This article introduces a new methodology for predicting the service life of concrete structures in marine environments, published in Engineering. Researchers from Southeast University have developed a multiscale modeling approach combined with extensive data analysis to efficiently assess the durability of marine concrete structures. By leveraging numerical simulations and real-world datasets, the study offers a more efficient alternative to traditional long-term exposure testing, providing valuable insights for the design and maintenance of concrete structures in marine conditions.

This article explores the potential for Africa to develop its soybean industry and contribute to global trade. It highlights how recent advancements in breeding and technology, along with China–Africa STI partnerships, could help Africa overcome historical challenges in soybean cultivation and tap into the growing demand from China. The piece also examines the socio-economic benefits and environmental considerations of expanding soybean production on the continent.

In the realm of infrastructure maintenance, a novel approach to detecting concrete bridge damage has emerged. Researchers have developed an automated detection method using an enhanced version of the YOLO (You Only Look Once) algorithm, augmented with Vision Transformers. This advancement aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of identifying structural defects in bridges, particularly those captured by drones under challenging real-world conditions. The study, published in Engineering, highlights the potential of this technology to enhance bridge inspection processes.

A new review published in Engineering explores the advancements in hand–eye coordination technology for agricultural robots, highlighting their potential to address labor shortages and enhance efficiency in complex farming tasks. The study examines various configurations of hand–eye systems, calibration methods, and control strategies, emphasizing the importance of accurate target perception and collision-free handle. While significant progress has been made, ongoing challenges such as maintaining calibration accuracy and replicating human dexterity remain. The findings suggest that continued innovation in hand–eye coordination could play a crucial role in the future development of smart agriculture.

A new study published in Engineering offers detailed insights into the potential areas for high-yield finfish mariculture. By integrating advanced physiological models with the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of marine environments, researchers have mapped suitable and high-yield areas for 27 commercial finfish species under current and future climate scenarios. The findings indicate that finfish mariculture could play a significant role in global food security as suitable areas are projected to increase by 2050.

This study published in Engineering offers new insights into the impact of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) on post-transplant outcomes in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Researchers found that ALD significantly increases the risk of HBV reactivation and worsens survival outcomes following liver transplantation. Using advanced machine learning techniques, the study identified key metabolic factors associated with HBV reactivation and developed a novel risk stratification index to better predict patient outcomes. The findings highlight the importance of considering ALD in the management of liver transplant recipients with HBV-related HCC.

Researchers have developed a new hybrid earthquake early warning system called HEWFERS, which leverages advanced machine learning techniques and seismological principles to provide real-time predictions of ground shaking intensity. The system integrates a domain-informed variational autoencoder, a feed-forward neural network, and Gaussian process regression to offer both on-site and regional early warnings. Validated with a large database of ground motion records, HEWFERS demonstrates enhanced accuracy and reliability in seismic risk mitigation.

RNAi technologies have been exploited to control viruses, pests, oomycetes and fungal phytopathogens that cause disasters in host plants, including many agronomically significant crops. However, it is unclear what process mediates RNA uptake by fungi. Here, the authors utilized live-cell imaging technology combined with molecular biology experiments to demonstrate that exogenous RNA is indiscriminately absorbed by Verticillium dahliae, the notorious plant pathogenic fungus. The uptake of exogenous RNA by fungal cells is predominantly mediated through endocytosis. This study not only provides a new theoretical foundation for applying trans-kingdom RNA interference technology in crop protection but also lays the groundwork for research and applications of exogenous RNA in plant-fungi interaction systems.