When faucets rest: Hidden microbial risks emWhen faucets rest: Hidden microbial risks emerge in hourserge in hours
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 4-Nov-2025 22:11 ET (5-Nov-2025 03:11 GMT/UTC)
Microbial safety at the tap is a critical but often overlooked aspect of daily hygiene.
Cervical cancer will be the first human cancer eliminated through coordinated global action.
A research paper by scientists at the Soochow University proposed a novel magnetically actuated device based on a hybrid electromagnetic coil and permanent magnet control system.
The research paper, published on Jun. 24, 2025 in the journal Cyborg and Bionic Systems, presented a hybrid magnetic actuation system that extends the functional capabilities of miniature ferrofluidic robot (MFR) through synergistic multi-physical interactions.
A research paper by scientists at the Shanghai University proposed an innovative approach to object property perception utilizing triboelectric–magnetoelastic sensing.
The research paper, published on Jul. 2, 2025 in the journal Cyborg and Bionic Systems, presented a multimodal tactile sensing device (MMTSD) based on triboelectric–magnetoelastic, which has anthropomorphic tactile sensation. This MMTSD effectively interfaces the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) array with the MEG through silica gel, enabling it to stably perceive the properties of objects within an open environment.
Researchers from the Technical University of Munich have developed URNet, a novel artificial intelligence model that helps autonomous driving systems perceive their surroundings more clearly—even in dark, fast-changing environments. By combining an unconventional “event camera” with a self-aware framework, URNet allows vehicles to build reliable 3D maps that measure how far objects are—a process known as depth estimation—while understanding how confident they should be about what they “see.” This innovation could make next-generation self-driving cars safer and more capable of navigating complex real-world conditions.
A research paper by scientists at the Harbin Institute of Technology proposed a novel centimeter-scale quadruped piezo robot. The robot’s locomotion is generated by multi-dimensional vibration trajectories at the feet, which are produced through a novel built-in actuation method.
The research paper, published on Jul. 22, 2025 in the journal Cyborg and Bionic Systems, presented a novel centimeter-scale quadruped piezoelectric robot with high integration and strong robustness, which promises to bring new perspectives for the construction and application of centimeter-scale robots.
In the study, (Hf(1-X)/4Zr(1-X)/4Nb(1-X)/4Ta(1-X)/4CoX)C (X=0.14, 0.18, and 0.20) high-entropy ceramic powders were successfully synthesized via a polymer-derived ceramic (PDC) method at 1700-1900 °C. Structural analysis (XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS) confirmed the formation of single-phase rock-salt structures with homogeneous elemental distribution and significant lattice distortion. The (Hf0.215Zr0.215Nb0.215Ta0.215Co0.140)C ceramic prepared at 1700°C exhibited excellent reflection loss (RL) of -37.95 dB at 14.01 GHz with a thickness of 3.10 mm. The introduction of the magnetic element cobalt optimized the permeability and dielectric constant of the sample, significantly enhancing the dielectric-magnetic loss synergy. This work bridges the gap in systematic research on incorporating Co into high-entropy carbide ceramics and provides new insights for designing high-performance electromagnetic wave absorbing materials.
Silicon carbide (SiC) fiber aerogels have shown promising prospects in fields such as thermal protection, electromagnetic wave absorption, and environmental remediation. However, existing research largely relies on single-scale fiber assembly, resulting in a uniform pore structure that hinders multiscale synergy and limits performance enhancement. Furthermore, current studies primarily focus on flexible applications, while the development of rigid, high-strength aerogels for high-temperature load-bearing scenarios remains insufficient. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop SiC aerogels that integrate a multiscale pore structure with high mechanical strength.