A research collaboration between Prof. Yayu Wang’s group at Tsinghua University and Prof. Chang Liu’s group at Renmin University of China (RUC) has recently published a paper in Science Bulletin, titled “Strongly enhanced topological quantum phases in dual-surface AlO_x-encapsulated MnBi₂Te₄.” By developing a wax-assisted exfoliation method and constructing dual-surface AlO_x encapsulation of MnBi₂Te₄, the team achieved enhanced topological quantum phases in both even and odd layer devices, providing a new approach for exploring novel topological quantum phenomena and potential applications in MnBi₂Te₄ and other two-dimensional materials.

Semantic communications have revolutionized wireless communication in this century. In a new study, SeoulTech researchers have investigated ConcreteSC, a novel digital communication framework that eliminates massive codebooks in semantic communication systems through temperature-controlled concrete distributions. The research demonstrates up to threefold improvements in image quality metrics and 39x faster processing speeds compared to traditional vector quantization methods in wireless communication systems.

Tuning magnetic properties in quasicrystals is limited by fixed elemental ratios set by stoichiometry. Now, researchers from Japan developed a “double hetero-valent elemental substitution” method, where atoms are replaced with others of different valency but similar size. Applying this to a Ga-based approximant crystal, they substituted gallium and platinum with gold, transforming the material’s magnetic state from spin-glass to ferromagnetic. The approach allows precise magnetic control, paving the way for advanced magnetocaloric materials.