The novel physics-constrained AI framework PHICS realizes a full closed loop spanning multiscale inverse design and experimental validation. Leveraging interface, phase, and carrier engineering, PHICS breaks long-standing material trade-offs to yield composite phase-change materials that achieve simultaneous enhancements in thermal conductivity and electrical insulation while maintaining high thermal storage density, paving new pathways for designing advanced electronic thermal management materials.

Embodied AI can act in the physical world, but the purpose guiding its actions often remains buried in prompts, rewards or predefined goals. In a Review published in National Science Review, Nanning Zheng proposes Intent-Driven Embodied Artificial Intelligence (IDEAI), a four-layer framework built around explicit, revisable and verifiable intent. Seven technical pillars map how that intent could shape knowledge, planning, safety and value alignment in real-world systems.

Chinese researchers assembled the first gap-free telomere-to-telomere (T2T) reference genome for Glycyrrhiza uralensis, plus high-quality chromosome-scale genomes for two other pharmacopoeia licorice species. Population multi-omics of 188 wild licorice accessions identified the GiPHL1-Gi4CL5 regulatory module that controls licochalcone A production and drought adaptation in G. inflata. This work delivers key genomic resources for licorice molecular breeding and sustainable utilization.

Mitochondrial transplantation is emerging as an organelle-level therapeutic strategy for diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. A new Perspective in Science Bulletin discusses how engineered mitochondrial delivery systems may improve mitochondrial stability, targeting, and clinical translation.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials involving 969 patients found that virtual reality (VR) was associated with short-term reductions in cancer-related pain and anxiety. Effects appeared more consistent in procedural settings and pediatric populations. However, because the evidence was low certainty and study methods varied substantially, further high-quality trials are needed before routine implementation.

A study in Geodesy and Geodynamics used satellite radar to examine the November 2025 Hayli Gubbi eruption in Ethiopia’s Afar Depression. Researchers combined NISAR’s left-looking radar with Sentinel-1’s right-looking observations to reconstruct three-dimensional ground movement. Although the eruption occurred at Hayli Gubbi, the strongest deformation was detected at Erta Ale, where the summit crater partially collapsed and the ground sank inward. Modeling linked this to two shallow dikes beneath Erta Ale, both about 1 km deep. The event also reactivated nine nearby faults. Compared with a larger eruption earlier in 2025, the November event was more localized and relied mainly on shallow magma storage.