This is a PDF file of an unedited manuscript that has been accepted for publication. As a service to our customers we are providing this early version of the manuscript. The manuscript will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and review of the resulting proof before it is published in its final form. Please note that during the production process errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain. Highlights Theoretical achievements to understand systems at the nanoscale are discussed. Metal electrodeposition on nanoparticles may yield peculiar metastable states Non-noble metals on carbonaceous nanostructures may catalyze hydrogen evolution Doped carbon nanostructures may catalyze the oxygen reduction reaction.