NIMS has been developing chemical sensors as a key component of the artificial olfaction technology (olfactory sensors), with the aim of putting this technology into practical use. In this study, explainable AI (XAI) was used to reveal how chemical sensors discriminate among various odorant molecules. The findings may help guide the selection of receptor materials for developing high-performance chemical sensors capable of detecting odorant molecules. The achievement is expected not only to improve the performance of artificial olfaction but also to advance understanding of human olfactory mechanisms. This research was published online in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces on September 9, 2025.

Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, are found almost everywhere in the world—from hot springs to arctic ice to antioxidant smoothies. Understanding photoprotection in unique light-harvesting structure called the phycobilisomes could inspire new biomimetic strategies for engineering plants to improve food security, or even in creating new kinds of adaptable energy technologies.

Engineers have developed a battery-free electronic sticker that attaches to everyday objects like a drinking cup and monitors vitamin C levels from a person’s fingertip sweat. The technology could make personal nutrition monitoring as effortless as holding a cup of coffee.

Kennesaw State University researcher Ordene Edwards is exploring how to help engineering students see the value in their studies and help improve their performance with the aid of a five-year, $700,000 National Science Foundation grant.