Themed collection 2022 Chemical Science HOT Article Collection
![](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/Ajax-GA-Loader.gif)
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Chemistry must respond to the crisis of transgression of planetary boundaries
Chemistry, the science of transformation of matter, is fundamental to achieving sustainability through ensuring biogeochemical flows do not transgress planetary boundaries. This requires urgent changes in chemistry education, research and industry.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11710-11720
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03603G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Perspectives on parity violation in chiral molecules: theory, spectroscopic experiment and biomolecular homochirality
The reflection (or ‘mirror’) symmetry of space is among the fundamental symmetries of physics. It is connected to the conservation law for the quantum number purity and its violation and has a fundamental relation to stereochemistry and molecular chirality.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10598-10643
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC01323A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Metal–organic frameworks as O2-selective adsorbents for air separations
This Perspective summarizes progress in the development of O2-selective metal–organic frameworks for adsorptive air separations and identifies key metrics and design considerations toward optimizing material performance for practical applications.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10216-10237
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03577D
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Radical transformations for allene synthesis
Recent important advances in the synthesis of allenes via radical strategies are highlighted.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 8491-8506
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02573F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Engendering reactivity at group 5-heteroatom multiple bonds via π-loading
The proof is in the π: when more than one π-donor ligand is bound to a group 5 metal center, imido-based reactivity increases.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 8224-8242
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02706B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Molecular mechanisms of amyloid formation in living systems
The molecular mechanisms of amyloid formation have been studied extensively in test tube reactions. This perspective article addresses the question to what extent these mechanisms apply to the complex situation in living cells and organisms.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 7080-7097
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC01278B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Oriented internal electrostatic fields: an emerging design element in coordination chemistry and catalysis
Internal electrostatic field effects are poised to play a major role in the design of molecular coordination complexes and catalysts.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 5432-5446
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC01715F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Reductive aminations by imine reductases: from milligrams to tons
IRED-catalyzed reductive aminations have progressed from mg to ton scale, through advances in enzyme discovery, protein engineering and process biocatalysis.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 4697-4713
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC00124A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Umpolung strategies for the functionalization of peptides and proteins
This perspective highlights the growing body of literature that leverages polarity reversal (umpolung reactivity) for the selective modification of proteinogenic functionalities and identifies opportunities for further innovation.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 2809-2823
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1SC06133J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Mesoporous ordered films via self-assembly: trends and perspectives
Mesoporous ordered films, from self-assembly to advanced applications.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13264-13279
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04828K
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Bicyclobutanes: from curiosities to versatile reagents and covalent warheads
A flurry of reports for preparing, functionalizing, and using bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes (BCBs) have positioned them to be powerful synthons with numerous applications. This review discusses the recent developments regarding this strained carbocycle.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11721-11737
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03948F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Stability matters, too – the thermodynamics of amyloid fibril formation
The thermodynamics of amyloid formation has largely been neglected compared to kinetic studies. In this review, the current state of the experimental exploration of amyloid thermodynamics is presented and important open questions are highlighted.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10177-10192
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1SC06782F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Reaction dynamics studied via femtosecond X-ray liquidography at X-ray free-electron lasers
Femtosecond X-ray liquidography using X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) visualizes various aspects of reaction dynamics.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 8457-8490
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC00502F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Halogen bonding and chalcogen bonding mediated sensing
Sigma–hole mediated detection of anions is rapidly emerging as a new paradigm in supramolecular sensor chemistry. Herein, we provide an overview of this field including halogen bonding and chalcogen bonding optical, electrochemical and other sensors.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 7098-7125
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC01800D
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Bioinspired superwettable electrodes towards electrochemical biosensing
The recent progress of superhydrophilic/phobic electrodes, superaerophilic/phobic electrodes, superwettable patterned electrodes, Janus wettability electrodes and wettability switchable electrodes in electrochemical biosensing is reviewed.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 5069-5084
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC00614F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Electrochemiluminescence with semiconductor (nano)materials
The combination of electrochemiluminescence and semiconductor gives rise to a rich field at the interface of photoelectrochemistry, materials and analytical chemistry. It offers interesting possibilities for ultrasensitive (bio)detection, imaging and light conversion.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 2528-2550
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1SC06987J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A carbapenem antibiotic inhibiting a mammalian serine protease: structure of the acylaminoacyl peptidase–meropenem complex
The structure of porcine AAP (pAAP) in a covalently bound complex with meropenem was determined by cryo-EM to 2.1 Å resolution, showing the mammalian serine-protease inhibited by a carbapenem antibiotic.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 14264-14276
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05520A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Coordination unsaturation of vanadium nitride quantum dots boosts low-temperature aerobic oxidation of thiophenic sulfides
Vanadium nitride quantum dots are immobilized on graphene to controllably create coordination-unsaturated edge/corner V sites for the efficient aerobic oxidation of thiophenic sulfides.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 14063-14069
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05088A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Live-cell RNA imaging using the CRISPR-dCas13 system with modified sgRNAs appended with fluorescent RNA aptamers
The development of RNA imaging strategies in live cells is essential to improve our understanding of their role in various cellular functions.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 14032-14040
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04656C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Uranium(IV) alkyl cations: synthesis, structures, comparison with thorium(IV) analogues, and the influence of arene-coordination on thermal stability and ethylene polymerization activity
Uranium(IV) alkyl cations have been prepared, and arene solvent coordination was shown to have a major impact on ethylene polymerization activity. Actinide-arene binding was studied experimentally in the solid state and solution, and computationally.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13748-13763
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04302E
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
High-throughput exploration of activity and stability for identifying photoelectrochemical water splitting materials
Activity-stability relations of multinary oxide photoanodes for solar water splitting were measured using an automated flow cell coupled to an ICP-MS and successively visualized with the help of data science tools like principal component analysis.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13774-13781
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05115J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Room temperature chemoselective hydrogenation of C
C, C
O and C
N bonds by using a well-defined mixed donor Mn(I) pincer catalyst
Chemoselective hydrogenation of CC, C
O and C
N bonds in α,β-unsaturated ketones, aldehydes and imines is accomplished at room temperature (27 °C) using a well-defined Mn(I) catalyst and 5.0 bar H2.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13764-13773
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05274A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
OSCAR: an extensive repository of chemically and functionally diverse organocatalysts
A database of thousands of experimentally-derived or combinatorially enriched organocatalysts and fragments to navigate chemical space and optimize reaction properties.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13782-13794
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04251G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A photo-switchable molecular capsule: sequential photoinduced processes
The metastable trilacunary heteropolyoxomolybdate [PMo9O31(py)3]3−; py = pyridine) and the ditopic pyridyl bearing diarylethene (DAE) (C25H16N2F6S2) self-assemble via a facile ligand replacement methodology to yield the photo-active molecular capsule [(PMo9O31)2(DAE)3]6−.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13732-13740
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04613J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Electrocatalytic NAD+ reduction via hydrogen atom-coupled electron transfer
A hydrogen atom coupled with electron transfer (HadCET) mechanism is proposed for electrocatalytic NAD+ reduction on metal electrodes (Cu, Fe and Co), in contrast to the NAD˙ radical pathway on carbon electrodes.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13361-13367
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02691K
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A robust hollow metal–organic framework with enhanced diffusion for size selective catalysis
A chemically robust single crystalline hollow MOF-801 containing Pt and Au nanoparticles was constructed by using UiO-66 as a sacrificial template for size selective catalysis with fast reaction kinetics under harsh chemical conditions.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13338-13346
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02838G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Controlling the fluorescence quantum yields of benzothiazole-difluoroborates by optimal substitution
A full palette of FQY (form ca. 0 to 98%) was covered by exchanging two groups in a series of nine compounds. The darkest (OMe/CF3) and brightest (CF3/OMe) are isomers. All experimental data are supported by TD-DFT calculations.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13347-13360
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05044G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Reassessment of N2 activation by low-valent Ti-amide complexes: a remarkable side-on bridged bis-N2 adduct is actually an arene adduct
The complex {(TMEDA)2Li}{[Ti(N(TMS)2)2]2(μ-η2:η2-N2)2} (5-Li) was the only transition metal N2 complex ever reported with two side-on N2 adducts. Reanalysis of 5-Li has revealed that it is an inverse-sandwich toluene adduct, not an N2 adduct.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13330-13337
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04368H
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Asymmetric dearomative cyclopropanation of naphthalenes to construct polycyclic compounds
An enantioselective dearomative cyclopropanation of naphthalenes has been developed, which constructed a range of tetracyclic compounds bearing multichiral centers in high enantioselectivity.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13015-13019
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04509E
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Impact of a polymer modifier on directing the non-classical crystallization pathway of TS-1 zeolite: accelerating nucleation and enriching active sites
Polyacrylamide (PAM) was utilized to switch the crystallization pathway of TS-1 zeolite from classical to non-classical by virtue of the specific interaction between PAM and Si/Ti species, thus accelerating nucleation and enriching active sites.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 13006-13014
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04544C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Critical stresses in mechanochemical reactions
The rates of mechanochemical reactions are generally found to increase exponentially with applied stress.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12651-12658
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04000J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Tandem electrocatalytic CO2 reduction with Fe-porphyrins and Cu nanocubes enhances ethylene production
Coupling the tunability of molecular catalysts and copper nanocatalysts opens up new possibilities towards the development of Cu-based catalysts with enhanced selectivity for multi-carbon product generation at low overpotential.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12673-12680
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04794B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Anthranilamide-protected vinylboronic acid: rational monomer design for improved polymerization/transformation ability providing access to conventionally inaccessible copolymers
We designed a vinyl-boronic-acid protected by anthranilamide as a “transformable” monomer in radical polymerization to synthesize conventionally inaccessible copolymers, such as poly(vinyl alcohol-co-styrene) and poly(ethylene-co-acrylate).
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12703-12712
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05094C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A broadly applicable quantitative relative reactivity model for nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) using simple descriptors
A model for SNAr reactivity is reported, built from relative rate data obtained by competition studies. Based only on molecular descriptors of the electrophile, the model predicts relative reactivity and site selectivity for many complex substrates.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12681-12695
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04041G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Synthesis of phosphiranes via organoiron-catalyzed phosphinidene transfer to electron-deficient olefins
The iconic cyclopentadienyliron dicarbonyl dimer ([CpFe(CO)2]2 or Fp2) catalyzes phosphinidene group transfer from anthracene to activated alkenes, forming new phosphiranes diastereoselectively and with good isolated yields.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12696-12702
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC05011K
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Pattern enrichment analysis for phage selection of stapled peptide ligands
To effectively identify helical peptide binders from a phage library, we developed “pattern enrichment analysis,” which finds the enriched three-residue patterns by comparison with a control sample.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12634-12642
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04058A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Discovery of a monomeric green fluorescent protein sensor for chloride by structure-guided bioinformatics
We developed a workflow to identify and apply GFPxm163 as a new green fluorescent protein-based sensor for chloride.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12659-12672
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03903F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Precisely synthesized LiF-tipped CoF2-nanorod heterostructures improve energy storage capacities
A facile but robust method to precisely synthesize well-defined LiF-tipped CoF2-nanorod heterostructures is established.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12367-12373
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04008E
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Ultrasensitive chemiluminescent neuraminidase probe for rapid screening and identification of small-molecules with antiviral activity against influenza A virus in mammalian cells
A new chemiluminescence neuraminidase probe enables rapid screening of small molecules that inhibit viral replication, directly in influenza A-infected mammalian cells.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12348-12357
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03460C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Calculation of exchange couplings in the electronically excited state of molecular three-spin systems
We present a reliable methodology for the calculation of excited state exchange interactions in molecular three-spin systems. Such calculations will help to establish how to optimise inter-spin communication in photogenerated multi-spin systems.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12358-12366
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04701B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Merging Grubbs second-generation catalyst with photocatalysis enables Z-selective metathesis of olefins: scope, limitations, and mechanism
Light is magic! The combination of Grubbs second generation catalyst, a well-known catalyst for E-selective olefin metathesis, with a photosensitizer enables efficient access to the contra-thermodynamic Z-isomers.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12065-12070
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03961C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
End-to-end differentiable construction of molecular mechanics force fields
Graph neural network-based continuous embedding is used to replace a human expert-derived discrete atom typing scheme to parametrize accurate and extensible molecular mechanics force fields.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12016-12033
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02739A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A fourteen-component high-entropy alloy@oxide bifunctional electrocatalyst with a record-low ΔE of 0.61 V for highly reversible Zn–air batteries
Nanostructured high-entropy materials such as alloys, oxides, etc., are attracting extensive attention because of their widely tunable surface electronic structure/catalytic activity through mixing different elements in one system.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 12056-12064
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04461G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Alkoxysulfonyl radical species: acquisition and transformation towards sulfonate esters through electrochemistry
A new route to provide alkoxysulfonyl radical species via electrochemical anodic oxidation of inorganic sulfites with alcohols is developed, affording sulfonate esters by subsequent alkene difunctionalization with these alkoxysulfonyl radicals.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11785-11791
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04027A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Selective separation of planar and non-planar hydrocarbons using an aqueous Pd6 interlocked cage
We report here a triply interlocked cage with the ability to encapsulate planar guests in aqueous medium. This property was then employed to efficiently separate planar and non-planar aromatic hydrocarbons by aqueous extraction.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11764-11771
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04660A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A cooperative adsorbent for the switch-like capture of carbon dioxide from crude natural gas
Diamine-appended metal–organic frameworks can be optimized as adsorbents for pressure-swing purification of crude natural gas. A cooperative CO2 binding mechanism enables high CO2 swing capacities and enhanced performance under humid conditions.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11772-11784
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03570G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Dual reactivity disulfide bridging reagents; enabling new approaches to antibody fragment bioconjugation
Here we describe the first examples of a new class of disulfide bridging reagents, designed to insert a ‘stable-labile’ linkage; which can then be exploited to generate dual functional antibody fragment conjugates.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11533-11539
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04531A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
BatteryDataExtractor: battery-aware text-mining software embedded with BERT models
BatteryDataExtractor is the first property-specific text-mining tool for auto-generating databases of materials and their property, device, and associated characteristics. The software has been constructed by embedding the BatteryBERT model.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11487-11495
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04322J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A highly contorted push–pull naphthalenediimide dimer and evidence of intramolecular singlet exciton fission
We report for the first-time intramolecular singlet fission (SF) in the naphthalenediimide (NDI) scaffold constrained in a cyclophane architecture, while individually the NDI units does not satisfy the requisite energy criterion for SF.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11506-11512
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04187A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Fast relaxing red and near-IR switchable azobenzenes with chalcogen and halogen substituents: periodic trends, tuneable thermal half-lives and chalcogen bonding
The synthesis of red-shifted azobenzenes functionalised with heavy chalcogen and halogen substituents is reported, enabling photo-switching with red and near IR light and Z → E thermal isomerization rates spanning seven orders of magnitude.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11551-11559
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04601F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Open-air green-light-driven ATRP enabled by dual photoredox/copper catalysis
Fully oxygen-tolerant photoinduced atom transfer radical polymerization (photo-ATRP) allowed the synthesis of well-defined polymers using a Cu catalyst and eosin Y at ppm levels in both aqueous and organic media.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11540-11550
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04210J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
An aqueous photo-controlled polymerization under NIR wavelengths: synthesis of polymeric nanoparticles through thick barriers
Taking advantage of high penetration and reduced light scattering of NIR wavelengths, we demonstrate the syntheses of polymeric nanoparticles with consistent morphologies through thick barriers.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11519-11532
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03952D
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Dynamic kinetic resolution of γ,γ-disubstituted indole 2-carboxaldehydes via NHC-Lewis acid cooperative catalysis for the synthesis of tetracyclic ε-lactones
NHC-Lewis acid cooperative catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution (DKR) of transiently generated γ,γ-disubstituted indole 2-carboxaldehydes leading to the enantioselective synthesis of tetracyclic ε-lactones is reported.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11513-11518
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03745A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
From peptides to proteins: coiled-coil tetramers to single-chain 4-helix bundles
Rules for designing 4-helix bundles are defined, tested, and used to generate de novo peptide assemblies and a single-chain protein.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11330-11340
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04479J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Non-flammable, dilute, and hydrous organic electrolytes for reversible Zn batteries
A non-flammable, dilute, and hydrous organic electrolyte can homogenize Zn plating/stripping, suppress water decomposition, and form organic–inorganic hybrid interphase on Zn, thus contributing to highly reversible Zn metal batteries.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11320-11329
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04143J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Mechanoresponsive diselenide-crosslinked microgels with programmed ultrasound-triggered degradation and radical scavenging ability for protein protection
Mechanoresponsive diselenide-crosslinked microgels undergo controlled ultrasound-triggered degradation and can be used for protein delivery due to their dual protection properties acting as radical scavengers and conformation stabilizers.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11304-11311
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03153A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Union carbide polymerization catalysts: from uncovering active site structures to designing molecularly-defined analogs
A combined SOMC and DFT studies on the Union Carbide catalyst enable to propose that Cr(III)-H, formed at high-loading, are active in ethylene polymerization. We therefore design a well-defined supported CpCr(III)-R ethylene polymerization catalyst.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11091-11098
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC04235E
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Surface differences of oxide nanocrystals determined by geometry and exogenously coordinated water molecules
Both atomic geometry and the influence of surroundings (e.g., exogenously coordinated water) are key issues for determining the chemical environment of oxide surfaces, whereas the latter is usually ignored and should be considered in future studies.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11083-11090
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03885D
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
A switchable redox annulation of 2-nitroarylethanols affording N-heterocycles: photoexcited nitro as a multifunctional handle
A cyclization strategy of 2-nitroarylethanols under blue-light irradiation was developed, which is triggered by a photoexcited nitro-induced double hydrogen atom abstraction (d-HAA) process, delivering indoles, N–OH oxindoles and N–H oxindoles.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11074-11082
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03590A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Interrogating the thionium hydrogen bond as a noncovalent stereocontrolling interaction in chiral phosphate catalysis
Transferable selectivity profiles allow data from intermolecular reactions using iminium substrates to be applied to predict intramolecular reactions involving thioniums.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 11065-11073
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02171D
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Rational design via dual-site aliovalent substitution leads to an outstanding IR nonlinear optical material with well-balanced comprehensive properties
A new promising IR-NLO material SrCdSiS4 with a 2D layered structure has been designed via a dual-site isovalent substitution strategy. Remarkably, it is the first report on an alkaline-earth metal-based IR-NLO material that breaks through the wall of Eg > 3.5 eV and deff > 1 × AgGaS2.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10725-10733
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03760B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Oxidatively induced reactivity in Rh(III)-catalyzed 7-azaindole synthesis: insights into the role of the silver additive
The Ag+ cations oxidize and promote the activity of Rh-intermediates in the coupling of 2-aminopyridine and alkyne to form 7-azaindole.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10707-10714
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC01650H
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Collective adaptability in a replication network of minimal nucleobase sequences
A replication network of minimal nucleobase sequences is built from simple biological components. The network shows collective adaptability to changes in the environment, while disulfide exchange wires different auto- and cross-catalytic pathways.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10715-10724
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02419E
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Discovery of novel drug-like antitubercular hits targeting the MEP pathway enzyme DXPS by strategic application of ligand-based virtual screening
We identified two drug-like antitubercular hits with submicromolar inhibition constants against the target 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (DXPS) with a new mode of action and promising activity against drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10686-10698
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02371G
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Accelerating the end-to-end production of cyclic phosphate monomers with modular flow chemistry
A semi-continuous flow platform allows the safer end-to-end production of cyclic phosphate monomers providing an easier access to polyphosphoesters and their applications.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10699-10706
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC02891C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Combinatorial synthesis enables scalable designer detergents for membrane protein studies
Combinatorial detergent synthesis permits access to an unexplored part of the detergentome and provides new directions for the preparation of custom-made detergents for future applications.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10299-10307
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03130B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Iron-catalysed alkene and heteroarene H/D exchange by reversible protonation of iron-hydride intermediates
The iron-catalysed C(sp2)–H bond H/D exchange reaction using CD3OD is reported for both heterocycles and alkenes. Characterisation of the key C–H metallation intermediates provided evidence for reversible protonation of the iron hydride catalyst.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10291-10298
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03802A
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Peptide-directed synthesis of chiral nano-bipyramids for controllable antibacterial application
Chiral gold nano-bipyramids (GBPs) with sea cucumber-like morphology and an optical anisotropy factor of 0.102 at 573 nm are reported, and used in the fight against bacterial infection both in vitro and in vivo.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10281-10290
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03443C
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Highly contorted superhelicene hits near-infrared circularly polarized luminescence
This twisted superhelicene employed its twists and loops to shine chiral emission into the NIR region. The proof of its promising applicability in optoelectronic devices is the analogous chiroptical properties obtained in solution and thin films.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 10267-10272
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC03452B
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.147/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Flavanthrene derivatives as photostable and efficient singlet exciton fission materials
Flavanthrene derivatives can be designed into highly efficient and photostable singlet fission materials, owning to the N-doped two-dimensional angular fused acene framework, which is promising for photo energy conversion applications.
Chem. Sci., 2022,13, 9914-9920
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SC00263A
About this collection
This on-going web collection showcases all of the HOT Chemical Science articles published in 2022, as recommended by referees. Congratulations to all of the authors whose articles are featured.