Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain
the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in
Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles
and JavaScript.
Metal–organic frameworks have a range of desirable properties that make them suitable for application in drug delivery, imaging and new treatment modalities. In this Primer, Lázaro et al. discuss the best practices in synthesis and characterization of metal–organic frameworks for biomedicine.
Origami engineering offers a conceptual framework for non-destructive and scale-independent abstractions for engineering applications. In this Primer, Misseroni et al. provide a comprehensive overview of the major principles and elements in origami engineering, including theoretical fundamentals, simulation tools, manufacturing techniques and testing protocols.
Proteoforms can be investigated using top-down proteomics, a technique that analyses whole proteins without previous digestion. This Primer introduces top-down proteomics, exploring mass spectrometry experimental methods, sample preparation, data analysis and applications in understanding human disease.
Nanozymes are nanomaterial-based artificial enzymes that can emulate the catalytic functions inherent in enzymes. In this Primer, Zhang et al. discuss the nanozyme toolbox, including their design and modification, characterization, activity evaluation and applications in healthcare.
Femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering (FSRS) is an ultrafast pump–probe spectroscopy method for investigating the vibrational dynamics of molecules. In this Primer, Batignani et al. introduce the fundamental concepts behind FSRS, its current utility and future integrations of artificial intelligence and quantum light.
Solid samples can be imaged and chemically analysed using secondary ion mass spectrometry. This Primer describes the secondary ion mass spectrometry experimental setup, in which a primary ion beam sputters secondary ions that are analysed and detected by a mass spectrometer, and explores applications in materials, geological and life sciences.
Single-case experimental designs are rapidly growing in popularity. This popularity needs to be accompanied by transparent and well-justified methodological and statistical decisions. Appropriate experimental design including randomization, proper data handling and adequate reporting are needed to ensure reproducibility and internal validity. The degree of generalizability can be assessed through replication.
Bayesian optimization is a promising approach towards a more environmentally friendly chemical synthesis, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. It can aid chemists to explore vast chemical spaces and find green reaction conditions with few experiments, decreasing resource consumption and waste generation while reducing discovery timelines and costs.
To improve early-stage research in the field of RNA lipid nanoparticles, there are several best practices to be considered for the collection, interpretation and reporting of characterization data.
To ensure a sustainable future and combat food scarcity, we must boost agricultural productivity, improve climate resilience and optimize resource usage. There is untapped potential for dense wireless sensor networks in agriculture that can increase yields and support resilient production when linked to smart decision and control systems.
New nanomaterials are being developed for efficient biomolecule delivery to plants. However, detection and quantification of plant cell entry are challenging and currently rely on subjective methods that lack proper controls. The necessary considerations of performing nanoparticle-mediated delivery in plants and how to accurately quantify delivery efficiency are discussed.