A research team led by Zhengtao Yu introduces the Element Relational Graph-Augmented Multi-Granularity Contextualized Encoder (ERGM) for document-level event role filler extraction, outperforming baseline models and effectively capturing dependency relationships in extensive experiments on the MUC-4 benchmark.

Imagine a world where worms can hear. While it may sound like science fiction, researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered that the nematode C. elegans, a commonly studied model organism, is capable of sensing and responding to airborne sound. This groundbreaking finding challenges the long-held belief that hearing is exclusive to vertebrates and certain arthropods.

The study, published in the Biophysics Reports reveals that C. elegans exhibit a behavior called phonotaxis, where they move away from the source of sound. This response is dependent on the frequency and size of the sound source, suggesting that the worms are sensitive to sound pressure gradients rather than absolute sound pressure levels.

So, how do these microscopic creatures perceive sound? The answer lies in their skin. When airborne sound waves cause the worms’ external cuticle to vibrate, it activates specialized mechanosensory neurons called FLP and PVD. These neurons, located in the worms’ head and tail regions, respectively, respond to the vibrations by triggering avoidance behavior.

Further investigation revealed that the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) is not required for this auditory transduction process. Instead, a specific type of nicotine acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) called DES-2/DEG-3 plays a crucial role in converting sound waves into neural signals.

A new review in Engineering reveals that CRISPR technologies are revolutionizing regenerative medicine. Scientists from Columbia University explore how this gene-editing tool is addressing limitations of traditional therapies. It’s being used to treat genetic diseases, enhance tissue repair, prevent transplant rejection, and serve as a research aid. However, challenges like delivery and off-target effects remain. Despite these, the potential of CRISPR in regenerative medicine is vast, promising more effective treatments in the future.

In a significant development for global climate efforts, a new study in Engineering reveals China’s strategic approach to carbon neutrality. Against the backdrop of the Paris Agreement’s 2°C target, researchers find that China can reach carbon neutrality by 2060 without early reliance on certain costly technologies. This path not only impacts China’s sustainable future but also has far-reaching implications for global climate change, from influencing warming levels to reducing the risk of extreme events.

A newly published study in Engineering reveals a novel approach to the performance assessment of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. By integrating distributed fiber optic sensing technology with self-sensing steel fiber-reinforced polymer composite bars (SFCBs), researchers have developed a method that enables a multilevel evaluation of the safety, durability, and suitability of these structures. This new research holds great promise for enhancing structural health monitoring and maintenance practices in the construction field.

A recent study in Engineering uncovers new insights into detecting hydrate blockages in subsea oil and gas pipelines. As offshore exploration advances, these blockages pose a growing threat. The research details hydrate characteristics, evaluates detection methods, and shares real-world applications. Find out how it could transform pipeline safety and efficiency.

In a recent study published in Engineering, researchers Jialin Jiang, Lidong Yang, Shihao Yang, and Li Zhang have developed a deep learning-based framework for size-adaptable microswarms. This innovative solution overcomes long-standing navigation challenges in confined spaces, with potential to revolutionize applications in biomedicine and beyond.

A newly-released review article in the journal Engineering has shed light on the remarkable potential of multiphoton polymerization (MPP)-based micro/nanomanufacturing in precision medicine. The study by an expert team comprehensively examines its principles, materials, diverse biomedical applications like drug delivery and disease diagnosis, existing challenges, and future prospects. This innovative technology could precision medicine, but faces hurdles in material safety, process efficiency, and cost. Despite these, the research offers hope for a future where MPP-based tools transform healthcare.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent, with over 400 000 reconstruction surgeries globally each year. Despite a reported success rate of over 90%, many patients still experience complications. A new review in Engineering explores artificial ligaments as a solution. These ligaments, used since the 1950s, have advantages but also drawbacks. The study delves into their healing process, recent modifications, and future research directions, offering hope for improved ACL reconstruction outcomes.