Artificial intelligence is currently controlled by a number of tech giants in the United States and China. One professor believes Europe can choose to take a smarter and more democratic path.

RNA is fundamental to all life, governing gene expression, regulating biological processes, and influencing growth, development, and cellular metabolism. However, elucidating the precise mechanisms of these functions requires methods to probe the complex structure, dynamics, and interactions of RNA molecules. In recent years, RNA segment-selective labeling has emerged as an essential technique for studying RNA structure, function, and dynamics.

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) remains a global health challenge with limited regenerative therapeutic options. This review delineates advancements in stem cell-based therapies, emphasizing their potential to restore auditory function through cellular regeneration and molecular modulation.

A research team from the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong (HKUMed), has developed a titanium implant surface that can be activated by near-infrared (NIR). With just 15 minutes of NIR irradiation, this surface can eliminate 99.94% of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilms without the use of antibiotics, while simultaneously promoting bone-implant fusion. Based on titanium dioxide (TiO2), the same compound found in titanium’s natural surface oxide layer, the design may offer practical advantages for compatibility with existing titanium implants and future clinical translation. This innovative technology could be applied to various common orthopaedic implants, including joint replacements, fracture fixation devices, spinal fusion cages, dental implants and craniofacial implants. It offers a new solution to combat implant infections. The findings were published as a cover story in the international journal Cell Biomaterials.

A University of the Sunshine Coast study of more than 200 four-year-olds has found and measured significant, specific benefits of rhythm and movement in preschool settings. And the results of a related study in Hong Kong indicate the neuroscience-based program could help children - and teachers - globally.

As the world searches for scalable solutions to climate change, a growing body of research is highlighting biochar as a promising carbon-negative technology with far-reaching environmental benefits. A new comprehensive review published in Biochar explores how this carbon-rich material could help tackle global challenges ranging from greenhouse gas emissions to soil degradation and water pollution.

Researchers have developed a new class of sustainable energy storage materials by transforming agricultural waste into high-performance biochar composites that can store and release heat efficiently. The study demonstrates how simple changes in biomass type and production temperature can significantly improve energy storage capacity and durability, offering a promising pathway for low-carbon building technologies and renewable energy systems.

A new study shows that combining machine learning with advanced material engineering can significantly improve the performance of hydrochar, a carbon-rich material derived from waste, offering a promising pathway for sustainable agriculture and climate mitigation.