hydroponic cultivation, highlighting advancements that promote efficiency and sustainability. Key technologies include electrochemical and optical sensors, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled monitoring, and the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive modeling. Blockchain technology is also emerging as a tool to enhance transparency and traceability in nutrient management, promoting compliance with environmental standards and sustainable practices. In open-field soil cultivation, real-time sensing technologies support targeted nutrient application by accounting for spatial variability, minimizing environmental risks such as runoff and eutrophication. In hydroponic solution cultivation, precise solution sensing ensures nutrient balance, optimizing plant health and productivity. By advancing these technologies, smart agriculture can achieve sustainable crop production, improved resource efficiency, and environmental protection, fostering a resilient food system.

A review of 3D bioprinting for organoids

Abstract Current two-dimensional (2D) cell models for effective drug screening suffer from significant limitations imposed by the lack of realism in the physiological environment. Three-dimensional (3D) organoids models hold immense potential in mimicking the key functions of human organs by overcoming the limitations of traditional 2D cell models. However, current techniques for preparation of 3D organoids models had limitations in reproducibility, scalability, and the ability to closely replicate the complex microenvironment found in vivo. Additionally, traditional 3D cell culture systems often involve lengthy and labor-intensive processes that hinder high-throughput applications necessary for a large-scale drug screening. Advancements in 3D bioprinting technologies offer promising solutions to these challenges by enabling precise spatial control over cell placement and material composition, thereby facilitating the creation of more physiologically relevant organoids than current techniques. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent advances in 3D bioprinting technologies for creating organoids models, which begins with an introduction to different types of 3D bioprinting techniques (especially focus on volumetric bioprinting (VBP) technique), followed by an overview of bioinks utilized for organoids bioprinting. Moreover, we also introduce the applications of 3D bioprinting organoids in disease models, drug efficiency evaluation and regenerative medicine. Finally, the challenges and possible strategies for the development and clinical translation of 3D bioprinting organoids are concluded.

Design and Synthesizing of Hemoglobin-Based Multifunctional Fibers for Improved Carbon Monoxide Absorption Rates

This study is aimed at developing advanced materials for carbon monoxide (CO) capture by producing hemoglobin (Hb)-based electrospun multifunctional micro- and nanofibers blended with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Unlike conventional CO trapping materials such as activated carbon, ammoniacal cuprous chloride, zeolites, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), Hb/PVP fibers leverage the simplicity and scalability of electrospinning to produce continuous, defect-free flexible fibers with tunable micron- to nanoscale diameters. The process enables precise control over fiber morphology, surface area, porosity, and hydrophilicity, providing significant advantages for optimizing CO adsorption rates. Moreover, the inclusion of Hb introduces a biomimetic advantage through its intrinsic CO-binding affinity, offering higher specificity and interaction potential compared to traditional physical adsorption or chemical frameworks. Experimental results revealed that fibers with 8 wt.% PVP exhibited the smallest and most uniform diameters, while higher PVP concentrations (16, 32 wt.%) enhanced hydrophilicity, with complete water absorption occurring within 400 and 200 seconds, respectively. Structural and compositional analyses using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the integrity and chemical characteristics of the fibers. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) established their thermal stability, with critical transitions at approximately 80 ℃ (denaturation) and 200 ℃ (decomposition). Degradation was observed between 200 and 430 ℃, corresponding to significant weight loss. These findings demonstrate the potential of Hb/PVP fibers as exceptional alternatives for CO capture. This study may open new possibilities for increasing the absorption rate of highly porous fibers for toxic CO capture in the bloodstream and address other related concerns.

Study of temperature dependences and electrical properties of thin films of Ag2S quantum dots

The results of studying the electrical properties of thin films of colloidal quantum dots (QDs), Ag2S/SiO2 and Ag2S/SiO2/Au, are interesting and important for understanding the behavior of these materials. Additional studies made it possible to determine the temperature dependences of conductivity in the range from 300 to 360 K, which made it possible to study changes in the electrical properties of materials depending on temperature. Activation energy values obtained from linear approximations of current-voltage characteristics in Arrhenius coordinates have become key to determining energy barriers and conduction mechanisms in these systems. Decorating Ag2S quantum dots with plasmonic gold nanoparticles also has the potential to improve the electrical properties of materials and create new functional characteristics. The results obtained can have a wide range of applications in the field of nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, sensors and other technologies that require precise control of the electrical properties of materials at different temperatures. Decoration of Ag2S/SiO2 QDs with plasmonic gold nanoparticles leads to an increase in the band gap from 0.29 to 0.89 eV. This effect can be explained by the interaction between gold plasmons and Ag2S/SiO2 electrons, which leads to a change in the properties of the material. It has been shown that decorating Ag2S/SiO2 QDs with Au nanoparticles leads to a change in the type of conductivity. Finally, calculating the mobility of charge carriers according to the Mott-Gurney model allows for a deeper understanding of the conductivity mechanisms in the presented thin-film structures.

Security of hybrid BB84 with heterodyne detection

Abstract Quantum key distribution (QKD) promises everlasting security based on the laws of physics. Most common protocols are grouped into two distinct categories based on the degrees of freedom used to carry information, which can be either discrete or continuous, each presenting unique advantages in either performance, feasibility for near-term implementation, and compatibility with existing telecommunications architectures. Recently, hybrid QKD protocols have been introduced to leverage advantages from both categories. In this work we provide a rigorous security proof for a protocol introduced by Qi in 2021, where information is encoded in discrete variables as in the widespread Bennett Brassard 1984 (BB84) protocol but decoded continuously via heterodyne detection. Security proofs for hybrid protocols inherit the same challenges associated with continuous-variable protocols due to unbounded dimensions. Here we successfully address these challenges by exploiting symmetry. Our approach enables truncation of the Hilbert space with precise control of the approximation errors and lead to a tight, semi-analytical expression for the asymptotic key rate under collective attacks. As concrete examples, we apply our theory to compute the key rates under passive attacks, linear loss, and Gaussian noise.

Control of Interlocking Mode in Pd4L8 Cage Catenanes.

Precise control over the catenation process in interlocked supramolecular systems remains a significant challenge. Here, we report a system in which a lantern-shaped Pd2L4 cage can dimerize to form two distinct Pd4L8 catenanes with different interlocking degree: a previously described quadruply interlocked double cage motif of D4 symmetry and an unprecedented triply interlocked structure of C2h symmetry. While the former structure features a linear arrangement of four Pd(II) centers, separated by three mechanically linked pockets, the new motif has a staggered shape. Both assemblies are topological isomers, coexisting in equilibrium in solution. The triply interlocked species is thermodynamically more stable due to extended noncovalent interactions between the ligands, as supported by X-ray structure analysis and electronic structure calculations. Notably, the degree of interlocking in the double cage system can be controlled by a change of temperature and through anion exchange. Cage-to-cage transformations were followed by NMR, MS and TIMS methods.

Mitigating the Efficiency Deficit in Single-Crystal Perovskite Solar Cells by Precise Control of the Growth Processes.

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.

Control of Interlocking Mode in Pd4L8 Cage Catenanes

Precise control over the catenation process in interlocked supramolecular systems remains a significant challenge. Here, we report a system in which a lantern‐shaped Pd2L4 cage can dimerize to form two distinct Pd4L8 catenanes with different interlocking degree: a previously described quadruply interlocked double cage motif of D4 symmetry and an unprecedented triply interlocked structure of C2h symmetry. While the former structure features a linear arrangement of four Pd(II) centers, separated by three mechanically linked pockets, the new motif has a staggered shape. Both assemblies are topological isomers, coexisting in equilibrium in solution. The triply interlocked species is thermodynamically more stable due to extended noncovalent interactions between the ligands, as supported by X‐ray structure analysis and electronic structure calculations. Notably, the degree of interlocking in the double cage system can be controlled by a change of temperature and through anion exchange. Cage‐to‐cage transformations were followed by NMR, MS and TIMS methods.

Nonzero-sum game-based decentralized approximate optimal control of modular robot manipulators with coordinate operation tasks using value iteration

Abstract Accurate trajectory tracking and appropriate contact force are crucial for the coordinated operation-oriented control of modular robot manipulators (MRMs). Considering the practical need for precision in system control, resource optimization, and disturbance compensation within the context of the coordinated operation tasks (COTs) of MRMs, this paper employs a value iteration (VI) technique to devise a decentralized approximate optimal control strategy grounded in nonzero-sum game (NZSG) theory. To obtain more accurate, reliable, and safe control, a dynamic model of the MRM is established using joint torque feedback technology; then, the problem of optimal control for MRM systems focused on coordinated operation-oriented control is reformulated as an NZSG involving multiple subsystems. The present study, grounded in the theoretical framework of the adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) algorithm, employs an event-triggered NZSG strategy, utilizing VI to resolve the coupled Hamilton–Jacobian equations, culminating in the derivation of the Nash equilibrium solutions. Through stringent stability analysis, it is established that the trajectory tracking error for the closed-loop MRM system engaged in COTs is uniformly ultimately bounded. The proposed method’s efficacy is subsequently corroborated through experimental validation.

High-energy channeling implantation in SiC substrates with precise angle control of SS-UHE

High-energy channeling implantation in SiC substrates with precise angle control of SS-UHE

Resveratrol-driven macrophage polarization: unveiling mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound known for its diverse biological activities, has demonstrated multiple pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and cardiovascular protective properties. Recent studies suggest that these effects are partly mediated through the regulation of macrophage polarization, wherein macrophages differentiate into pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Our review highlights how resveratrol modulates macrophage polarization through various signaling pathways to achieve therapeutic effects. For example, resveratrol can activate the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) pathway and inhibit the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-YAP signaling axes, promoting M1 polarization or suppressing M2 polarization, thereby inhibiting tumor growth. Conversely, it can promote M2 polarization or suppress M1 polarization by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway or activating the PI3K/Akt and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways, thus alleviating inflammatory responses. Notably, the effect of resveratrol on macrophage polarization is concentration-dependent; moderate concentrations tend to promote M1 polarization, while higher concentrations may favor M2 polarization. This concentration dependence offers new perspectives for clinical treatment but also underscores the necessity for precise dosage control when using resveratrol. In summary, resveratrol exhibits significant potential in regulating macrophage polarization and treating related diseases.

Optical Metasurfaces for Biomedical Imaging and Sensing.

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.

Cytoplasmic Regulation of the Poly(A) Tail Length as a Potential Therapeutic Target.

Virtually all mRNAs acquire a poly(A) tail co-transcriptionally, but its length is dynamically regulated in the cytoplasm in a transcript-specific manner. The length of the poly(A) tail plays a crucial role in determining mRNA translation, stability, and localization. This dynamic regulation of poly(A) tail length is widely used to create post-transcriptional gene expression programs, allowing for precise temporal and spatial control. Dysregulation of poly(A) tail length has been linked to various diseases, including cancers, inflammatory and cardiovascular disorders, and neurological syndromes. Cytoplasmic poly(A) tail length is maintained by a dynamic equilibrium between cis-acting elements and cognate factors that promote deadenylation or polyadenylation, enabling rapid gene expression reprogramming in response to internal and external cellular cues. While cytoplasmic deadenylation and its pathophysiological implications have been extensively studied, cytoplasmic polyadenylation and its therapeutic potential remain less explored. This review discusses the distribution, regulation, and mechanisms of Cytoplasmic Polyadenylation Element-Binding Proteins (CPEBs), highlighting their dual roles in either promoting or repressing gene expression depending on cellular context. We also explore their involvement in diseases such as tumor progression and metastasis, along with their potential as targets for novel therapeutic strategies.

Integration of silver nanostructures in wireless sensor networks for enhanced biochemical sensing.

Integrating noble metal nanostructures, specifically silver nanoparticles, into sensor designs has proven to enhance sensor performance across key metrics, including response time, stability, and sensitivity. However, a critical gap remains in understanding the unique contributions of various synthesis parameters on these enhancements. This study addresses this gap by examining how factors such as temperature, growth time, and choice of capping agents influence nanostructure shape and size, optimizing sensor performance for diverse conditions. Using silver nitrate and sodium borohydride, silver seed particles were created, followed by controlled growth in a solution containing additional silver ions. The size and morphology of the resulting nanostructures were regulated to achieve optimal properties for biochemical sensing in wireless sensor networks. Results demonstrated that embedding these nanostructures in Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) matrices led to superior stability, maintaining 93% effectiveness over 30days compared to 70% in Polyethylene Glycol (PEG). Performance metrics revealed significant improvements: reduced response times (1.2ms vs. 1.5ms at zero analyte concentration) and faster responses at higher analyte levels (0.2ms). These outcomes confirm that higher synthesis temperatures and precise shape control contribute to larger, more stable nanostructures.The enhanced stability and responsiveness underscore the potential of noble metal nanostructures for scalable and durable sensor applications, offering a significant advancement over current methods.

Enhanced Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Using Nonthermal Plasma: Insights into Pd Catalyst Reactivation and Precise Control of H2O2 for Improved CO2 Reduction Reaction Activity

This study investigates the electrochemical reduction of CO2 on Pd/C with in situ‐generated H2O2 through low‐temperature nonthermal plasma. Catalyst deactivation, a common challenge in CO2 conversion, is addressed by leveraging the oxidizing environment created by H2O2. Experimental studies using linear sweep voltammetry and cyclic voltammetry demonstrate significantly improved CO2 reduction activity during plasma discharge, correlated with an enlarged hydrogen desorption peak. Multicomponent physics‐based computational simulation highlights the role of H2O2, a long‐lived species, in enhancing CO2 reduction. Formic acid is identified as a major liquid product, validated by nuclear magnetic resonance. The presence of H2O2 prevents CO poisoning on Pd surfaces, and H2O2 electroreduction alters hydrogen sorption, potentially creating an active PdHx phase for effective CO2 reduction. The study demonstrates the precise control of H2O2 concentration through nonthermal plasma, offering insights into Pd catalyst reactivation and improved CO2 reduction activity. These findings contribute to the understanding of electrochemical CO2 reduction mechanisms and provide a basis for optimizing catalytic processes in the presence of H2O2.

P-type surface charge transfer doping of diamond via low-dimensional transition metal oxides

Device applications of ultra-wide-bandgap diamond rely on the precise control of both carrier type and concentration. However, due to the strong covalent bonds in bulk diamond, conventional doping methods have struggled to achieve large-scale tuning of its properties. Surface charge transfer doping (SCTD) is seen as a simple and effective solution, leveraging energy-level differences between surface dopant and the semiconductor to regulate carrier properties efficiently. Here, we conducted a comprehensive theoretical study on p-type SCTD of hydrogen-terminated diamond (100) surface [diamond(100):H] using low-dimensional transition metal oxides. The doping effects of the molecular MoO3 and monolayer MoO3 were first explored. The areal hole density for molecular-MoO3-doped diamond(100):H sharply rises and then slightly decreases with increasing MoO3 density, reaching a peak of 7.55 × 1013 cm−2—surpassing the maximum value achieved with a MoO3 monolayer. For identical MoO3 densities, a stronger interaction with diamond(100):H results in a greater areal hole density. We also studied one-dimensional chain-like CrO3 and two-dimensional layered V2O5. However, a V2O5 monolayer cannot achieve the saturation areal hole density due to the large energy separation between the conduction band minimum (CBM) of V2O5 and the valence band maximum (VBM) of diamond(100):H. Increasing the number of V2O5 monolayers will enhance the doping effect. Overall, optimal doping can be achieved with smaller dimensions, higher density and thickness of the transition metal oxides, stronger interactions with diamond(100):H, and a larger energy separation between the dopant's CBM and diamond(100):H's VBM. This study provides theoretical guidance to develop superior diamond-based electronic and optoelectronic devices.