Liquid propulsion on overheated surfaces plays an important role in numerous engineering applications. Recently, Scientist in China designed a dual heterogeneous structure on an aluminum substrate via femtosecond laser direct writing and found that the heated surface could unidirectionally propel liquid droplets in the Leidenfrost state. In particular, the droplets consistently move opposite the laser processing direction, providing an ingenious strategy for the deliberate design of the motion direction and trajectory of Leidenfrost droplets.

A study published in Science Bulletin reports the real-time rotational growth of single- and few-wall high-crystallinity carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and tracks the dynamics of the CNT-catalyst interface using atmospheric environmental transmission electron microscopy. The researchers identified two non-periodic growth modes: free rotation and restricted rotation, which are distinct from previously reported periodic-rotation models. Free rotation originates from weak CNT-catalyst interfacial interactions and enables straight, high-crystallinity CNT growth. Additional constraints, such as CNT-substrate contact, restrict this rotation, induce structural distortions, decelerate growth rate, and can even cause growth termination. This study establishes rotational freedom as a key interfacial parameter that linking CNT-catalyst interactions and the quality and growth dynamics of CNTs. It also provides guidance for designing catalysts and interfaces to achieve efficient synthesis of defect-free, high crystalline CNTs.

This study explores an ethanol/ammonium sulfate aqueous two-phase system as a greener extraction strategy for a four-herb mixture designed for acne-prone skin. The ATPS method effectively enriched phenolic and flavonoid compounds and enhanced antioxidant activity, with the N12 fraction showing the strongest chemical performance. However, zebrafish assays indicated that the crude extract had a better safety profile and stronger biological suitability. Based on these findings, the crude extract was incorporated into prototype cleanser and spot gel serum formulations, among which the cleanser showed promising antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against acne-related microorganisms.

Spikelet production efficiency (SPE) – the number of spikelets produced per unit of vegetative organ dry weight at the spikelet differentiation stage – can boost rice grain yield and harvest index without compromising grain filling or grain weight, particularly under high-yielding population conditions.

Zhonghua 11 and Taichung 65 exhibit distinct physiological and molecular responses to brassinosteroids despite their close japonica relationship.

A near-isogenic line, d61-zh11, was developed to transfer the classical brassinosteroid (BR)-insensitive mutation into a modern functional genomics background.

d61-zh11 provides a standardized reference mutant for the reproducible and system-level dissection of BR signaling in rice.