Researchers have developed a photonic transformer chip that runs on optical interference instead of electronic multiplication. The chip introduces a novel Kramers-Kronig attention mechanism, eliminating the need for SoftMax activation and supporting fully dynamic inputs. It achieves 94% accuracy on MNIST, with potential throughput exceeding 200 POPS and energy efficiency over 500 TOPS/W—ushering in a new paradigm for energy-efficient, high-speed AI.

A new study published in the open-access journal Nature Conservation assesses the threat status of bird species from Vietnam, underscores the country’s critical conservation needs.

This study determined cryo-EM structures of midnolin-proteasome complexes, providing mechanistic insights to midnolin-catalyzed substrate degradation. Based on structural and mechanistic understanding, authors have engineered the midnolin system for targeted degradation of desired substrates, and provide the first proof-of-principle for degrading a non-native therapeutically high-profile target that is otherwise undruggable.

The reticular architecture of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) enables not only systematic but also creative tuning of their functionalities. A recent study involving forty structurally related MOFs demonstrated how to precisely integrate and regulate two types of electrochromic cores within the MOF architectures through mild linker modifications and straightforward crystal engineering. The underlying logic is reminiscent of a conventional color palette—yet elevated to molecular-level precision, offering promising prospects for future electronic applications.

Human health is the Achilles heel of space travel. Researchers at ETH Zurich have now succeeded in printing complex muscle tissue in zero gravity, via parabolic flight experiments. Their work paves the way for beyond-Earth health solutions and testing for future space missions.

Flavanols are plant-derived compounds with an astringent taste, exhibiting pro- or antioxidant properties depending on the environment. Due to poor bioavailability, their health-promoting mechanism remains unclear. A new study identified their action via the brain-gut axis.  A single oral intake of flavanols stimulated brain regions involved in memory and sleep-wake regulation, and increased sympathetic nervous activity, a stress response. These findings may lead to future applications, such as the development of next-generation foods.

Researchers at Yonsei University developed a fluoride-based solid electrolyte (LiCl–4Li₂TiF₆) that enables all-solid-state batteries to operate safely beyond 5 volts, overcoming a major voltage stability barrier. The innovation enhances ionic conductivity, prevents interfacial degradation, and achieves record energy density. Its compatibility with cost-effective materials makes it promising for next-generation electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, marking a paradigm shift in battery technology.