A new study published in Engineering reviews the latest research in tissue engineering for spinal cord injury (SCI) repair. It explores the roles of biomaterials, cells, dECM, exosomes, and other factors. Although more research is needed, these findings offer new directions for SCI treatment.

Purdue University-connected startup Molecular Intelligence supports research scientists in bioengineering, medical science and pharmaceutical companies who use cryo-EM to determine 3D structures of proteins, nucleic acids and other biomolecules. The company's software suite leverages deep learning to enable the identification of atom positions in low-resolution cryo-EM maps. The software then uses those identified atom positions to construct the 3D structures of proteins and DNA/RNA.

A new review in Engineering explores the intricate links among food systems, climate change, and air pollution. It reveals how these elements impact one another and details strategies to mitigate their effects and build a more sustainable future for food security and the environment.

Miniaturized pumps and valves that rely on the motion of dielectric elastomeric silicone films are being created in Saarland, Germany. Not only are these devices lightweight, compact and energy-efficient, but they also work without the need for compressed air, motors or lubricants. They are cleanroom-compatible and can be continuously controlled while operating. The research team led by Professors Stefan Seelecke and Paul Motzki from Saarland University will be exhibiting a prototype film-based vacuum pump at this year’s Hannover Messe from 31 March to 4 April. Their lightweight, low-energy technology is able to pull a vacuum down to 300 millibars of pressure (30% of standard atmospheric pressure). Saarland Innovation Stand, Hall 2, Stand B10

Physicists have created a new computer code that could speed up the design of the complicated magnets that shape the plasma in stellarators, making the systems simpler and more affordable to build.

A research team led by Professor Qiang Zhang from Tsinghua University has published a comprehensive analysis of energy storage technologies critical to China’s power system decarbonization. The study, featured in Technology Review for Carbon Neutrality, examines the multifunctional roles of storage systems across grid segments, evaluates core technologies from ultrashort-duration flywheels to seasonal hydrogen storage, and projects their deployment under cost and regional constraints. The work highlights policy mechanisms to support China’s transition to a carbon-neutral energy economy by 2060.