Researchers from University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China have developed a twisted double-layer graphene plasmonic metasurface that achieves unprecedented confinement of terahertz waves into nanoscale volumes, theoretically enabling fingerprint detection of molecular monolayers as thin as 1 nm. This system overcomes the critical challenge in terahertz sensing where the long wavelength (hundreds of micrometers) weakly interacts with nanoscale molecules. By engineering acoustic plasmon nanocavities through precise twist angles between graphene layers, the team demonstrated a mode volume as small as 10⁻¹³λ₀³ and sensitivity 48 times higher than conventional single-layer graphene and non-twist double-layer graphene structures. The platform provides a new insight for ultra-strong light-matter interaction at terahertz frequencies and opens possibilities for single-molecule spectroscopy and on-chip biosensing applications.

Micro/nanomotors (MNMs) have become a transformative force in biomedical engineering, playing a pivotal role in advancing next-generation drug delivery systems. These tiny propulsion systems are categorized by their actuation mechanisms, with gas-driven MNMs standing out due to their ability to harness chemically generated micro/nano-scale thrust for autonomous motion. By leveraging their dynamic self-propulsion and unique bio-interactive behaviors, gas-driven MNMs can efficiently navigate complex biological barriers, offering groundbreaking therapeutic solutions for cancer treatment, thrombolysis, and targeted drug delivery. This review first examines the fundamental propulsion mechanisms of gas-driven MNMs, then highlights their latest breakthroughs in overcoming physiological obstacles. Finally, it evaluates their future potential and clinical advantages, providing critical insights to drive innovation and accelerate their translation into real-world medical applications.

Currently, the development of low-reflection electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding composite materials for mitigating secondary electromagnetic wave pollution has become a major research focus. However, achieving thinness, high toughness, low reflectivity, and multifunctionality in flexible EMI shielding films remains a challenge. To address this issue, Benliang Liang and Luting Yan from Beijing Jiaotong University, in collaboration with Lan Zhang from Luoyang Institute of Science and Technology, have introduced a "magnetic-electric" Janus structure EMI shielding composite film composed of MXene nanosheets, carbonized ZIF67 (CZIF67) nanoparticles and aramid nanofibers (ANF), balancing thinness(80 μm), high-strength-toughness composite film (110±7 MPa tensile strength, 21% strain, 14.91±0.9 MJ·m⁻³ toughness), (4.3–4.5 dB in 8.2–9.6 GHz) with 44.8 dB SET in the X-band. In addition, This multifunctional material simultaneously integrates electrothermal/photothermal conversion, fire-alarm response, and infrared stealth capabilities, demonstrating exceptional potential for next-generation wearable electronics and harsh-environment applications.

While most organizations address cybersecurity issues with technology and surveillance, a new study from the University of Vaasa, Finland, argues that empathy may be a more effective defence. Emmanuel Anti's doctoral research explores insider deviance, and how understanding the human elements related to it can lead to stronger, more sustainable cybersecurity practices. His dissertation proposes an empathetic security model grounded in design thinking, encouraging organisations to co-create cybersecurity policies with employees, focusing on understanding their needs, motivations and emotional well-being.

Researchers have discovered that ferroelectric fluids can harness an overlooked transverse electrostatic force (TEF) to rise over 80 mm, without magnets or high voltages. By exploiting the fluid’s spontaneous polarization and exceptionally high dielectric constant, they achieved a strong TEF, previously thought unattainable in conventional electrostatics. This breakthrough enables creation of a lightweight, magnet-free motor, opening possibilities for compact, energy-efficient actuators and suggesting a transformative approach to converting electrical energy into mechanical motion at low voltages.