Researchers from the Technical University of Munich have developed URNet, a novel artificial intelligence model that helps autonomous driving systems perceive their surroundings more clearly—even in dark, fast-changing environments. By combining an unconventional “event camera” with a self-aware framework, URNet allows vehicles to build reliable 3D maps that measure how far objects are—a process known as depth estimation—while understanding how confident they should be about what they “see.” This innovation could make next-generation self-driving cars safer and more capable of navigating complex real-world conditions.

In the study, (Hf_(1-X)/4Zr_(1-X)/4Nb_(1-X)/4Ta_(1-X)/4Co_X)C (X=0.14, 0.18, and 0.20) high-entropy ceramic powders were successfully synthesized via a polymer-derived ceramic (PDC) method at 1700-1900 °C. Structural analysis (XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS) confirmed the formation of single-phase rock-salt structures with homogeneous elemental distribution and significant lattice distortion. The (Hf_0.215Zr_0.215Nb_0.215Ta_0.215Co_0.140)C ceramic prepared at 1700°C exhibited excellent reflection loss (RL) of -37.95 dB at 14.01 GHz with a thickness of 3.10 mm. The introduction of the magnetic element cobalt optimized the permeability and dielectric constant of the sample, significantly enhancing the dielectric-magnetic loss synergy. This work bridges the gap in systematic research on incorporating Co into high-entropy carbide ceramics and provides new insights for designing high-performance electromagnetic wave absorbing materials.

Silicon carbide (SiC) fiber aerogels have shown promising prospects in fields such as thermal protection, electromagnetic wave absorption, and environmental remediation. However, existing research largely relies on single-scale fiber assembly, resulting in a uniform pore structure that hinders multiscale synergy and limits performance enhancement. Furthermore, current studies primarily focus on flexible applications, while the development of rigid, high-strength aerogels for high-temperature load-bearing scenarios remains insufficient. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop SiC aerogels that integrate a multiscale pore structure with high mechanical strength.

CHIKVdb is a comprehensive genomic database developed to address limitations in existing resources for chikungunya virus (CHIKV) surveillance and outbreak response. It integrates 8,193 nucleotide and 10,637 protein sequences from 99 countries over 40 years, accompanied by standardized metadata. The platform features an interactive web interface with tools for phylogenetic analysis, source tracing, SNP identification, and genotype identification, streamlining workflows for public health and research applications. Global analyses reveal spatiotemporal heterogeneity in CHIKV transmission, highlighting the predominance of ECSA and ECSA-IOL genotypes and the central role of human and mosquito hosts. CHIKVdb enhances genomic surveillance by providing curated data and analytical capabilities, supporting efforts in pandemic preparedness and targeted control strategies. The database is freely accessible at https://nmdc.cn/gcpathogen/chikv.

As affordable alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) face problems such as safety issues, limited lifespan, and electrolyte incompatibility with high-capacity electrodes. A non-flammable electrolyte using fluorinated triethyl phosphate (FTEP) as a weakly solvating solvent to create an anion-rich solvation sheath around potassium ions was developed. This innovation facilitates stable potassium plating, efficient K⁺ insertion into graphite, and prevents aluminum corrosion, paving the way for safer and more durable PIBs.

A computational framework integrates electrochemical lithium-ion intercalation dynamics with mechanical stress evolution in battery materials, addressing a critical gap in solid-state battery design. The specific aspect of coating material for silicon particles in anode layer is investigated, and the key parameters, including coating thickness and strength are systematically analyzed. 

Rechargeable aqueous batteries (RABs) have attracted considerable attention for large-scale energy storage applications due to their inherent safety. Manganese dioxide (MnO₂), based on two-electron-transfer deposition/dissolution chemistry, offers an ultrahigh theoretical capacity and high redox potential, paving the way for high-energy RABs.

A 20-hectare plot at the Paint Rock ForestGEO site in north Alabama (29,282 trees mapped) reveals how landscape features shape tree species distribution and biomass. While overall biomass did not correlate with landform or topographic indices, the biomass of individual species did. The dominant species appeared to partition the site with American beech and yellow-poplar dominating the valleys, and white oak, southern shagbark hickory, and white ash predominantly on slopes and benches Average biomass was 211 Mg/ha., The species distribution demonstrates how topographic niche partitioning maximizes ecosystem carbon storage, as published in Forest Ecosystems.