The front cover picture shows a distinct size-dependent affinity of gold (Au)-based materials for dioxygen (O2). Although Au is chemically inert against O2, unique reactivities emerged at the nanometer to the atomic scales. Atomically precise Au nanoclusters and molecular Au complexes with supporting ligands exhibit affinity for O2, and detailed mechanisms for O2-activation by these Au-based nanomaterials can be revealed on the basis of both experimental and theoretical analyses. More details can be found in the Concept by Wataru Suzuki and Toshiharu Teranishi (DOI: <a target="_blank"
 title="Link to external resource"
 href="http://doi.wiley.com/10.1002/cplu.202500244">10.1002/cplu.202500244</a>).

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Front Cover: Mechanistic Insights into Reactions between Gold‐Based Materials and Dioxygen (ChemPlusChem 8/2025)

The front cover picture shows a distinct size-dependent affinity of gold (Au)-based materials for dioxygen (O2). Although Au is chemically inert against O2, unique reactivities emerged at the nanometer to the atomic scales. Atomically precise Au nanoclusters and molecular Au complexes with suppor...

Herein, the workflow of 4D printing with liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs)is presented, beginning with material development and followed by advanced printing techniques. It highlights the integration of LCEs into functional devices, performance evaluation, and addressing scalability challenges. The cycle concludes with innovation to enhance material functionality and broaden application potential.
 
4D printing represents a transformative leap in material science, enabling the fabrication of smart materials that change shape, properties, or functions over time in response to stimuli like heat, light, or magnetic fields. Among these, liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) stand out due to their unique combination of liquid crystalline order and polymer elasticity. This fusion enables LCEs to undergo large, reversible shape changes, making them ideal for applications in soft robotics, biomedical devices, sensors, and adaptive optics. This review explores the latest advancements in the 4D printing of LCEs, focusing on cutting-edge fabrication techniques such as direct ink writing, VAT photopolymerization, and hybrid approaches. These methods provide precise control over molecular alignment, enabling the creation of programmable structures capable of complex movements. Integrating LCEs with nanoparticles, liquid metals, and shape-memory polymers has further enhanced their mechanical strength, thermal stability, and multifunctionality. Despite these breakthroughs, challenges remain in achieving scalability, long-term stability, and cost-effective production. This review highlights these hurdles and discusses potential solutions while emphasizing the future potential of LCEs in revolutionizing industries such as healthcare, robotics, and environmental monitoring. This article aims to inspire further innovation in 4D-printed LCE technologies by offering a comprehensive overview.

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Front Cover: Mechanistic Insights into Reactions between Gold‐Based Materials and Dioxygen (ChemPlusChem 8/2025)

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4D Printing with Liquid Crystal Elastomers: Materials, Methods, and Emerging Applications

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